The standard route is a hike - no climbing as such. It is very cold - correct kit is a must - but our kit lists and hire equipment are top quality. We have personally done the major routes; so can offer first hand advice.

Good preparation and advice, as well as good guides on the mountain, have given us an over 95% success rate (the average is 60%) - this type of thing is a "once in a lifetime " challenge, and must not be taken lightly. We ensure that all our climbers have all the facts - medical list, equipment list, etc, long before they travel - possibly the reason for our success rate. Any reasonably fit person who enjoys walking can reach the summit of Kilimanjaro. The youngest to make it was nine years old - the oldest seventy-nine.

While thousands of people scramble to the top of Kilimanjaro each year, there are some extremely severe climbs available to the experienced mountaineer. There are several principal hiking routes up the mountain: Marangu, Shira, Londorossi, Umbwe and Machame. The Shira plateau can be reached with a four-wheel drive vehicle up to 4 000 metres. These routes are marked and provided with simple bivouac huts and water, we choose to camp on all of these routes (except Marangu which offers communal huts)

Marangu Route Itinerary

It takes about five days to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro along the Marangu route and involves walking about eighty kilometres. The route begins at Marangu Gate at 1 860 metres, and then passes through the tangled rain forest to the Mandara Hut at 2 752 metres, close to the Maundi Crater. Next day, the forest soon gives way to rolling alpine meadows with giant heather trees. The altitude begins to make itself felt and it takes about five hours to walk the twelve kilometres to the Horombo Hut at 3 780 metres. From here the landscape becomes progressively more rugged and rocky, and giant groundsels and lobelias appear in the sparse moor. The path skirts Mawenzi and then crosses the desert of the saddle towards the last hut nestling below Kibo at 4 740 metres.

The final ascent is begun before dawn - this is the most difficult and tiring part, taking some five hours to reach Gillman's Point on the crater rim at 5 685 metres. Although this is usually taken as the summit of Kilimanjaro, the highest point is Uhuru Peak at 5 895 metres about an hours walk away along the crater's rim. The descent is less tiring, and it is usual to stay overnight at Horombo.

The Keys Hotel, your base hotel, is located in Moshi and is one of the best hotels in town. It has a swimming pool, indoor bar and garden area, patio, restaurant and M-Net television coverage. The rooms are clean and comfortable. Showers are en-suite with hot/cold water. The staff are very friendly and 'nothing is too much trouble'.

The guides employed are excellent (some have climbed Kili over 400 times!) They are employed by the Keys Hotel and have looked after a multitude of our clients. Each trip is led by a senior guide, with other guides in a ratio of approximately one guide per 2 or 3 climbers - if you are a bit slower than the rest or get ill and have to descend, a guide will always be with you. Food served on the mountain is generally tasty and wholesome, including a lot of carbohydrates and fresh vegetables. Vegetarians are catered for, but please notify us in advance.

Health Requirements -Please note you will need a Yellow Fever Inoculation, this must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure. If you have had any previous history of Liver Disorders you must consult your physician first. Malaria prophylactics are a must.

Tips - Our crew work extremely hard up there on the mountain and a tip of USD 100-110 per climber (which gets split across the group) is a fair reflection of your appreciation of this - more than this is at your discretion. Old clothing is also appreciated!

Visas - If you are travelling on a South African passport you will need a visa for Tanzania. Other nationalities please check. Visa costs USD50, plus courier costs.

Phone Home / Let the world know you made it - Vodacom has coverage on certain parts Kilimanjaro and in Tanzania, so remember to organise an international roaming facility.

Travel Insurance - Please ensure you have sufficient Medical Cover for the duration of your trip and in particular to cover you while doing the Kilimanjaro Climb.

Important Note:
Prices are subject to change due to any unforeseen circumstances.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - We strongly suggest you wear / carry on you, your boots, wet weather gear and cameras - these are crucial for your climb, and you do not want to risk loosing them in the hold. Make sure you have your yellow fever certificate with you - whilst it probably wont be asked for on arrival in Tanzania, when you return home it may be requested. Check in at the Air Tanzania's check in counters - Johannesburg International Airport for your flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (via Dar es Salaam). Keys Hotel will meet you on arrival and transferred to the Keys Hotel, approx 1 - 1 and a half hour's drive. Overnight, dinner, bed and continental breakfast. Climb briefing. If you need to hire any extra gear, advise the hotel this evening. Leave any excess clothing and valuables at the hotel - they will lock them up for you. Pack your bag carefully for the climb - remember the weight limit of 12kg. Leave some 'bin bags' in an outer pocket of your bag, and show the porters where they are so that in case of rain they can quickly cover your bag. Keep one out for your personal backpack too! Liaise with staff at reception, and leave them your air tickets to be reconfirmed during your climb. It is your responsibility to ensure that flights are reconfirmed, as any schedule changes will be advised at that time.

