Phase 1: Kilimanjaro Climb - The Shining Mountain

10 Nights / 11 Days

The Lemosho Route is a renowned and picturesque trail leading to Uhuru Peak on the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. This route offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. It starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate and gradually ascends through rainforests, moorlands, and alpine meadows. Unlike the more popular Machame Route, the Lemosho Route is remote and less crowded. Trekkers have more opportunities to see wildlife during the first two days on the trail, including antelope, buffalo, and even elephants! One of the key advantages of the Lemosho Route is its longer acclimatization period. This contributes to a higher success rate of reaching the summit. The Karuna Project is super excited to be offering the less explored Lemosho route!

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL ARUSHA TANZANIA

Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a Karuna Project representative at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your overnight accommodation in Arusha.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Arusha

• Meals: Dinner Included

Day 2 - ORIENTATION & GUIDED ARUSHA TOWN TOUR

Orientation Meeting – Your guide will brief you on the itinerary expectations and conduct a gear check. In the afternoon, explore Arusha on a town tour with your guide.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Arusha

• Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Included

Day 3 - TREK LEMOSHO GATE to MTI MKUBWA (elev. 9,137ft/2,785m)

Trekking Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

Elevation: 7,838ft to 9,137 ft (2,389m to 2,785m)

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Depart from Arusha for a 4-hour drive through welcoming mountainside villages. Arrive at the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, where permits will be issued. Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide shares insights about local flora, fauna, and wildlife.

Day 4 - TREK MTI MKUBWA CAMP to SHIRA I CAMP (elev. 11,496ft/3,504m)

Trekking Distance: 5 miles (7.9 km)

Trekking Duration: 4-6 hours

Elevation: 9,137 ft to 11,496 ft (2,785m to 3,504m)

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After a restful night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rainforest into the moorland and continue an ascending path. Leaving the forest behind, the trail climbs steadily, offering wide views as we reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Temperatures begin to drop.

Day 5 - TREK SHIRA I CAMP to SHIRA HUT (elev. 12,779ft/3,895m)

Trekking Distance: 4.3 miles (6.9 km)

Trekking Duration: 5-7 hours

Elevation: 11,496 ft to 12,779 ft (3,504m to 3,895m)

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Explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It’s a gentle walk eastward toward Kibo’s glaciated peak, crossing the plateau that leads to Shira 2 camp amidst moorland meadows by a stream. Continuing to Moir Hut, a little-used site at the base of Lent Hills, you’ll have various walks available for acclimatization. Shira stands as one of the highest plateaus on Earth.

Day 6 - TREK SHIRA HUT to BARRANCO CAMP (elev. 13,077ft/3,986m)

Trekking Distance: 6.3 miles (10.1 km)

Trekking Duration: 4-6 hours

Elevation: 12,779 ft to 13,077 ft (3,895m to 3,986m)

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Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is crucial for acclimatization. Leaving Shira Plateau, we continue eastward up a ridge, passing the junction toward Kibo Peak. Further, we head southeast toward the Lava Tower, aptly named the “Shark’s Tooth” (elevation 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we encounter a second junction leading to the Arrow Glacier. Our descent takes us to Barranco Camp for the night.

Day 7 - TREK BARRANCO CAMP to KARANGA CAMP (elev. 13,235ft/4,034m)

Trekking Distance: 3 miles (5.2 km)

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

Elevation: 13,077 ft - 13,235 ft (3,986m - 4,034m)

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After breakfast, we ascend a steep ridge into the high desert, conquering the adventurous Barranco Wall. The trail leads to the Karanga Valley and a junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. This day showcases the power, agility, and strength of our crew as they navigate the wall with apparent ease. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Day 8 - TREK KARANGA CAMP to BARAFU CAMP (elev. 15,295ft/4,662m)

Trekking Distance: 2 miles (3.3 km)

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

Elevation: 13,235 ft - 15,295 ft (4,034m - 4,662m)

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Continuing upward, we approach Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit. The camp offers various breathtaking views of the summit from different angles. An early dinner and rest prepare us for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Day 9 - SUMMIT DAY! DESEND to MWEKA CAMP (elev. 19,341ft/5,895m)

