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THE ANSWER BOOK - Tanzania & Uganda Sep 2019

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Published by priyanthaa, 2019-08-10 17:31:11

THE ANSWER BOOK - Tanzania & Uganda Sep 2019

THE ANSWER BOOK - Tanzania & Uganda Sep 2019

Kilimanjaro Climb • The Great Migration Safari •
Uganda Gorilla Experience

THE ANSWER BOOK

The Ultimate East Africa Adventure

September 14 – October 8, 2019

Everything you wanted to know about your trip, your itineraries, what
we see and do, where you eat and sleep, how we get around and
more…

While You Are Away

Should your friends and family need to know your whereabouts, please request them to contact
you directly in the destination, call your trip director or our Tanzania operations office whose
contacts are below.

Mr Rob Chekwaze – Director +255 788 835 575 (24/7)
Mr Sam Kisonga – Director +255 752 598 011 (24/7)

Wanderlust Adventures Tanzania

(Local Trading Name: Everlasting Travel )

E-mail: [email protected]
Business hours; Daily | Monday to Sunday 9:AM to 5:PM.

***********

Mr Priyantha Amarasinghe – Trip Director

Tel: 1-905-783 3384
E-mail: [email protected] | [email protected]

Skype: Priyantha1960
WhatsApp # 905- 783 3384

***********

Time Différence: Tanzania/Uganda & North America

+7 hrs Toronto | +10 hrs Vancouver | +9 hrs Calgary | +8 hrs Chicago

2

Contents

Page

Section A – Your Day by Day Itineraries………………………………….. 5
Kilimanjaro Climb………………………………………………………………..
The Great Migration Safari, Tanzania…………………………………………
Uganda Gorilla Experience……………………………………………………..

Section B – Details About Your Trip Inclusions…………………………. 22

Section C – Included Regional & Domestic Flights……..……………….. 27

Section D – Where You’ll Stay (Your Accommodation)………………… 29

Section E – Preparing for your Trip…………………………………………. 39
Passport, Visa & Weather ………………………………………………………
Health Matters, fitness……………………………………………………………
Money matters…………………………………………………………………….
Gratuities & Tipping ……………………………………………………………...
Shopping ………………………………………………………………………….
Jet lag precautions……………………………………………………………….
Assistance for Canadians While in Tanzania & Uganda.……………………

Section F - Packing Guidelines………………………………………………. 49

Section G - Your Safety & Our Emergency Protocol……………………… 54

Section H – Adventure Travel Insurance……………………………………. 56

Section I – Frequently Asked Questions …………………………………… 57
What type of meals do you serve and sample menus on Kilimanjaro?……………
How does the Gorilla tracking program work in Bwindi, Uganda?...........................
What are the details discussed during the pre-trek briefing?...................................
What is the training hike at Arusha National Park like?.
How does the emergency rescue work on Kilimanjaro?
What is it like to be sleeping at the Crater Camp in the 5700m altitude?
Do we get a summit certificate upon successfully reaching the Uhuru Peak?
Why Malaria is a much talked about topic in Tanzania?
How does the Gorilla tracking program work in Bwindi, Uganda?

Section J – An Altitude Tutorial ……………………………………………… 65

Section K – Community Support & Responsible Tourism………………. 76

3

4

5

Section A

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Kilimanjaro Climb – The Western Approach Route

(Also known as Lemosho/Crater Camp Route)

September 14, 2019(Saturday): Depart Canada/US

• Those leaving from Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Chicago, report to
respective KLM Royal Dutch Airlines departure check-in at least 2.30 hours prior
to departure. (If in doubt, call local KLM office at least a day prior for any
updates)

• Online check-in is usually available 24 hours prior to departure, please go to
KLM.com with your booking ref # and check in.

• Please use Wanderlust Adventures luggage tags provided with your travel
documents and ensure to insert your name, hotel address in Arusha, Tanzania
and hotel phone number. (This is to provide easy access in the unlikely event of
airline mishandling your check in luggage, and they could reach you at the
destination directly.)

• Ensure that you have your travel documents with you i.e. A copy of your
Electronic air tickets for the entire trip, a valid passport, Tanzania and Uganda
visa documents, if any, your record of vaccinations and your travel and medical
insurance certificates and coverage details.

• Keep all medications for the trip and your camera in your hand luggage.
• Your check-in luggage should be tagged by KLM all the way to Kilimanjaro

(Airline code JRO), Tanzania. Tell the check-in agent that you intend to collect
your luggage at the final destination of the journey, Kilimanjaro (JRO) airport.
Please ensure this is done by the check in clerk before you proceed further from
the check in desk. They are at times careless and you do not want your climbing
kit stuck somewhere in Europe for days! Consider this: Wear your hiking boots
on the flight, well broken boots are your most precious item on this trip.
• It is also recommended that you keep one set of clothes and your personal
essentials in your hand luggage as you will only be seeing your luggage upon
arrival at the final destination.

September 15, 2019(Sunday): Amsterdam, Holland

• All KLM Royal Dutch airlines flights lands at Amsterdam Schipol airport and
those heading for Kilimanjaro will remain in transit during your layover.
Amsterdam is one of the world's traveller friendly airports and there is plenty of
guest service personnel to assist travellers.

• Upon arrival at Schipol airport, proceed to the transfer/transit area through to
departure gate indicated in the display screens at the terminal and your boarding

6

card. If your boarding card does not have a seat number, you must go directly to
the specific departure gate and speak with the staff immediately.
• Depending on the day, you may have to change terminals, you will take the
airport train to the appropriate departure gate. If in doubt, go to KLM Information
Desk for assistance.
• KLM to Kilimanjaro is a daily non-stop service, as such if you miss this flight due
to incoming delays, you need to get in touch with KLM ground staff right away
and ask to be re-booked on the flight next day and provide accommodation,
meals and transportation in Amsterdam.
• KL 0569 departs Amsterdam for Kilimanjaro at 10.35 am local time.

Consider this: On a clear evening, your pilot will alert passengers to peek at an
aerial view of Kilimanjaro just before landing. Request to be seated on the right
hand side of the aircraft on this flight!

Kilimanjaro/Arusha (1,400m/ 4,600ft)

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport at 7.55 pm local time.
• Upon arrival, you will head direct to Arrivals Hall and approach Tanzania

immigration counters to have your tourist visa stamped.
• You need USD50. Cash must be pristine new condition bills (They have a dislike

for worn/torn bills and may reject them) Tanzania immigration official web site
says, applicants must submit 2 passport size photos with the application but on
most occasions, they never ask for them. Carry 2 photos with you just in case.
• There is a straightforward visa application form that you need to fill. KLM flight
crew (though not always) may distribute this inflight. Visa process could take
anywhere between 15-30 minutes depending on the line up.
• Once cleared with visa, collect your luggage, clear customs after which you will
proceed to arrival waiting area where you will be welcomed by the Wanderlust
Trip Director and local driver/assistant and assisted through to the waiting coach
outside.
• Transfer to our accommodation in Usa River, Arusha (25km/30-45 minutes)
• Expect to be at your hotel around 9.30-10pm.
• Arrive at our accommodation in Arusha – Rivertrees Country Inn.
• We head direct for a late dinner and thereafter proceed to our rooms.

Rivertrees Country Inn, Usa River, Arusha (Garden Rooms)

September 16, 2019(Monday): Arusha (1,400m/ 4,600ft)

▪ Leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
▪ This morning we take it easy after a long flight, relax by the pool and enjoy the

country feel of this unique farmhouse style Inn.
▪ We meet Said Makacha and Rob Chekwaze, Wanderlust's Tanzanian

colleagues who will be with us for the next three weeks.

7

▪ They will conduct a brief meeting with us on the climb, answer last minute

questions and do an individual check on everyone's gear kits for the climb. This

is an essential routine as our local guides must ensure that all climbers have the

appropriate gear required for the adventure. Those renting items for the climb

will be collected today.
▪ You will separate your climbing gear from safari items (your safari baggage is

stored at the lodge for collection after the climb)
▪ We then head to town for a quick lunch at a local eatery.
▪ Drive to nearby Arusha National Park and take on a short hike to the lush cedar

forests of Mount Meru. The hike is the best way to get some legwork and
acclimatize to the altitude and we’ll also have a good chance of seeing the

unique black-and-white colobus monkeys of the park and perhaps bush-buck or

giraffe along with a host of avian life. Our hike also offers impressive views of the
dramatic ash cone of Mt. Meru’s summit and our goal, Mt Kilimanjaro in the

distance.
▪ Return to our accommodation and enjoy a Welcome dinner tonight.

Rivertrees Country Inn, Usa River, Arusha (Garden Rooms)

September 17, 2019(Tuesday): Arusha – Londorossi Gate (2,100m/ 6,890ft)

▪ Breakfast and store our safari luggage and make an early start to our Kilimanjaro

adventure.
▪ Our starting point is Londorossi gate of the Kilimanjaro National Park, which is a

2 hour long drive from our hotel in Arusha across a rough dirt road through

forests and villages, with its plantations of pine and cedar.
▪ At the gate, our head guide attends to our registrations and park permits, which

would take another hour or so.
▪ We then drive to the trailhead where we meet our team of local crew which

includes assistant guides, cooks, camp helpers and the porter team. We will

have a picnic lunch set up with tables at the trailhead before beginning the walk

to our first overnight camp which lies just about 3-4 hours gentle trail walking.

We pass through the rain forests of Kilimanjaro viewing trees and birds along the

way.

Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m/ 9,022ft)

▪ The Western Approach route is perfect for climbers seeking a more private

hiking experience. The first two days on the mountain are quiet with few other

trekking groups on the trail.
▪ Your destination tonight is the campsite called Mti Mkubwa Camp (also known

as Big Tree Camp), which lies at the top of a ridge in the shadow of a

wonderfully spread out podocarpus. The sound of the turaco and colobus

monkeys in the forest makes this a typical African night.
▪ Our large mountain crew welcomes us to the camp site, where your tents have

been set up with floor pads, sleeping bags and your personal luggage. Toilet and

dining tents are set up nearby.
▪ Freshen up while a hot dinner is prepared by the chef and the kitchen crew.

8

▪ Said, our mountain leader, will conduct a Pulse Oximeter check on everyone
twice a day starting this evening. This is a non-invasive sensor device that is
placed on the fingertip to monitor the level of oxygen saturation in a person’s
blood. Every morning and evening, a local guide will record the readings for
each member. Tracking the progress of each person’s oximeter levels gives the
Trip management team an additional tool to gauge each climber’s
acclimatization success. While certainly not foolproof, it is a valued additional
tool.

