Your travel
itinerary to Tanzania – 12 days
- tinerary for Kilimanjaro Adventure
- Guests 2 adults
- Travel Dates To be confirmed
- Email To be confirmed
- Email;
- Guests 2 adults
- Manager's Contacts +255 672 723 100
- Velam Hotline +255 672 723 100
DAY 1
WELCOME TO SUNNY TANZANIA
Prepare to be amazed the moment you land—Tanzania is a country bursting with incredible wildlife and breathtaking national parks, offering endless opportunities for adventure. With Vela Tours, you’ll experience seamless comfort and reliable service from the very start. After clearing immigration and customs, look out for a sign with your name—our friendly representative will be waiting for you right outside the arrivals area, ready to assist with your luggage and escort you to your hotel. Our modern, air-conditioned mini-vans come stocked with refreshing drinks to help you unwind after your journey. Vela Tours is proudly headquartered at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, meaning we operate directly from the heart of Tanzania. Our team’s dedication and years of on-the-ground experience have made us a top choice for mountain expeditions and wildlife safaris. With a reputation for excellence and personalized service, your dream adventure is in trusted hands with Vela Tours.
Arrival — Kilimanjaro Airport
If you've arranged a private tour, please note that airport transfers are included and will be shared among your group. Any extra individual transfers outside of the group plan may incur additional fees, so it’s best to coordinate details with your travel manager in advance. To avoid extra charges, we recommend aligning your group’s arrival and departure schedules as closely as possible. With Vela Tours, you can count on smooth and punctual transfers—even if your flight is delayed. We've got every step of your journey covered!
Getting a visa
If you've arranged a private tour, please note that airport transfers are included and will be shared among your group. Any extra individual transfers outside of the group plan may incur additional fees, so it’s best to coordinate details with your travel manager in advance. To avoid extra charges, we recommend aligning your group’s arrival and departure schedules as closely as possible. With Vela Tours, you can count on smooth and punctual transfers—even if your flight is delayed. We've got every step of your journey covered!
Kilimanjaro Airport -> Aishi Machame Hotel
Transfer
Accommodation
Aishi Machame Hotel
PLEASE NOTE: The hotels haven\’t been booked yet.
Accommodation details
Quietly nestled in the green foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Aishi Machame Hotel is a perfect place to recharge and gain strength before the climb. The territory of the hotel is one lush beautiful garden with trees blooming and birds chirping all around. Lots of wild animals have long made Aishi Machame Hotel a place of their permanent residence. On a warm day you can go to the swimming pool cozily fenced by the greenery and bask in the African sun.
DAY 2
Kilimanjaro climb via Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic trails for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking panoramic views throughout the journey. As you trek, Velam Tours guides will enrich your experience with fascinating insights into Tanzania’s wildlife and natural wonders. Evenings at the camps are a highlight, with vibrant sunsets that leave lasting memories. Your adventure on the Lemosho Route begins at 3,400 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level on the mountain’s western slopes. Over the course of the hike, you’ll traverse five distinct ecological zones—from tropical rainforest to alpine desert and eventually to the icy arctic summit. It’s like crossing from the equator to Antarctica in just a few days! Velam Tours recommends the seven-day Lemosho itinerary for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. The route is non-technical, requiring no specialized gear or prior climbing experience. With a success rate of 98%, it’s one of the most effective paths to Uhuru Peak. Lemosho is a signature route for Velam Tours, previously chosen for major expeditions such as Wings of Kilimanjaro, and trekking missions with Red Bull and National Geographic.
