Usambara Mountains
Trip Summary:
The tour takes you to explore the Usambara Mountains
on the northeastern of Tanzania. Landscape, tropical forests and
numerous spectacular viewpoints, historical sites and the opportunity to
visit local communities’ development projects, thorough explanation of
the history and life of the local farmers provide a memorable
experience. This area of west Usambara in nick named Switzerland of
Africa because of the mountain range.
Trip Info:
You will enjoy and experience nature, also peoples and culture.
Usambara Mountains Trek – 5 days 4 nights
One of the features of Mt.Kilimajaro that makes it so special is the different zones one passes through on an ascent. Technically the volcano is an Afromontane sky island, meaning unique flora and fauna exist there as a result of its isolation and altitude. It’s a biodiversity hotspot and the forests are full of birds and animals, so don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars.
Trekkers will pass through eerie cloud forests on the lower slopes before traversing moorland and finally arriving at the snowy and rocky summit. Attempts on the summit usually set off during the night so that trekkers can reach the peak as the sun rises and have time to get back down again.
If you think you’d like to take up the challenge of climbing Kilimajaro we can arrange the experience for you. Below are our most popular guided tours but we can tailor the experience for you and arrange different routes on request.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
There is no special equipment or expertise needed to ascend Mt. Kilimanjaro – the basic thing is having a slow pace. The routes have been chosen to allow a slow gradual hike. Any physically fit person is able to trek Mt. Kilimanjaro. However, please note the following – you are not permitted to trek the mountain if you have any respiratory problems, cold, high / Low Blood pressure, diabetics or any cardiac problem. Mt. Kilimanjaro is a big mountain and should not be under estimated.
CHECKLIST OF RECOMMENDED ITEMS:
Waterproof Rucksack and Daypack, Sleeping bag (at least 3 seasons), Water purifying tablets, Insulation pad, Boots and light walking shoes, Balaclava and Woollen hat or Scarf, Snow goggles / Sun glasses, Gaiters, Gloves, Sweaters / Jumpers Pants and Jackets (waterproof), Water bottle, Anorak / raincoat, Several pairs of socks, First aid kit and insect repellent Sun protection cream and Lip salve, Personal toiletry requirements, Flash light with spare batteries, Whistle and some plastic Bags, Walking stick / Ski-pol.
WATER
Water is available at several points and should be purified before drinking. All water at the huts will be boiled and some provided for drinking the next day. A comforting tip is to fill your bottle in the evening with boiled water for the next day, and to use it as a hot water bottle overnight. There are water points between the huts – check with your guide
ACCLIMATIZATION
Acclimatization is extremely important, both to let you enjoy your ascent but more importantly to avoid any serious complications. The route is planned to optimize the height gain, but you may still get a headache or feel nauseous. There are two important preventative measures: to drink copiously, even when it is really difficult, and to walk very slowly, avoiding as far as possible increased heart and breathing rates.
Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 5 days/ 4 nights
6Days/5Night-Marangu Route
6Days/5Night-Machame Routes
7Days/6Nights-Machame Route
6Days/5Night-Rongai Route
6Days/5Night-Umbwe Route
6Days/5Night-Lemosho Route
11Days Great Kilimanjaro Trek
What makes this trek truly special is the chance to see animals on foot. The lower section of the trail runs into the forest on the Meru crater floor, with many large, potentially dangerous game animals about. An armed ranger comes along on this trek for safety, the biggest danger being Cape buffalo and Elephant. You may see while on this trek many animals, including Cape Buffalo, giraffe, elephant, waterbuck, bushbuck, dik dik, warthog, olive baboon, Abyssinian (black & white) Colobus monkey, sykes monkey, and may find traces of leopard, civet cat, red duiker and mountain duiker. Bird life is amazing, with the Momella Lakes close by, attracting thousands of European and African migrant species in the green season.
The group will be accompanied Park Guide and porters on Mount Meru . On the mountain we use dormitory style huts. A sleeping bag and mat are required for the huts.
