GET PREPARE TO SCALE A SUMMIT.

Kilimanjaro Training Plan - Getting Prepared to Scale the Summit

Fitness

One question we get a lot is 'how fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?'. Whilst a high level of fitness will make the climb a lot easier it by no means requires super human fitness. We often take people who have left their fifties well behind them and are not in peak physical condition. In fact, if your carrying a few extra pounds this is a great way to lose weight!. This being said, a solid Kilimanjaro training plan will allow you to better prepare for the climb and give you more opportunity to enjoy yourself when you're on the mountain.

The bare facts are that you will probably be walking 6-7 hours per day with a rough accent of a 1000m. You'll need determination, Kilimanjaro is a long slow grind that wears you down. If you can do an hour spinning class or jogging for a solid 45 minutes, if you can do this without wanting to kill yourself then you're probably okay to summit Kilimanjaro.

Practice Hiking

Like most things, practice makes perfect. There is nothing more important on your Kilimanjaro training plan, so get your hiking boots on and start trekking. Hiking practice allows you to understand the stress your joints will be put under and how well you can deal with this.

It also allows you to wear in your boots as this takes some time and can often be uncomfortable. Start with a comfortable distance that suits you and slowly try to work your way up to a 5-6 hour trek. If you can do this a few times then you'll be in good stead to climb Kilimanjaro.

Aerobic Training

Aerobic (or cardio) training will be a key factor in allowing you to climb Kilimanjaro. Aerobic literally means 'requiring free oxygen' and refers to the use of oxygen to adequately meet energy demands during exercise via aerobic metabolism. Aerobic exercise builds up your cardiovascular system allowing you process limited oxygen in a more effective way. This is key for Kilimanjaro as it is a long distance exercise at altitude which will give the body less oxygen per breath.

Aerobic exercise, unlike anaerobic exercise, requires oxygen for elongated periods of time. Examples of aerobic exercise would be lane swimming, long distance jogging, walking and cycling. One crucial thing we tell our customers is don't rush up the mountain! Trying to ascend too quickly is a huge mistake. Our porters can often be heard saying "Pole Pole", meaning 'Slow Slow' in Swahili. Because of the altitude your body needs time to adjust - no matter your fitness levels! However, having a good cardiovascular system will help with this, but it wont prevent it. Kilimanjaro is not a sprint, it's a marathon! We recommend putting the slowest hiker to the front of the group. Depending on fitness, we recommend a 3-6 month Kilimanjaro training plan. Your hiking practice will help, but we also suggest running 6-12km three times a week. If you're using a treadmill remember to set a slight incline.

Strength Training

Any Kilimanjaro training plan should also include strength training. Although not as important as your aerobic training, strengthening your upper body, core and, in particular, your legs, will greatly increase your chances of success. You'll be on your legs at least 7 hours a day, you therefore need them to be strong enough to take the punishment.

SOUTHERN TANZANIA..

Saadani National Park.

Www.steptokili.com

About the Saadani National Park

• Size: 1,100 sq km (430 sq miles)
• Location: On the north coast, roughly 100km (60 miles) northwest of Dar es Salaam as the crow flies, and a similar distance southwest of the port of Tanga.

How to get there

Charter flight from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam with possibility of scheduled flights in the future. Thrice-weekly road shuttle from Dar es Salaam, taking four hours in either direction. No road access from Dar es Salaam along the coast – follow the surfaced Moshi road for 160km (100 miles), then 60km (36 miles) on dirt.
Road access from Tanga and Pangani except after heavy rain. 4×4 required.

What to do

Game drives and guided walks. Boat trips. Swimming. Visit Saadani fishing village, which lies within the reserve, where a collection of ruins pays testament to its 19th century heyday as a major trading port.

When to go

Generally accessible all-year round, but the access roads are sometimes impassable during April and May. The best game-viewing is in January and February and from June to August.

Accommodation

One luxury tented camp. Campsites planned. One tented camp close to the park boundary. Several campsites inside the park.

KILIMANJARO AND WILDLIFE SAFARI

Kilimanjaro mountain top of Barranco wall..

Lion in Manyara national park.

LOCAL TOUR COMPANY BASE ON OLD MOSHI TANZANIA.

STEP TO KILI TOUR AND COMPANY.
We are a specialist Tanzanian tour company offering bespoke experiences of Tanzania from the lofty heights of Kilimanjaro to the endless plains of the Serengeti and exotic beaches of Zanzibar.
Travel in comfort with security and confidence. Our goal is simple; we want you to experience the best landscapes of our country, meet and enjoy the warm hospitality of locals and ultimately have the best vacation experience in Tanzania.
We understand what it takes to put together a great tour. Our team is professionally qualified and has extensive experience in the travel industry; we know our country and love to share our scenic land, magnificent wildlife and friendly culture with you.
All of our itineraries are custom designed by our team to suit your schedule and budget and we can take care of all your travel requirements. Get in touch with us to start planning your dream safari.
Karibu to Step to Kili.

TRAVEL TIPS 7.

TETANUS.

Caused by a toxin released from Clostridium tetani bacteria.

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TRAVEL TIPS 6.

YELLOW FEVER.

Yellow fever is a systemic viral disease.

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TRAVEL TIPS 5.

VACCINATION ABOUT TUBERCULOSIS.

Tuberculosis

Caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

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TRAVEL TIPS 4.

VACCINATION ABOUT MALARIA.

It is a serious febrile illness caused by infection of red blood cells with Plasmodium sp. It is prevalent in the East Africa region and it is highly recommended to take precautions against malaria, including using anti-malarial drugs and using personal protection against mosquito bites.

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TRAVEL TIPS 1.

What kind of weather will I find?

Tanzania has a pleasant tropical climate but has large regional climatic variations influenced by several factors, including altitude. There are dry and wet seasons: the main rainy season or ‘long rains’ lasts from March to May and the long dry season lasts throughout June to October. There are ‘short rains’ in November and December followed by a short dry season in January and February.
Temperatures are usually between 20°C and 35°C and vary greatly according to altitude and location. Most days have a fine, clear sky and sunny weather. It cools off at night; be sure to pack warm clothing because morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold- especially in the northern parks.

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TRAVEL TIPS 3.

What kind of currency should I bring?

The Tanzania currency is Tanzanian shillings (TZS). There are plenty of bureau de change in towns and cities like Moshi, Arusha and Dar es Salaam where you can exchange foreign currency like US dollars, Sterling pounds and Euros to Tanzanian shillings. You can also withdraw local currency from local bank ATMs around town.
When you bring US dollars, make sure the bills are issued after 2006 as most places will not accept bills before issued before 2006 or will give bad rates for exchange.
Most of the places will accept US dollars or Tanzanian shillings with equivalent to US dollars but in most cases will not give you good exchange rates so is better to pay with local currency.
Some places will accept credit or debit cards mostly Visa or Mastercard but this will incur a 5% to 7% surcharge.

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TRAVEL TIPS 2.

Do I require a Visa?

Most foreigners will require a visa to enter in Tanzania and they should have a passport which is valid for at least 6 months at date of travel. You can obtain your visa before your travel at the nearest Diplomatic or Consulate mission of the United Republic of Tanzania or you can obtain your visa at any one of following four main entry points to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of immigration and health requirements:

• Dar es Salaam International Airport (DAR)
• Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ)
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
• Namanga Entry point (Tanzania-Kenya border)

Depending on the nationality, visa fees can range between 50 to100 US dollars.

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KILIMANJARO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.