Expedition day 1
Morum Barrier Gate > Shira 1 Camp
A mountain guide and support team will meet you at your hotel in the morning for a short introduction and briefing. Following this, you’ll set off on a vehicle journey lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park, known as Londorossi Gate. After completing the necessary formalities—such as obtaining climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue team—you’ll continue by off-road vehicle to the drop-off point at an elevation of about 3,400 meters (11,482 feet). From here, you’ll catch your first breathtaking glimpse of the Shira Plateau. The trail leading from the drop-off point to your first high-altitude campsite, Shira 1, involves a mild elevation gain and is relatively easy physically. This gentle start helps you begin the acclimatization process effectively. When you arrive at the campsite, our experienced mountain crew from Velam Tours will have already set up the tents and started preparing your evening meal. This marks your first night at a higher altitude, so we strongly encourage you to follow these important guidelines: Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages Drink more than 4 liters of bottled water daily (frequently and in small amounts) Consider taking Diamox to ease altitude-related symptoms. Many trekkers take this medication in the morning before hiking to minimize altitude sickness effects. Be sure to consult your physician before the trip to check for any allergies or contraindications. During the night, you may feel some discomfort as your body adjusts to the altitude. Because your breathing slows while you sleep, your oxygen intake decreases compared to daytime levels. This can lead to symptoms like nausea or headaches. Stay aware of how your body feels and inform your Velam Tours guide immediately if you notice any signs of altitude sickness.
DAY 3
Expedition day 2
Shira 1 Camp > Shira 2 Camp
Shira 1 Camp > Shira 2 Camp
This morning, you’ll leave Shira 1 Camp and begin a gentle trek toward your next destination: Shira 2 Camp. The walk is relatively easy, giving you ample opportunity to soak in panoramic views of the African savannah and the remarkable alpine vegetation unique to Mount Kilimanjaro. If the skies are clear, Shira 2 offers one of the best vantage points on the route to see Mount Meru—Africa’s fifth-highest peak and Tanzania’s second tallest. During the trek, Velam Tours guides may offer an optional detour to ascend Cathedral Peak, standing at 3,872 meters (12,703 feet). As one of the prominent features of the extinct Shira volcano, the hike provides a rewarding experience. On a clear day, the summit reveals breathtaking views into the valley below—an awe-inspiring sight we often describe as resembling a “lost world.” With no technical difficulty involved, the hike is manageable for most trekkers, and a small summit monument (stella) marks a perfect photo opportunity. If you’d prefer to skip the climb or the weather turns, heading directly to Shira 2 Camp is completely fine. Since both points sit at roughly the same altitude, skipping Cathedral Peak will not affect your acclimatization. That said, we highly encourage the climb when possible—it’s a highlight of the day. Upon arrival at Shira 2 Camp, lunch will be served, followed by a two-hour rest period. Later, you’ll participate in an acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower Camp, gaining around 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation. This short, gradual ascent is an essential part of your altitude adjustment. Acclimatization hikes play a vital role in improving your chances of successfully reaching the summit while minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. We strongly advise taking them seriously and following the guidance of your Velam Tours team every step of the way.
DAY 4
Expedition day 3
Shira 2 Camp > Barranco Camp
After breakfast, you’ll depart Shira 2 Camp and begin your trek toward one of the most important acclimatization points on the route—Lava Tower. This stretch involves several elevation changes as the trail climbs and descends across the rugged terrain, eventually reaching an altitude of over 4,600 meters (15,091 feet). This section can be physically demanding, and it’s normal to experience some altitude-related discomfort. However, spending time at this height is essential for proper acclimatization. To support this process, your group will stop at the Lava Tower for lunch and remain there for at least one to two hours. After the acclimatization break, you’ll begin your descent to Barranco Camp. Along the way, the scenery transforms dramatically, and by the time you reach the camp, you’ll be greeted with a striking view of the Barranco Wall—famous for its towering presence and steep appearance. Despite how it looks, don’t be concerned: the path up the wall is straightforward, with no technical climbing required. You’ll tackle it the following day, and many hikers find it more enjoyable than expected.