Trekking Distance: 3 miles (4.9 km)

Trekking Duration: 5-7 hours

Elevation: 15,295 ft - 19,341 ft - 10,190 ft (4,662m - 5,895m - 3,106m)

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Excitement builds with an alpine midnight start. This is the most mentally and physically challenging part of the trek. We continue toward the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, focusing on the amazing sense of accomplishment ahead. Switchbacking northwest, we ascend through heavy scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. The magnificent sunrise awaits you during a short rest here. From here, the remaining 1-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak likely involves snow. Congratulations! You’ve reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the entire African continent! After photos, celebrations, and perhaps tears of joy, we begin the steep descent to Mweka Camp. Stop at Barafu for lunch. Overnight at Mweka Camp on your last evening on the mountain.

Day 10 -TREK MWEKA CAMP to MWEKA GATE (elev. 5,358ft/1,633m)

Trekking Distance: 6 miles (9.1 km)

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

Elevation: 10,190 ft - 5,358 ft (3,106m - 1,633m)

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After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. Descend to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. The weather is warmer, but the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep. Our vehicle will meet you at Mweka village and drive you back to your hotel in Arusha. Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner, and celebrations!

DAY 11 - DEPARTURE DAY or OFF TO SAFARI ADVENTURE

Today, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport for your journey home. OR, you will continue to safari depending on your trip preference. Thank you for climbing Kilimanjaro with the Karuna Project.

Phase 2: SAFARI AND CULTURAL IMMERSION

8 Nights / 9 Days

The landscape is adorned with ancient acacia trees, their silhouettes etched against the vast sky. These sentinel trees witness the ebb and flow of seasons, their branches sheltering both predator and prey. The horizons stretch beyond imagination—a seamless blend of earth and sky. As the sun sets, it paints the savannah in hues of gold, igniting the dreams of intrepid explorers. So, let your senses roam free. Listen to the whispers of the grass, feel the pulse of the land, and watch as the drama of survival unfolds. On Safai, adventure awaits—a symphony of life set against an infinite backdrop.​

DAY 11/DAY 1 - ARRIVAL ARUSHA TANZANIA

Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a Karuna Project representative at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your overnight accommodation in Arusha.

OR, if you are coming from the Kilimanjaro climb, this is day 11 of the itinerary.

• Accommodation: KIBO PALACE HOTEL which couldn't be more central in Arusha. In fact, most attractions in town are just around the corner. Impressive facilities include a bar, restaurant, gym, massage center and swimming pool, while the rooms are nicely appointed. Old-fashioned service is another highlight of staying here.

• Meals: Dinner Included

Day 12/Day 2 - REMARKABLE TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

The park is a favorite among visitors. Encounter big baobab trees, elephants, and majestic cats. Elephants are pretty much guaranteed during morning game drives. You will also spot wildebeest, giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, baboons, vervet monkeys, and zebras. Tarangire hosts one of Tanzania’s healthiest lion populations. While cheetahs and leopards require some effort to find, the thrill of spotting them is unmatched. The classic safari landscapes include savannah plains, river woodlands, and rocky hills.

• Accommodation: ANG’ATA TARANGIRE CAMP where elephants often wander right into the camp, and the distant roars of lions can be heard during the night. Nestled within the national park, the camp is conveniently close to the iconic baobab trees.  Accommodations consist of canvas safari tents, and guests can relax in the dining and lounge tents, both featuring wooden floors.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included​

Day 13/DAY 3 - UNFORGETTABLE NGORONGORO SAFARI

As the sun sets, an exciting evening guided game drive awaits you through this remarkable wilderness. Explore the area in search of its magnificent wildlife, from majestic elephants to elusive big cats. This safari adventure promises to be a highlight, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this special place. Get ready to witness the magic of the African savannah unfold before your eyes.​