Hike time: 3-4 hours: Elevation change: 650m Distance: 5km

September 18, 2019 (Wednesday): Mti Mkubwa - Shira 1 Camp (3,600m/11,812ft)

▪ Waking to the sound of the colobus monkeys around camp, your camp helpers
team will provide us a wake up call with a bowl of hot water for washing and a
cup of tea/coffee or hot chocolate.

▪ Hot breakfast is served at the dining tent and break camp.
▪ We begin the day by hiking through thick forest festooned with “the old man’s

beard,” a hanging lichen. As we leave the montane forest, we move through a
transition zone and then enter the heath zone, where Kili’s old lava flows are
visible.
• After a lunch stop en route, we hike to the rim of the Shira Plateau, an immense
ancient crater and a World Heritage Site. We then walk to our next camp by a
stream on the plateau. Our campsite, Shira 1 Camp at 3,600m, has a dramatic
view of Kilimanjaro and its glaciers that climbers on Marangu or other tourist
routes never get to see.
• Warm welcome from the mountain crew at the camp set up. Freshen up in your
tent while another hot dinner awaits.

Hike time: 6-7 hours; elevation change: 850m Distance: 9km.

September 19, 2019 (Thursday): Shira 1 – Moir Hut Camp (4,200m/13,780ft)

• Today is a steady and easy-paced acclimatization day that takes us away from
the moorland of Shira Plateau to reach the broad upland desert, exploring
beneath the Northern Ice fields, an area almost totally unvisited by tourists and
with unusual views of Kilimanjaro's summit.

• On our hike view the giant senecios, lobelias, groundsels, and helichrysums that
grow at this altitude as we make our way to Moir Hut Camp which is set on a bluff
at 4,200m with views over the Shira Plateau below and up to the summit of
Kilimanjaro.

• After lunch you have the option to hike to the nearby summit of the Lent Hills
(4700m) or enjoy a peaceful rest in our camp.

• Dinner and overnight.

Hike time: 6 hours; elevation change: 600m; Distance: 10km

9

September 20, 2019 (Friday): Moir Hut – Lava Tower Camp (4,600m/15,100ft)

• A relatively short day of hiking, however, we will take it slow and stready.
• There are few steep passages on this stage of the trek bringing us to

Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert zone. As we enter this high desert, we see a new kind
of vegetation—smaller and hardier alpine species such as smaller lobelia and
flowering helichrysum—the dwarfed vegetation special to high altitude tropical
zones.
• We reach the Lava Tower Camp for lunch. Set at the foot of Kilimanjaro’s Kibo
Peak, our camp offers wonderful views over the Shira Plateau, down to the
African plains below, and across majestic mountains in the distance.
• There is a steep and spectacular afternoon walk on the lower slopes of the
Western Breach or acclimatize by scramble up the lava tower. (Subject to
permission from our head guide)
• A sound overnight sleep at Lava Tower will indicate how well we have
progressed with the acclimatization process so far.
• Dinner and overnight at Lava Tower Camp.

Hike time: 3-4 hours; elevation change: 400m Distance: 5km

September 21, 2019 (Saturday): Lava Tower - Karanga Valley Camp via Great

Barranco Wall (4,100m/13,450ft)

• This is one of our longer days so far, but excellent for acclimatization. We set out
from Lava Tower to the Barranco valley dropping in elevation sharply by 300m.

• This valley was formed when a huge landslide swept southwards from the
summit.

• We will have our lunch at the Barranco Valley camp and take a good look at the
post lunch challenge ahead of us – 257 metre scramble of the Great Barranco
Wall, a major obstacle we must tackle on this route.

• The Wall, more commonly called Breakfast Wall is the steepest and challenging
part of the day, with an upright scramble in some places where we will use our
hands to pull our bodies up to the top of the wall.

• Once on top, sit for a while and enjoy the views of the great glaciers of the
southern icefield that appears onto your left.

• Then it is a fairly gentle descent into an attractive gully and across a small stream
to the Karanga Valley Campsite at 4,100m for some wonderful sunsets and
views of the glacier valley and ice fields above.

• Relax in the afternoon in this picturesque setting.
• Dinner and overnight.

Hike time: 6-7 hours: elevation change: Minus 500m Distance: 10km

10

September 22, 2019(Sunday): Karanga Valley – Kosovo Camp (4,800m/15,750ft)

• From the Karanga Valley camp we climb for about six hours as we wind through
beautiful and rarely traveled region.

• We enter a high desert plateau littered with volcanic boulders. Looking south we
view the desert plain of the famous Saddle as the pinnacles of Kilimanjaro's
sister peak, Mawenzi towers in good view before us.

• We are now almost at the base of the crater wall. We hike pass the crowded
Barafu camp (4,600m), which is where most tourist groups sleep before
attempting midnight summit push. We continue further upwards for about 200m
to settle at the Kosovo Camp (4,800m), a much quieter and less crowded camp
located above Barafu.

• This without doubt, will be a testing night for all of us at 4,800m and getting a
good night here is a challenge. Though there likely be less appetite for food, we
must try to eat and drink well here and get enough sleep as this prepares us to
sleep in the crater floor next day.

• At Kosovo, we spend our time resting and preparing for our departure the next
morning. There will be a detailed summit briefing covering the climb and the
crater camp at dinner.

• Early dinner and overnight.

Hike time: 6 hours; elevation change: 700m; Distance: 5km

September 23, 2019(Monday): Kosovo Camp – Crater Camp (5,700m/18,700ft)

• For most people, this is the most testing and demanding day, even more so than
the short summit day tomorrow.

• Awake, take an early breakfast and prepare for the ascent leaving at approx.
6am.

• Going up will be tough and mentally taxing on a zig-zag switchback trail over
frozen scree (gravel) but with encouragement from your leaders and guides our
first goal, we reach the Stella Point on the crater rim before descending to
Kilimanjaro’s summit plateau (the caldera).

• We head direct to our spectacular crater camp located on the plateau in an
unforgettable spot near the magnificent Furtwangler Glacier at 5,700m. Lunch
and rest in the afternoon.

• Before the night falls, we will visit the glaciers in the crater floor for our much
needed pictures as well as climb up to the inner crater rim to look down into the
ash pit of the volcano.

• We return to our camp for dinner and now imagine surreal moonscape-like
atmosphere, a cloudless evening and seeing the icefields and glaciers glitter in
the moonlight, absolutely stunning. Understandably, we are intrigued at the
opportunity to sleep next to the disappearing glaciers.

Hike time: 7-8 hours; elevation change: 900m; Distance: 5km

11

September 24, 2019(Tuesday): Crater Camp - Uhuru Peak (5,985m/19,340ft)

• The sunrises in equatorial Africa are exquisite as we are awaken in the crater.
• After breakfast, we make a two-hour hike up the final 200m to Uhuru Peak, the

true summit of Kilimanjaro at 5895m (19,340 feet.)
• We arrive early, before the clouds close in, so we usually have terrific views of

Africa stretching out in all directions.
• Unlike other routes to Uhuru Peak, which require starting summit climbs at

midnight, our short, pre-dawn hike allows us to fully enjoy the summit experience
with the entire continent spread out below us.
• After celebrating our achievement, we then make a steep, rigorous descent along
the crater rim to Stella Point and down to the Barafu camp in about two hours

Uhuru Peak – Barafu Camp – Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170 ft)

• We will stop briefly at Barafu Camp for lunch and a rest.

• We then turn off to descend via the Mweka Route for another 3-4 hours to our
last overnight camp at Mweka at 3100m in the forest zone.

• This by far will be your longest day on the mountain. Tonight’s camp is a
staggering 2,800m below the summit! Look after your knees on the way down
and they will be tested on the loose scree (gravel and lava).

• The descent from Kilimanjaro therefore is very long, steep and tiring. Trekking
poles for support are highly recommended. (For this very reason, you should do
your best to build the strength of your “quads” with a pre-trip conditioning and
strengthening program prior to your trip.)

• Enjoy the views of the towering mountain above us as we descend to our last
camp on the mountain.

• Dinner and overnight at Mweka Camp

Hike time: 8-12 hours; elevation change: Minus 2800m; Distance: 15km
September 25, 2019(Wednesday): Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,600m/5,250ft)

• We leave camp early for our last hike, a descent of about 1,500m that is steep in

places and can be muddy if wet (trekking poles for support recommended).
• Arriving at Mweka Gate, we’ll have a victory lunch at the trailhead and celebrate

our great feat with our mountain crew!

• We relax for a bit, reflecting on the last nine days, then say goodbye to our local
crew and porters and “sign off ” the mountain.

Hike time: 3-4 hours; elevation change: -1500m; Distance: 7km

• Coach takes us to the lodge for a well-deserved hot shower and a free afternoon.
• Late Celebratory dinner and presentation of our climb certificates.

Rivertrees Country Inn, Usa River, Arusha (Garden Rooms)

12

September 26, 2019(Thursday): Arusha Sights & Wanderlust Project Visits

• Breakfast at the lodge.
• With the help of Wanderlust Tanzania team, we will take time to briefly explore

Arusha and visit two unique community projects supported by Wanderlust
Adventures.
• Our clients frequently spend time at the local tribal school in Olmuringiringa and
donates educational materials and furniture. (We recommend our future clients to
do the same and take part in this worthy cause. The support program is
monitored under the patronage of Arusha Children’s Trust, a local grass root
NGO that works in Tanzania for the past 15 years.)
• We meet the students, teachers and ACT’s Patrons Ishbel Brydon or Dr Ole
Supeet (a former headmaster of the school and a loyal supporter of
ACT/Wanderlust) to learn about the project, watch music and dances in a
ceremony in which each group member will hand over a pre-ordered furniture—
wooden desk and bench - hand crafted by carpenters using local materials.
What’s more...desks come with your name and hometown stenciled! A very
rewarding way to support children’s education and local tradesmen.
• We also make a brief stop at another favorite project of Wanderlust, the Neema
Village a rescue center for orphaned, abandoned, and at-risk babies, an initiative
of Michael and Doris Fortson, former US missionaries with a long history of
service in Tanzania. Any donations are welcome. (Go to Pack For a Purpose's
Wanderlust page for items they need -
https://www.packforapurpose.org/destinations/africa/tanzania/wanderlust-
adventures-inc/
• Lunch is on our own today.
• Our final stop on our the day in Arusha is a visit to Arusha Cultural Heritage
Centre, a unique center with a collection of African art including a vast array of
paintings, ornaments, jewellery, antiques and local crafts. There are several curio
shops, a jewelry boutique, a tanzanite and precious stone counter and bargain
center that caters for any budget.
• Back in our lodge, do not forget to pack your climb gear that are no longer
required in a separate bag from for your safari clothing and essentials needed for
the Tanzania safari program. (We will store the climbing kit bags at the
Wanderlust office in Arusha until the end of the safari itinerary)
• Our final dinner in Arusha prior to leaving for safari next morning.