There are daily flights arriving at Kilimanjaro international air port with a short code JRO from;
Amsterdam – KLM, Doha- Qatar air ways, Istanbul- Turkish air line, Nairobi- Kenya air ways, Ethiopia airline- Adis Ababa, Kigali- Rwanda air, all these will connect you from different destination around the world please contact us for more details on the flights reservation from anywhere in the world.
Also you can arrive in the nearest international air for more option then we will be able to book a local flight for you to take you to northern Tanzania.

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CLIMBING MOUNTAIN KILIMANJARO TANZANIA.

5 Days Marangu Route

The Marangu Route is also known as the "Coca Cola" or "tourist" route. It is the easiest and shortest route to the summit. This is also the only route with the comforts of sleeping huts with solar lights and comfortable beds. The huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow. There are 60 beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 beds at Horombo Hut. Bathrooms and running water are available at the two lower huts. .
All climbing groups, often from several countries around the world, share meals in dining huts providing a jovial and energetic atmosphere. Soft drinks, bottled water, and beer are available for sale at the huts. Bring small Tanzanian bills to purchase these items (prices increase with elevation).
This route is usually done on 5 days but can be done in 6 days for better acclimatization. The extra day can be spent resting at Horombo or climbing the small peak of Mawenzi.

Day 1: Moshi town to Kilimanjaro gate – Mandara Hut.

We leave Moshi to Kilimanjaro gate – Mandara Hut. Take a short drive from Moshi or Arusha town to the Kilimanjaro Park Gate (1,830 m.) lies at the edge of Marangu, which is an attractive village with many small coffee and banana plantations. After completing the entrance formalities, we climb up through attractive and unspoiled forest to reach the clearing containing Mandara Hut (2,700 m.). The volcanic remains of Maundi Crater are nearby, and make a good afternoon excursion. An alternative is to rest and enjoy the beautiful forest. There is a rich birdlife at the huts and monkeys are often seen as well. [3-5 hours walking to Mandara Hut].

1. Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
2. Distance: 8km/5mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
4. Habitat: Montane Forest

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

We leave Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut The first part of the walk is a steep ascent through forest, but the path soon opens out into grassy moorland and, in clear weather, there are good views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. We climb steadily through the moorland zone, containing giant heather and occasional stands of groundsel, to eventually reach Horombo Hut (3,720 m.). Sunrises and sunsets here are often very stunning, the site is close to the glaciated dome of Kibo, and there is a real sense of being above the clouds. [4-6 hours walking from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut].

1. Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
2. Distance: 12km/7.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
4. Habitat: Heathland

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Through Desert Saddle

Weleave Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Through Desert Saddle We climb very gradually towards the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain changes to screed and there is a palpable sense of high altitude wilderness. We usually reach Kibo Hut (4,700 m.) at the bottom of the crater wall by midday and the afternoon is free (to contemplate the summit ascent!!). The remainder of the day is spent resting and eating in preparation for the final climb before a very early night! [4-5 hours walking from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut]

1. Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
2. Distance: 9km/5.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit, and down to Horombo Hut

We will start our ascent by torchlight at about 1 a.m. so that we can be up at Gillman’s Point by sunrise. The initial climb is steep over loose volcanic screen, but there are some well-graded zig-zag and a slow but steady pace will have us up to Gillman’s (5,685 m.) in about five or six hours. We will rest there and spend some time taking in the sunrise. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent is surprisingly fast and we return to Horombo Hut for the night. [6-7 hours walking from Kibo Hut to Gillman’s Point]

1. Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3700m/12,200ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
3. Hiking Time: 6-7 hours up / 15km/9mi down
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Hike Horombo Hut to trail head, drive to Moshi

After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour). Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

1. Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
2. Distance: 20km/12.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
4. Habitat: Forest

Package includes:

1. Private transport from the hotel to the Park s gate (starting point for the climb), and transport back to the hotel after the climb
2. Park entry fees
3. All camping fees
4. Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Park rescue team fees)
5. Government taxes
6. Evacuation services
7. Friendly and competent Trained Mountain Guides, assistant guides, porters and professional cooks.
8. 3 full fresh meals daily. We provide fresh food on the mountain in plentiful and well prepared by skilled professional cooks(we also consider your choice of food that you would prefer -Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian). Menu especially designed for climbers.
9. Hot drinks on the mountain and Hot water for washing will be provide everyday on the mountain.
10. Quality specious tents, sleeping mats, camping tables ,camping chairs and Mess/Dining Tent.(Not applicable on the Marangu route as accommodation is in A-frame huts)
11. Supplementary Portable Oxygen and Complete First Aid Kit (used in case of emergency only)
12. Pulse oxy-meter carried by all chief guides
13. 3-4 liters of mineral/treated water (per Climber) provided daily during the climb
14. ***Portable toilet available at an additional cost (There are public toilets on the mountain)

Do not include:

1. Items of a personal nature
2. Tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US$200 to US$ 250 per hiker - depending on number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen)
3. Personal Hiking/Trekking gears (Some Gears are available for Rent)
4. Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
5. Meals, drinks and snacks not specified.

MOMELA LAKE TANZANIA.

Momela Lakes is a group of shallow alkaline lakes that are fed by underground streams. They differ in mineral contents and algae that cause the colours of their water also to differ slightly.
The mineral and algae present in these lakes attract and support many water birds including flamingos, Egyptian goose, and fowls.
Among the lakes in Momela is lake Rishetani, which is green in colour, Great Momela Lake with a variety of birds. There are also Tulusia and Lekandiro Lakes, as well as the Small Momela Lake, in which groups of hippopotamus can also be seen. The lakes are within the Arusha National Park Safari.

RONGAI ROUTES FOR 7 DAYS.

Day 1: Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Rongai Gate (Nale Moru), Hike to Simba Camp

Drive to the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru (about 2 hours including a stop to get permits at Marangu). After signing in and preparing the porters, you will begin the hike on a wide path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.

1. Elevation: 2000m/6560ft to 2650m/8700ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Montane Forest

Day 2: Hike Simba Camp to Second Cave

The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.

1. Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3450m/11,300ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Hike Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Head out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios nearby.

1. Elevation: 3450m/11,300ft to 3600m/11,800ft
2. Distance: 9km/5mi
3. Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
4. Habitat: Semi-desert

Day 4: Hike Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization.
If you are spending an extra day on the mountain, you will camp for two nights here. You can hike up and around Mawenzi for your acclimatization hike.

1. Elevation: 3600m/11,800ft to 4330m/14,200ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Semi-desert

Day 5: Hike Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Cross the lunar desert of the 'Saddle' between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent very early.

1. Elevation: 4330m/14,200ft to 4750m/15,600ft
2. Distance: 9km/5mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Kibo Camp to Summit and Horombo Hut

Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman's Point located on the crater rim (elev 5700m/18,700ft). Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment.
The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly "pole pole" and an optimistic attitude will get you there!

1. Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3700m/12,200ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
3. Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 7: Hike Horombo Hut to trail head, drive to Moshi

After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour). Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

1. Elevation:3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
2. Distance: 20km/12.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
4. Habitat: Forest

Package includes:

1. Private transport from the hotel to the Park s gate (starting point for the climb), and transport back to the hotel after the climb
2. Park entry fees
3. All camping fees
4. Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Park rescue team fees)
5. Government taxes
6. Evacuation services
7. Friendly and competent Trained Mountain Guides, assistant guides, porters and professional cooks.
8. 3 full fresh meals daily. We provide fresh food on the mountain in plentiful and well prepared by skilled professional cooks(we also consider your choice of food that you would prefer -Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian). Menu especially designed for climbers.
9. Hot drinks on the mountain and Hot water for washing will be provide everyday on the mountain.
10. Quality specious tents, sleeping mats, camping tables ,camping chairs and Mess/Dining Tent.(Not applicable on the Marangu route as accommodation is in A-frame huts)
11. Supplementary Portable Oxygen and Complete First Aid Kit (used in case of emergency only)
12. Pulse oxy-meter carried by all chief guides
13. 3-4 liters of mineral/treated water (per Climber) provided daily during the climb
14. ***Portable toilet available at an additional cost (There are public toilets on the mountain)

Do not include:

1. Items of a personal nature
2. Tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US$200 to US$ 250 per hiker - depending on number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen)
3. Personal Hiking/Trekking gears (Some Gears are available for Rent)
4. Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
5. Meals, drinks and snacks not specified.