• Accommodation: NGORONGORO COFFEE LODGE is a tranquil retreat nestled amidst the captivating Ngorongoro region. Experience comfort and elegance in large, high-quality rooms. The attentive staff ensures a seamless stay. Take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool to unwind or pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments. Delight in vistas of the highland forest and the coffee plantation. Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge promises an unforgettable stay.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included

Day 14/Day 4 - LAKE EYASI'S INDIGENOUS TRIBES: A CULTURAL JOURNEY

As the sun rises, we embarking on an adventure that unveils the hidden treasures of Lake Eyasi. This expansive lake serves as the ancestral home of two remarkable indigenous communities: the Hadzabe and the Datoga. These hunter-gatherer and pastoralist peoples offer a glimpse into their traditional lives, preserving customs and practices that have endured for generations. With the Hadzabe, we’ll witness their ancient hunting techniques, foraging methods, and captivating campfire stories. Their close connection to nature and exceptional tracking skills reveal a resilient way of life. The Hadzabe are the last Khoisan (clicking language) tribe in East Africa. The Datoga are skilled metalworkers who herd cattle around Lake Eyasi. We’ll observe their craftsmanship, including the creation of jewelry and arrowheads. We’ll learn about their cultural and spiritual beliefs, perhaps even experiencing traditional dances and songs. By supporting local artisans and appreciating their traditions, we contribute to the preservation of these cultures.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included

Day 15/Day 5 - CENTRAL SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

When people dream of the Serengeti, it's the Central Serengeti because it is the area of the park where wildlife is present in the biggest numbers. It's also filled with acacia trees and those Serengeti horizons that seem to go on forever. This is the epicenter of life—a canvas painted with herds of wildebeest, prides of lions, and graceful giraffes. ​

• Accommodation: ANG’AYA SEREGETI CAMP, where wilderness meets luxury, nestled in the heart of northern Tanzania’s finest wildlife country. The meticulously designed safari tents seamlessly blend elegance with the rugged beauty of the Serengeti. Step outside your canvas sanctuary, and the untamed world beckons. Lions’ roars echo through the night, a primal symphony that lulls you into dreams of adventure. High-quality amenities ensure that every moment is both exhilarating and indulgent. As darkness blankets the savannah, look up. Count the stars—each one a celestial witness to the magic of this special place. In the stillness of the Serengeti, find solace. Let the vastness envelop you, and listen to the whispers of the land.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included

Day 16/Day 6 - CENTRAL SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Central Serengeti National Park. Our expertly guided game drive promises an immersive experience—one that connects you to the pulse of East Africa. As the wind tousles your hair, we’ll traverse the savannah, seeking out magnificent wildlife. Lions, leopards, and herds of wildebeest await our discovery. Wildlife thrives here, and every glance reveals a captivating chapter of the Serengeti saga. ​

• Accommodation: Ang’ata Serengeti Camp.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included

• Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari -Price $950.00 per person

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Day 17/Day7 - NGORONGORO CRATER: A NATURAL MARVEL

Prepare to be captivated by the Ngorongoro Crater, a place unlike any other in Africa. As you ascend the crater rim, cloud forests envelop you, and a staggering view across the caldera will leave you breathless. But that’s just the beginning. Descend along a steep trail onto the crater floor, where sheer beauty meets a unique wildlife spectacle. Here, you’ll share the sunken ecosystem with an array of remarkable creatures. Hyenas are cunning scavengers, their haunting calls echoing through the ancient landscape. Majestic lions prowl the grasslands, their golden coats blending seamlessly with the savannah. Witness elephant gentle giants as their massive forms leave an indelible mark on the land. Elusive and solitary, black rhinos are a testament to conservation efforts. In the soda lake, hippos submerge themselves, their eyes and nostrils peeking above the waterline. This sunken world, shaped over millennia by volcanic forces, offers a safari experience like no other. As the sun paints the crater walls in warm hues, you reflect on a most unforgettable safari day.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included

Day 18/Day 8 - ARUSHA TOWN

Some extra time in Arusha is a fine way to rest from life on the African road and enjoy the comforts of city living.  This afternoon, you will have options. Option A is to visit the local University to gain a further understanding of the higher education system in Tanzania. Option B is free time for souvenir shopping and city exploration.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Arusha

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included

Phase 3: ZANZIBAR! 3 Nights/4 Days

Listen closely, fellow seeker of wonder. Imagine a place where time dances to its own rhythm—a labyrinth of narrow alleys, secrets etched into ancient walls, and echoes of bygone eras. Zanzibar Stone Town, where adventure unfurls like a treasure map, is waiting for intrepid souls to decipher its cryptic trails. The intricately carved Zanzibar doors guard secrets—symbols of a fusion that transcends borders. Indian, Swahili, Arab, and European influences converge here, etching their stories into the very fabric of the city. Wander these narrow alleys, where donkeys amble, and whispers cling to the breeze. Each twist reveals a new chapter—a hidden courtyard, a spice-scented market, or a glimpse of the shimmering Indian Ocean. Stone Town wears its past like a cloak. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a living canvas where sultans once ruled, and traders haggled over exotic goods. The House of Wonders, with its grand balconies, stands sentinel—a palace that whispers of dynasties and dreams. But venture deeper. Descend into the Slave Market, where shadows cling to the walls. Here, the earth itself holds memories—the underground chambers where human lives were auctioned, where anguish and resilience collided.

Day 19/Day 9 - DEPARTURE DAY or TRAVEL TO ZANZIBAR 

This morning, we will say fare well and transfer members returning home to the airport. For those who are continuing on, we will take a 1-hour flight to the beautiful, clear ocean waters of Zanzibar. Stone Town, located on the island of Zanzibar, is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and unique architecture. Explore the narrow historic streets, which were constructed from coral stone during the 19th and 20th centuries. Smell the spices, admire the architecture, and let yourself be carried away by the Muslim call to prayer as you explore Zanzibar Stone Town.

• Accommodation: ZANZIBAR SERENA HOTEL overlooks the beach where Stone Town meets the sea, and the elegant rooms add character to your stay. The swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and friendly service all help to round out a fine Zanzibar experience.

• Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Included.

Day 20/Day 10 - ZANZIBAR STONE TOWN GUIDED TOUR

Learn all there is to know about Zanzibar Stone Town on this guided tour of the city.  As you wander, you’ll encounter a blend of African, Arab, Indian, Persian, and European cultures living harmoniously together.​ Learn about the dark history of the slave trade at the former slave market. Admire the impressive architecture of this historic House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib). Visit the Sultan’s Palace and discover its fascinating past. Explore the beautiful Anglican Cathedral, which stands on the site of the former slave market. Immerse yourself in the local culture at the bustling Darajani Market. Consider visiting Forodhani Gardens, especially at night when it transforms into one of the best street food markets in East Africa. Take advantage of a shopping break to browse for distinctive souvenirs, including beautifully carved wooden doors and other local crafts.

• Remember to dress conservatively when walking through Stone Town, covering your shoulders and wearing long skirts or trousers. 

• Accommodation: Zanzibar Serena Hotel

• Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Included

Day 21/Day 11 - ZANZIBAR - CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE 

As the sun stretches its golden arms across Stone Town’s labyrinthine streets, you stand at the crossroads of discovery. Today, my fellow wanderer, is your last dance with Zanzibar—a symphony of coral walls, whispered legends, and untold mysteries. Today is our last day, so use your time wisely and choose your own adventure. Resume on the tour of the places you missed yesterday, hire a dhow boat and sail, or recreate at your leisure.

• Remember to dress conservatively when walking through Zanzibar, covering your shoulders and wearing long skirts or trousers. 

• Accommodation: Zanzibar Serena Hotel

• Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Included

Day 22/Day 12 - FINAL FAREWELL - DEPART TANZANIA

As our journey together concludes, we want to express my heartfelt gratitude for choosing the Karuna Project. Throughout our time exploring Tanzania, you’ve become part of our travel family, sharing laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments. These experiences will linger in your memory, woven into the fabric of your travels. As we part ways, know that our paths may diverge, but they will surely intersect again. Until then, safe travels, and may the winds of adventure guide you back to us soon.

• No meals included