Arusha, Tanzania 21-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival at JRO Airport

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), clear customs, and meet your pre-arranged transfer to your hotel in Arusha.

Hotel Check-in & Relaxation

Check into your hotel, settle in, and take some time to rest after your journey.

Enjoy the hotel facilities.

Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner at a local restaurant in Arusha, sampling local dishes like Ugali, Nyama Choma, or Pilau.

Hotel Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a day of exploration.

Cultural Heritage Centre

Explore the Cultural Heritage Centre, a large art gallery and curio shop displaying a wide range of Tanzanian art, crafts, and gemstones.

Great place for souvenir shopping and learning about local tribes and art. Free entry, but purchases are encouraged.

Lunch in Arusha

Have lunch at a local cafe or restaurant in Arusha.

Arusha Central Market Walk

Wander through the bustling Arusha Central Market, experiencing the vibrant local life, fresh produce, spices, and artisan goods.

Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and friendly haggling. Keep an eye on your belongings.

Kilimanjaro Trek Briefing

Attend a pre-trek briefing with your climbing company.

This is crucial for understanding the route, safety, and meeting your guide.

Use this opportunity to ask any last-minute questions and ensure all your gear is ready.

Relax and Dinner

Enjoy dinner and prepare for tomorrow's safari.

Ensure you get a good night's rest.

Early Breakfast

Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel.

Arusha National Park Safari

Embark on a full-day safari in Arusha National Park.

Experience diverse landscapes including the Momella Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and forested areas. Look out for giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and various bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park.

Often less crowded than other parks, offering a more intimate wildlife experience. You might also see colobus monkeys. Wear comfortable clothing and bring binoculars.

Dinner and Relaxation

Return to Arusha, enjoy dinner, and relax at your hotel after a day of wildlife viewing.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.

Final Gear Check & Rentals

Finalize your packing and do a thorough check of all your trekking gear.

If needed, arrange for last-minute rentals of equipment like sleeping bags, trekking poles, or warm jackets from your trekking company.

Ensure everything is packed efficiently and you have all necessary documents.

Relaxed Lunch

Have a relaxed lunch in Arusha, perhaps trying a different local eatery.

Rest & Hydration

Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and mentally preparing for your Kilimanjaro climb.

Avoid strenuous activities.

Early Dinner

Enjoy an early, hearty dinner to fuel up for the trek ahead.

Pre-Trek Breakfast

Enjoy a final substantial breakfast at your hotel before departing for Kilimanjaro.

Transfer to Marangu Gate

Travel by vehicle from Arusha to Marangu Gate, the starting point for the Marangu Route.

The drive offers scenic views of local villages and coffee plantations.

Registration & Hike Briefing

Complete park registration formalities at Marangu Gate and receive a final briefing from your guide before starting the trek.

Trek to Mandara Hut

Begin your climb through the lush rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,700m/8,860ft).

This is the first segment of the 6-day Marangu Route.

The path is well-maintained. Keep an eye out for Colobus monkeys and various bird species. The air starts to cool as you gain altitude.

Dinner & Overnight at Mandara Hut

Enjoy dinner and spend your first night on Kilimanjaro at Mandara Hut.

Transfer to Marangu Gate

After an early breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation near Moshi and transferred to Marangu Gate, the official entry point for the Marangu Route.

Your guide will complete the necessary park registration forms.

Ensure you have your passport and all necessary permits/documentation ready. Your main luggage will be carried by porters. You only need a daypack.

Begin Trek to Mandara Hut

Start your ascent through the lush rainforest.

The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful scenery, with potential sightings of blue monkeys and various bird species. This gradual ascent helps ease into the trekking experience.

The path can be muddy, so good waterproof hiking boots are essential. Maintain a slow, steady pace (pole pole) to conserve energy.

Arrival at Mandara Hut

Arrive at Mandara Hut, located at 2,700m (8,858 ft).

Settle into your shared hut accommodation, enjoy a hot meal, and relax. There will be an opportunity for a short walk to Maundi Crater for panoramic views if time permits.