DAY 5
Expedition day 4
Barranco Camp > Karanga Camp
Today begins with an early wake-up call, followed by a hearty breakfast to fuel your climb up the famous Barranco Wall. It’s best to set out as early as possible to get ahead of other groups, as the trail can become crowded. Despite its intimidating appearance, the ascent up the wall is relatively short—taking about an hour—and not technically challenging. Once you reach the top, you’ll have time to rest and snap some memorable photos with the majestic Kibo volcano in the background. From there, the journey continues with a more demanding trek toward Karanga Camp. This section of the route includes multiple ups and downs, requiring steady effort and stamina. But there’s no need to worry—Velam Tours guides are experienced in pacing the group appropriately to keep everyone comfortable and safe. Upon arrival at Karanga Camp, a warm and well-deserved lunch will be ready for you.
DAY 6
Expedition day 5
Karanga Camp > Barafu Camp
After enjoying a warm, nourishing breakfast in the morning, you'll set off on your trek to Barafu Camp—your final base before the summit attempt on Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,340 feet). This is a crucial part of the journey, as Barafu serves as the launch point for your overnight ascent to the Roof of Africa. By the time you arrive, the Velam Tours support crew will have already set up camp, with your tents and sleeping gear ready and waiting. This allows you to unwind, rest, and mentally prepare for the challenging night ahead.
DAY 7
Summit night
Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is both the physical high point and the emotional highlight of your trek. On this night, you will leave Barafu Camp and begin your climb along the crater rim, making your way toward Africa’s highest point—Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet). This moment represents a true personal triumph and a powerful test of determination and endurance. To ensure your group reaches the summit by sunrise, the ascent begins around midnight. During this crucial stage, Velam Tours assigns a specialized team of high-altitude porters to accompany the lead guides. These team members are in training to become certified guides themselves, gaining valuable experience by supporting summit expeditions. With a 1:1 climber-to-guide or trainee ratio, each trekker benefits from personal assistance and close monitoring during this demanding stretch. This support system is a key part of our commitment to your safety and success. Throughout the ascent, guides will carry thermoses of hot tea, oxygen tanks, and first-aid kits. They will closely observe each participant’s condition and offer help when needed—whether it’s a warm drink to boost your energy or taking on the weight of your pack to ease your final push to the summit. Once you stand atop Uhuru Peak, you’ll have around 30 to 40 minutes to soak in the moment—taking photos, watching the sun rise over the continent, and celebrating your accomplishment. For those still feeling strong, it’s possible to request a short descent into the crater to visit the ancient glaciers. As sunlight touches the ice, the glaciers take on a surreal, peach-colored glow—a breathtaking sight that’s sadly vanishing due to climate change. Witnessing them now is a rare and fleeting privilege. After the summit, you’ll return to camp, where a hot, energizing meal will be waiting. This is your chance to rest, refuel, and reflect on your incredible achievement before continuing to the final stages of your journey down the mountain.
Expedition day 6
Barafu Camp > Uhuru Peak > Millenium Camp
Your group will leave Barafu Camp during the night to begin the final push to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro—Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet). While the trail itself isn’t technically difficult, the high altitude makes even moderate exertion feel much more challenging. To ensure your safety and well-being, Velam Tours pairs each climber with a partner, and each pair is assigned a dedicated guide who will monitor both your physical and mental condition throughout the ascent. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore further by descending briefly to one of the nearby glaciers, should you still have the energy and the conditions allow. After celebrating your achievement at the Roof of Africa, you’ll return to Barafu Camp. There, you’ll take a short two-hour rest before continuing your descent to Millennium Camp. It’s important to remember that most accidents on Kilimanjaro happen during the descent—including the majority of injuries such as twisted ankles and damaged toenails. Please take extra care with each step, paying close attention to your footing as you make your way down.