RONGAI ROUTE KILIMANJARO MOUNTAIN TANZANIA.

6 Days Rongai Route

The Rongai Route is the only route to ascend up the North side of the mountain, originating close to the Kenyan border. It is considered one of the easiest routes up Mt. Kilimanjaro and boasts a high success rate for reaching the summit. However, it is one of the less-frequently used routes, mostly attributed to the long drive required to reach the gate on day one. This has its advantages though, as it is less crowded and therefore a quieter way to ascend the mountain.
Because the northern side of the mountain tends to be drier than other areas, the ascent on the first day is not wet and muddy like on other routes. This first day is a very gentle climb through fields, a beautiful forest, and on day two enters moorland terrain. Day three takes you through the alpine desert zone, where you will sleep directly underneath the grand Mawenzi Peak, the only route to afford you such a view of Kilimanjaro's 2nd highest peak. From here there is ample time set aside for acclimatization and resting in preparation for the final ascent to the summit.
This route meets up with the Marangu Route upon descent, allowing climbers a different view of the mountain on the way down. Although Rongai climbers do not experience the rainforest on day one, they are given the chance on the final day before reaching the Marangu Gate where the climb concludes.

ZANZIBAR 5 DAYS ITINERARY.

Day 1: Zanzibar-Stone Town Hotel

Meet&Greet ex Zanzibar Airport/Seaport and transfer to Stone town Hotel. (BB) Briefing by our professional guide. Sunset cruise around 16:30 Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 2: Sand Bank Picnic – 09:30-15:30

After Breakfast pick up around 09:00 for Sandbank pick-nic, you will be sailed away off Serena Inn to the Sandbank with our Expert Traditional Dhow crew and Back to your hotel around 15:30

Day 3: Full Day - Stone Town+shopping-Spice Farms

After Breakfast pick up around 09:00 for City Tour-To visit the historic sites of Stone Town and shopping in the Antique and gift shops. Lunch at Mtoni Marine Restaurant and after lunch proceed to Spice farms looking for spices and tropical fruits. And thereafter transfer to the Beach Resort/Hotel on ”HB”

Day 4: Full Day Jozani forest plus Dolphins tour

In the morning you will be picked up from Beach Resort for full day Jozani Forest+ Kizimkazi Dolphins tour, Lunch at Kizimkazi Restaurant. After lunch our professional guide will take you to explore the nature at Jozani forest. Dinner and Overnight

Day 5: Day At Leisure

Day 6: Zanzibar-Departure-ZNZ Airport/Sea Port

Departure Transfer to the Seaport/Airport to catch your flight back home or continuing arrangement.

The Price Include:

1. Accommodation and meals as stipulated on each itinerary
2. Jozani forest Safari
3. Snorkling
4. Spice tour for 3 hours,
5. Ground transportation with an English speaking driver/guide
6. Sightseeing as per itinerary – where indicated
7. Entry fees for sightseeing indicated

Price Excludes:

1. All items of person nature such as telephone call, fax, email etc
2. Trips and gratuities to hotel, lodges, porters, camp staff and driver – guide(s)
3. Alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
4. Laundry services
5. Visa and International flight tickets fees.

VISIT LAKE CHALA

We leave Moshi town early in the morning and heard towards Himo town using Taifa road which is the main route. It's approximatelly 30 kms from Moshi town to the small town of Himo. The route is tarmac road with a lot of traffic. After a few minutes catching our breath and refilling our water containers and eating some energy bars, we will head towards Taveta border (Kenyan and Tanzanian Boarder) which is 10 kms from Himo Town. The route is Tarmac with much reduced traffic. At few meters before the border we will go left towards the route that leads to Lake Chala. It is 14 kms to the lake from here. The route is rough with gravel and rocks, and is dusty all the way to the lake. At approximately 6 to 7 kms to the lake, the vegetation changes to evergreen forest that is host to many mammals like Elephant, Primates, Antelopes and different species of birds. It's 4 hrs from Moshi town to Lake Chala. On reaching the lake we will have a picnic lunch, then we will rest for some time before decending down to the Lake. At the lake you can have a boat ride around the lake. After spending some time here we will go back to the camp where we'll have soft drinks, dinner and stay overnight.

Day 2

We'll leave the camp very early after our breakfast and ride back to Himo town where a vehicle will be waiting for us. It will take us to Marangu water falls and to other historical sites, including the caves that were used by the Chagga tribe to hide in during the 1st and 2nd World Wars. It is 30 kms from Himo to Marangu water falls. The route is tarmac all the way and it's an uphill drive to Marangu Mtoni (small town of Marangu). Before visiting the water falls we will go to the historical sites where you will learn more about the Chagga tribe that occupy the foot hills of Mount Kilimanjaro. We will get our lunch at the water falls.
After your tour you can choose to pass via the Children's Orphanage as you go back to town. Chief's Tours usually gives 10% of the profits that we get from every bike and walking tour.

HOW TO GET IN TANZANIA COUNTRY.

HOW DO I GET TANZANIA.?

 

There are daily flights arriving at Kilimanjaro international air port with a short code JRO from;
Amsterdam – KLM, Doha- Qatar air ways, Istanbul- Turkish air line, Nairobi- Kenya air ways, Ethiopia airline- Adis Ababa, Kigali- Rwanda air, all these will connect you from different destination around the world please contact us for more details on the flights reservation from anywhere in the world.
Also you can arrive in the nearest international air for more option then we will be able to book a local flight for you to take you to northern Tanzania.

RUAHA SOUTHERN TANZANIA.

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

“Tourists’ Dream of AFRICA” Ruaha National Park is the second wildlife protection area in Africa. Ruaha is the Tanzania’s biggest elephant sanctuary. The awesome scenery of Ruaha National Park consists of rolling plains interrupted by gentle hills and smooth rocky outcrops, all framed by mighty baobabs. All five great predators, both species of kudu, antelope and both horse like antelopes are part of the widely diverse fauna of Ruaha ecosystem. Rauha has become a tourist’s dream of Africa as nowhere else you can find an astonishing concentration of wildlife within one river basin around the shrinking water courses. Eurasian migrants flock to Ruaha twice a year.
The game viewing starts the moment the plane touches down. Ruaha giraffe races beside the airstrip, all legs and neck, yet oddly elegant in its awkwardness. A line of Ruaha zebras parades across the runway in the giraffe’s wake.
In the distance, beneath a bulbous baobab tree, a few representatives of Ruaha’s 10,000 elephants – the largest population of any East African national park, form a protective huddle around their young.
Ruaha National Park is Second only to Katavi in its aura of untrammelled wilderness, but far more accessible, Ruaha protects a vast tract of the rugged, semi-arid bush country that characterises central Tanzania. Its lifeblood is the Great Ruaha River, which courses along the eastern boundary in a flooded torrent during the height of the rains, but dwindling thereafter to a scattering of precious pools surrounded by a blinding sweep of sand and rock.
A fine network of game-viewing roads follows the Great Ruaha and its seasonal tributaries, where , during the dry season, impala, waterbuck and other antelopes risk their life for a sip of life-sustaining water. And the risk is considerable: not only from the prides of 20-plus lion that lord over the savannah, but also from the cheetahs that stalk the open grassland and the leopards that lurk in tangled riverine thickets. This impressive array of large predators is boosted by both striped and spotted hyena, as well as several conspicuous packs of the highly endangered African wild dog.
Ruaha’s unusually high diversity of antelope is a function of its location, which is transitional to the acacia savannah of East Africa and the miombo woodland belt of Southern Africa. Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu occur here at the very south of their range, alongside the miombo-associated sable and roan antelope, and one of East AfricaÆs largest populations of greater kudu, the park emblem, distinguished by the male’s magnificent corkscrew horns.
A similar duality is noted in the checklist of 450 birds: the likes of crested barbet, an attractive yellow-and-black bird whose persistent trilling is a characteristic sound of the southern bush, occur in Ruaha alongside central Tanzanian endemics such as the yellow-collared lovebird and ashy starling.