3Days /2Night Meru trek
Itinerary:
Day 1 Arusha ~ Momella Gate (4,920 Ft. / 1,500 M) ~ Miriakamba Hut (8,250 Ft. / 2,514 M)
Morning transfer from Arusha into Arusha National Park to the Momella Gate (about 1.5 hours). After completion of administrative formalities and meeting with the guide, porters and ranger, you will begin the 4 to 5 hour trek to Miriakamba Hut, through the crater floor. The gentle uphill trek will take you through thick woodland, past the giant fig tree arch up to the Itikoni clearing where there are likely to buffalo grazing. Then you’ll then cross a large stream just above the Maio waterfalls, and take a steep path up the crater rim wall to Miriakamba. You may encounter elephant along the way, and an armed ranger will escort you at every step. Have dinner then retire for the night at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 2 Miriakamba Hut ~ Saddle Hut (12,300 Ft. / 3,750 M)
Saddle hut is at approximately 2 to 3 hours trekking from Miriakamba Hut. The path will take you though a mix of trees and pleasant glades up to Mgongo wa Tembo (elephant ridge), where you will have a clear view of Meru crater and the cliffs below the summit. Continue through a pass between the slopes of Meru and the peak of Little Meru to reach Saddle Hut. There is an optional 1 to 1.5 hour round trip hike to the summit of Little Meru, from the Saddle Hut.
Day 3 Saddle Hut ~ Summit (14,979 Ft. / 4566 M) ~ Miriakamba Hut ~ Momella Gate
You will be woken at about 1am, and begin trekking at about 2am. A trek of approximately 4 to 5 hours along a narrow ridge, between the sheer cliffs and the sloping outer wall will see you to the summit. The walk has been said to be both exhilarating and nerve wracking. Whatever the reaction, the breathtaking sunrise over Kilimanjaro makes it all worthwhile. After the summit, you will retrace your steps back to Saddle Hut for a rest, then descend down the ridge, continuing past Miriakamba Hut down through open mountain meadows and wooded streams directly to the Momella Gate, where you will be met by your driver and proceed to Arusha for some rest. The total trekking time this day is from 12 to 17 hours.
End of trek
Mount Meru Climb price: US$ 650 per person sharing
Included in the tour price:
-Guarantee price/guarantee trek on confirmation
-Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
-Full board accommodation whilst on the trek. Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner
-Accommodations in camps/huts as per the itinerary
-All park entrance fees to include government taxes
-Service of an English speaking professional guide and skilled cook
-Start and finish in Arusha.
-Treated water on the trek.
Excluded:
-Laundry, tips, sleeping bags, beverages/drinks, accommodation before the trek and climbing gears
-International flights
-Visas
-Items of personal nature
-Any other extras not detailed in the above itinerary
Mount Meru- 4 Days /3 Nights
Day 1: Arusha/Mariakamba Hut
Mt.Meru Park Gate – Mariakamba: 4-5 hours
Drive from Arusha to the Mt. Meru park gate where you will be met by our game ranger and porters. Hike for the few hours to Mariakamba Hut at 8,500 ft. From here you may wish to take an evening walk on the slopes to view wildlife at one of the watering holes in the crater. Dinner and overnight rest at Mariakamba Hut, L,D
Day 2: Mariakamba Hut – Saddle Hut
Mariakamba – Saddle Hut: 3-4 hours
After breakfast hike to up to 11,500 ft to arrive at Saddle Hut. If time permits you can climb a little further on Mount Meru for a scenic view of the ‘Roof of Africa’, Mount Kilimanjaro. This will also be part of more acclimatization. Overnight at Saddle Hut, B,L,D
Day 3: Saddle Hut – Summit – Mariakamba Hut
Saddle Hut – Summit: 4-6 hours
An early rise to hike all the way to the summit before the afternoon clouds cover the summit. From the summit, descend back to the 11,500 ft Saddle Hut in time for lunch. After lunch, hike down to Mariakamba Hut for dinner and overnight, B,L,D.
Day 4: Mariakamba Hut – Arusha
Breakfast at the camp and a leisurely morning. Descend to the park gate to connect with your waiting transfer vehicle back to your Arusha Hotel, continue with other programs or depart, B.
End of trek
Mount Meru Climb price: US$ 750 per person sharing
Included in the tour price:
-Guarantee price/guarantee trek on confirmation
-Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
-Full board accommodation whilst on the trek. Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner
-Accommodations in camps/huts as per the itinerary
-All park entrance fees to include government taxes
-Service of an English speaking professional guide and skilled cook
-Start and finish in Arusha.
-Treated water on the trek.