Take time to hydrate and rest. Temperatures drop significantly in the evening. Briefing for the next day's trek will be provided by your guide.

Trek to Horombo Hut

After breakfast, depart Mandara Hut.

The trail continues through the last section of the rainforest before opening up into the heath and moorland zone. You will enjoy spectacular views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks on clear days.

The vegetation changes significantly today. Sun protection is crucial as you'll be more exposed. Keep a steady pace to acclimatize.

Arrival at Horombo Hut

Reach Horombo Hut, located at 3,720m (12,205 ft).

This is a large, vibrant camp with stunning views. You'll spend two nights here for acclimatization.

Horombo Hut provides more facilities, including a dining hall. Use the afternoon to rest, rehydrate, and explore the camp surroundings. Listen carefully to your guide's instructions for the acclimatization day.

Acclimatization Hike to Zebra Rocks

Engage in an important acclimatization hike.

You'll trek towards Zebra Rocks (approx. 3,980m), offering a chance to 'climb high, sleep low'. This helps your body adjust to the altitude.

This hike is crucial for acclimatization and significantly increases your chances of a successful summit. Focus on a slow, steady pace and deep breathing.

Rest and Preparation

Return to Horombo Hut for lunch and spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing your gear for the next day's climb to Kibo Hut.

Your guide will conduct health checks and provide detailed briefings.

Double-check all your warm layers, headlamp, and water supply. Pack a separate small bag for summit night essentials.

Trek to Kibo Hut

Today's trek takes you through the alpine desert landscape, crossing 'The Saddle' between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The terrain becomes rockier and drier as you gain altitude, with incredible views of the summit ahead.

This is a challenging day due to altitude and terrain. Stay hydrated and eat regularly. The 'Last Waterpoint' is on this route, emphasize water intake.

Arrival at Kibo Hut & Summit Preparation

Arrive at Kibo Hut, situated at 4,700m (15,420 ft) at the base of Kilimanjaro's Kibo cone.

The afternoon is spent resting, eating an early dinner, and preparing your gear for the midnight summit attempt.

Try to get as much rest as possible, even if you can't sleep. Organize your headlamp, batteries, warm clothing, water, and snacks for the summit push. Your guide will provide a crucial briefing.

Summit Push to Uhuru Peak

Wake up around midnight for a light snack and start your summit attempt.

The climb is steep and challenging, traversing loose scree. You'll aim to reach Gilman's Point (5,681m), Stella Point (5,756m), and finally Uhuru Peak (5,895m) for sunrise.

This is the most demanding part of the trek. Maintain a slow, consistent pace ('pole pole'). Focus on your breathing and stay positive. Dress in multiple layers to adapt to extreme temperature changes.

Uhuru Peak & Descent to Kibo Hut

Enjoy breathtaking views from the 'Roof of Africa'.

After capturing photographs and soaking in the accomplishment, begin your descent back to Kibo Hut, which is much faster than the ascent.

Descending the scree can be tricky but faster. Be mindful of your footing. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you'll have a short rest and brunch.

Descent to Horombo Hut

After a well-deserved rest and refreshments at Kibo Hut, continue your descent all the way back to Horombo Hut.

This long descent marks the completion of the most challenging part of your journey.

The descent is long and can be hard on the knees. Trekking poles are highly recommended. Celebrate your achievement with your team at Horombo Hut.

Final Trek Descent

Descend from Mweka Camp through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, reflecting on your incredible achievement of summiting Kilimanjaro.

The descent can be tough on the knees. Trekking poles are highly recommended. A celebratory lunch will be provided at the gate.

Certificate Collection

Complete park formalities and receive your official certificate of achievement at Mweka Gate, commemorating your successful Kilimanjaro climb.

Don't forget to tip your trekking crew for their outstanding support and hard work.

Transfer to Moshi

Enjoy a comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Moshi for a much-deserved hot shower and rest.

Celebration Dinner

Savor a delicious dinner in Moshi to celebrate your incredible accomplishment.

Enjoy local Tanzanian cuisine and share stories of your trek.

Safari Briefing & Pickup

Meet your safari guide and receive a briefing about the upcoming adventure.