SOUTHERN PART OF TANZANIA.

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is located about located about 283 km from Dar-es-Salaam along Dar es Salaam Mbeya highway. The main feature of Mikumi National Park is the flood plain along with the bordering mountain ranges. It has a landing strip and is home to various game animals including buffalo, zebra, giraffe, lion, wild dogs, python, monitor lizard, hartebeest, wildebeest, elephant (these elephants are grazers and do not damage trees), hippo, impala, warthog, eland and antelope. Birds include the hammerkop, saddle-bill stork, and the malachite kingfisher. The vegetation is made up of woodland, grassland and swamp. There are two water holes, Mkata and Chamgore. The park is popular as a weekend outing for Dar residents. Both budget and luxury accommodation is available and include a tented camp, a luxury lodge and designated camp sites.

KITULO NATIONAL PARK.

Fact About the Kitulo Plateau National Park

• Size: 412.9 sq km (156.902 sq miles)
• Location: Southern Tanzania. The temporary park headquarters at Matamba are situated approximately 100km (60 miles) from Mbeya town.

Getting there

4×4 drive only. From Chimala, 78km east of Mbeya along the surfaced main road to Dar es Salaam, head south along the rough but spectacular dirt road – called Hamsini na Saba (57) after the number of hairpin bends along its length – to the temporary park headquarters at Matamba, from where it’s another hour’s drive to the plateau. Basic and erratic public transport is available.

What to do

• Good guided hiking trails on the plateau and other environments – exist and will soon be developed into a formal trail system.
• Open walking across the grasslands to watch birds and wildflowers.
• Hill climbing on the neighbouring ranges. A half-day hike from the park across the Livingstone Mountains leads to the sumptuous Matema Beach on Lake Nyasa.

When to go there

• The superb scenery: open montane grassland is a unique environment for Tanzania
• Endemic or near endemic species of plants animals
• A heaven for nature – loving Tourists specializing in plants
• Wildflower displays peak between December and April. The sunnier months of September to November are more comfortable for hiking but less rewarding to botanists. Conditions are cold and foggy from June to August.

Accommodation

• Mbeya is serviced by everything from luxury hotels to simple guesthouses, while two simple guesthouses also exist in Matamba.
• There is no accommodation in the park as yet, but very basic accommodation and meals are available at the adjacent Kitulo Farm nearby Matamba village 10km from the park gate.
• Three special campsites are planned within the park, catering to fully equipped campers.
• Two moderately priced church-run hostels are situated on Matema Beach.

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About Gombe Stream National Park

• Size:52 sq km (20 sq miles), Tanzania’s smallest park.
• Location: 16 km (10 miles) north of Kigoma on the shore of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania.

Getting there

Kigoma is connected to Dar es salaam and Arusha by scheduled flights, to Dar es salaam and Mwanza by a slow rail service, to Mwanza, Dar and Mbeya by rough dirt roads, and to Mpulungu in Zambia by a weekly ferry.
From Kigoma, local lake-taxis take up to three hours to reach Gombe, or motorboats can be chartered, taking less than one hour.

What to do

• Day walks or hiking safaris through untouched bush with aguide
• Game drives – around Msembe though it’s a sparse in the parts of the park

Why and when to visit

• Chimpanzee trekking; hiking, swimming and snorkelling;
• Visit the site of Henry Stanley’s famous “Dr Livingstone presume” at Ujiji near Kigoma, and watch the renowned dhow builders at work.

Accommodation

1 new luxury tented lodge, as well a self-catering hostel, guest house and campsites on the lakeshore.

GOMBE SOUTHERN TANZANIA.

About Gombe Stream National Park

• Size:52 sq km (20 sq miles), Tanzania’s smallest park.
• Location: 16 km (10 miles) north of Kigoma on the shore of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania.

Getting there

Kigoma is connected to Dar es salaam and Arusha by scheduled flights, to Dar es salaam and Mwanza by a slow rail service, to Mwanza, Dar and Mbeya by rough dirt roads, and to Mpulungu in Zambia by a weekly ferry.
From Kigoma, local lake-taxis take up to three hours to reach Gombe, or motorboats can be chartered, taking less than one hour.

What to do

• Day walks or hiking safaris through untouched bush with aguide
• Game drives – around Msembe though it’s a sparse in the parts of the park

Why and when to visit

• Chimpanzee trekking; hiking, swimming and snorkelling;
• Visit the site of Henry Stanley’s famous “Dr Livingstone presume” at Ujiji near Kigoma, and watch the renowned dhow builders at work.

Accommodation

1 new luxury tented lodge, as well a self-catering hostel, guest house and campsites on the lakeshore.

EQUIPMENT FOR HIKING KILIMANJARO MOUNTAIN.

Gear list for trekking

• Sleeping bag (-21º C)
• Trekking poles
• Hiking boots, thick trekking socks, gaiters
• Thermals
• Underwear
• T-shirts, Shorts
• Trekking trousers, long-sleeved shirts
• Warm jumper/ pullover
• Waterproof trousers
• Waterproof windproof jacket,
• Warm hat, headband or beanie
• Waterproof gloves
• Sun hat or cap with brim
• Sunglasses
• Camera
• Head torch
• Small towel
• Water bottle
• Daypack
• Personal toiletries and medication
• Wet-wipes, hand sanitizer
• Sunblock, chapstick
• Vaseline jelly
• Snacks and energy bars

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SAFARIS GEAR LIST.

Gear list for Safari

• Passport, travel insurance policy, vaccination certificates
• Comfortable fitting, neutral colour clothes in lightweight, breathable fabrics, especially ones that have moisture wicking properties
  • Short-sleeved shirts
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Shorts
  • Long trousers or convertible pants
• Lightweight shoes/trainers with socks
• Sandals or flip flops
• Light jacket, pullover or jersey
• Scarf or bandana
• Hat for sun protection
• Swimming costume
• Sunglasses
• Camera (extra batteries) and binoculars
• Personal toiletries
• First-aid and any prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets
• Insect repellent
• Sunblock lotion and lip balm
• Wet wipes/ hand sanitizer

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7 DAYS WILDLIFE SAFARIS.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

You will be picked up in the morning and after a short briefing you will head off in direction of the Tarangire National Park. The park with its savannah, baobab trees, seasonal swamps is home to huge elephant herds. Animals gather at the life-giving Tarangire River and you should see a selection of mammals ranging from giraffes, bushbucks and hartebeests to zebras and warthogs. The park is also home to buffaloes, zebras and wildebeests which are always closely followed by a range of predators such as lions. Leopards are seen now and then but cheetahs are rarely spotted. From the open roof of the safari vehicle you will be able to absorb the landscape and watch the animals. In the late afternoon you will leave the park and head to a nearby campsite, where you will spend the night in a tent. Lunch; Dinner

Day 2: Tarangire Area – Lake Natron

After breakfast you will leave the area around Tarangire National Park and head to the multicultural village of Mto wa Mbu. From here you will travel on a spectacular and very bumpy gravel road along the Rift Valley Escarpment with Ol Doinyo Lengai “the holy mountain” of the Masai in the distance. Today’s destination is the typical Masai village of Ngare Sero in the hot and dusty Rift Valley. In the distance you might see a pink glow from flamingos breeding and feeding on the algae of the alkaline Lake Natron (seasonal and depending on water level). In the afternoon you will join a Masai guide on a walk to a nearby waterfall before you return to the campsite for your overnight. Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 3: Lake Natron – Serengeti National Park

After an early start, you will travel along adventurous dirt tracks with breath-taking views as your vehicle climbs out of the Rift Valley to reach the grassy plains of the Serengeti by midday. Serengeti means “endless plains” in the language of the Masai and you will see the grassland savannah stretching to the horizon. The Serengeti is the most famous park in Tanzania and it is home to the largest animal migration on the planet – hundreds of thousands of animals trek to find fresh grass and water. You will overnight at a campsite in the northern or central part of the park. Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 4: Serengeti National Park

The entire day is dedicated to game viewing in the Serengeti National Park. You will either go on a full day game drive or join early morning and afternoon drives in the Seronera area, depending on last night’s stop. Between December and May huge herds of wildebeests and zebras will be seen, with calves and foals being born between January and March. The Seronera area is also the best place to spot the shy and nocturnal leopard. You will spend the night at a campsite in the Seronera area. Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 5: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The morning is set aside for another game drive in the Serengeti and you might spot some creatures that you haven’t seen yet. Animals tend to be more active in the morning before the temperatures soar around midday. After lunch, you will leave the plains of the Serengeti and travel to the highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You will camp at a campsite directly on the Ngorongoro Crater’s edge with a view over the collapsed volcano. It is a perfect spot to enjoy a sundowner at sunset. Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Mto wa Mbu

Rise and shine! It is up at daybreak to take on the steep path leading down into the 600 m deep crater. The slopes are forested but soon the landscape changes to savannah with the occasional acacia tree here and there. The wildlife in the crater is just breath-taking and with a little luck you might see the “Big Five” – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard. You should also see warthogs, wildebeests, zebras, hippos and some of the more than 500 bird species of the area. After an entire morning of game viewing and a picnic lunch in the crater, you will travel to Mto wa Mbu where you will overnight on a campsite. Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 7: Mto wa Mbu – Arusha

After a leisurely breakfast, you will start your return trip to Arusha, where you will arrive around midday. You will be dropped off at a hotel of your choice or at the airport. Breakfast; Lunch

Package includes:

1. Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
2. Professional, English-speaking guide and safari cook
3. Meals according to the itinerary
4. Mineral water (3 litres per person per day)
5. Overnight stays in tents
6. Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, camping furniture etc.)
7. All national park fees
8. Waterfall walk at Lake Natron

Do not include:

1. Sleeping bag
2. Flights
3. Optional activities
4. Alcoholic and soft drinks
5. Visa fees
6. Tips
7. Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
8. Travel insurance
   

AMBONI CAVES TANGA TANZANIA.

The Amboni Caves are the most extensive limestone caves in East Africa. They are located 8 km north of Tanga City in Tanzania off the Tanga-Mombasa road. The caves were formed about 150 million years ago during the Jurassic age. It covers an area of 234 km². According to researchers the area was under water some 20 million years ago. There are altogether ten caves but only one is used for guided tours. The cave attracts tourist as well as students for their geography lessons. The attractions include: Popo flight - (Popo means bat in Swahili). Many of them live in the caves. Every evening at sunset they fly out of the cave entrance.
Rocks in the shape of:

1. Sofa
2. A ship
3. A crocodile
4. An elephant
5. Map of Africa
6. Statue of Liberty
7. Head of a male lion
8. Stalactite and stalagmite features

Package Includes:

1. Alcohol drinks
2. Accommodation
3. Tips
4. Lunch

Package Excludes:
Is a combined tour were our clients will able to visit Amboni caves and then later to Raskazon Swimming beach for only USD $ 50. The price will include the following:-

1. Caves entrance fee
2. Raskazon swimming beach entrance fee
3. Transport
4. Parking fee
5. Dinner
   

A little about step to kili

We are a specialist Tanzanian tour company offering bespoke experiences of Tanzania from the lofty heights of Kilimanjaro to the endless plains of the Serengeti and exotic beaches of Zanzibar.
Travel in comfort with security and confidence. Our goal is simple; we want you to experience the best landscapes of our country, meet and enjoy the warm hospitality of locals and ultimately have the best vacation experience in Tanzania.
We understand what it takes to put together a great tour. Our team is professionally qualified and has extensive experience in the travel industry; we know our country and love to share our scenic land, magnificent wildlife and friendly culture with you.
All of our itineraries are custom designed by our team to suit your schedule and budget and we can take care of all your travel requirements. Get in touch with us to start planning your dream safari.
Karibu to Step to Kili.

zanzibar trip by step to kili

Day 1: Fly from Arusha/Moshi or Kilimanjaro

After your northern safari after the Kilimanjaro climb to Zanzibar. After arrival you will be transferred to your hotel, and then the afternoon is free to lighten up on the beach or spend some time walking through the narrow streets of Stone Town, Overnight at Paradise Beach Resort Zanzibar or any related hotel.

Day 2: Today the choice is yours between the spice tour or the stone town old city tour.

Spice Tour in Zanzibar famous known as the ‘Spice Island, or in Swahili language Marashi ya karafuu is a succulent green getaway filled with exotic species of spices and plants whilst on your spice tour you will have an opportunity to taste, smell and see how the various spices and fruits are grown, the tour will end up with a visit to the Kidichi Persian baths and the Maruhubi Palace ruins. In the afternoon you will be transferred to Nungwi for maximum relaxation at Paradise Beach Resort Zanzibar. Stone Town Tour After breakfast you will be leaving the hotel involve in a guided tour of Stone Town, where is the center of Zanzibar’s culture, You will discover the lavishly decorated buildings and intricately carved doors also you will visit the famous slave market where nowadays the Anglican Church stands some time called the House of Wonders, Dinner and Over night at Paradise Beach Resort Zanzibar.

Day 3: After a late breakfast you will be transfered to the air port

where you will fly either to Dar es salaam or Nairobi to connect your flight back home or choose another tour in East africa.

The Price Include:

1. Airport transfers,
2. Accommodation, Breakfast and tours as per detailed itineraries
3. Alternate Hotels may be used if our hotels may not be available.
4. All Meals are in bed & breakfast basis

Price Excludes:

1. All items of person nature such as telephone call, fax, email etc
2. Trips and gratuities to hotel, lodges, porters, camp staff and driver – guide(s)
3. Alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
4. Laundry services
5. Visa and International flight tickets fees.

safari to Katavi

Bagamoyo, The far west of Tanzania gives home to two of Tanzania’s lesser known national parks: Katavi National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park. This western circuit is extremely remote, tricky to access and pretty costly to visit. As a result few people make the effort to come here and so it has remained an untouched, unique experience, and absolutely worth visiting.
Katavi National Park is a name to conjure with. It is one of the best parks in Africa and many safari operations would love to start camps here. However, the logistics and costs are so difficult, that there are only a couple of small, permanent safari camps sharing this 4,500km² of wilderness. Yo

Flora and Fauna of Katavi National Park

Once in Katavi, Tanzania's third largest national park won't disappoint you. Two enormous plains of knee-high golden grass – Chada and Katasunga – dominate the park, surrounded by varied woodlands and a usually abundant amount of game.

