Traveling to Tanzania and Zanzibar with Zanzania tours and safaris

$ 1 430 pp(USD)

Tanzania; private tour . Mid range. Lodge

You Visit: Zanzibar(start), Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar(End)

$1, 430 pp(USD)

Tanzania: Shaired tour (max 6 people per vehicle). Mid-range . Lodge

You Visit: Zanzibar (start), Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar (End)

$2 750 pp(USD)

Tanzania: Private tour. Luxury. Lodge

You Visit : Zanzibar (Start), Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar(End).

$2, 123 pp(USD)

Tanzania: Private tour . Mid- range . Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Zanzbar(Start), Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar(End).

$1, 551 pp(USD)

Tanzania: Private tour . Mid-range .Lodge

You Visit: Zanzibar(Start) Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar(End).

Mount Killimanjaro Climbing

There are seven established Mount Kilimanjaro routes which lead to the summit, Uhuru Peak, one of which starts on the Northern side of the mountain and the rest on the Southern side. They are:

1. Northern Circuit Route
2. Lemosho Route
3. Shira Route
4. Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route)
5. Rongai Route
6. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route)
7. Umbwe Route

The one question we are asked more often than any other is “which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro”. And the answer depends on what you want. Here are our winners

Highest success rate and overall best route to climb Kilimanjaro

If you want the highest chance of summiting the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best route to climb Kilimanjaro.

Most scenic route to climb Kilimanjaro

The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions.

Quietest route to climb Kilimanjaro

If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb. But be warned the success rate is lower.

Most challenging route to climb Kilimanjaro

If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience the crater camp option is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you- less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it.

Our summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each route is below

» Machame route – from USD 2,540

• Highly recommended, best success rate.
• Allows “walk high, sleep low” for better acclimatization.
• Stunning scenery climbing through five diverse climatic zones.
• Ascent and descent is via different routes.
• Fully catered camping.

» Lemosho Route – from USD 2,590

• An excellent route to climb Kilimanjaro by with a high success rate.
• Allows climbers to “walk high, sleep low” enabling better acclimatization.
• Remote and spectacular approach with dramatic gorges and views of west Kilimanjaro.
• Shira route offers higher start point therefore is less good for acclimatization.
• Fully catered camping.

» Marangu Route – from USD 2,350

• Shortest route to the summit which means less time to acclimatize.
• Much lower success rate.
• Dormitory style accommodation which can be noisy.
• Less scenic due to ascent and descent on same route.

» Rongai – Route from USD 2630

• Only northern approach route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit.
• Offers a true wilderness experience on the early stages of the climb.
• Very tough final summit night.
• Less natural acclimatization with no opportunities to “walk high, sleep low”.
• Fully catered camping.

» Umbwe Route – from USD 2590

• Steep, short route with very low success rate.
• Poor acclimatization due to rapid ascent.
• Very remote and quiet for the first two days.
• Fully catered camping.

Which route is best to climb Kilimanjaro?

When you are planning your Kilimanjaro climb there are 6 factors that you need to take into consideration in deciding which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you.

• Acclimatization
• Difficulty of the summit night
• How busy the route is
• What are the accommodation options
• Safety
• What is the success rate

Acclimatization on Kilimanjaro

When climbing to altitude the golden rule is walk high and sleep low. Following this rule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness and improves you chance of summiting. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro for acclimatization are the Machame and Lemosho routes as these naturally allow you to walk high and sleep low.

Difficulty of the summit night

The toughest summit nights are on the Rongai route and the Marangu route: they reach the crater rim of Kilimanjaro on the North, opposite Uhuru Peak and more than 2 hours from the summit itself. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro to avoid this are the Machame and Lemosho routes as they reach the crater at Stellar point less than an hour’s walk from the summit. An extra hour on what is already a very long day is often the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

How busy the route is

The amount of climbers on the mountain varies a lot depending on the season and on the day of the week but even taking this into account if you want to have the mountain more to yourself the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Rongai route. This route starts in the North and is used by a lot less climbers than the very popular southern routes.

Accommodation on the climb

The only route that you do not have to camp on is the Marangu route so if you hate tents this is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Be warned though the huts are very basic and noisy.