DAY 8
Expedition day 7
Millenium Camp > Mweka Gate
Millennium Camp sits within the lush tropical rainforest zone of Kilimanjaro, offering a warm and oxygen-rich environment—a welcome contrast to the thin air higher up. As you wake, you’ll likely feel both relief from the lower altitude and a deep sense of accomplishment after reaching the summit. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your final descent toward Mweka Gate, the official exit point of Kilimanjaro National Park. The trail winds through dense vegetation and may be slippery, so be sure to step carefully. Once at the gate, your group will gather to celebrate the completion of your journey. You’ll have the opportunity to sign the guestbook and share your thoughts on the adventure. Then, at the Velam Tours office, you’ll receive your well-deserved summit certificates—a lasting memento of your incredible achievement. Finally, we’ll provide a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, where you can rest, relax, and reflect on the unforgettable journey you’ve just completed.
Accommodation
Aishi Machame Hotel
PLEASE NOTE: The hotels haven\’t been booked yet.
Quietly nestled in the green foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Aishi Machame Hotel is a perfect place to recharge and gain strength before the climb. The territory of the hotel is one lush beautiful garden with trees blooming and birds chirping all around. Lots of wild animals have long made Aishi Machame Hotel a place of their permanent residence. On a warm day you can go to the swimming pool cozily fenced by the greenery and bask in the African sun.
DAY 9
Rest Day
Take this day to slow down and embrace the laid-back rhythm of pole pole (slowly, slowly) in Tanzania. Whether you choose to relax by the pool with a refreshing cocktail, treat yourself to a spa day, go shopping for local treasures, or embark on a day-trip to one of the charming hidden gems nearby, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time. With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect activity to suit your personal travel style. Reach out to your Velam Tours manager, who will be happy to assist in planning your day and making any arrangements to ensure you have the best experience possible
Transfer
Aishi Machame Hotel -> Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
Accommodation
Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
PLEASE NOTE: The hotels haven\’t been booked yet.
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Meru, Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of East Africa. The lodge’s main house is one of Arusha's oldest family cottages, built at the dawn of the 20th century, and still retains much of its original charm and character. Located just 27 kilometers (17 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport, it serves as an ideal stopover between climbing and safari adventures. Blending historical heritage with modern comforts, Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge offers an experience of true relaxation. Each room is thoughtfully designed with wide, comfortable beds featuring intricately carved headboards and anti-mosquito canopies, spacious bathtubs for post-safari unwinding, and solid wood furniture. The rooms are also equipped with lamps, sockets, Wi-Fi, and all the essentials for a peaceful stay. The lodge’s colonial-style verandas stretch along the main house, where guests can unwind in chairs with long armrests and take in views of the serene lake, lush gardens, and the surrounding greenery. On clear days, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen in the distance, adding to the atmosphere of tranquility. For relaxation, the property features an outdoor pool with sun loungers, as well as a spa center offering a range of self-care treatments, including massage sessions. There is also a cozy bar and restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in the dining room with an open veranda, in the main dining area, or in a private pavilion by the lake for a more intimate setting.
DAY 10
Safari
Tarangire National Park
Today, your journey takes you to the remarkable Tarangire National Park—one of Tanzania’s most captivating wildlife destinations. The lifeblood of the park, the Tarangire River, winds its way through the landscape, drawing giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and buffaloes to its banks. This abundance of prey attracts predators, especially lions, which are frequently spotted in the area. You're likely to witness some thrilling wildlife moments on your visit. During the dry season, the Tarangire River becomes the region’s only reliable water source, attracting massive herds of elephants. From June to October and December to March, the park hosts the largest elephant population in Northern Tanzania. These gentle giants are incredibly relaxed around vehicles, often wandering close by out of sheer curiosity—offering unforgettable, up-close encounters. Tarangire is also famous for its towering, ancient baobab trees—some of the oldest and largest in continental Africa. These majestic giants dominate the scenery and add a dramatic backdrop to the rich wildlife experience. Whether it's the breathtaking views, the incredible animal sightings, or the serene stillness of the riverbeds, Tarangire National Park promises an unforgettable safari adventure.
Accommodation
Escarpment Luxury Lodge
PLEASE NOTE: The hotels haven\’t been booked yet.