Katavi’s animals

Katavi National Park is at its best in the dry season, when the plains fill with thousands of zebra, topi and impala. Hartebeest, giraffe, and Defassa waterbuck are also very common, there's a large population of resident elephants, and some impressive herds of buffalo. Katavi is a great park for watching lion-buffalo interactions. Spotted hyena are frequently seen, whilst leopard appear on the woodland fringes, but are more elusive. Wild dog do live here, but tend to stick to the escarpment and are rarely seen on the plains.
During the dry season, the Katuma and Kapapa rivers are the only water for miles. As the game files down to drink, hundreds of hippo congregate in the tiniest waterhole and enormous crocodiles sit out the heat in river-bank mud-holes.

Birds

Katavi hosts large flocks of open-billed and saddlebilled storks, spoonbills, crested cranes and pink-backed pelicans. Raptors are plentiful whilst the woodlands of the national park are home to species as diverse as African golden orioles, paradise fly-catchers and pennant-winged nightjars.

Vegetation in Katavi

Katavi is situated on the northern aside of the ‘Rukwa Rift’, an extension of the Western Rift Valley. Katavi’s dry woodlands are dominated by brachystegia species, which are mostly native to tropical Africa and dotted very densely around this area.

Getting to Katavi National Park

Katavi's isolation has helped it to remain untouched and largely unvisited; by light aircraft it takes four or five hours to reach here from Dar or Arusha. However, the result is that whilst the Serengeti National Park sees around 120,000 visitors per annum, Katavi has only a few hundred visitors per year!
The least expensive way to get to Katavi (and Mahale Mountains, which is relatively nearby) is by using twice-weekly scheduled flights which link these parks with Arusha, in northern Tanzania. Operating on Mondays and Thursdays, their relatively high cost helps to make these parks two of Tanzania's most expensive destinations!
There are also flights routing Dar-Selous-Ruaha to Katavi/Mahale, and back. These also run on Mondays and Thursdays. Sadly, the costs for these are similar to the costs of chartering; certainly no lower than the schedule flights from Arusha.

Accommodation

Camps inside and around the Park.

u sometimes run across more prides of lion than other people on a game drive.

Climb mount Meru...

Mt. Meru is one of Africa's highest and most beautiful volcanoes, standing at 4566 m. It is located within Arusha National Park. The route to the summit passes through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. Finally, the summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge which provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater and Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background.
Because the mountain lies within a National Park, it is common to encounter some of the area's birds, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, and black and white Colobus monkeys on the first day of your journey to the summit. For this reason, you will climb with a Park Ranger who takes your safety very seriously.
Many will say that Mt. Meru is not a difficult climb compared with Mt. Kilimanjaro, because of its lower elevation, shorter distance, and comfortable sleeping arrangements, but this is not a mountain to be taken lightly. The climb to the summit is rigorous, involving some steep ascents over rocky inclines and narrow ridges to traverse. It is therefore challenging yet rewarding and a beautiful mountain to experience.

Day 1: Arusha to Momela gate to Miriakamba hut

In the morning you will be met at your hotel and after a briefing about your upcoming trek start the scenic drive to Arusha National Park. Arriving at the gate, your guide will complete the registration forms and gather the hiking team before you will start your journey up Mount Meru accompanied by an armed park ranger. Walking through the grasslands towards the acacia forest on the southern route, you might spot giraffes and buffaloes lazily grazing on the lush vegetation. After roughly 2 hours you will reach the Maio Falls, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic lunch. Thereafter the journey continues through the “fig tree arch”, an unusual tree formation created by the wild fig Ficus Thonningii. Another two hours of hiking takes you to Miriakamba Hut where afternoon tea and snacks await you. The night will be spent at the Miriakamba Hut.

1. Start: Momella Gate (1,500 m)
2. Finish: Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m)
3. Altitude Gain: 1,000 m
4. Walking time: 4-5Hrs

Day 2: Miriakamba hut to Saddle hut

After breakfast you will continue on wooden steps along a steep track. The shift in altitude brings about a noticeable drop in temperature and walking may seem easier. The low hanging clouds often shrouds the rainforest in mist, creating a moody atmosphere in the lush vegetation. Your uphill trek will take you to “Mgongo wa Tembo” (elephant back) at a height of 3,200 m after approximately 2 hours, where you can take in the scenery and rest, before heading onward to Saddle Hut (3,550 m). On the way you will see the vegetation changing from rainforest to heather and moorland. After reaching Saddle Hut you can opt to hike to Little Meru (3,820 m), a 1 to 1½ hours hike from where you will have a fantastic view over Arusha National Park and Kilimanjaro about 80 km away. A warm meal and an early night awaits you back at Saddle Hut as your wake-up call will be just after midnight.

1. Start: Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m)
2. Finish: Saddle Hut (3,550 m)
3. Altitude Gain: 1050 m
4. Walking time: 3-4Hrs

Day 3: Saddle hut to the Summit

After breakfast you will start your final stretch on the so-called “northern route back to Momella gate. On this 2 to 3 hour trek you will once again have the chance to see giraffes, buffaloes elephants as well as the black and white colobus monkeys. Arriving at the gate you will say farewell to your hiking crew and be taken back to Arusha.

1. Start: Saddle Hut (3,550 m) – Socialist Peak (4,562 m)
2. Finish: Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m)
3. Altitude Gain: 1,012 m
4. Altitude Loss: 2,062 m
5. Walking time: 10-14Hrs

Momella Gate (1,500 m)

Day 4: From Saddle hut to the summit of Mt. Meru (4565m) and walk around the rim of Meru Crater

From Saddle hut ascend to the summit of Mt. Meru (4565m) and walk around the rim of Meru Crater. You will then return to the Saddle hut for breakfast and walk down across alpine desert. Lunch on the way down. You will find a car waiting at Momella gate to drive you back to Arusha.

1. Start: Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m)
2. Finish: Momella Gate (1,500 m)
3. Altitude Loss: 1,000m
4. Walking time: 2-3Hrs

Package includes:

1. Private transport from the hotel to the Park s gate (starting point for the climb), and transport back to the hotel after the climb
2. Park entry fees
3. All camping fees
4. Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Park rescue team fees)
5. Government taxes
6. Evacuation services
7. Friendly and competent Trained Mountain Guides, assistant guides, porters and professional cooks.
8. 3 full fresh meals daily. We provide fresh food on the mountain in plentiful and well prepared by skilled professional cooks(we also consider your choice of food that you would prefer -Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian). Menu especially designed for climbers.
9. Hot drinks on the mountain and Hot water for washing will be provide everyday on the mountain.
10. Quality specious tents, sleeping mats, camping tables ,camping chairs and Mess/Dining Tent.(Not applicable on the Marangu route as accommodation is in A-frame huts)
11. Supplementary Portable Oxygen and Complete First Aid Kit (used in case of emergency only)
12. Pulse oxy-meter carried by all chief guides
13. 3-4 liters of mineral/treated water (per Climber) provided daily during the climb
14. ***Portable toilet available at an additional cost (There are public toilets on the mountain)

Do not include:

1. Items of a personal nature
2. Tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US$200 to US$ 250 per hiker - depending on number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen)
3. Personal Hiking/Trekking gears (Some Gears are available for Rent)
4. Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
5. Meals, drinks and snacks not specified.