Rivertrees Country Inn, Usa River, Arusha (Garden Rooms)

September 27, 2019(Friday): Arusha – Great Migration Safari Commences

• We rise early, breakfast and prepare for check out from the lodge.
• Today will be an early start to our road trip in safari vehicles.

(End of Kilimanjaro Climb itinerary)

13

14

Day-By-Day Itinerary

The Great Migration Safari, Tanzania

(Tarangire National Park • Ngorongoro Crater • Olduvai Gorge
• Serengeti National Park (Central & Northern Regions)

September 27, 2019(Friday): Arusha - Tarangire National Park (150km/3 hours +/-)

• Our Tanzania safari journey begins from your lodge in Arusha after an early
breakfast, driving through the Maasai Steppe where you will see traditional
villages and settlements that are predominantly inhabited by Maasai.

• Rob Chekwaze, Wanderlust's Tanzania Director, will be one of two guides to lead
the safari and there will be two open top land cruisers (See Page XX) available to
accommodate the group of 8 participants.

• Arrive at Tanzania's fourth largest park – Tarangire - for your first of many wildlife
viewing drives in this trip.

• We explore the riverbanks searching for the elephants that come to drink and
bath and woodlands circuit for big cats and resident herbivores in the swamps
and river drainages teeming with game.

• Lunch at …………………
• Tarangire River is perennial, it flows all year around, and often the herbivores in

adjacent protected areas congregate in Tarangire in mass, attracted by water
and green riparian pastures, making it one of the finest dry season game viewing
spots outside Serengeti in terms of wildlife concentration and diversity. The
wildlife here includes huge herds of Elephants; good leopard sightings; the
chance of seeing beisa oryx, and lesser kudu; the ancient baobab trees and
other stark vegetation unique to Tanzania.
• Late afternoon we'll drive to our accommodation, The Maramboi Tented Lodge
which offers spacious private suites with stunning views of the surrounding
landscape from the Rift Valley giving us an amazing welcome to an area
extraordinarily rich in wildlife.
• Sundowner drinks before private dinner under the stars and bonfire.

The Maramboi Tented Lodge

September 28, 2019(Saturday): Tarangire Park – Ngorongoro Highlands –

Ngorongoro Crater Safari (175km/4 hours +/-)

• Breakfast and early departure to the 8,300 square-km Ngorongoro Conservation
Area, which includes the Maasai homelands as well as a large portion of the
Serengeti Plains.

• The Ngorongoro Highlands is a unique place where wild animals share the
habitat with the Maasai tribe, having lived here for many centuries.

• Driving up to the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, we see below us one of the earth’s
most picturesque Eden's: on the crater’s grassy floor lives Africa’s largest
permanent concentration of wildlife, a sort of mini-Serengeti in a phenomenally
scenic setting.

15

• A UNESCO heritage site, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera and
commonly referred to as the 8th wonder of the world, its approximately 16km-
wide crater create a natural amphitheatre for the densest populations of animals
anywhere. The rich soils and abundant, year-round water provide an ideal habitat
for approx. 22,000 animals.

• We descend the 2,000ft crater wall, start the crater floor exploration, looking out
for black rhinos, black maned lions and the massive bull elephants.

• Break for a delicious bush lunch (picnic style) at Ngoitokitok Springs where you
can stretch your safari legs, listen to the grunts of the hippos and admire the
profusion of bird life.

• Other herbivores that you will likely encounter include hippo, wild buffalo, eland,
zebra, wildebeest, hartebeest, waterbuck, warthog, Grant's and Thomson's
gazelle.

• After the safari, we ascend the crater wall and drive to a Maasai boma
(homestead), where we will be welcomed by Ole Dorop, a long-time friend of
ours and the clan leader.

• Ole Dorop and members of the local Maasai community will prepare a special
goat roast, called "Ol Pul" a traditional Maasai welcome feast. Sample the
barbecue while the Maasai will share stories, songs, and dances—a wonderful
photo opportunity and learn about their remarkable culture and traditions.

• We then proceed to tonight’s accommodation at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge.
Member of the one of East Africa's leading chain, Serena Hotels, our stay here
will be the only proper international hotel room in the safari itinerary. (This is due
to the scarcity of acceptable tented camps near the crater rim and offering you a
change staying in a " hotel room")

• Check in, dinner and overnight stay.

Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

September 29, 2019(Sunday): Ngorongoro - Olduvai Gorge (45km/ hours+/-)

• Leaving the luxury of Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, we bid farewell to our Maasai
friends.

• Today will be a long day of driving north to one of many highlights of this trip,
visiting Serengeti meaning " Endless Plains"

• Our first stop will be at Olduvai (official name Oldupai) Gorge, arguably the most
important paleoanthropological site on the planet, thanks to the discovery of a
series of fossils that document the evolution of mankind. Made famous by the
archaeologists Louis and Mary Leakey, amongst the most important of these
discoveries here is the Nutcracker Man, the name given to the remains of
a Paranthropus boisei male estimated to be 1.75 million years old. We visit the
small museum here and walk round the site before we continue.

Olduvai Gorge – Serengeti National Park (Approx 3 hours)
• We then begin the descent onto the vast plains of Serengeti National Park.
• A picnic lunch en route.

16

• We continue into Serengeti National Park. The Maasai call it Siringitu, “the place
where the land moves on forever.” Today, Serengeti, along with the Ngorongoro
Conservation Area and Maasai Mara Game Reserve across the border in Kenya,
protects the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on earth as
well as one of the world’s last great migratory systems. The park itself is 5,700
square miles, with open plains in the south, acacia-dotted savanna in the center,
and black clay plains to the west.

• We spend 2 nights in central Serengeti`s Seronera Valley where acacia forests,
kopjes, water holes, river streams and swamps form an ecological transition zone
between southern grasslands and northern woodlands. Approximately 70 large
mammal and 500 bird species are found there.

• This is also arguably the best place to watch lions, cheetahs and leopards.
Serengeti holds 10% of the total lion population where the animal is well studied
and have fascinating tales that your guides can fill you in.

• The Serengeti Lion Project is one of the world’s longest-running animal research
studies, covering 770 square miles in Serengeti, home to over 28 prides of lions.

• The accommodation for the next 2 nights is Kiota Camp, one of our personal
favorites. Meaning ‘nest’ in Swahili, Kiota Camp offers a bird’s eye view from its
location on Banagi Hill in Central Serengeti.

• With only twelve tents, the camp maintains a quiet presence within the
surrounding woodlands and grasslands. At this mobile camp, wild seclusion is
guaranteed, game viewing is exceptional, arguably the best spot for cheetah and
lion sightings in Africa. Here you can lazily sit in your canvas room, see the sun
go down, and enjoy wildlife from the comfort of your bed paying homage to early
safaris of 1920’s.

• We will be welcomed by the local camp crew and settle down for sundowners
around a bone fire and take in the wilderness atmosphere. (Evenings in the wild
tend to be cold, a pull over or a fleece with a hoody is very handy here. Bring
light colored clothing and avoid dark colors)

• Our led Safari guide, Rob will sit down with us for a brief discussion on the Great
Migration and what to expect from our Serengeti experience in the next couple of
days.

• Dinner and overnight.

Kiota Camp

September 30, 2019(Monday): Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park

• We spend the full day exploring the area for game viewing with morning and
afternoon game drives with our guides. There are also possibilities to do an early
morning drives before breakfast as it is the best time to watch some of the game.
Lunch, dinner and overnight at Kiota Camp.

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October 1, 2019(Tuesday): Northern Serengeti, Serengeti National Park

• We move northwards to Kogatende through Lobo Valley, Bolongonja rivers and
Nyamalumbo plains, long drives though full of interest, the ecosystem changes
as you move further north, the savannah grassland of central Serengeti give the
rise to ancient granite kopjes, complex river systems, rolling hills and lush plains.
Due to its proximity to Mara Basin and Lake Victoria, this sector receives high
rainfall which lures the migrant herds and retain good amount of resident
animals.

• Northern Serengeti is a vast area that extends to the Masaai Mara in Kenya.
You’ll spend the next two and half days exploring this game rich area in search of
the Great Migration and big cats that follows it.

• Every year, the migrant wildebeest come up north as early as beginning of June
until October, lured by green grasses and permanent water sources. If luck is on
your side, you will have a chance of experiencing the dramatic Mara River
crossing of thousands of wildebeests, and Zebras hurl themselves into the
crocodile-infested water.

• Photographers and documentarians from around the world gather to witness the
death-defying crossing, but the surrounding landscapes are every bit as
memorable as the life and death struggle taking place at the river crossing. On
the other side Africa’s great cats wait for their share. All three big cats – lions,
leopards and cheetah—can be found here.

• Our home for the next 2 nights is The Nyumbani Collection, a mobile tented
camp. Nyumbani, the Swahili word for “home,” reveals a deeper meaning as the
name of this luxury camp. After an unforgettable day of exciting game drives in
the plains, savor the magic of safari life in this welcoming oasis. The essence of
Nyumbani is African, embracing simple, earthy colors for a stylishly rustic and
organic charm.

• A campfire springs to life where tales of the day are shared and a hearty
dinner is served under the constellations of brilliant stars.

The Nyumbani Collection Tented Camp

October 2, 2019(Wednesday): Northern Serengeti, Serengeti National Park

• Our second full day of viewing the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth – the
Migration. We will continue our keenness to see more game viewing with
morning and afternoon game drives with our guides. There are also possibilities
to do an early morning drives before breakfast as it is the best time to watch
some of the game.

• Lunch, dinner and overnight at Nyumbani.

The Nyumbani Collection Tented Camp

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October 3, 2019(Thursday): Serengeti - Kogatende Air Strip - Kilimanjaro

• Today is our last day in Serengeti. We will embark on one final early morning
game drive before return to camp for breakfast and relax.

• After lunch at the camp, we bid farewell to the crew at Nyumbani and
transfer to Serengeti/Kogatende airstrip from where we will catch a 3-hour scenic
flight over Tanzania, operated by Auric Air to Kilimanjaro.

• Depart Serengeti/Kogatende at 1.45 pm
• Arrive at Kilimanjaro airport at 5.00 pm, upon arrival, coach transfer to our

accommodation in Moshi for the night at Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel
• Free evening and tonight's dinner on our own. (Recommend a local eatery in

Moshi.)
• The luggage with your climbing gear will be delivered to the hotel prior to our

arrival.
• Tomorrow will be our final departure from Tanzania for Uganda, the final leg of

our East Africa adventure.

Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel

October 4, 2019(Friday): Kilimanjaro – Entebbe, Uganda

• Leisurely breakfast at the hotel and check out from rooms.
• Our local guide assistant and coach will be at the hotel to transfer us to

Kilimanjaro International Airport for our flight to Entebbe, Uganda.
(Time to be advised)
• Depart Kilimanjaro by Air Tanzania flight 214 at 12:15pm
• Arrive in Entebbe International Airport at 1:45pm

(The Migration Safari itinerary ends)

Important: Luggage on Air Tanzania Flight TC 214/ Oct 4

This being our final departure from Tanzania (We fly home on KLM directly from
Entebbe), we must transport all our luggage to Entebbe, Uganda on this flight. Air
Tanzania allows only one piece of check-in luggage weighing 23 KG and hand
luggage with a weight of 7 KG. If you have any excess luggage at the time of
check-in at the airport the clerk could charge you at a rate of US$5 per KG. See
Air Tanzania baggage conditions here

Wanderlust Adventures has secured a fixed extra luggage rate for any additional
luggage you may have on this flight. Tanzanian Shillings 60,000 (Approx
US$26.00/CAD$35.00) per additional bag weighing up to 23KG. This fee must be
pre-paid to Air Tanzania city office (Offer is not available at the airport), 3
business days prior to departure date and obtain an excess baggage ticket to be
accepted at the airport on departure.

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Uganda: Gorilla Experience

(Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Mutanda & Batwa Trail)

October 4, 2019(Friday): Kilimanjaro – Entebbe, Uganda

• After breakfast at your lodge in Moshi, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro
International airport to check in for your flight to Entebbe, Uganda.

• Depart Kilimanjaro by Air Tanzania TC214 flight departing at 12:15 pm
• Arrive in Entebbe at 1.45 pm
• On arrival, we clear Uganda immigration and meet our Uganda guide and

proceed directly to explore the city of Entebbe on an afternoon guided
sightseeing tour. Visit the craft market and the Entebbe botanical gardens. Stop
for lunch at a local eatery serving continental cuisine.
• After the city sightseeing, we head to Karibu Entebbe, former Presidential
palace turned a boutique guest house run by a European couple. We spend the
night here.
• Karibe Entebbe is an intimate Ugandan style mansion situated in a leafy hillside
of Entebbe overlooking Lake Victoria. It has just 7 suites, a beautifully manicured
garden with indigenous plants and birds, a pool and is an ideal oasis for those in
transit for Gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
• Relaxing afternoon followed by a 4–course set menu dinner. Overnight stay.

Karibu, Entebbe

October 5, 2019(Saturday): Entebbe - Kisoro (Bwindi)

• Early breakfast and transfer to Entebbe domestic terminal.
• 7:00 am, we take a 70-minute flight by Aerolink**, Uganda's domestic airline, to

Kisoro airstrip, near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• Arrival at 8:10 am, we meet our guide and a scenic drive to our accommodation

Chameleon Hill Lodge, overlooking the beautiful hidden-gem, Lake Mutanda,
where we stay the next 3 nights. (Altitude at this location is 1,800m)
• Traditional welcome at the lodge by a local singing group and dancers. Settle in
our chalets and lunch.
• This afternoon, we will undertake a 2-island boat excursion on Lake Mutanda.
Interact with the locals in the Skeleton and Community islands, a unique
experience.
• The skeleton Island is also called the Punishment Islands where local tribal
chiefs sent criminals and misfits of the society and dumped here as a
punishment. Unmarried pregnant girls, the elderly with no one to care for them,
criminals such as thieves, and unwanted people would be tied and dumped in the
island left to die. Caves with skeletal remains are still found.

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• The community Island, also called Lake Mutanda Island is the biggest inhabited

island with a population of about 150. We will meet some of the local families
and interact with them. Chameleon Hills owners support the local communities
through a non-profit project targeting the island's needy.
• Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Chameleon Hill Lodge

October 6, 2019(Sunday): Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Gorilla Tracking)

• Today is set aside for the incomparable experience of tracking, then quietly
observing the mountain gorilla that reside in Bwindi’s montane forests.

• An early breakfast and transfer to the entry gate of southern section of the Bwindi
park (Rushaga or Nkuringo gate).

• Packed lunch is carried with us for this trek.
• We first have an orientation talk with the local trackers at the park gate on the

etiquette of gorilla tracking, then hike with a ranger guide.
• The tracking can be physically challenging as we hike through dense, sometimes

steep and muddy forests at altitudes of up to 8,500 feet for one to six hours,
depending on where we find the gorillas. But the rewards are tremendous and
the rigors soon forgotten when we spot a gorilla family and become absorbed in
watching these gentle creatures.
• We will hear and see them, and watch, enrapt as they sit in the trees and chew
leaves, babies cling to mothers’ backs, juveniles swing from branches and a big
male silverback surveys it all, including us. It’s hard to tell who is more
captivated, them or us!
• On our return to the lodge, stop at the village of Rubuguri to see wooden carvers
at work. To expand your creativity, you will join a talented carver who will guide
you through the process of carving a traditional gorilla mask. Experience the
masters at work as you create your very own piece to take home.
• Return to the lodge.
• Treat yourself for a full body massage offering relief from fatigue and pain after a
long day of activities. (Included)
• Dinner and overnight stay.

Chameleon Hill Lodge

October 7, 2019(Monday): Batwa Pigmy Experience

• Known as the “Keepers of the Forest” the enchanting Batwa pygmies of the
nearby Mgahinga National park are a hunter-gatherer tribe that has lived side-by-
side with the wildlife of this ancient park for thousands of years.

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• A long and absorbing day, we start an early hike carrying a packed lunch,
through the forest to a Batwa settlement to observe the tribe, engage with
medicine men and learn about the medicinal properties of the lush forest flora.

• After a warm welcome, enjoy a lively music performance, learn about the Batwa’s
fascinating way of life from religion to their food gathering and hunting
techniques, and interact with the tribesmen.

• Living in harmony with the forest and surviving by hunting small game using
bows and arrows, this fascinating excursion gives great insight into how this
ancient tribe exist. Foraging in the lush undergrowth and gathering plants for both
food and medicinal purposes, the Batwa have a symbiotic relationship with the
wild. In an effort to reveal their amazing heritage and traditions with the world,
this is a magnificent opportunity to experience the forest through their eyes. Once
acknowledged as the owners of the high mountain forest, there are very few
Batwa in existence today.

• Return to lodge for dinner.

Chameleon Hill Lodge

October 8, 2019(Tuesday): Kisoro (Bwindi) – Entebbe

• An early breakfast and transfer to Kisoro air strip to board the Aerolink** flight
back to Entebbe.

• Depart Kisoro at 8:25 am
• Arrive in Entebbe at 11.25am
• Upon arrival in Entebbe, we proceed to Karibu Entebbe and spend rest of

afternoon at leisure or sightseeing.
• Own lunch
• Final dinner before being transferred to back to airport for our late evening KLM

Royal Dutch Airlines flight to Amsterdam departing at 2359 hours.

(End of Uganda Itinerary)

** Aircraft type: 9-seater Caravan or Grand Caravan. Our luggage allowance on this
flight is maximum of 15KG per person for check-in and hand luggage combined. Check
in baggage should be soft fabric not hard suitcases (Duffel bag or backpack with lock is
recommended). We will be storing rest of the luggage at Karibu Entebbe hotel before
leaving for Bwindi.

Itinerary disclaimer:
The logistics for above trip itinerary have been secured several months in advance. However, in some places due to unforeseen
circumstances, inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, things do not go according to
the plan and changes may occur. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order
and timing of included activities in each location may also vary from time to time.

Optional Activities Disclaimer:
Optional activities and recommendations listed in this document aren't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only. Prices
are approximate and all activities are subject to availability. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at
each destination. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with local operators whose safety and credentials
we have sighted and assessed. This means that it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on
the ground, however we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Activities not listed in the itinerary have not been
assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with booking these activities. The decision to partake in
any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

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Section B

Details About Your Trip Inclusions

When you booked your trip with Wanderlust, you signed on for tour features that will
help make your trip memorable. The following section describes these features and the
trip inclusions.

Kilimanjaro Climb (Sep 15 – 26, 2019)

* Wanderlust Adventures Welcome
All arrivals will be met and assisted on arrival at the Kilimanjaro international
airport arrival reception hall by your trip director and local guide and private
coach transfer to your accommodation in Arusha.

* Accommodation in Arusha (Sep 15-17, 2019 & Sep 25-27 | 4 nights)
The Rivertrees Country Inn
Wanderlust Adventures reserves only those hotels and lodges that offer value
and comforts for adventure trips of our nature. We remind you however, the
quality of accommodation may vary from destination to destination. A detailed
explanation of the hotels and lodges booked for your trip are explained under
“Where You’ll Stay” section.

* Accommodation in the mountain (Sep 17- 25, 2019 | 8 nights)
Mountain Camping at designated sites of the Kilimanjaro National Park. See
itinerary. The tents are high quality expedition style Mountain Hardware branded
2 person tents (Single travelers get these tents for sole use at no extra cost)

* Included Meals.

Sep 15, Arusha – Dinner at hotel
Sep 16, Arusha – Breakfast, lunch (local restaurant in the city) and

Sep 17, Climb dinner at hotel
– Breakfast at hotel, lunch at the trailhead and dinner

Sep 18, Climb at camp
Sep 19, Climb – Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner at camp
Sep 20, Climb – Breakfast at hotel, lunch and dinner camp site
Sep 21, Climb – Breakfast, lunch and dinner at camp site
Sep 22, Climb – Breakfast, lunch and dinner at camp site
Sep 23, Climb – Breakfast, lunch and dinner at camp site
Sep 24, Climb – Breakfast, lunch and dinner at camp site
– Breakfast, lunch and dinner at camp site

Sep 25, Climb/Arusha - Breakfast, lunch at the Mweka gate, dinner at hotel

Sep 26, Arusha - Breakfast and dinner at hotel. (Lunch not included)

Sep 27, Arusha - Breakfast at hotel

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Note: Trail snacks and soft drinks are included.