Day 2 - After breakfast transferred to Marangu Gate - approx 1.5 hours drive. Your guide will do paperwork with the National Parks as well as sorting out luggage and the porters. Please do not expect to start climbing immediately - there will probably be at least an hour or more delay at the Park Gate. Commence climb through superb rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,700m), approximately 4 hrs from the Park Gate. There is a detour on this route, which is well worth following - discuss with your guide before you set off. All meals are included during the climb, and your guide/porters will prepare for you. Generally food is relatively plain, as foods available in Tanzania are limited. It is advisable to carry 'snacks' in your daypack for lunch's etc, as after day one, the lunches do get smaller. ** Be careful of hut steps, which can be slippery when wet. Please note we have been advised that there is now a 12kg luggage limit per porter, i.e. please try and keep your luggage to 12kg, a barrel/soft bag, or a backpack in some cases, is preferred as they tend to carry everything on their heads. Remember that you will not see your luggage from morning until night, it is important to keep all your day gear with you - especially raingear and water. Take plastic bin bags (or bag liners) to cover your luggage - pass them to the porter/s and show them what to do in case of rain. Your accommodation is in dormitory style chalets. There are no shower/bath facilities while doing the climb and toilets will be long drops. You will be provided with bowls of warm water each morning, on request, to wash with. We suggest at night you try and sleep next to an open window, or at least persuade other climbers to leave the window open for air/oxygen. It gets worse the higher you go! It is advisable to 'walk high - sleep low' - i.e. every evening, after a short rest at the camp, walk up another few hundred metres and return to camp for the evening. It helps with acclimatisation to altitudes. It is possible to buy beers, soft drinks at the huts - the price increases the higher you go!

Day 3 - Continue climb to Horombo Hut, (3,700m). A steep sometimes wet, 20 min walk through the upper part of the rainforest, followed by a 2km section of tall giant heather interspersed with large clumps of tussock grass. 15kms and approximately 5 hrs from Mandara. The vegetation will have changed to stunted clumps of heather, the 'everlasting' flowers and short tussock grasses. Lobelia and groundsels occupy the wetter areas. All meals included. If you plan to take "Diamox", either take this morning, or the following morning. Side effects include tingling of fingers, toes - extremities of the body, and of course you will urinate a lot - it is vital to keep your fluid intake high. Minimum 2 lt of water, plus tea, soups and juices. We suggest you do not take Diamox at night !

Day 4 - Extra night at Horombo Hut.

Day 5 - Continue climb, the path traverses west, before turning northwards towards a col between Middle Red Hill and the Triplets. It then turns west for the final 3km to Kibo Hut (4,700m). All meals.

Day 6 - Very early start for the final ascent. The start of this section is done in the dark. Please ensure you take a good torch and spare batteries. A 4-5hr slow walk up increasingly steep scree to Gillman's Point (5,690m). From here a 1-2hrs walk around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896m). After the assault on the peak descend to Horombo Hut. All meals included. This is an incredibly long and tiring day - make sure you carry lots of water for the ascent - your water bottle will probably freeze on your back, so cover it with a sock or something! Keep your camera under your jacket, as close to your body as possible, otherwise the batteries may go flat.

Day 7 - After breakfast return to the Park Gates. Your guides will liase with you regarding tips approximately USD 80 for a five-day hike, USD90-100 for the six-day hike is the 'anticipated amount' per climber, to be split amongst the group. We also recommend you take and wear old clothes for the climb, which can be given to porters/guides after the climb - especially warm clothing, this is highly appreciated. Transferred back to the Keys Hotel, Moshi. Overnight, dinner, bed and continental breakfast. There is a pool at the hotel, so do take a swimming costume.

Day 8 - You'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Johannesburg, via Dar es Salaam.
 