shifting sand

Fine ash blown by the wind from the Oldonyo Lengai’s eruptions has collected into rolling black dunes that spread across the Salei and serengeti plains. One of the dunes, called Shifting Sands, is easy to reach from Olduvai Gorge. From the visitor centre, cross the gorge, taking the track that passes the guides houses on the opposite (north) rim. The track passes to the left of a hill (Soit Naibor), and about 2km further on you will see an isolated black sand dune to your left.
Shifting Sands is a fine example of a barchans or crescent shaped dune. It is about 9m high and 100m along its curve. The constant wind blowing from the east pushes sand grains from the back of the dune up its firm, rippled, windward slope. The grains scramble upwards only to topple over the steep leeward slope. Thus the dune marches westward, grain by grain. It is easier for many grains to roll sideways rather than uphill, so they form the tapered horns of the crescent, pointing downwind. But the wind speeding round the curves pushes the sand around the corner, where it joins the march forward as a unit thus keeping the dune together.
Look for the dated concrete markers, east of the dune; these give an indication of the progress. Since 1969 it has covered about 17 metres per year; in another thousands year it may have reached the main road.



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CLIMBING LEMOSHO ROUTE FOR 1650$.

The Lemosho Route is a remote, less commonly used and beautiful way up the mountain. Because of its length, it allows for the best opportunity for acclimatization. Lemosho starts at Londorossi Gate, below the Shira Plateau, and treks through the rain forest of West Kilimanjaro to Shira 1 Camp. This route traverses the vast Shira Plateau, awarding pristine views. This plateau was actually formed where the first of Kilimanjaro's volcanoes erupted, and was later filled in from the larger Kibo eruption.
On day four of this trek, climbers meet up with the Machame Route around the Lava Tower. From there, hike down into the Barranco Valley, ascend the Great Barranco Wall, and traverse underneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Icefield.
Choose this route for its beautiful, length and peacefulness. If you are looking for a more remote trek, this is the one for you

Day 1: Lemosho-Londorosi gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp 7days Kilimanjaro climb lemosho route itinerary

Breakfast, Drive to the gate of Londorosi for a few minute of registration and other formalities. The 4WD will take you further up to Lemosho glades, thereafter you can walk for about 4hrs to Mti Mkubwa Campsite (9,200ft) Dinner and overnight at the camp.

1. Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi
3. Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
4. Habitat: Forest

Day 2: Mti-Mkubwa Camp – Shira I Camp

Breakfast, leave the Mti Mkubwa campsite for Shira plateau (11,550ft), walking through the moorland steepenning track. Dinner and Overnight at the Shira I Camp.

1. Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3850m/12,600ft
2. Distance: 6km/10mi
3. Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
4. Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Hike Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

From the Shira Plateau we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth" (elev 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower we come to the second junction which goes to the Arrow Glacier. We now continue down to the Barranco Camp. Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.

1. Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
2. Distance: 8km/5mi
3. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
4. Habitat: Semi-desert

Day 4: Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail.

1. Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
2. Distance: 5km/3mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

We continue up to the Barafu Camp. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day.

1. Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft
2. Distance: 4km/2mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, down to Mweka Camp

Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit.
From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. Once at Uhuru Peak you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa!
From the summit we begin our descent by continuing straight down to the Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You may want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. We arrive at Mweka Camp and enjoy our last evening on the mountain.

1. Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3090m/10,150ft
2. Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
3. Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
4. Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit

Day 7: Hike Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, drive to Moshi

After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Don't forget to tip your guides and porters.

1. Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
2. Distance: 10km/6mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Forest

Package includes:

1. Private transport from the hotel to the Park s gate (starting point for the climb), and transport back to the hotel after the climb
2. Park entry fees
3. All camping fees
4. Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Park rescue team fees)
5. Government taxes
6. Evacuation services
7. Friendly and competent Trained Mountain Guides, assistant guides, porters and professional cooks.
8. 3 full fresh meals daily. We provide fresh food on the mountain in plentiful and well prepared by skilled professional cooks(we also consider your choice of food that you would prefer -Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian). Menu especially designed for climbers.
9. Hot drinks on the mountain and Hot water for washing will be provide everyday on the mountain.
10. Quality specious tents, sleeping mats, camping tables ,camping chairs and Mess/Dining Tent.(Not applicable on the Marangu route as accommodation is in A-frame huts)
11. Supplementary Portable Oxygen and Complete First Aid Kit (used in case of emergency only)
12. Pulse oxy-meter carried by all chief guides
13. 3-4 liters of mineral/treated water (per Climber) provided daily during the climb
14. ***Portable toilet available at an additional cost (There are public toilets on the mountain)

Do not include:

1. Items of a personal nature
2. Tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US$200 to US$ 250 per hiker - depending on number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen)
3. Personal Hiking/Trekking gears (Some Gears are available for Rent)
4. Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
5. Meals, drinks and snacks not specified. 

www.steptokili.com

6 days Machame route

Day 1: Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Machame Gate, Hike to Machame Camp

In the morning, we depart from our base hotel at approximately 8:00 AM for the Machame village where you begin the trek. From the park entrance gate (Machame), you will walk for about two to three hours through a dense forest of fig and rubber trees, begonia flowers, and other tropical vegetation. A stop for picnic lunch will be made halfway to this evening’s campsite. As you continue your ascent, you will find that the tropical forest has given way to tall grasses and giant heather. You will be walking on a ridge, to the left of which is the Semira stream, and on the right, the Weru Weru. Depending on the pace of the climbers, arrival at Machame Camp is usually between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Your camp is set up near some old metal huts, which were once used for shelter.
This initial stage of the climb is tranquil and relatively easy. There is no point in rushing to get to the camp, as there is little to do there. Guides tend to recommend a slow ascent, even at this point, for gradual acclimatization. Do not try to keep up with your porters, who will usually bound ahead. Instead, take time to admire the beauty of the rainforest. Overnight: Machame Camp (10, 000 ft).

1. Elevation: 1800m/6000ft to 3000m/9842ft
2. Distance: 11km/7mi
3. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
4. Habitat: Montane Forest

Day 2: Machame Camp – Shira Camp

On this and subsequent mornings, wake-up call is at around 6:00 AM. You will be greeted with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, and weather permitting, by a fabulous view of Uhuru peak. Today’s trek takes you up a steep track through a savannah of tall grasses, volcanic rock, and bearded heather. You will encounter giant groundsels as you hike through a ghostly landscape of volcanic lava, caves, and foamy streams.
Lunch will be taken just below the Shira Plateau, about three to four hours from Shira Camp. The hike to the next campsite takes approximately six hours and you should arrive between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Most climbers tend to pace themselves, walking slowly and resting about every half-hour. Overnight: Shira Camp (12,500 ft)

1. Elevation: 3000m/9842ft to 3840m/12,598ft
2. Distance: 5km/3mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
4. Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

The entire Shira Plateau greets you this morning with sweeping vistas across to Meru and the Shira Needles. A steady walk takes you up to the pass at Lava Tower (15,000 ft), where you stop to have lunch. Crossing the Bastains stream, you will begin to descend towards Barranco Camp. The descent takes you along an immense canyon called Grand Barranco. Along the way, you will see numerous waterfalls, which are fed, by streams coming from the mountain, converging here to form the Umbwe River.
Your camp is set at almost the same altitude as the night before. Today’s trek lasts for about six hours and arrival at camp is between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Overnight: Barranco Camp (13,000 ft)

1. Elevation: 3840m/12,598ft to 3950m/12,959ft
2. Distance: 10km/6mi
3. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
4. Habitat: Semi-Desert