* Local transportation
- Arrival/Departure transfers (includes luggage transportation) by air-conditioned

coach with driver and assistant
- Transfers between our lodge in Arusha and Kilimanjaro Park Gates at the

beginning and end of the trek
- Fully day sightseeing and Wanderlust community support project visits in Arusha

by coach with driver. (Sep 26)

* Half day training hike to Arusha National Park at the foothills of Mt Meruy for
acclimatization

* Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping fees including special permit for
overnight camping at the Crater camp and mandatory rescue fee

* Purified boiled water using Katadyn Expedition Water Filtration system for
drinking (Katadyn is one of the water filtration systems endorsed by the World
Health Organization to guarantee pure water. We also use Micropur to disinfect.)

* Camping equipment, 2-person Mountain Hardware tents, private iglo style dining
tent with portable lighting, chairs and tables

* Chemically treated water flushable portable toilet tent

* All relevant safety, emergency rescue and precautions and procedures with
equipment

* High Capacity Jumbo D Supplemental Oxygen (To be used for only medical
emergencies. These will not be used during hiking and sleeping in high altitudes)

* Pulse Oximeter, thermometer and automatic blood pressure machine

* Kilimanjaro National Park approved professional mountain guides with
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and first-aid certification and their wages

* Two-way communication radios and satellite phones used by guides

* A professional expedition medical & first aid kit with full resuscitation capabilities.

* Certified gourmet chef, camp helpers and porters with their accommodation,
meals and above the accepted standards of wages

* Flying Doctor’s Membership premium for emergency rescue only

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* Your personal donations to Arusha Children's Trust & Neema Village

* Services of a Canadian expedition leader with successful Kilimanjaro climbing
resume throughout the climb

The Great Migration Safari (Sep 27 – October 4, 2019)

* Accommodation
Sep 27-28 | 1 night The Maramboi Tented Lodge, Tarangire National Park
Sep 28-29 | 1 night Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater
Sep 29 – Oct 01 | 2 nights Kiota Camp, Serengeti National Park
Oct 01- 03 | 2 nights The Nyumbani Collection Tented Camp, Serengeti
Oct 03 – 04 | 1 night Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel, Moshi

* Included Meals

Sep 27, Tarangire – Lunch and dinner at Maramboi Tented Lodge
Sep 28, Ngorongoro – Breakfast, lunch (Picnic), Evening Masaai feast and

Sep 29, Serengeti dinner at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
Sep 30, Serengeti – Breakfast at hotel, lunch and dinner at Kiota camp
Oct 01, Serengeti – Breakfast, lunch, dinner at Kiota camp
Oct 02, Serengeti – Breakfast, lunch, dinner at The Nyumbani Collection
Oct 03, Moshi – Breakfast, lunch, dinner at The Nyumbani Collection
– Breakfast and lunch at The Nyumbani Collection.
Oct 04, Moshi
(Dinner not included)
– Breakfast at The Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel

* Game Park fees and camping lodge fees

* Private use of open-top land cruiser vehicles with window seating for all
occupants with unlimited game drives & mileage

* Soft drinks and Beer included at Maramboi Tented Lodge in Tarangire National
Park

* Unlimited bottled drinking water, soft drinks, tea and coffee, beer and wine in
your safari jeeps

* Sundowner cocktails at tented camps.

* Flying Doctor Membership for the duration of the safari (This covers only
emergency evacuation and does not replace your need to carry comprehensive
medical and hospital insurance coverage.)

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* Binoculars for the duration of the safari per vehicle

* African bird and wildlife field guides

* Bean bags, picnic hampers and warm blankets

* 3-hour scenic flight over Serengeti to Kilimanjaro on your return journey at the
end of the safari.

* The services of an experienced naturalist safari guide on all drives and game
viewing.

Uganda: Gorilla Experience (October 4-8, 2019)

* Accommodation
Oct 4-5 | 1night Karibu Entebbe
Oct 5-8 | 3 nights Chameleon Hill Lodge, Lake Mutanda (Bwindi)
Oct 8 | Day use rooms Karibu Entebbe

* Included Meals

Oct 4, Entebbe – Lunch(Local restaurant in town) set menu dinner at

Oct 5, Bwindi Karibu Entebbe
– Breakfast at Karibu Entebbe, lunch and dinner at
Oct 6, Bwindi
Oct 7, Bwindi Chameleon Hill Lodge
Oct 8, Entebbe – Breakfast at lodge, Picnic lunch and dinner at Lodge
– Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner at Lodge
– Breakfast at lodge, Own lunch, Set menu dinner at

Karibu Entebbe

All meals include mineral water

* All transfers between Entebbe airport and Karibu Entebbe Hotel

* Round trip airfare between Entebbe and Kisoro (Bwindi) by Aerolink Cessna
Grand Caravan aircrafts

* Transfers in Bwindi with professional guide-drivers

* Unlimited bottled drinking water, soft drinks in the vehicles.

* One day Gorilla Tracking permit at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and ranger fees

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* Privately guided Batwa– Pigmy cultural experience with Batwa guide
* Lake Mutanda 2-island boat excursion
* Gorilla mask making class and demonstration
* Guided tour of the city of Entebbe with lunch in the city
* 1-hour full body massage at the Chameleon Hill Lodge

Items Not Included

* Travel, medical and emergency rescue insurance coverage
* Visa fees for Tanzania (US$50 per person) and Uganda (US$50 payable online)
* Excess baggage fees, if any, as imposed by airlines
* Not included meals and beverages (Bottled mineral water, beer, wine and hot

beverages at lodges, tented camps and hotels);
* Tips/gratuities to local mountain crew, coach and safari drivers and gorilla

tracking guide rangers, hotel and airport porters.
* Hotel charges for items of personal nature e.g. laundry, room service meals, mini

bar, internet, telephone calls and other items not specifically listed in the included
features of your program.

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Section C

Included Domestic & Regional flights

Tanzania

From To Airline & Date Depart. Arrival Approx.
Kilimanjaro Flight # Oct 3 Time Time Travel Time
Serengeti national Entebbe Auric Air
Park (Kogatende) 1:45pm 5:00pm 3H15M
617**
Kilimanjaro Air Tanzania Oct 4 12.15pm 13.45pm 1H30M

TC 214

** This flight may have a few stops at different air strips in the Serengeti Park en route
to Kilimanjaro.

Uganda

From To Airline & Date Depart. Arrival Approx.
Entebbe Flight # Time Time Travel Time
Kisoro(Bwindi) Kisoro Oct 5
Aircraft Types (Bwindi) Aerolink #111 Oct 8 7:00 am 9:30am 2H30M
Entebbe
Aerolink #112 8:45 am 11:25am 2H30M

Auric Air Cessna – Grand Caravan (12seater)

Air Tanzania Bombardier Q400
Aerolink Cessna – Grand Caravan (10seater)

Baggage Allowance (Cabin & Check-in Baggage)

Auric Air Maximum baggage allowance of 20kgs (44lbs) per person.
Soft bags are strongly recommended. This allowance shall
include all hand baggage.

Air Tanzania Maximum baggage allowance of 23kgs (50lbs) per person.
7kgs free as a hand luggage.

Wanderlust Adventures has a special fixed extra luggage
rate with Air Tanzania for any additional luggage you may
have on flight TC 214. Tanzanian Shillings 60,000 (Approx
US$26.00/CAD$35.00) per bag weighing up to 23KG. This
fee must be pre-paid to Air Tanzania city office, 3 business
days prior to departure date and obtain a ticket to be
accepted at the airport on departure.

Aerolink Maximum baggage allowance is 15kgs (33lbs) per person
in soft bags. These allowances shall include all hand
baggage.

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Airlines and flight Information
When planning your flights, Wanderlust considers each airline’s reputation for quality
service and best available routing options to the destination we visit. We select flights
that both serve group group’s needs and ensure the best balance of quality and of
course the cost. Regrettably, despite our best efforts, smaller, privately owned local
airlines do not meet our high expectations flights can be direct/non stop.
Reservations with airlines
The reservations for all flight sectors, both international and domestic, have been
booked several months in advance. However, please bear in mind that airlines
frequently change their schedules, add en route stopovers and change times and
delays do occur. These changes are often available to us in the last minute or for some
reasons never at all. If this happens, the Trip director will make best judgment and use
all available options to avoid any inconvenience to the group and make appropriate
arrangements.
Baggage Delays & Lost Luggage
Due to misconnections or delayed connection of flights, on rare occasions your luggage
does not arrive that the destination on time. This is beyond the control of your tour
operator. Your trip director will do everything possible to speed up the tracing of your
luggage and transportation in the next available flight. In the unfortunate event of the
total loss of luggage, your trip director will intervene the airline and secure necessary
alternate arrangements and compensations, as per the airline guidelines and rules. As a
general guide, we recommend that you carry a few essential personal items in your
carry on hand luggage.

29

Section D

Where You’ll Stay (Your Accommodation)

Listed below are the accommodation that have been booked for your trip. Although we
contract our hotel allocations a year in advance, unforeseen situations do occasionally
occur. Should it be necessary to change a hotel or a camp site, a property of equal
quality or higher value will be substituted. You will receive verified hotel information from
your trip director in any such occurrence.

Arusha, Tanzania www.rivertrees.com
The Rivertrees Country Inn
Usa River, Arusha
Tel: +255 743 600 160

+255 743 600 202
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

The Rivertrees Country inn is a charming country estate that was once an old coffee farm, and
still retains the nostalgic air of a well-loved homestead. Sprawling ten acres of fertile greenery,
the grounds are a natural extension of Mt Meru’s sloping foothills and offer a sanctuary for the
birds and wildlife indigenous to the area.

Elegantly rustic cottages are dotted along the river and in thickets of tall trees, while lush lawns
and birdsong make for a peaceful and picturesque setting. Set in the heart of an area rich in
nature reserves, montane forests and vibrant village culture, the scope for exploration is
endless.

The restaurant concocts tasty meals of garden-fresh ingredients and old family recipes, as well
as oven-fired pizzas and the best of the region’s locally grown coffees. Delicious candle-lit
dinners are served by the warmth of the fireplace, or under the stars and the watchful eyes of
resident owls. Rivertrees delights in extending its warm welcome to guests from far and wide,
and is proud to have hosted two German presidents, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of
Cornwall, Jane Goodall and several other notable visitors. With its long history of making people
feel at home, it has turned the tradition of its hospitality into its very way of being.