Nestled on a scenic escarpment overlooking the expansive Great Rift Valley, Escarpment Luxury Lodge is an ideal base—or a serene stopover—for exploring Northern Tanzania. With Lake Manyara National Park just 5 km (3 miles) away, Ngorongoro Crater only 25 km (15.5 miles), and Tarangire National Park 120 km (74.5 miles), the lodge offers convenient access to some of the region’s most iconic wildlife destinations. From the wide terrace that wraps around the main building, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Lake Manyara and the surrounding natural beauty—a perfect setting to begin or reflect on your safari adventure. The lodge features 16 private, luxury chalets, each set on different levels within a lush, flowering forest. These spacious 65 m² (700 ft²) chalets are designed with elegance and comfort in mind—featuring thatched roofs, rich wooden and stone interiors, parquet flooring, leather furnishings, antique accents, canopy beds, and both showers and bathtubs. Each chalet has its own secluded veranda, where you can wake to the calming sounds of birdsong and the scent of forest blooms. On-site amenities include a restaurant, bar, lounge, spa, and a beautifully designed pool area—an ideal place to relax and watch the sun melt into the hills like a glowing orange slice. Meals and cocktails are often served on the open veranda, where guests can soak in the scenery while enjoying fresh, flavorful cuisine.
DAY 11
Safari
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Your day will kick off early in the morning as your guide from Velam Tours picks you up and drives you into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The crater itself feels like a scene straight out of The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle—where thousands of wild animals thrive in a vast, sunken caldera formed by an ancient volcanic eruption. Though relatively compact in size, this crater boasts the highest density of wildlife per square meter anywhere on Earth. You’ll have the incredible opportunity to see numerous animals gathered close together in one place. The descent into the crater takes approximately 30 minutes by vehicle, following a route through lush, green forest with breathtaking views. Along the way, your safari guide will pause at a scenic lookout point offering a sweeping, panoramic view of the entire crater floor. While it’s commonly believed that animals are trapped inside, many do have the ability to leave the caldera. However, thanks to the abundance of fresh grazing areas and easy access to prey, most choose to stay within its protected confines year-round. Inside the crater, you'll likely encounter elephants, buffaloes, various antelope species, lions, cheetahs, zebras, and other well-known African wildlife. This is also one of the rare places where critically endangered rhinos still roam, though sightings are limited due to their small population. Interestingly, giraffes are absent here—the steep crater walls make it difficult for their long legs and necks to manage the descent. After exploring the crater during your morning game drive, you’ll stop at the designated picnic site by Lake Magadi for a light meal and some relaxation. This peaceful spot is also home to numerous bird species—especially kites—that are known to swoop in for food. While they’re not dangerous, it’s wise to keep your snacks close! Another highlight here is the group of hippos that often lounge near the water’s edge. Watching them surface for air or lumber out of the lake is always a treat, but be sure to give them plenty of space. Ngorongoro Conservation Area has earned its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remarkable biodiversity and ecological importance. A quick but crucial reminder: Never feed animals while visiting Ngorongoro or any other national park in Tanzania. Even if it seems harmless to offer a bit of food to a bird or monkey, doing so can seriously disrupt their natural diet and potentially lead to long-term harm or early death. This is not just a recommendation—it is a strictly enforced regulation. Park rangers are authorized to issue fines to anyone caught feeding wildlife or breaking other park rules.
Accommodation
Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
PLEASE NOTE: The hotels haven\’t been booked yet.
