12 days Kilimanjaro & Gorilla Trekking Safari
12 days Kilimanjaro & Gorilla trekking safari is 12 day Tanzania & Rwanda safari, which offers Mount Kilimanjaro trekking in Kilimanjaro National Park & Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
This 12 days Gorilla trekking & Mt. Kilimanjaro trekking Fly in Safari combines Tanzania’s 7 day Kilimanjaro Marangu route trek & 5 days Gorilla trekking, Golden monkey tracking & Iby’Iwachu cultural experience safari in Rwanda.
Overview
Your adventure commences at Kilimanjaro Airport, where you’re welcomed by your experienced guide, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. As you settle in, anticipation fills the air, eager to begin the trek ahead. Through lush forests and past mountain huts, each step brings you closer to the towering summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the changing scenery fueling your excitement. With dawn breaking, you embark on the final ascent, reaching Uhuru Peak amidst a breathtaking sunrise, the rugged landscapes stretching out before you in a stunning panorama.
Descending the mountain, memories are etched into your mind, cherished for a lifetime. Transferring to Kigali, a city tour offers a glimpse into Rwandan culture before continuing to Volcanoes National Park. Here, encounters with gorillas and golden monkeys immerse you in the raw beauty of nature, reflecting on the adventure as you return to Kigali, the memories of this remarkable journey forever cherished.
#Highlights Of The 12 Days Gorillas & Kilimanjaro trekking
Day #1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Int. Airport for your climb
Day #2: From Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts
Day #3: From Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts
Day #4: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts and back to Horombo Huts
Day #5: From Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts
Day #6: From Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak and back to Horombo Huts
Day #7: From Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate and Hotel
Day #8: Flight from Kilimanjaro to Kigali
Day #9: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day #10: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day #11: Golden Monkey Trekking and Ibiwachu Cultural Village
Day #12: Transfer Back to Kigali
Day By Day Itinerary For 12 Days Gorilla & Kilimanjaro Trekking
Day #1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Int. Airport for your climb
You touchdown at Kilimanjaro International Airport, brimming with anticipation for the climb ahead. Stepping off the plane, you’re met by your trusty guide, who will be your companion throughout this adventure. A brief journey brings you to your accommodation, where you unwind and prepare for the journey ahead, the excitement of what’s to come palpable in the air.
Day #2: From Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts
The morning starts with an early rise as you make your way to Marangu Gate, the Launchpad for your journey. Here, you gather with your trekking team, absorbing a briefing that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The trail winds through verdant forests teeming with life, the air alive with the melodies of birds and the playful chatter of monkeys. Arriving at Mandara Huts, your inaugural overnight halt, you settle into the simple yet cozy accommodations. A nourishing meal fuels your body, preparing you for a restful night’s sleep amidst the tranquility of the mountain.
Day #3: From Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts
Awakening revitalized, you press onward towards Horombo Huts, the next waypoint on your journey. The trail unfolds gradually, revealing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding terrain. Passing through diverse ecological zones, you observe the shifting landscape, from lush forests to expansive alpine meadows. As you near Horombo Huts, situated at a higher altitude, you feel the air thinning, a reminder of the mountain’s formidable presence. With the benefit of experience and an extra day for acclimatization, your body adapts to the challenge. Arriving at your accommodation, you savor the panoramic views of the majestic mountains enveloping you, a testament to the wonders of nature.
Day #4: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts and back to Horombo Huts
Today’s journey guides you toward Kibo Huts, the final refuge before the summit push. The trail presents its challenges, with steep inclines and rugged terrain testing your resolve. Yet, amidst the effort, you find moments to pause, catching your breath and marveling at the surrounding beauty. Upon arrival at Kibo Huts, a brief respite rejuvenates you before embarking on the descent back to Horombo Huts. As you trace your steps, you reflect on the progress made and mentally prepare for the ultimate ascent looming ahead.
Day #5: From Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts
With the summit drawing near, you press onward from Horombo Huts towards Kibo Huts. As altitude increases, the landscape transforms into a barren expanse, punctuated only by resilient shrubs and rugged rock formations. Though the journey demands physical exertion, your spirit remains buoyed by the anticipation of reaching the summit. Upon reaching Kibo Huts, you take a well-deserved rest, mentally fortifying yourself for the impending final ascent.
Day #6: From Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak and back to Horombo Huts
Today marks the pinnacle of your Kilimanjaro expedition – summit day. Rising before dawn, you embark on the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the mountain. Despite the freezing temperatures, the spectacle of the sunrise spurs you onward, filling you with determination. Hours of perseverance through towering rocks culminate in reaching the summit, where a flood of emotions washes over you in the face of Africa’s tallest peak and the breathtaking vistas it offers. After reveling in your accomplishment, you begin the descent back to Horombo Huts, where you find solace in rest and contemplation, reflecting on the extraordinary journey you’ve undertaken.
Day #7: From Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate and Hotel
As your Kilimanjaro adventure draws to a close, you descend from Horombo Huts towards Marangu Gate, bidding farewell to the majestic mountain. The trail meanders through verdant forests, providing a final opportunity to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. At Marangu Gate, you receive your well-earned summit certificates and express gratitude to your dedicated trekking team before parting ways. A brief transfer transports you to your hotel, where the promise of a hot shower and a cozy bed awaits, offering a well-deserved respite after your unforgettable journey.
Day #8: Flight from Kilimanjaro to Kigali
Today marks the conclusion of your Kilimanjaro expedition as you board a flight from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Kigali, Rwanda. Upon touchdown in Kigali, you check in at your accommodation and, depending on the time of your arrival, embark on a captivating city tour of Kigali. Dinner awaits you back at your accommodation, where you’ll spend the night, reflecting on the adventures that lie ahead.
Day #9: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Rising with the sun, you bid farewell to your lodge in Kigali and set off for Volcanoes National Park. The journey offers a scenic drive through Rwanda’s picturesque landscapes, with rolling hills and quaint rural villages painting the backdrop. Upon reaching the park, you settle into your accommodation, preparing for the next chapter of your expedition amidst the wonders of Volcanoes National Park.
Day #10: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The pinnacle of your 12 days Gorilla trekking & Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking adventure arrives with the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. After receiving insightful briefings from park rangers, you embark on an exhilarating journey through dense forests, eagerly seeking out these remarkable creatures. After some time, the magical moment unfolds as you encounter a gorilla family in their natural habitat, a sight that resonates deeply and remains etched in memory forever. Witnessing these gentle giants in their element offers breathtaking moments, emphasizing the importance of preserving their habitat. Returning to your lodge, you’re left to savor the profound significance of this encounter, relishing in its impact on both heart and mind.
Day #11: Golden Monkey Trekking and Ibiwachu Cultural Village
The adventure continues in Volcanoes National Park with golden monkey trekking, accompanied by the vibrant melodies of park birds. Following this immersive experience, you return to your accommodation for a hearty lunch before delving deeper into Rwandan culture at Ibiwachu Cultural Village. Here, you’re treated to traditional dances, mesmerizing crafts, and insights into daily village life, showcasing the richness of Rwandan heritage. It’s a captivating journey that seamlessly blends nature’s beauty with cultural authenticity, leaving an indelible impression.
Day #12: Transfer Back to Kigali
With fond memories and enriched perspectives, it’s time to bid Rwanda farewell as you journey back to Kigali for your departure. The return trip offers a moment of reflection, allowing you to reminisce on the extraordinary experiences of conquering Kilimanjaro and encountering gorillas in the wild. As you board your flight homeward bound, you carry with you not only cherished memories but also a profound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world.