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Kilimanjaro Climb – The Western Approach Route
Mountain Camps

Wanderlust Adventures offers full-service camping on Kilimanjaro.
Tents - We use high-tech Mountain Hardware mountaineering dome tents that have proven
themselves to be totally waterproof in rainstorms and able to withstand the high winds that can
be encountered on Kilimanjaro. We use three-person tents for only one or two people, ensuring
a fair amount of space for sleeping. We also bring our own private toilets on the mountain
providing guaranteed privacy and hygiene (we do not use the unsanitary park toilets).
Sleeping Pads - Foam sleeping pads are thick and more than two-feet wide to ensure a
comfortable night’s sleep under your sleeping bag.
Dining Tent - We serve meals in a large well-lit dining tent with table and chairs-with-backs.
The dining tent is a nice place to relax and socialize while drinking tea or coffee in the evening.
Snacks are always available at camp.
Full Porter Support - Our mountain staff is highly trained and will take care of all the logistics
so you can relax and enjoy the climb. Every morning, the staff brings tea, coffee or hot
chocolate and a bowl of warm washing water to your tent. After the group departs, the camp
crew will break camp then hike ahead of the climbers to set up next camp. By the time you
arrive in the afternoon, a welcoming cup of tea is often waiting for you.

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On average, there are four-five porters for every climber. The porters carry all group camping
equipment. Each climber will be assigned a porter who is in charge of carrying your duffel (with
any personal gear not needed for the day's hike) so that you only need to carry a light daypack
as you climb (typical daypack items include your wind/rain jacket and trouser, water bottles or
reservoir tank, snacks, and camera).
Environmental Impact - Like the saying, “take only photos, leave only footprints,” we strive
to leave Kilimanjaro as pristine as we found it for every trip. Ensuring no trash is left behind is a
responsibility shared with everyone in the group. At our camps, bins are provided near the
toilets for toilet paper and other burnable trash. These are burned by the crew before leaving
each camp. While on the trail, toilet paper can be kept in a trash bag and disposed of at the next
camp. Please keep your own trash in a trash bag and pack it in your porter duffel for removal
from the mountain and be sure to take chemical or toxic trash, such as batteries, back home
with you so they can be disposed of properly.

Typical camp site on Kilimanjaro

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Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Maramboi Tented Lodge
Dodoma Road Minjingu, Tarangire
Tel: +255 736 502 894

+255 759 565 016
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://twctanzania.com/alojamiento/maramboi-tented-lodge/

Relax after a day of exploring in a luxury camp with the best views of the Great Rift Valley.
Wildlife calls at the door of Maramboi Tented Lodge.
Zebras, giraffes, warthogs, gazelles, …. You could see them appear between the palm trees
from the terrace of your exclusive tent, from the swimming pool whilst enjoying a cool drink after
a walk with a Maasai guide or whilst you enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars.
Situated in the ecosystem of lake Manyara, in fields of golden vegetation, Maramboi Tented
Camp brings together premium services, exclusive attentions and genuine hospitality in a
spectacular scene.
This permanent tented lodge has 38 spacious tented rooms, individually built on a raised deck
with en-suite bathroom. The bathrooms have a built-in shower and each tent has its own terrace
from where guests can enjoy views of Lake Manyara and the Rift Valley.

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Ngorongoro, Tanzania
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Ngorongoro Crater Conservancy
TEL: +255 272 545555 or +255 272 537053
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: https://www.serenahotels.com/serenangorongoro/en/default.html

Nestled high above the plains into the Crater’s jagged rim, cloaked in river stone and indigenous
vines, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is barely visible to the naked eye. Framed by arched
stone passages and timbered decks, its torch-lit walls are adorned with stylized cave paintings.
At the stone heart of the lodge burns a glowing fire, which is kept constantly alight.
Rooms are looped around the Crater rim. Each has its own rock-enclosed balcony, and all enjoy
completely uninterrupted views of the volcanic amphitheatre far below. Standard Rooms at
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge feature elegant interior spaces infused with a locally inspired
décor and private stone balconies overlooking the Crater.
This Ngorongoro lodge is a place that feels as ancient as the Crater itself, yet no modern
comfort has been spared in an effort to bring you the best safari adventure in Africa and one of
the most unique travel experiences in the world.

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Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Kiota Camp, Central Serengeti
Tel: + 255 787 079 127
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: https://chakacamps.com/kiota

The trees of the central Serengeti hide some of the wild's most intricate creations - an infinitely
diverse array of woven nests (kiota, in swahili). Like the bird, we have woven Kiota into the
Seronera Valley's hills as a relief from a long day's adventure.
Perched on a hilltop, Kiota Camp offers a birds eye view of the Seronera River Valley's
abundance. Birds play have an important part in Kiota's design and atmosphere. Hand-painted
lilac-breasted rollers decorate the bed covers and every side table holds an ornithology
reference and a pair of binoculars. With only eleven tents, the camp maintains a quiet presence
within the surrounding woodlands and grasslands. Dining at Kiota is also an experience to
remember. The menu is informed by the best of Swahili cuisine, with more familiar but equally
delicious alternatives. Its chefs are trained to accommodate guests with dietary constraints.
The Great Migration traverses the length of the Serengeti, and its Central region is a point of
regular congregation. The Seronera Valley is replete with rivers and year-round water resources
that attract animals of all kinds, including the predators that enjoy the area as their hunting
grounds. Guests here have the chance of viewing the lion, the cheetah and the leopard in the
same day in this rare and unique habitat. Just as the area attracts the wild, the wild attracts
visitors, and Kiota has been strategically placed to keep out of the crowd's range.

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Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The Nyumbani Collection – Tented Camp
Tel: +255 788 260 175 (Manager – Mr Godlove)
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: http://www.nyumbani-collection.com/

Nyumbani, the Swahili word for “home,” reveals a deeper meaning as the name of this
luxury camp in the Serengeti. After an unforgettable day of exciting game drive in the
plains, savor the magic of safari life in this welcoming oasis where earth meets sky in
boundless space. Dine in an atmosphere of personalized comfort while surrounded by
nature’s limitless grandeur. Drift into restful sleep with the gently hypnotic sounds of the
African night.
This contemporary, mobile tented camp is permanently situated in Serengeti. Comprising
only eight luxury tented suites. each spacious tent offers its own indoor sitting area where
you’re invited to relax through the day and gaze across the star-filled sky at night. Elegant
furnishings have been chosen from custom-made Indian rugs, crisp linens, cozy duvets,
bathrobes, and slippers, and include eco-friendly, reclaimed wood crafted by local artisans
and carpenters. The essence of Nyumbani is African, embracing simple, earthy colors for a
stylishly rustic and organic charm. Custom armchairs and delicious cocktails accompany
indulgence in the simple pleasure of observing the vast stillness of the Serengeti plains. In
the evening, a campfire springs to life where tales of the day are shared and a hearty meal
is served under constellations of brilliant stars.

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Moshi, Tanzania
Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel
Tel: +255 769 001 001 or +255 785 500 729
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: http://pinkflamingotanzania.com/

Pink Flamingo Boutique hotel is Wanderlust's choice for any layover accommodation for short
stays closer to Kilimanjaro International airport.
A family run boutique hotel offers a pristine property and spacious with complete privacy located
just 10 mins from Moshi Town and 40 mins from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Pink Flamingo features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a bar and shared lounge. Among
the facilities of this property are a restaurant and room service, along with free WiFi. The
property is non-smoking. Guests at the hotel enjoy a continental breakfast.

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Entebbe, Uganda
Karibu Entebbe
84, Nsamizi Rd, Entebbe
Tel: +256 777 044 984 or +256 788 714 587
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: http://karibuguesthouse.com/

This is a newly renovated a former presidential home converted to a boutique hotel with 7
spacious en suite rooms. Located only 10 minutes' drive from Entebbe International Airport on a
quiet, peaceful hillside with beautiful views of Lake Victoria and the sunset. Services include
free WiFi access, a pool and a restaurant that serves delicious buffet English breakfast and set
menu Mediterranean styled dinners and lunches.
Each of the seven en-suite rooms has the same quality amenities yet is unique in design.
Spacious and airy with king sized beds with firm, quality mattresses provide a comfortable rest.
Custom-designed mosquito nets hang in a non-intrusive style around the bed area, keeping you
well protected as you sleep
If you are into birdlife, you wont need to go much further than Karibu’s gardens where on some
mornings you can see over 40 species of birds. In the past year they have spotted 36 different
species of birds in their garden, from miniscule Fire-Finches to resident Palm Nut Vulture. See a
complete bird-list here

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Lake Mutanda (Bwindi), Uganda
Chameleon Hill Lodge
South of Bwindi National Park, Lake Mutanda
Tel: +256 781 514 700 (Charles) | +256 772 72 1818 (Jennifer – Reservations Office)
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: http://chameleonhill.com/

Looking out over the waters of Lake Mutanda with beautiful islands and Virunga Volcanoes as a
magnificent backdrop, Chameleon Hill Lodge is one of Uganda's more unconventional
architectural accomplishments. A mishmash of square buildings are strung along a beautiful
ridge, culminating in the turret-clad reception building, with its unorthodox array of window
designs.
Each building is painted in a different bold colour, adding a feeling of energy to this beautifully
positioned lodge. Inside the rooms, the quirky Euro-African style style continues - they are
decorated colourfully, but with care. Simple but comfortable, rooms are welcoming and bright.
Why this lodge? This is a wonderful, quirky lodge, with beautiful sweeping views across Lake
Mutanda with plenty of activities we will indulge in other than, Gorilla Tracking in the Bwindi
Impenetrable Forest nearby.
The kitchen is famous for its mouth-watering food. Specialities include bread, slowly baked in
our wood fired oven, homemade muesli with hand picked ingredients and the freshest fruits and
vegetables from their very own organic garden.

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Section E

Preparing for your Trip

To ensure a carefree and relaxing journey, this section contains valuable information
that will help you prepare for your upcoming trip. Please read carefully, and then sit
back, relax and start counting the days until your departure!

Passport & Visa:
Entry regulations to Tanzania and Uganda is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors
to these two countries must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the scheduled return date of your
trip and must have at least 2 blank pages. Bring with you a photocopy of the pages of
your passport that contain your personal information and a few passport photos. These
often come in useful for permits, and in the event of loss etc.