Nestled on the foothills of Mount Meru, Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge is an ideal base for discovering the scenic wonders of East Africa. This charming lodge is centered around one of Arusha’s oldest family homes—originally built in the early 1900s. It still proudly showcases elements of its original character, blending colonial architecture with timeless charm. Conveniently located just 27 kilometers (17 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport, it’s a perfect stopover between mountain treks and safari adventures. Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge combines a deep respect for its historical roots with all the modern comforts guests expect. Each room is thoughtfully designed, featuring spacious beds with hand-carved headboards and mosquito nets, large soaking tubs for post-safari relaxation, handcrafted wooden furnishings, ample lighting, electrical outlets, Wi-Fi access, and all the amenities needed for a restful stay. Elegant colonial-style verandas stretch along the front of the house, offering serene spots to unwind. Guests can sit back in classic armchairs, soaking in views of the lush gardens, tranquil lake, and—on clear days—the distant, snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. The lodge also offers an inviting outdoor pool with sun loungers, as well as a wellness center where visitors can schedule massages or rejuvenating treatments. Dining is equally versatile, with a restaurant and bar on-site. Meals can be enjoyed in the open-air veranda, the indoor dining area, or in a quiet pavilion beside the lake—each setting adding its own touch of tranquility to the experience.
DAY 12
Transfer
Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge -> Kilimanjaro Airport
Departure — Kilimanjaro Airport
A Velam Tours driver will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to the airport. For international departures, please ensure you are ready to leave the hotel 4 hours before your scheduled flight. For domestic flights, plan to depart 3 hours in advance.
Wishing you a smooth and pleasant journey!
THE END OF YOUR ADVENTURE WITH VELAM TOURS
Thank you for choosing us as organizers of your trip to Tanzania. We hope you enjoyed your time in our wonderful country. We will be glad to see you again!
- Included in cost
Transfers
All transfers as outlined in the itinerary.
Accommodation & Meals
Stays at the hotels and lodges mentioned in the program.
All meals as specified in the itinerary.
Bottled water, soft drinks, tea, and hot coffee available in the safari vehicle throughout the tour.
Guiding & Game Drives
Services of a certified, professional English-speaking safari guide.
Comfortable 4×4 Land Cruisers equipped with a pop-up roof, refrigerator, power outlets, and onboard Wi-Fi.
All required national park fees, including entrance and concession charges.
Free Wi-Fi in the safari vehicle (please note: signal availability may vary, and coverage is generally limited to 60–75% of the route due to remote locations).
24/7 support via phone during the entire trip.
Emergency medical evacuation coverage provided by AMREF Flying Doctors.
Binoculars provided (one per vehicle).
Onboard first aid kit.
- The price does not include
Air tickets
Visa fee
Travel insurance
Tips for your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car)
Please Note:
Accommodation: Our tours generally include shared accommodation in twin/double rooms, unless requested and agreed otherwise. Single supplements are available upon request. Please refer to your program for accommodation details.
Meals: Most accommodations in Moshi and Arusha include breakfast only, unless otherwise specified. Please refer to your program to see meal arrangements for each night.
Beverages: Safari lodges typically do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages, so you won’t overpay for drinks you may not need. You can order and pay for drinks at the hotel’s restaurants.
Tented Lodges: Many lodges in the savannah are tented and operate on solar energy. This may mean limited amenities like bucket showers, restricted Wi-Fi, and no hair dryers, all designed to reduce environmental impact. We recommend researching your accommodations to ensure the safari aligns with your travel style.
Wishing you a safe and enjoyable journey!
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through sunny Tanzania! Here, you’ll witness wildlife roaming freely across one of the last truly untouched wildernesses on Earth. The vast savannahs and wild plains of Africa, where nature reigns and human history began, will be your playground. With nearly four million wild animals gracing its landscapes, Tanzania boasts the largest population of wildlife in Africa. This incredible country is a haven for those seeking to experience diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Tanzania's rich culture and diverse wildlife make it a unique destination, and to ensure your visit helps preserve its beauty for generations to come, we've compiled a list of dos and don'ts. Be sure to read them before your trip. If you're planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Witness the sunrise from the summit, see glaciers at the equator—a rare sight—and capture the breathtaking landscape of Africa from the highest point on the continent. These are memories you will cherish forever!