Kilimanjaro Routes Safety

We consider all of the routes except the Arrow Point route to be relatively safe if walked sensibly. We do not offer climbs on the Arrow Point route as the risk of falling rock is unmanageable . This is definitely not the best route to climb Kilimanjaro.

Which route has the highest Summit Success rate

As a result of the better acclimatization offered and the easier summit night the best route to climb Kilimanjaro in terms of summit success rate is the 9 Day Northern Circuit route ,Lemosho route over 8 days followed by the Machame route over 7 days.

We operate group climbs starting every week through the year with different routes each week. If you are looking for a particular route you can see when we are running that route below.

Zanzibar island visit packages

Best Tour Packages in Zanzibar

Zanzibar, often referred to as the “Spice Island,” offers a variety of tour packages that cater to different interests and budgets. Here are some of the best tour packages available:

1. 4 Days Zanzibar Holiday Package This package includes all accommodations and transport, making it a hassle-free option for travelers. It provides an immersive experience of Zanzibar’s culture and natural beauty, with opportunities to explore Stone Town and relax on pristine beaches.

2. Ecotourism and Cultural Immersion in Jozani Forest National Park For those interested in nature and wildlife, this package focuses on ecotourism and cultural experiences within Jozani Forest National Park. Travelers can engage with local communities and learn about conservation efforts while enjoying the island’s rich biodiversity.

3. 5 Days Zanzibar Beach Tour Ideal for beach lovers, this package allows visitors to unwind on Zanzibar’s stunning beaches while enjoying water sports activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing. It combines relaxation with adventure in a beautiful setting.

4. The Best of Zanzibar – 4 Days and 3 Nights This comprehensive package covers key attractions in Zanzibar, including historical sites like the Maruhubi Palace ruins and local spice plantations. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting to experience the island’s highlights.

5. Great African Expedition (58 Days) For those looking for an extensive travel experience across multiple destinations in Africa, this long-term expedition includes stops at various iconic locations, culminating in a visit to Zanzibar.

6. Legend of Zanzibar: Intimate One-Week Cultural Tour This custom tour focuses on cultural immersion over eight days, allowing travelers to delve deep into the history and traditions of Zanzibar while enjoying personalized experiences tailored to their interests.

7. Romance of Zanzibar: Private Couples Tour Designed for couples seeking a romantic getaway, this nine-day tour features luxurious accommodations, intimate dining experiences, and opportunities for private excursions around the island.

8. Peaceful Zanzibar & Safari Vacation for Seniors Catering specifically to seniors, this 13-day custom tour combines leisurely exploration of Zanzibar’s beaches with safari adventures in nearby national parks.

Each of these packages is designed to provide unique experiences that showcase the beauty and culture of Zanzibar while ensuring comfort and convenience for travelers.

1. Short Getaway Packages

• 4 Days Zanzibar Holiday:
  • Price: From $2,720
  • Details: Includes all accommodation and transport.
• 5 Days Zanzibar Beach Tour:
  • Price: From $1,450
  • Details: Focuses on beach relaxation and activities.

2. Cultural and Ecotourism Packages

• Ecotourism and Cultural Immersion in Jozani Forest National Park Area:
  • Price: From $2,935
  • Details: Experience local culture and wildlife; includes meals and guided tours.

3. Extended Tours

• Great African Expedition (Accommodated):
  • Duration: 58 days
  • Price: From $9,995
  • Details: Comprehensive tour covering multiple destinations including Zanzibar.
• East African Discoverer | 16 Days Victoria Falls to Dar es Salaam:
  • Price: From $2,820
  • Details: A mix of adventure and cultural experiences across East Africa.

4. Luxury Options

• The Best of Zanzibar (4 Days and 3 Nights):
  • Price: From $2,176 (Save $544)
• African Dream | 27 Days JHB to Dar es Salaam:
  • Price: From $13,525 (with local payments)

5. Adventure Activities

• Popular activities such as snorkeling at Mnemba Island or the Safari Blue trip can be included in various packages or booked separately, typically ranging from $50 to $150 depending on the activity duration and inclusions.