Meals and group areas are well-lit by camping tube lights when the vehicle is nearby, or by kerosene lamps in campsites where this option might not be possible. Be sure to pack a small hand or head-torch for finding your way around your tent at night.

Our guides and camp assistants are all fully-trained professionals who will prioritize your comfort and safety, as well as striving to ensure optimal game-viewing opportunities throughout your journey with us.

Unless otherwise specified, all nights are spent in campsites within National Parks or Conservation areas. We have included all park entry and camping fees (which are shown seperately below), and, of course, all your meals on safari in the package price quoted. Meals consist of a cooked breakfast or brunch, light lunch and a three course dinner. We regret that we are unable to provide drinking water and/or other beverages except tea and coffee, but your guide will show you where best to purchase these items prior to departure and at convenient points along the way.

We request that clients erect their own tents on arrival at camp and dismantle their tents on departure - this is very simple and takes about 5 minutes. Your guide will show you how this is done and the balance of the chores will be taken care of by the camp assistant(s).

It is important to note that we offer a quality camping product and not a luxury mobile camp. The package price here is for accommodation in the public campsites of Tanzania's National Parks and despite our best efforts Wild Frontiers Tanzania has very little control over the quality and standards of ablution facilities at these campsites. At certain times of the year water is scarce and campsites very busy, so the cleanliness of the facilities are quite often compromised by these factors. With this in mind, please be aware that the toilets in public campsites are long-drop style without flush, and so can seem rather unpleasant/unhygienic by first world standards.

If this idea does not appeal to you, may we suggest that you consider upgrading your Standard Safari for a small surcharge to use private campsites where you will be the exclusive guests in a specially selected bush area with no other vehicles or campers, and we will be able to provide you with your own bush toilets and carry extra water for washing. An extra crew member will assist the guide and camp assistant/cook on this style of safari. Another option is to upgrade even further to our semi-luxury Authentic Safari which includes a supply vehicle and crew and an array of extras for greater comfort and ease of travel.

Itinerary - 6 Day Camping Safari - for MANYARA departures:

2 nights Ngorongoro
2 nights Serengeti
1 night Manyara
Set Departure Dates:

Includes: road transportation from Arusha return in custom-built vehicle, accommodation as specified, all meals on safari, game viewing as indicated, services of a driver/guide and cook/assistant, park entrance fees, all camping equipment including large walk-in dome tents, mattresses, all cooking and eating utensils, nights are spent in parks or conservation areas unless specified.

Excludes: visas, hotel night in Arusha before/after safari ecluded, shuttle bus services ex Nairobi, airport transfers, travel insurance, health requirements, gratuities, drinks and tips, all items of a personal nature and any service not specified.

All prices are subject to change due to any unforeseen circumstance beyond our control.

Private departures - Child rates available on request for families.

Health Requirements - Yellow Fever inoculations are necessary. This must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure. Anti-malaria tablets are also necessary. Please enquire for details of travel clinics operating in your area.

Visas - Most nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania. Please enquire at this office for further details.

Travel insurance - We strongly recommend that you take out Travel Insurance for the duration of your holiday. Please contact us for further details.

ITINERARY:

Day 0 - Arrive in Arusha. Overnight at a hotel - not included. *We can organise the shuttle/apt transfers and additional accommodation if required.

Day 1 - Sunday - 09h00 departure from Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater. Overnight camping within conservation area on a full board basis. In the afternoon you will have the opportunity to do a cultural Masai visit.

Day 2 - Spend the day in Ngorongoro Crater enjoying game drives. Overnight camping on a full board basis.

Day 3 - Game drive en route to the Serengeti. Overnight camping in Serengeti National park on a full board basis, game drives included.

Day 4 - Game drives in Serengeti - overnight camping on a full board basis.

Day 5 - Game drive en route through the Serengeti/Ngorongoro region to Lake Manyara area, where you will camp tonight on a full board basis. You will have the option to visit markets as well as part take in other activities in area.

Day 6 - Morning drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Return to Arusha arriving in time for afternoon shuttle to Nairobi (not included). Breakfast only included.
 

The turnaround point marks approximately 32km and the last section is a fast downhill run back toward the stadium. Regular water tables as well as 'sponging points' and the odd 'shower' keep the runners refreshed and cool along the entire route. The route passes through many small holder farms, villages, parts of town, banana and coffee plantations and patches of forest, providing great excitement to the residents and ample vocal supporters.

For those running the half marathon, the route also starts at the Moshi stadium and after a short section on the flat, it follows the gradual uphill route to Mweka as per the full marathon - before turning around at approx 10km to return to the stadium again. The atmosphere in the stadium is electric with local bands playing, entertainment, crowds of local enthusiasts to cheer the runners, and lots of food and drink for sale.

The logistics of the operation are run by the Kilimanjaro Marathon Club and the members of both the Tanzania Amateur Athletics Association (TAAA) and the local Kilimanjaro Amateur Athletics Association (KAAA). Travel arrangements and packages to access the race are being provided by Wild Frontiers, a South African, Tanzanian and Ugandan based tour operator, who are experienced in Tanzania travel and logistics and who are members of the South African Tour Operators Association and ASATA, and who is the largest tour operator into Tanzania from South Africa.

The race is completely backed up, with twelve water points being provided and manned by local organisations. Crowd control and traffic control are provided for, as is medical assistance and communications. Official timekeeping is arranged, as is an official prize giving and function attended by local dignitaries.

Includes: Airfare Johannesburg/Dar es Salaam/Kilimanjaro/Dar es Salaam/Johannesburg on Air Tanzania, return airport transfers, marathon entry package: guaranteed bib number, t-shirt, medal, goody bag, Wild Frontiers hospitality tent facility at finish, return transfers to/from stadium, 3 nights accommodation in Moshi on a bed and continental breakfast basis, marathon carbo-loading supper on Saturday, 3 March 2007, 2 nights accommodation on Zanzibar on meal basis as described,

Excludes: Zanzibar departure tax, visas, travel insurance, health requirements, additional meals, gratuities, drinks, all items of a personal nature and any other service not specified.

If you would like to make further travel arrangements after the race we can organize Kilimanjaro climbs, lodge safaris, luxury and budget camping safaris, as well as excursions to Dar es Salaam.

Prices are subject to change due to airfare increases, currency fluctuations and any other unforeseen circumstance.

Prices are based on accommodation at Langi Langi (on a bed and breakfast basis). Rates for accommodation at Mapenzi Beach Resort (on a full board basis) are available on request.

Health Requirements - Please note you will need a Yellow Fever inoculation. This must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure. If you have had any previous history of liver disorders you must consult your physician first. Malaria prophylactics are a must. Please enquire for details of travel clinics operating in your area.

Visas - Should you be travelling on a South African passport you will need a visa for Tanzania.

Travel Insurance - Please ensure you have sufficient medical cover for the duration of your trip. Please contact us for further details.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Friday - 2 March 2007 When travelling (flying) we strongly suggest you wear / carry on you your running shoes - these are crucial for your race, and you do not want to risk losing them in the hold. Make sure you have your yellow fever certificate with you - whilst it probably won't be asked for on arrival in Tanzania, when you return home it may be requested. Check in at the Air Tanzania counter, Johannesburg International Airport at 12h45 latest. Depart on flight TC 7909 at 14h45 to Dar es Salaam. Connect your flight TC 7909 to Kilimanjaro International Airport at 20h00 (local time). Arrive 20h55 (local time). On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi (+- 1 hour/1 hour 30 minutes drive). Stay here for 3 nights on a bed and continental breakfast basis.

Day 2 - Saturday - 3 March 2007 Spend the day relaxing at the pool or you may opt to go into Moshi, where you can buy curios and have some lunch at one of the local restaurants. A day trips can be arranged at an additional cost. Overnight at your hotel in Moshi on a DINNER, bed and continental breakfast basis. This evening we include a special carbo-loading supper for you to build up stamina for the race. Tonight there will be a Marathon briefing.

Day 3 - Sunday - 4 March 2007 Mt Kilimanjaro Marathon 2007 - RACE DAY. Transfers to and from the stadium will be provided for all Wild Frontiers clients. The Wild Frontiers Hospitality tent with shade and drinks will be provided exclusively to all Wild Frontiers clients at the finish. Overnight bed and continental breakfast basis.

Day 4-5 - Monday - 5 March 2007 You will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport for your return flight on Air Tanzania departing 15h20 to Zanzibar, arriving 16h10. On arrival on Zanzibar you will be transferred to a beach resort for 2 nights (accommodation choices listed below.)

Day 6 - Wednesday - 7 March 2007 Early morning transfer back to Zanzibar Airport in time for your Air Tanzania flight back to Johannesburg departing at 09h30 (via Dar es Salaam), arriving 13h40.
 

Excludes: Visas, travel insurance, health requirements, tips, drinks, items of a personal nature, accommodation pre & post safari, additional accommodation, flights, transfers, shuttle service, balloon safari and extensions to above safari may be organised on request, bottled water on the safari vehicle, Christmas/New Year and Easter supplements.

Other services include: Airport transfers, hotel and flight reservations. We can also offer multi-destination safaris which may be linked to a Tanzania Mobile safari. Baggage for flight restricted to 15kg per person.
Lodge safaris also available on a private basis or on a tailor-made itinerary of any length.

Important Note:
Should the safari dates cross season, the price may alter - we will quote you accordingly so please use these rates as a guideline only.
Please also note that rates are subject to change due to any unforeseen circumstance.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - 14h00 departure to Manyara National park. Overnight Serena or Lake Manyara Hotel. Dinner included.

Day 2 - Morning game drive Manyara. Continue to Ngorongoro. Overnight Serena / Sopa Lodge. Full Board.

Day 3 - Ngorongoro Crater, game drives. Overnight lodge. Full Board.

Day 4 - To Serengeti via Olduvai Gorge. Overnight Serena / Sopa Lodge. Full Board.

Day 5 - Full day exploring the Serengeti. Overnight Serena / Sopa Lodge. Full Board.

Day 6 - One way flight from Serengeti to Arusha. Bed & Breakfast.
 

Includes: Airfare Johannesburg-Dar es Salaam-Johannesburg on Air Tanzania, airport transfers, accommodation in Dar es Salaam on a room only basis, Coastal Air flights Dar es Salaam-Mafia-Dar es Salaam, accommodation including all meals on Mafia Island - standard rooms, marine park fees.

Excludes: Tanzania departure tax from Dar es Salaam to Mafia and return (equivalent of USD 7 per person per flight payable in local currency), travel insurance, visas, health requirements, drinks, excursions and activities, gratuities, all items of a personal nature and any service not specified.

Maximum luggage limit 15kgs per person on Coastal Air - Soft bags please
Extra night rate Mafia (per person sharing including all meals). Price on request.
You can also start or end your vacation with a day or two on Zanzibar - please enquire for prices.
All prices quoted are subject to change due to airfare increases or any other unforeseen circumstance.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - (Daily departures) Depart Johannesburg on Air Tanzania flight to Dar es Salaam. On arrival you will be met and transferred to The Souk at The Slipway. Overnight here on a room only basis.

Day 2-5 - Morning at leisure or shop for local crafts and paintings at the Mwenge craft centre. In the afternoon you will be transferred to the airport for your Coastal Air flight to Mafia Island. Spend 4 nights here including all meals.

Day 6 - Early morning transfer to the airport and depart Mafia Island by Coastal Air to Dar es Salaam. Transfer to the international terminal for your return flight to Johannesburg on Air Tanzania.
 

The chimps in this region are less readily seen than those at Gombe, but the wilderness atmosphere of the forest and the beautiful scenery make up for this! Expect a much longer and more strenuous day of trekking than at Gombe. The chimps are often far away, and the terrain is rugged.

Access is also by boat, and as with Gombe we offer both a 'budget' (camping) and a more 'upmarket' option on our packages. We have also included a 3 night fly-in option from Arusha to Greystoke Mahale. We do not recommend visiting Mahale during the rainy season from November to April.

Although not covered in this itinerary, we can also arrange trips that visit BOTH National Parks. The trip from Gombe to Mahale is a full day on a motorized local boat, and therefore it is not an option to combine these two parks if you have less than 7 nights. Please enquire for a tailormade itinerary and quotation. Both of these parks are rarely visited, but are well worth the effort. The chimpanzee viewing is excellent, and you can be within metres of these active, vocal primates. We strongly recommend that you read some of Jane Goodall's books on them prior to visiting. Some of the researchers may be available to chat to you at the camps.

Access to Kigoma is by scheduled (from Dar es Salaam) or charter flights (from Nairobi/Arusha/Mwanza), with the scheduled flights being the cheaper option. Schedules from Dar es Salaam currently operate daily (excluding Thursdays). There is an airstrip near Mahale, so if you are chartering in you could fly in direct and take a boat trip back.

All prices are based on four persons travelling, but the increase in cost for groups of less than this is not high. We prefer to restrict our groups to eight persons.

Includes: Airport transfers on arrival/departure from Kigoma, accommodation in Kigoma for 2 nights as indicated, boat transfer Kigoma-Mahale-Kigoma, accommodation in Mahale for 3 nights as indicated, all meals, camp fees, equipment and bedding on budget option / tented camps on upmarket option, guide & porter fees, chimp trekking/park fees.

Excludes: drinks, gratuities, all items of a personal nature and any service not specified.

Important Note:
Maximum luggage limit 15kgs per person on light aircraft transfers.
All prices are subject to change due to airfare increases or any other unforeseen circumstance.
The parks officials hold the right to refuse admittance to both Gombe and Mahale for chimp trekking should the person be sickly in any way - for example colds, flu, and other possible contagious diseases.
Remember that the chimpanzees can move a lot during a day, and you will have to be prepared for some good hard walking.
There is an upmarket option available for this trip.

Health requirements - Yellow Fever inoculations are necessary (this must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure). Anti-malaria tablets are also necessary. Please enquire for details of travel clinics operating in your area.

Visas - Should you be travelling on a South African passport you will need a visa for Tanzania. This takes approximately 3 working days and can be done at the Tanzania High Commission in Pretoria. We can make the necessary arrangements on your behalf, alternatively they can be contacted on telephone: or at 822 George Avenue, Arcadia, Pretoria. You will need a valid passport (your passport must have at least 3 blank pages), 2 passport photographs and 2 completed forms. Other nationalities - please check with our office or the Tanzania High Commission. It is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival.

Travel Insurance - We strongly recommend that you take out Travel Insurance for the duration of your holiday. Please contact us for further details.

ITINERARY:

Day 1-Budget Option - Arrive Kigoma. Transfer to Aqua Lodge for overnight. Afternoon visit to Ujiji where Dr Livingstone met Henry Monton Stanley - 'Dr Livingstone, I presume?'

Day 2 - Boat transfer to Mahale (this can take anything from 3 to 10 hours depending on the type of boat and the weather and lake conditions prevalent on a particular day). Here we are self-sufficient overnighting in tents which are erected by our camp crew ahead of us. Showers and a long drop toilet are supplied, as well as chairs, tables, etc. and ice for drinks. On safari you will be accompanied by a local guide/camp manager, as well as boatmen and cooks, etc. and all bedding, chairs and tables are provided. Guiding on walks is done by the parks guides, who can explain the intricacies of chimpanzee behaviour and their family life, etc. We use 9 metre local boats, powered by outboard engines. They have sun canopies, HF radios, seats, etc. Fishing in the lake for Nile Perch, Nkupe and Bream is offered, and the lake supports numerous colourful cichlids. These are not fast boats, but are safe and can handle the rough conditions sometimes encountered on the lake.

Day 3-4 - Two full days in Mahale, trekking chimps etc.

Day 5 - Return boat transfer to Kigoma. Overnight Aqua Lodge.

Day 6 - Transfer to airport.
 

The chimps in this region are less readily seen than those at Gombe, but the wilderness atmosphere of the forest and the beautiful scenery make up for this! Expect a much longer and more strenuous day of trekking than at Gombe. The chimps are often far away, and the terrain is rugged.

Access is also by boat, and as with Gombe we offer both a 'budget' (camping) and a more 'upmarket' option on our packages. We have also included a 3 night fly-in option from Arusha to Greystoke Mahale. We do not recommend visiting Mahale during the rainy season from November to April.

Although not covered in this itinerary, we can also arrange trips that visit BOTH National Parks. The trip from Gombe to Mahale is a full day on a motorized local boat, and therefore it is not an option to combine these two parks if you have less than 7 nights. Please enquire for a tailormade itinerary and quotation. Both of these parks are rarely visited, but are well worth the effort. The chimpanzee viewing is excellent, and you can be within metres of these active, vocal primates. We strongly recommend that you read some of Jane Goodall's books on them prior to visiting. Some of the researchers may be available to chat to you at the camps.

Access to Kigoma is by scheduled (from Dar es Salaam) or charter flights (from Nairobi/Arusha/Mwanza), with the scheduled flights being the cheaper option. Schedules from Dar es Salaam currently operate daily (excluding Thursdays). There is an airstrip near Mahale, so if you are chartering in you could fly in direct and take a boat trip back.

All prices are based on four persons travelling, but the increase in cost for groups of less than this is not high. We prefer to restrict our groups to eight persons.

Includes: Airport transfers on arrival/departure from Kigoma, accommodation in Kigoma for 2 nights as indicated, boat transfer Kigoma-Mahale-Kigoma, accommodation in Mahale for 3 nights as indicated, all meals, camp fees, equipment and bedding on budget option / tented camps on upmarket option, guide & porter fees, chimp trekking/park fees.

Excludes: drinks, gratuities, all items of a personal nature and any service not specified.

Important Note:
Maximum luggage limit 15kgs per person on light aircraft transfers.
All prices are subject to change due to airfare increases or any other unforeseen circumstance.
The parks officials hold the right to refuse admittance to both Gombe and Mahale for chimp trekking should the person be sickly in any way - for example colds, flu, and other possible contagious diseases.
Remember that the chimpanzees can move a lot during a day, and you will have to be prepared for some good hard walking.
There is a budget option available for this trip.

Health requirements - Yellow Fever inoculations are necessary (this must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure). Anti-malaria tablets are also necessary. Please enquire for details of travel clinics operating in your area.

Visas - Should you be travelling on a South African passport you will need a visa for Tanzania. This takes approximately 3 working days and can be done at the Tanzania High Commission in Pretoria. We can make the necessary arrangements on your behalf, alternatively they can be contacted on telephone: or at 822 George Avenue, Arcadia, Pretoria. You will need a valid passport (your passport must have at least 3 blank pages), 2 passport photographs and 2 completed forms. Other nationalities - please check with our office or the Tanzania High Commission. It is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival.

Travel Insurance - We strongly recommend that you take out Travel Insurance for the duration of your holiday. Please contact us for further details.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Arrive Kigoma. Transfer to Kigoma Hilltop Hotel for overnight. Afternoon visit to Ujiji where Dr Livingstone met Henry Monton Stanley - 'Dr Livingstone, I presume?'

Day 2 - Boat transfer to Mahale (this can take anything from 3 to 10 hours depending on the type of boat and the weather and lake conditions prevalent on a particular day). On this option 3 nights in Mahale are spent at Nkungwe Tented Camp. Normally we track chimps in the morning, come back for lunch and in the afternoon there is the option of either going into the forest for more chimp tracking, swimming (Lake Tanganyika is very clean and clear) or sightseeing on the lake in boats. Canoes are also available. Snorkelling is a lot of fun. Basic snorkelling equipment including snorkels, goggles and flippers are available for hire at the camp. On safari you will be accompanied by a local guide/camp manager, as well as boatmen and cooks, etc. and all bedding, chairs and tables are provided. Guiding on walks is done by the parks guides, who can explain the intricacies of chimpanzee behaviour and their family life, etc. We use 9 metre local boats, powered by outboard engines. They have sun canopies, HF radios, seats, etc. Fishing in the lake for Nile Perch, Nkupe and Bream is offered, and the lake supports numerous colourful cichlids. These are not fast boats, but are safe and can handle the rough conditions sometimes encountered on the lake.

Day 3-4 - Two full days in Mahale, trekking chimps etc.

Day 5 - Return boat transfer to Kigoma. Overnight Kigoma Hilltop Hotel.

Day 6 - Transfer to airport.
 

It is not an easy climb - but the lower altitude and shorter distances make it achievable. The main problems encountered are altitude sickness, which can be countered by use of medicines, and lack of oxygen. This route is a hike - no climbing as such. It is very cold - correct kit is a must - but our kit lists and hire equipment are top quality. A Meru climb is often used as an acclimatisation hike prior to a Kili Climb.

Good preparation and advice, as well as good guides on the mountain, have given us an over 97% success. We ensure that all our climbers have all the facts, long before they travel - possibly the reason for our success rate. The mountain can be climbed most of the year, although it is inadvisable during the rainy seasons. Accommodation is in mountain huts - in good condition with great views. All your equipment and kit is portered up for you.

Please note that prices are subject to change due to any unforeseen price increase.

Includes: Transfers, 2 nights accommodation at the Keys hotel with dinner, bed & breakfast, 3 nights hutted accommodation on the mountain including all meals, park fees and hut fees, medical rescue fees, guides, porters and park ranger.

Excludes: Visas, travel insurance, health requirements, equipment hire, tipping (tips to the guides & porters US$ 50-60 per climber), all items of a personal nature and any service not mentioned.

Health requirements - Please note you will need a Yellow Fever inoculation. This must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure. If you have had any previous history of liver disorders you must consult your physician first. Malaria prophylactics are a must.

Travel Insurance - Please ensure you have sufficient Medical Cover for the duration of your trip and in particular to cover you while doing the climb.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Arrive Keys Hotel, overnight with dinner, bed & breakfast included. Climb briefing.

Day 2 - After breakfast you will be driven to Momela Park Gate (1 500 metres). From here you will start your hike up to Miriakamba hut, about 3 or 4 hours walk. This is through the rain forest's jumbled mass of juniper and Podacarpus trees. There are also some animals in these lower altitudes such as the Cape buffalo, elephant, bushbuck, red forest duiker etc. Overnight Miriakamba Hut (2 470 metres).

Day 3 - After breakfast follow the path that passes through fine forests and heather (a steep walk) to Saddle Hut (3 or 4 hours), stopping for lunch on the way. Overnight Saddle Hut (3 500 metres).

Day 4 - Extra day at Saddle Hut, allowing you a little more time to acclimatise. Take a short walk to Little Meru. Overnight Saddle Hut. (OPTIONAL BUT RECOMMENDED)

Day 5 - Around 2 or 3 in the morning leave for the summit (4 566 metres), a 4 or 5 hour walk, where there are wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as Moshi, Namanga and Arusha. Descend to Miriakamba for lunch. Walk back to the park gates (2 hours). Keys Hotel will transfer you back to the hotel for overnight on a bed & breakfast basis.

Day 6 - End of services.
 

Excludes: Airline/airport taxes, visa cost, travel insurance, health requirements, gratuities, drinks, all items of a personal nature and any service not specified.

Important Note:
Prices are subject to change due to rate of exchange fluctuations and any unforeseen price increase.

Health Requirements - Yellow Fever inoculations are necessary. This must be done no later than 10 days prior to departure. Anti-malaria tablets are also necessary. Please enquire for details of travel clinics operating in your area.

Visas - South African Passport holders require a visa for Tanzania. This can be obtained through ourselves or directly with the Tanzania High Commission in Pretoria. Other nationalities - please check with our office or the Tanzania High Commission. It is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival.

Travel insurance - We strongly recommend that you take out Travel Insurance for the duration of your holiday. Please contact us for further details.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Johannesburg / Kilimanjaro. Please check in at Air Tanzania counter - Johannesburg International for your flight to Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival a Wild Frontiers representative will meet and transfer you to Kia Lodge, where you will overnight on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2-4 - Kilimanjaro / Seronera - Serengeti Wilderness Camp You can choose one of three options: Fly-in option: you fly from Arusha to the Serengeti return (cost on application) Or Fly-drive option: you fly from Arusha to the Serengeti and drive back to Arusha by road or vice versa (cost on application) Or Drive only option: you are transferred by road from Arusha to Serengeti return (see cost below) After breakfast you will be met at Kia Lodge by a Wild Frontiers representative and transferred to Arusha Airport, where you will drive to the Serengeti by road (approx. 9 hours). Upon arrival a Serengeti Wilderness Camp representative will meet and transfer you to the Wilderness Camp, where you will spend 3 nights on a full board basis, with a private vehicle and guide who will take you on all day game activities.

Day 5 - Seronera / Kilimanjaro - Arusha Hotel. After breakfast you will be transferred by road back to Arusha. Upon arrival in Arusha a Wild Frontiers representative will meet and transfer you to The Arusha Hotel, where you will overnight on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 6 - Kilimanjaro / Johannesburg. Early morning departure - you will be met by a Wild Frontiers representative and transferred to Kilimanjaro International, where you will check in at Air Tanzania counters for your flight to Johannesburg International.