Excluded:
-Laundry, tips, sleeping bags, beverages/drinks, accommodation before the trek and climbing gears
-International flights
-Visas
-Items of personal nature
-Any other extras not detailed in the above itinerar
Climb Kilimanjaro
Tanzania offers the best trekking in Africa, The Mount Kilimanjaro 5895m the world largest free standing Mountain known as Roof-top of Africa and the only highest point in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, ‘Kili’ as it’s affectionately known is in fact a long extinct volcano with its three cones rising high out of the African plains. Two of the peaks are dormant but a third, Kibo, shows signs of activity and is thought to still be aliveOne of the features of Mt.Kilimajaro that makes it so special is the different zones one passes through on an ascent. Technically the volcano is an Afromontane sky island, meaning unique flora and fauna exist there as a result of its isolation and altitude. It’s a biodiversity hotspot and the forests are full of birds and animals, so don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars.
Trekkers will pass through eerie cloud forests on the lower slopes before traversing moorland and finally arriving at the snowy and rocky summit. Attempts on the summit usually set off during the night so that trekkers can reach the peak as the sun rises and have time to get back down again.
If you think you’d like to take up the challenge of climbing Kilimajaro we can arrange the experience for you. Below are our most popular guided tours but we can tailor the experience for you and arrange different routes on request.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
There is no special equipment or expertise needed to ascend Mt. Kilimanjaro – the basic thing is having a slow pace. The routes have been chosen to allow a slow gradual hike. Any physically fit person is able to trek Mt. Kilimanjaro. However, please note the following – you are not permitted to trek the mountain if you have any respiratory problems, cold, high / Low Blood pressure, diabetics or any cardiac problem. Mt. Kilimanjaro is a big mountain and should not be under estimated.
CHECKLIST OF RECOMMENDED ITEMS:
Waterproof Rucksack and Daypack, Sleeping bag (at least 3 seasons), Water purifying tablets, Insulation pad, Boots and light walking shoes, Balaclava and Woollen hat or Scarf, Snow goggles / Sun glasses, Gaiters, Gloves, Sweaters / Jumpers Pants and Jackets (waterproof), Water bottle, Anorak / raincoat, Several pairs of socks, First aid kit and insect repellent Sun protection cream and Lip salve, Personal toiletry requirements, Flash light with spare batteries, Whistle and some plastic Bags, Walking stick / Ski-pol.
WATER
Water is available at several points and should be purified before drinking. All water at the huts will be boiled and some provided for drinking the next day. A comforting tip is to fill your bottle in the evening with boiled water for the next day, and to use it as a hot water bottle overnight. There are water points between the huts – check with your guide
ACCLIMATIZATION
Acclimatization is extremely important, both to let you enjoy your ascent but more importantly to avoid any serious complications. The route is planned to optimize the height gain, but you may still get a headache or feel nauseous. There are two important preventative measures: to drink copiously, even when it is really difficult, and to walk very slowly, avoiding as far as possible increased heart and breathing rates.
Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 5 days/ 4 nights
6Days/5Night-Marangu Route
6Days/5Night-Machame Routes
7Days/6Nights-Machame Route
6Days/5Night-Rongai Route
6Days/5Night-Umbwe Route
6Days/5Night-Lemosho Route
11Days Great Kilimanjaro Trek
Mt. Meru
Mount Meru is one of Africa’s highest and most beautiful volcanoes. 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 Kilimanjaro in the background. Over 400 species of birds, rhino, elephant, buffalo, baboon, warthog, black and white Colobus monkey and duiker are all found in this delightful “gem amongst parks”. The visit to the Ngurdoto crater and Momella lakes, with their superb scenery, flamingoes and other wildlife, is an unforgettable experience.What makes this trek truly special is the chance to see animals on foot. The lower section of the trail runs into the forest on the Meru crater floor, with many large, potentially dangerous game animals about. An armed ranger comes along on this trek for safety, the biggest danger being Cape buffalo and Elephant. You may see while on this trek many animals, including Cape Buffalo, giraffe, elephant, waterbuck, bushbuck, dik dik, warthog, olive baboon, Abyssinian (black & white) Colobus monkey, sykes monkey, and may find traces of leopard, civet cat, red duiker and mountain duiker. Bird life is amazing, with the Momella Lakes close by, attracting thousands of European and African migrant species in the green season.
The group will be accompanied Park Guide and porters on Mount Meru . On the mountain we use dormitory style huts. A sleeping bag and mat are required for the huts.
3Days /2Night Meru trek
Itinerary:
Day 1 Arusha ~ Momella Gate (4,920 Ft. / 1,500 M) ~ Miriakamba Hut (8,250 Ft. / 2,514 M)
Morning transfer from Arusha into Arusha National Park to the Momella Gate (about 1.5 hours). After completion of administrative formalities and meeting with the guide, porters and ranger, you will begin the 4 to 5 hour trek to Miriakamba Hut, through the crater floor. The gentle uphill trek will take you through thick woodland, past the giant fig tree arch up to the Itikoni clearing where there are likely to buffalo grazing. Then you’ll then cross a large stream just above the Maio waterfalls, and take a steep path up the crater rim wall to Miriakamba. You may encounter elephant along the way, and an armed ranger will escort you at every step. Have dinner then retire for the night at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 2 Miriakamba Hut ~ Saddle Hut (12,300 Ft. / 3,750 M)
Saddle hut is at approximately 2 to 3 hours trekking from Miriakamba Hut. The path will take you though a mix of trees and pleasant glades up to Mgongo wa Tembo (elephant ridge), where you will have a clear view of Meru crater and the cliffs below the summit. Continue through a pass between the slopes of Meru and the peak of Little Meru to reach Saddle Hut. There is an optional 1 to 1.5 hour round trip hike to the summit of Little Meru, from the Saddle Hut.
Day 3 Saddle Hut ~ Summit (14,979 Ft. / 4566 M) ~ Miriakamba Hut ~ Momella Gate
You will be woken at about 1am, and begin trekking at about 2am. A trek of approximately 4 to 5 hours along a narrow ridge, between the sheer cliffs and the sloping outer wall will see you to the summit. The walk has been said to be both exhilarating and nerve wracking. Whatever the reaction, the breathtaking sunrise over Kilimanjaro makes it all worthwhile. After the summit, you will retrace your steps back to Saddle Hut for a rest, then descend down the ridge, continuing past Miriakamba Hut down through open mountain meadows and wooded streams directly to the Momella Gate, where you will be met by your driver and proceed to Arusha for some rest. The total trekking time this day is from 12 to 17 hours.
End of trek
Mount Meru Climb price: US$ 650 per person sharing
Included in the tour price:
-Guarantee price/guarantee trek on confirmation
-Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
-Full board accommodation whilst on the trek. Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner
-Accommodations in camps/huts as per the itinerary
-All park entrance fees to include government taxes
-Service of an English speaking professional guide and skilled cook
-Start and finish in Arusha.
-Treated water on the trek.
Excluded:
-Laundry, tips, sleeping bags, beverages/drinks, accommodation before the trek and climbing gears
-International flights
-Visas
-Items of personal nature
-Any other extras not detailed in the above itinerary
Mount Meru- 4 Days /3 Nights
Day 1: Arusha/Mariakamba Hut
Mt.Meru Park Gate – Mariakamba: 4-5 hours
Drive from Arusha to the Mt. Meru park gate where you will be met by our game ranger and porters. Hike for the few hours to Mariakamba Hut at 8,500 ft. From here you may wish to take an evening walk on the slopes to view wildlife at one of the watering holes in the crater. Dinner and overnight rest at Mariakamba Hut, L,D
Day 2: Mariakamba Hut – Saddle Hut
Mariakamba – Saddle Hut: 3-4 hours
After breakfast hike to up to 11,500 ft to arrive at Saddle Hut. If time permits you can climb a little further on Mount Meru for a scenic view of the ‘Roof of Africa’, Mount Kilimanjaro. This will also be part of more acclimatization. Overnight at Saddle Hut, B,L,D
Day 3: Saddle Hut – Summit – Mariakamba Hut
Saddle Hut – Summit: 4-6 hours
An early rise to hike all the way to the summit before the afternoon clouds cover the summit. From the summit, descend back to the 11,500 ft Saddle Hut in time for lunch. After lunch, hike down to Mariakamba Hut for dinner and overnight, B,L,D.
Day 4: Mariakamba Hut – Arusha
Breakfast at the camp and a leisurely morning. Descend to the park gate to connect with your waiting transfer vehicle back to your Arusha Hotel, continue with other programs or depart, B.
End of trek
Mount Meru Climb price: US$ 750 per person sharing
Included in the tour price:
-Guarantee price/guarantee trek on confirmation
-Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
-Full board accommodation whilst on the trek. Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner
-Accommodations in camps/huts as per the itinerary
-All park entrance fees to include government taxes
-Service of an English speaking professional guide and skilled cook
-Start and finish in Arusha.
-Treated water on the trek.
Excluded:
-Laundry, tips, sleeping bags, beverages/drinks, accommodation before the trek and climbing gears
-International flights
-Visas
-Items of personal nature
-Any other extras not detailed in the above itinerar
ALSO WE HAVE SPECIAL CARS ie LAND CRUISER AND LAND ROVER FOR ROUGH ROAD.