Depart from Moshi/Arusha towards Tarangire National Park.

Ensure you have your safari essentials ready: camera, binoculars, hat, and sunscreen. The 4-day safari package includes all transfers and game drives.

Drive to Tarangire

Enjoy a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.

Tarangire Game Drive

Embark on an extensive afternoon game drive in Tarangire, spotting elephants, zebras, giraffes, and various bird species.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wilderness.

Keep an eye out for tree-climbing lions, though they are less common here than in Manyara. This activity is part of the '4 Days Tanzania Lodge Safari With Two Nights at Serengeti' package.

Check-in & Dinner

Check into your lodge near Tarangire National Park, relax, and enjoy dinner under the African sky.

Accommodation for this and subsequent safari days is included in the safari package.

Travel to Serengeti

After breakfast, depart for the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park, driving through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with stunning views along the way. Enjoy an en-route game drive as you enter the park.

Picnic Lunch in Serengeti

Enjoy a packed lunch at a designated picnic spot within the Serengeti, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wilderness.

Listen to your guide for safety instructions regarding wildlife during lunch.

Afternoon Game Drive

Experience your first game drive in the iconic Serengeti, searching for the 'Big Five' and witnessing the incredible biodiversity of the central plains.

This area is known for its high concentration of predators and is an excellent place to spot lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Serengeti Lodge & Dinner

Check into your tented lodge or camp in the heart of the Serengeti and enjoy a hearty dinner, reflecting on the day's wildlife encounters.

Accommodation included in your safari package. Prepare for an authentic bush experience with wildlife sounds at night.

Early Morning Game Drive

Head out for an early morning game drive, a prime time to spot nocturnal predators returning from their hunts and animals waking up for the day.

The light is often best for photography during the early morning hours. This is part of your safari package.

Breakfast at the Lodge

Return to the lodge for a well-deserved breakfast and some time to relax.

Full Day Game Drive

Spend the entire day exploring different sections of the Serengeti, searching for diverse wildlife and experiencing the vastness of this iconic park. Picnic lunch included.

Your guide will use their expertise to track animals and find the best viewing spots. Be prepared for a full day out in the bush.

Relax & Dinner

Return to your lodge for relaxation, cocktails, and a delightful dinner, sharing highlights of your day's sightings.

Enjoy the sounds of the African night from your lodge.

Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive

After an early breakfast, depart Serengeti and drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Descend 600 meters into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater for a breathtaking game drive. This 'Eden of Africa' offers unparalleled wildlife viewing.

The Crater is home to an incredible density of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino, lions, elephants, buffalos, and various bird species. This is part of your safari package.

Crater Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor, often near the hippo pool, providing a unique dining experience surrounded by nature.

Be aware of curious birds and monkeys attempting to share your lunch!

Ascend & Drive to Arusha

Ascend from the crater and begin your journey back towards Arusha, marking the end of your incredible 4-day safari.

Hotel Check-in & Dinner

Check into your hotel in Arusha and enjoy dinner, preparing for the next leg of your journey to Zanzibar.

Morning Game Drive

Enjoy one last morning game drive in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dense wildlife population.

Keep an eye out for the 'Big Five' and unique landscapes as the sun rises.

Pack a light jacket as mornings can be chilly in the Crater. Your guide will provide a final safari breakfast.

Transfer to Arusha Airport

After your morning game drive and breakfast, begin the scenic drive from the Ngorongoro area back towards Arusha Airport (ARK) for your flight to Zanzibar.

Flight to Zanzibar

Board your domestic flight from Arusha to Zanzibar's Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).

This short flight will take you from the mainland wilderness to the Spice Island's coastal charm.

Please confirm flight details and luggage allowance with your tour operator.

Airport Transfer & Check-in

Upon arrival at Zanzibar Airport, you will be met for your private transfer to your hotel in Stone Town.

Check in and settle into your accommodation.

Stone Town Welcome Dinner

Enjoy your first dinner in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the labyrinthine alleys and choose from a variety of local restaurants offering fresh seafood and Swahili cuisine.