Canadian citizens using Canadian passports require a visa to enter Tanzania. You need
to pay the fee USD50 in cash. Cash must be pristine new condition bills (They have a
dislike for worn/torn bills and may reject them) Tanzania immigration official web site
says, applicants must submit 2 passport size photos with the application but on most
occasions, they never ask for them. There is a straightforward visa application form that
you need to fill. KLM flight crew (though not always done) may distribute this inflight.
Visa process could take anywhere between 15-30 minutes depending on the line up.

For Uganda, you may have already obtained your visa online. Please print and carry a
copy of the visa approval document with you when leave home. This printed document
must be presented to the immigration officer upon arrival.

Weather in Tanzania – September & October
Tanzania has a pleasant, tropical climate but has large regional climatic variations
influenced by several factors, including altitude. Temperatures drop by about 6.5°C for
every 1,000m you climb. The hottest and most humid part of the country is on the coast.

Other low-lying areas, such as the western and southern parks, are also hot but much
less humid. The rest of the interior is much milder and cools down significantly at night.
Tanzania is too close to the equator to experience a real winter and summer. There is,
however, a Dry and Wet season.

September - Dry season
There is very little rainfall and humidity is very low. When water becomes scarce, wildlife
will gather around predictable water sources. Afternoon temperatures are usually
between 20°C/68°F and 30°C/86°F and vary greatly according to altitude and location.
Most days have a fine, clear sky and sunny weather. It cools off at night; be sure to
pack warm clothing because morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold-
especially in the northern parks. These are the coldest and least humid months.

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Kilimanjaro Weather and Climatic Zones
Kilimanjaro weather is also heavily influenced by changes in altitude. So much so that
there are in fact distinct climatic zones on the mountain, each with its own distinct fauna
and flora. Below we briefly discuss each.

Average Kilimanjaro temperatures (Celsius) as measured at certain altitudes within the 4 climatic
zones

Rain forest zone (~800 meters – 3,000 meters)
From the earliest part of your trek you are going to be confronted with tropical rain
forest. Humidity is high and light mist or sometimes drizzle is common. Various flora
such as orchids, ferns, fig and olive trees cover this area of Kilimanjaro. You will likely
see Blue and Colobus monkeys, and if you are trekking from the North-East Rongai
route or Western Lemosho, Shira or Northern Circuit you may even see elephant,
buffalo and large antelope.
Low alpine zone (~3,000 meters – 4,200 meters)
At approximately.3,000 metres the rainforest rapidly gives way to semi-arid grasslands
and moorlands, this area is known as the low alpine zone. Heather and small shrubs
cover the landscape, the weather is significantly less humid and temperatures can get
to sub-zero in the evening. The most prominent flora features in this zone are the
Senecios and Giant Lobelias, which look like deformed palm trees. Fauna is sparse;
however you will likely see crows overhead foraging for food.
High alpine zone (~4,200 meters – 5,000 meters)
This zone is characterized by an arid desert environment that is rather inhospitable.

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During the day temperatures are hot and solar radiation is high (make sure to apply lots
of sun-cream). At night temperatures plummet to below freezing. From this zone the
slopes of Kibo and Kilimanjaro’s summit come into perfect view.

Glacial zone (~5,000 meters to 5,895 meters)
The final zone houses the upper reaches of Kibo and Mawenzi and consists of high
altitude artic conditions. Life is very scarce in this zone as oxygen levels are near half
what they were on the lower reaches of the mountain. Fine glacial silt covers the slopes
that reach up to Kilimanjaro’s summit and large glaciers are visible from Kilimanjaro’s
crater rim. There is high solar radiation during the day, freezing temperatures at night,
gale force winds and low oxygen levels.

Weather in Bwindi in Uganda – October
Bwindi has a wet, yet mild, climate. Temperatures remain consistent year-long due to its
short distance from the equator. Daytime temperatures of around 23°C/73°F are usual,
with a significant drop at night to around 11°C/52°F.

The altitude in Bwindi is varied, from 1,300 to 2,462m (4,265-8,553ft). This results in
wide climatic variations within the park, as the temperature is lowered by about 6.5°C
for every 1000m you climb (or 3.5°F per 1000ft). Tourists mostly visit the area of lower
altitude.

Rain can happen anytime in Bwindi, as there is no real Dry season. The months of June
and July receive the least rain, while there is a period of lesser rainfall from December
to February. From March to May and October to November the rainfall is highest. It is
recommended to pack waterproof clothing and good hiking shoes that are suitable for
walking wet forest trails.

HEALTH MATTERS - Vaccinations and immunizations

Be sure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Consider this - WHO have recommended that travelers receive the following vaccines:

Yellow Fever (Uganda is mandatory)
Typhoid
Hepatitis A.
Hepatitis B.
Rabies.

You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this
country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.

For more information on health-related issues while traveling overseas, contact Health
Canada.

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Fitness
Mountain or Altitude Sickness (See Altitude Tutorial) normally manifests itself at altitudes
in excess of 8,000ft. A young fit sportsman may suffer when the other older less fit
members of the party do not. The simple answer is to take things at a leisurely pace in the
mountains. Trekking is not a forced route march. With this basic rule adhered to; altitude
sickness should not be a problem. Every year we arrange treks for many people well into
their 60's and 70's and they experience no discomfort; in fact they are probably less
susceptible for they tend not to race at things as younger people do!

In addition to being physically fit, trekkers should also be prepared to adopt a mental
flexibility during the trip. Peru is a beautiful country with delightful friendly people but a
developing country nevertheless and a world apart from home. One must adapt
accordingly when travelling through a region with different cultures, customs and values.

Health on trek
Blistered feet, coughs, colds and minor stomach upsets are the most common troubles on
an adventure of this nature. If your feet feel sore, sit down at once and apply a moleskin
or fabric Elastoplasts. Do not delay or a blister will form and cripple you for days. We
cannot emphasize too strongly the need for comfortable well-fitting training type shoes on
low altitude walking and well-broken in hiking boots for those higher altitudes. Look after
your feet!

Sore throats must be guarded against since they are common and can often lead to long
lasting colds and coughs. Ensure that you keep warm especially in the evenings and early
mornings.

Warning About Drinking Water
While on the Kilimanjaro trek, do not on any account drink water that is not boiled and
filtered for you first by your crew. Water will be boiled in the evenings to fill your water
bottles the following day. However clean and clear a mountain stream looks do not drink it
without consulting your local guides. Bring a supply of purification tablets or iodine crystal
solution as an extra precaution if you like. Given sufficient time these will sterilize the
contaminated water. To make it more palatable orange-flavoured tablets such as Redoxon
(available from chemists) are a good idea.

Money Matters
We understand that money matters can be confusing when traveling. The following
information may help you answer some of your questions and alleviate problems.
There is no restriction on the importation of foreign currency, however the import and
export of local currencies, “Shillings” in Tanzania and Uganda is prohibited. Visitors can
change their foreign currency at the Bureax de Change at airports which gives a better
rate than the banks, and at certain hotels.

Change enough money for personal expenses such as shopping, not included meals
and drinks in town restaurants. A word of warning though - do not accept any torn or
damaged notes in Tanzania as these will be difficult to pass on.

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When sightseeing in Arusha, you may visit shops selling souvenirs and any items you plan
to donate to local charities we visit. This is a fine opportunity to meet the local people.
Bring a good supply of small denomination US$ currency notes as large denomination
notes will be impossible to change.

The pocket money you will need while on the trip is a personal matter. For your drinks
and souvenir purchases along the way, a maximum of US$ 25-30 per day would be a
good estimate.

Currency Exchange Rates (As of August 5, 2019 and subject to change)

1 US Dollar = Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) 2,300
1 Canadian Dollar = Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) 1,745

1 US Dollar = Ugandan Shilling (UGX) 3,695
1 Canadian Dollar = Tanzanian Shilling (UGX) 2,800

Gratuities/Tipping
As with every branch of the tourist industry, tipping has become an acceptable custom in
East Africa. The mountain and safari guides, park rangers, cooks, camp helpers and
porters, have come to expect tips from clients for good service. But tipping is not an
obligation and they should only expect tips from clients for very good and exceptional
service.

It is a good idea to tip collectively as a tour group. Pooling your money will give you a
better idea of the overall amount that each guide, porter etc will receive – and will help

you avoid excessive tipping. Ideally, these should be paid in closed envelopes in the

presence of the entire crew only to emphasize the overall feeling of appreciation.

The amount of tipping, especially on Kilimanjaro climbs, is larger than other treks you
might have been on previously. This is because unlike most other treks, climbing
Kilimanjaro requires a big local crew.

Tipping guidelines for Kilimanjaro Climbs
Although larger and individually gifted tips are always appreciated by the crew, they will
be extremely grateful if you follow the standard guidelines for tipping. The amounts are
from a whole group, irrespective of number of trekkers in a party. For example. the
whole group tips anywhere from USD 15-25 to the cook per day. As such, costs will be
divided amongst the whole group. Larger the group, tips to be budgeted by each trekker
is less. Below are standard recommended rates.

Local guides/cooks

▪ Lead Mountain guide: $25-30 per day from the whole group
▪ Assistant guide: $15 – 25 per day from the whole group
▪ Mountain Cook: $15 – 25 per day from the whole group

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Porter Team (Porters does multiple tasks on the climb but not limited to one particular
aspect)

▪ Dining Tent Waiter/Helpers: $10 – 12 per day from the whole group
▪ General Porters (Carry tents, set up camp sites, carry dry rations, source drinking

water etc): $ 10-12 per day from the whole group
▪ Summit porter (Porters who go all the way up to the summit & crater camp): $10

– 15 per day from the whole group. These select group of porters help in
emergencies and often volunteer to take over the day packs of the trekkers who
find it difficult to carry due to fatigue and altitude)
▪ Toilet crew: $10 – 15 per day from the whole group. They are entrusted to
upkeep of the toilets.

Coach driver: For transfers from Arusha lodge to Park Gate - $20 from whole group

The figures are based on recommendations by the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance
Project (KPAP), an independent non-profit that advocates fair treatment of porters and
is responsible for many of the improved working conditions of those who work on Mount
Kilimanjaro.

The decision on how much to tip should not be determined based upon whether you
reached the summit or not, but by how well the guides, cooks and porters served you
while you were on the mountain.

The number of crew in your party depends on the selected route, physical and mobility
attributes of the group and total number of days spent high on the mountain. Generally,
we employ 3-5 porters per trekker on most climbs that are longer and that involve high
camps like Crater Camp where adequate hands are required in case of emergencies.

How Much Do I set aside for tips?
Here is an example. On the Western Approach route, a total of 9 days is spent in the
mountain from start to finish. Based on a group of 6 trekkers, below is a guideline
taking the low to mid-range tipping rate. These figures are discretionary and subject to
their services being 100% satisfactory.

The Western Approach Route – 9 Days in the mountain Total Crew: 23- 35

Crew Member Tip Per day x no of days Total for 9 days

1 Lead Mountain Guide $25 per day x 9 days $225.00

2 Asst. Mountain Guides $20 per guide per day x 2 guides x 9 days $360.00

2 Cooks $20 per cook per day x 2 cooks x 9 days $360.00
Coach Driver $40.00
$20 per transfer x 2 transfers
(lodge to park gate and park gate to lodge)

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3: 1 porter/trekker $10 per porter per day x 18 porters x 9 $1620.00
18 porters days $2,700.00

OR $10 per porter per day x 30 porters x 9
days
5:1 porter/trekker
30 porters

How do I know how many porters are enlisted for our climb?
Exact number of porters required, whether we need 18 or 30 or in between, will be
known only on the first day of the trek after evaluating the overall strength of the group,
gear requirements and all logistical needs for the expedition. Once this is finalized by
the local leaders, you will be introduced to the crew and a list of names with their
individual roles will be shared with the guests to ensure 100% transparency.

The practice of kirunje (shadows) can exist on Kilimanjaro. This occurs when extra
porters are present at the tipping ceremony who, in reality, did not work on your climb.
The aim is to obtain extra tip money from the clients. We encourage you to know the
exact number of guide/s, cook/s and porters supporting your climb.

Why tips are not included in the overall trip price?
Tipping is a very cultural thing on Kilimanjaro. As a company, we do not get involved in
the tipping process. We can only give our guidelines on what the crew is expecting. Tips
are given directly by you to the crew.

There are couple of reasons why we do not include tips in the price itself. If we include
the tips in the price, we believe the transparency and trust between us, our crew and the
guests is lost. Secondly, tips vary depending on group size and various other factors
and we do not know ahead of time what the final group size is going to be on a specific
trip date.

When do I Tip Mountain Crew?
The tipping ceremony occurs at the last camp on the mountain, after the summit day or
the last morning before we head down to the park exit gate upon end of the trek. The
group will receive a list of names of the entire crew at the start of the trek and
envelopes. Name List details each ones role. The guests should then fill in the amount
of tip money to give each person. One representative from your party, a spokesperson,
should collect the tip money from the group and place the total tip money into the
corresponding envelopes. The lead guide will assemble the entire staff.

It is customary for the spokesperson to say a word of thanks to the crew. The guide will
translate. Then the spokesperson shall hand one envelope to the lead guide and the
other envelope to porters’ representative. Each crew member signs a tip distribution
report to ensure each staff member received their fair share of the tip money. We
operate under KPAP’s guidelines for tip disbursement and provide oversight of the
entire process to enforce fair and proper payment.

We prefer that all tips are made in US dollars CASH. It is important that US bills be new,
crisp and untorn. Do not tip with marked, wrinkled, torn or old (older than 2002) US bills;

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they are not accepted in the country. It is very helpful to bring an assortment of dollar
denominations for tipping.

Tipping for Safari Guides & Drivers – Tanzania & Uganda
The suggested tips for the multi-day safari driver/guides is $25-$30 per day for the
guide and driver

Tipping the Crew in Mobile Tented Camps in Tanzania
Each camp we stay usually have about 10-15 local men serving us, who are extremely
hard working, making sure your stay in the wilderness is comfortable and safe.

These people deserve a fair reward for the service. Though, tipping is not mandatory,
many guests leave an envelope for them in the gratuities box to be shared among the
crew. Recommended tip for such a camp crew is US$15 - 20 per day from the whole
group.

Luggage porters at lodges in Arusha, Moshi, Ngorongoro & Uganda
These lodges employ bell boys/porter teams to assist in check-ins and check-outs. If
you prefer to use their services for your luggage, they usually expect a tip, which could
be $1-2 per bag.

Donation of Climbing Clothes & Mountain Equipment

Donating Directly – Consider donating some of your clothing and equipment to the
climb team in addition to tipping them. Remember that the staff climbs Kilimanjaro many
times a year and can go through their clothes and gear rather quickly. Your donation is
of great assistance to these individuals, many of whom are unwilling to spend their
money on material goods they consider a luxury rather than a necessity. They will
appreciate your generosity tremendously. Avoid giving items to your guides for
distribution to porters. Donations should be given directly to individuals they are
intended for, perhaps those with the greatest need or who were of particularly of good
service.

Donating through KPAP – Wanderlust Adventures is a KPAP approved partner for
their Responsible Travel Program. KPAP raises public awareness regarding the
treatment of porters on Kilimanjaro, assists climbing companies with implementing
procedures that ensure fair and ethical treatment of their porters, lends climbing gear to
porters and other mountain crew free of charge, and offers educational classes to
empower and motivate porters and mountain crew.

KPAP’s cloth lending program receives donated mountain equipment from climbers and
organizations. This gear is available free of charge for a loan to porters and mountain
crew who cannot afford the proper climbing equipment. By stamping all donated
clothing with a KPAP label and requiring an item of value (phone, bicycle) to serve as a
deposit from those who borrow, KPAP has a clothing return rate of over 90%.

All mountain crew are welcome to borrow gear from the free of charge lending program
at any of KPAP’s Clothing Lending sites located in Moshi, Arusha and outside the
Machame, Marangu and Rongai gates of the Kilimanjaro national park.

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In addition, KPAP provides educational classes for the mountain crew – conversational
English, First Aid certification, HIV/AIDS Awareness, Money Management, Porter Rights
and Environmental care of Kilimanjaro , as the funding allows. KPAP depends on
donations and grants to help fund its free programs for porters.

Incidentals
Prior to your departure from each lodge or hotel, you must personally check out with the
hotel cashier and pay for all incidental charges, such as room service, telephone,
internet access, if any, laundry, mini-bar and any purchases charged to your room.

Goods & Services Tax (VAT)
18% Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most taxable good and services purchased
locally in Tanzania and Uganda. The VAT elements for all pre-booked travel
arrangements for your Tanzania and Uganda travel are included.

Shopping
Every visitor who comes to East Africa will take away with them something special to
remind them of their trip.

Tanzania and Uganda are one of the top shopping destinations in East Africa, with
some of the finest crafts anywhere. Its long traditions of colorful markets bursting with
tourists have produced a dazzling display of typical African art, batik art, paintings, wood
carvings and other woven items. East Africa's indigenous tribes Masaai and Chagga
people are excellent local artisans producing high quality handicrafts.

Our itinerary in Arusha has included a brief visit to Arusha Heritage and Culture
Centre to see African art and handicrafts.

Valuables
You are better off leaving them at home. Please remember that it is not wise to take
valuables with you when you are on an adventure trip. If you decide to do so, please
carry them on your personal hand luggage when flying. If you are putting valuables
away in your duffle bag or on the luggage in storage at hotel, do not forget to lock them
firmly.

Jet lag Precautions
When you cross several time zones to reach your destination, you often lose many
hours of regular sleep and then, upon arrival, your body must suddenly adjust to new
sleeping and eating patterns. The result is jet lag. Its symptoms are fatigue, irritability
and vague disorientation. You cannot totally avoid jet lag; but you can minimize it.
Here’s how:

• Try to sleep on overnight flights
• Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before and

during your flight.
• Drink plenty of water and/or fruit juice while flying
• Try to stay awake first day until after dinner.

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Medical Information
If you are on a daily prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last your entire
trip. If this is not possible, it is better to carry along a generic prescription – one that
uses the drug name rather than a brand name because a specific brand may not be
available in the countries you visit.

You should always carry medications in the original prescription container when
traveling. Always keep medication with you. Do not lock it in your suitcase.

Also, we recommend you carry a prescription for your eyeglasses. In addition, your
basic traveling medicine kit should include: aspirin, cold tablets, vitamins, antacids,
sunscreen, spray anesthetic, band-aids, antiseptic spray and wipes, the antibiotic you
generally use, and an elastic bandage.

For personal medical attention while on tour, please keep your trip director informed of
your medical needs and emergencies at all times. Your Trip Director is also a certified
First Aid & CPR specialist and Wilderness First Responder. Your trip director can also
refer you to reliable physicians in the cities on your tour in case of emergencies.

ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS WHILE IN TANZANIA

Street & Mailing Address

High Commission of Canada
26 Garden Avenue/38 Mirambo street
P.O. Box 1022
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Tel: +255-22-216-3300 Tel: +255-687-216-330 Tel: +255-22-211-2831
Fax: 255-22-211-6897 Email: [email protected]

Hours of Operation:
Monday to Thursday: 07:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday: 07:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Assistance for Canadian Citizens Abroad - Consular Hours
Monday to Friday: 08:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS WHILE IN UGANDA

Consulate of Canada
Jubilee Insurance Centre, 14 Parliament Avenue, Kampala, Uganda
Telephone 256 (414) 258-141 / 256 (414) 348-141 / 256 (312) 260-511
Email [email protected]

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Thursday: 09:30-12:00 and 13:00-16:30
Friday: 09:30-13:00

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Section F

Packing Guidelines & Luggage

International flights from US/Canada to Tanzania/Uganda

(KLM Royal Dutch Airlines)

Carry-on baggage (Hand Luggage) allowance

All baggage you do not check in but take with you in the cabin is called carry-on hand
baggage. You can stow this baggage in the overhead baggage compartment or under
the seat.

Economy Class on European and intercontinental flights
• 1 item of hand baggage, max. 55 x 35 x 25 cm
(21,5 x 13,5 x 10 inch)
• 1 accessory, e.g. a handbag, briefcase or laptop, max.
40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 inch)
• Total weight max. 12 kg (26 lbs)

Check-in Baggage allowance

Economy Class on European and intercontinental flights
• 2 items of check-in baggage: L + W + H max. 158 cm
(62 inch)
• Total weight max. 23 kg each (50 lbs)

Domestic flights in Tanzania & Uganda

Auric Air - Serengeti National Park to Kilimanjaro Airport

Operated by 12-seater Cessna Grand Caravan.
Maximum baggage allowance of 20kgs (44lbs) per person.
Soft backpacks or duffle bags are strongly recommended. This allowance shall include
all hand baggage. Due to limited capacity in the smaller aircraft, we urge you to limit
the luggage you will be carrying on the entire safari to no more than 20 KG's.

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