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp

This morning you begin your hike to Barafu Camp via Karanga Camp, which is on the same altitude as Barranco Camp.
You will encounter a bit of a climb at Barranco Cliff and spend the rest of the trek climbing up and down the slopes of the mountain most of the way to camp. The climbing is not considered difficult and you should arrive in time for lunch (approximately 1:00PM) having trekked for about four hours.
In the afternoon you have to hike in the Karanga Valley where giant senecios and lobelia grow; then continue with the scenic climb to Barafu which is mostly on a moraine with a view of Mawenzi peak towering majestically to the right, and overhead, Kibo peak seemingly just out of reach. The alpine desert terrain encountered at this point is mostly a mineral environment with few lichens and mosses. Climbers arrive at Barafu Camp at around 3:30PM. Climbers who choose to ascend the peak will go to bed very early this night, as the next day is the longest one. Overnight: Barafu Camp (15,200 ft)

1. Elevation: 3950m/12,959ft to 4600m/15,091ft
2. Distance: 9km/6mi
3. Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Barafu Camp – Mweka Camp

You will be awakened at midnight and after a light breakfast, start climbing at around 1:00 AM. It is at this stage that the climb becomes much more difficult. Here, very few will not be suffering from altitude sickness in some form or another; and climbers should carry as little as possible on this portion of the climb. Temperatures will range from -4° to 5° Fahrenheit. Making your way up a path that is flanked by the Ratzel and Rebman glaciers, you will climb for about six hours before reaching the edge of the crater, between Stella and Hans Meyer points. Another hour of climbing brings you to the summit. Uhuru stands at 19,340 feet and is the highest point on the continent of Africa. The track around the edge of the crater is rocky and icy. Concentrate on your feet, and follow your guide very closely for this portion of the journey.
The descent is no easier than the ascent. You will reach Kibo Hut after about three hours (around 11:30 AM). Climbers will be given the opportunity to rest and have some refreshments before continuing on to Mweka Camp for the night. Arriving into camp at around 5:00PM, you will have trekked a total of thirteen hours today.
Overnight: Mweka Camp (10,200ft) Mweka to the Gate

1. Elevation: 4600m/15,091ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3100m/10,170ft
2. Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
3. Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
4. Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit

Day 6: Hike Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, drive to Moshi

After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Don't forget to tip your guides and porters.

1. Elevation: 3100m/10,170ft to 1700m/5577ft
2. Distance: 10km/6mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
4. Habitat: Forest

Package includes:

1. Private transport from the hotel to the Park s gate (starting point for the climb), and transport back to the hotel after the climb
2. Park entry fees
3. All camping fees
4. Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Park rescue team fees)
5. Government taxes
6. Evacuation services
7. Friendly and competent Trained Mountain Guides, assistant guides, porters and professional cooks.
8. 3 full fresh meals daily. We provide fresh food on the mountain in plentiful and well prepared by skilled professional cooks(we also consider your choice of food that you would prefer -Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian). Menu especially designed for climbers.
9. Hot drinks on the mountain and Hot water for washing will be provide everyday on the mountain.
10. Quality specious tents, sleeping mats, camping tables ,camping chairs and Mess/Dining Tent.(Not applicable on the Marangu route as accommodation is in A-frame huts)
11. Supplementary Portable Oxygen and Complete First Aid Kit (used in case of emergency only)
12. Pulse oxy-meter carried by all chief guides
13. 3-4 liters of mineral/treated water (per Climber) provided daily during the climb
14. ***Portable toilet available at an additional cost (There are public toilets on the mountain)

Do not include:

1. Items of a personal nature
2. Tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US$200 to US$ 250 per hiker - depending on number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen)
3. Personal Hiking/Trekking gears (Some Gears are available for Rent)
4. Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
5. Meals, drinks and snacks not specified.

CLIMB KILIMANJARO VIA MARANGU

Day 1: Moshi town to Kilimanjaro gate – Mandara Hut.

We leave Moshi to Kilimanjaro gate – Mandara Hut. Take a short drive from Moshi or Arusha town to the Kilimanjaro Park Gate (1,830 m.) lies at the edge of Marangu, which is an attractive village with many small coffee and banana plantations. After completing the entrance formalities, we climb up through attractive and unspoiled forest to reach the clearing containing Mandara Hut (2,700 m.). The volcanic remains of Maundi Crater are nearby, and make a good afternoon excursion. An alternative is to rest and enjoy the beautiful forest. There is a rich birdlife at the huts and monkeys are often seen as well. [3-5 hours walking to Mandara Hut].

1. Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
2. Distance: 8km/5mi
3. Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
4. Habitat: Montane Forest

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

We leave Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut The first part of the walk is a steep ascent through forest, but the path soon opens out into grassy moorland and, in clear weather, there are good views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. We climb steadily through the moorland zone, containing giant heather and occasional stands of groundsel, to eventually reach Horombo Hut (3,720 m.). Sunrises and sunsets here are often very stunning, the site is close to the glaciated dome of Kibo, and there is a real sense of being above the clouds. [4-6 hours walking from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut].

1. Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
2. Distance: 12km/7.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
4. Habitat: Heathland

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Through Desert Saddle

Weleave Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Through Desert Saddle We climb very gradually towards the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain changes to screed and there is a palpable sense of high altitude wilderness. We usually reach Kibo Hut (4,700 m.) at the bottom of the crater wall by midday and the afternoon is free (to contemplate the summit ascent!!). The remainder of the day is spent resting and eating in preparation for the final climb before a very early night! [4-5 hours walking from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut]

1. Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
2. Distance: 9km/5.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit, and down to Horombo Hut

We will start our ascent by torchlight at about 1 a.m. so that we can be up at Gillman’s Point by sunrise. The initial climb is steep over loose volcanic screen, but there are some well-graded zig-zag and a slow but steady pace will have us up to Gillman’s (5,685 m.) in about five or six hours. We will rest there and spend some time taking in the sunrise. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent is surprisingly fast and we return to Horombo Hut for the night. [6-7 hours walking from Kibo Hut to Gillman’s Point]

1. Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3700m/12,200ft
2. Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
3. Hiking Time: 6-7 hours up / 15km/9mi down
4. Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Hike Horombo Hut to trail head, drive to Moshi

After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour). Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

1. Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
2. Distance: 20km/12.5mi
3. Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
4. Habitat: Forest

Package includes:

1. Private transport from the hotel to the Park s gate (starting point for the climb), and transport back to the hotel after the climb
2. Park entry fees
3. All camping fees
4. Rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Park rescue team fees)
5. Government taxes
6. Evacuation services
7. Friendly and competent Trained Mountain Guides, assistant guides, porters and professional cooks.
8. 3 full fresh meals daily. We provide fresh food on the mountain in plentiful and well prepared by skilled professional cooks(we also consider your choice of food that you would prefer -Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian). Menu especially designed for climbers.
9. Hot drinks on the mountain and Hot water for washing will be provide everyday on the mountain.
10. Quality specious tents, sleeping mats, camping tables ,camping chairs and Mess/Dining Tent.(Not applicable on the Marangu route as accommodation is in A-frame huts)
11. Supplementary Portable Oxygen and Complete First Aid Kit (used in case of emergency only)
12. Pulse oxy-meter carried by all chief guides
13. 3-4 liters of mineral/treated water (per Climber) provided daily during the climb
14. ***Portable toilet available at an additional cost (There are public toilets on the mountain)

Do not include:

1. Items of a personal nature
2. Tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US$200 to US$ 250 per hiker - depending on number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen)
3. Personal Hiking/Trekking gears (Some Gears are available for Rent)
4. Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
5. Meals, drinks and snacks not specified.