Try Lukmaan Restaurant for authentic local dishes or The House of Spices for a charming atmosphere.

Stone Town Complete Guide Tour

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Stone Town with a guided walking tour.

Discover its narrow streets, ancient buildings, the former slave market, and vibrant Darajani Market.

Wear comfortable shoes and modest clothing for visiting religious sites. Product Code: 388068P1.

Lunch at Local Eatery

Savor authentic Zanzibari flavors for lunch.

Many small, charming restaurants offer delicious local dishes.

Try pilau (spiced rice), urojo (Zanzibar mix soup), or fresh seafood curry.

House of Wonders & Old Fort

Visit the iconic House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib), the former palace of the Sultan of Zanzibar, and the adjacent Old Fort, which hosts cultural events and local artisan shops.

The House of Wonders is currently under renovation, so check current accessibility. The Old Fort is usually open to visitors.

Sunset at Forodhani Gardens

Experience the lively atmosphere of Forodhani Gardens as it comes alive with food stalls offering local street food and fresh seafood skewers at sunset.

A popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Be mindful of food hygiene when choosing vendors.

Siso Spice Farm Tour

Embark on a fragrant journey through a spice farm, where you'll learn about Zanzibar's rich spice heritage. Discover vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and exotic fruits directly from the source.

Enjoy fresh fruit tasting and perhaps buy some spices to take home. Wear shoes suitable for walking in fields.

Transfer to Beach Resort

After the spice farm tour, take a private transfer from Stone Town to your chosen beach resort on Zanzibar's East or North Coast, known for their stunning beaches and turquoise waters.

Beach Resort Check-in & Relax

Check into your tranquil beach resort.

Take some time to unpack, settle in, and immediately begin to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views.

Change into swimwear and head straight to the beach or pool!

Sunset Beach Walk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

This is a perfect way to unwind after your journey.

Many resorts offer beachside bars for a sundowner cocktail.

Morning Beach Relaxation

Spend your morning enjoying the idyllic beach.

Swim in the warm Indian Ocean, sunbathe, or simply read a book under a palm tree.

Remember to use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Beachside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at your resort's restaurant or a nearby beach shack, often serving fresh catches of the day.

Optional Snorkeling Trip

Consider an optional snorkeling or dive trip to Mnemba Atoll (North Coast) or Blue Lagoon (South East), famous for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Book through your resort or a local tour operator. Prices vary, typically USD 50-80 for 1 person including equipment.

Resort Dinner & Entertainment

Dine at your resort, which may offer themed dinners or local entertainment in the evenings.

Jozani Forest National Park

Visit Jozani Forest, home to the rare red colobus monkeys found only in Zanzibar.

Walk through the mangrove boardwalk for a unique ecosystem experience.

Guided tours are available at the park entrance. Remember to keep a respectful distance from the monkeys. Entrance fee: approx. USD 12 for 1 person.

Relaxation or Optional Activities

Enjoy a free afternoon for relaxation at the beach or resort pool, or choose another optional activity like a dhow (traditional sailing boat) cruise.

A sunset dhow cruise offers stunning views and a tranquil experience, typically costing around USD 30-50 for 1 person.

Farewell Dinner on the Beach

Indulge in a special farewell dinner, perhaps with a beachfront setup, savoring the fresh seafood and the tranquil ambiance of Zanzibar.

Many resorts offer romantic candlelit dinners on the sand.

Final Breakfast

Enjoy one last breakfast at your accommodation, savoring the peaceful morning atmosphere of Zanzibar.

Confirm your check-out time and ensure all luggage is packed and ready.

Leisurely Morning

Spend a relaxed morning, perhaps with a final stroll on the beach, a dip in the ocean, or some last-minute souvenir shopping in Stone Town if time permits.

Be mindful of your flight schedule and airport transfer time.

Transfer to Airport

Utilize a pre-booked private transfer for a comfortable and punctual journey from your accommodation to Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).

Confirm transfer details the day before. This service offers exceptional comfort with air-conditioned vehicles and professional drivers.

Airport Check-in & Security

Proceed with check-in for your international flight, clear security, and make your way to the departure gate.

Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights.