Footsteps Of Mankind 5 nights

WHY THIS ADVENTURE?

This is a trek back through millennia of evolution from the relatively recent hominid footprints right by our Lake Natron Camp, all the way to Olduvai, commonly known as “one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world”, and home to evidence of our earliest ancestors. Each camp location and design is being targeted at guests that are looking for an off the beaten track experience, entirely respectful of the environment, and yet just enough comfort to ensure a superlative well balanced adventure. If you think this is for you read further!

HOW TO BOOK

All our adventures can be booked through a tour operator near you. Just ask them about Lake Natron Camp, Ngare Sero and our range of activities and adventures and specify the “Walking in the Footsteps on Man” trek. You can add this adventure into your dates – all trips are customised to your dates.

HIGHLIGHTS

Hiking the Gregorian Rift Valley, Sanjan Gorge, Gol, Olduvai Gorge, witnessing untouched Maasai culture, being immersed into places people have never been before, stunning views, the migration (if timed right), off the beaten track, going back in time from old footsteps to new.

DESCRIPTION

This is a 5 day itinerary with 2 nights spent at Lake Natron Camp. Olduvai gorge is known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ and this trekking expedition courses routes either to or from this area incorporating the history of mankind, geology and landscapes spanning 250 million years. You can time this expedition with the migration in the short grass plains, or append a migration experience post / pre trek.

This trek is easily combined with a safari in the Serengeti, before or after the trek.

Itinerary in short

Day 1: Drive to Lake Natron Camp, overnight Lake Natron Camp (fb)

Day 2: Overnight at Lake Natron Camp and taking part in activities (fb)

Day 3: Trek to Sanjan, overnight Sanjan (fb) Trek 6km. Drive 22km

Day 4: Trek to Piyaya, overnight Piyaya (fb) Trek 10km. Drive 4km

Day 5: Transfer to Nasera Rock gate & depart Drive 4km

ITINERARY in full

DAY 1 – LAKE NATRON CAMP

Lake Natron has a number of activities that are very easily combined with dawn walks and sundowners and in the middle of the day there is the nearby Ngare Sero gorge that you can walk to and options of long hikes to the source or shorter hikes to waterfalls. The staff are on hand to make you stay as adventurous or as relaxing as you want. Dinner & overnight Lake Natron Camp (full board).

DAY 2 – LAKE NATRON CAMP

We have a natural pool at camp and fish that love to give you a free fish pedicure! Just the thing to pamper your feet before you set off on a hike up the rift valley tomorrow. The staff are on hand to make your stay as adventurous or as relaxing as you want. Dinner & overnight Lake Natron Camp (full board).

DAY 3 - SANJAN GORGE

After breakfast you depart to the bottom of the rift valley and start your trek to Sanjan. The hike this morning is up the rift valley, following the migration routes of the Maasai and their cattle as they move to find pasture. Once on top of the rift valley you trek to meet our vehicle and transfer across the vast Salei plains to Sangan Gorge (note that the wildebeest migration is often here from December – May). Picnic lunches are provided to ensure you reach your goal well fed.  You will be met by your camp crew when you reach your destination and you can go trek deep into Sanjan Gorge or just relax by the camp fire with a glass on wine! Dinner & overnight Sanjan Camp (full board).

DAY 4 - PIYAYA

The camp is set at the base of the Gol mountains and faces east, which affords a stunning sunrise! Bush coffee is served right from the fire and after a filling breakfast you set of with your Maasai guides along the sides of the Sanjan gorge. It is very rocky underfoot in places and so good shoes are a must and at certain points be sure to look back for stunning views. Once through the gorge you meander your way and then transfer to camp to relax. For those that arrive early there are options to visit local attractions. Dinner and overnight Piyaya Camp (full board).

DAY 5 – NASERA ROCK

When you get to Nasera Rock you will be met by your driver who will then take you on to your the next part of your itinerary via Olduvai Gorge !

THIS TREK CAN BE DONE IN REVERSE AND CAN BE DONE IN 3 NIGHTS, 4 DAYS IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO DO THE FULL ITINERARY.

THE GREAT Rift Valley TREK - 5 DAYS

Why This Adventure?

For active types Tanzania has a lot to offer and this is one of the most dramatic hikes in East Africa. As well as the amazing scenery there is also the chance to witness the changing lives of the Maasai in both Ngorongoro and Natron.

How to Book

All our adventures can be booked through a tour operator near you. Just ask them about Lake Natron Camp, Ngare Sero and our range of activities and adventures and specify the “The Great Rift Valley Trek” OR “Empakai to Lake Natron Trek”. You can add this adventure into your dates – all trips are customised to your dates.

Highlights

Ngorongoro volcanoes – Empakai crater - Stunning vistas - Walking with Maasai Warriors - Learning about local tribes and customs - Being a witness to a changing times and culture - The unique habitat of Lake Natron - Flamingoes feeding & preening in fresh water streams.

Description

A 2 night trek combined with 2 nights at Lake Natron Camp.

Starting on the rim of Empakai Crater, in the Ngorongoro Highlands, with stunning views inside the crater, you spend a cosy night at Empakai Camp. You then trek to Leonotis Camp, through picturesque Maasai villages, to a remote camp just on the edge of the Gregorian Rift. After a magical night at Leonotis Camp, camping underneath the stars and golden acacia trees, you trek down the Rift Valley, with breathtaking views throughout. You are collected at the base of the rift, by car, and transferred to Lake Natron Camp, where you can relax by the natural pool, have a massage and take part in activities such as waterfall gorge hikes, flamingo walks and seeing hominid footprints…and not to forget well deserved sundowners!

This is easily combined with a game drive in Ngorongoro, before the trek.

Itinerary in Short

Day 1: Drive to Empakai. Empakai Crater trek. Overnight Empakai Camp (fb)

Day 2: Trek to Leonotis Camp. Overnight Leonotis Camp (fb) Trek 16km

Day 3: Trek to Lake Natron Camp with a pick up at the bottom of the rift valley. Overnight Lake Natron Camp (fb) Trek 12km, Drive 14km

Day 4: Relax and take part in activities at Lake Natron Camp. Overnight Lake Natron Camp (fb)

Day 5: Depart

Itinerary In Full

Day 1 – Empakai Crater

On arrival at Empakai crater there is the option to descend into the crater. This is around 40 minutes down and depending on season can be quite slippery but certainly a great hike with stunning views. Flamingoes are often seen flying into the crater or feeding in the lake at the base. A hot shower is available before dinner. PLEASE ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 3PM TO BE MET AT EMPAKAI CAMP BY YOUR GUIDE. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU BRING AT LEAST 3 LITRES OF WATER. Overnight Empakai Camp (full board).

Day 2 – Leonotis Camp, Rift Valley Scarp

Dawn rises and our lofty position affords a great sunrise. As we take breakfast our camp crew break camp and depart to send the camp ahead with donkeys. We then set off hiking with Maasai guides following a route that takes us through picturesque Maasai villages and rolling hills. Lunch can be taken on route as a picnic or if guests are very fit a late lunch can be had in camp. In the late afternoon a hike up to  a nearby viewpoint is highly recommended and a great place for sundowners! Dinner & overnight Leonotis Camp (full board).

Day 3 – Lake Natron

The final section of hiking has two options of a shorter hike or a longer more strenuous option right along the rift wall. The views are spectacular with the active volcano Oldoinyo Lengai dominating the foreground. This volcano affects almost everything from hydrology to lifestyle, as will become apparent. Once down on the rift valley floor we are picked up and transfer to Lake Natron Camp, Ngare Sero and here have the chance to jump in the natural pools to cool down. Sundowners are served at any number of beautiful points close to camp. Dinner & overnight Lake Natron Camp (full board).

Day 4 – Lake Natron

Lake Natron has a number of activities that are very easily combined with dawn walks and sundowners and in the middle of the day there is the nearby Ngare Sero gorge that you can walk to options of long hikes to the source or shorter hikes to waterfalls. The staff are on hand to make you stay as adventurous or relaxing as you want. Dinner & overnight Lake Natron Camp (full board).

Day 5 – Depart

After breakfast you can do some additional activities before departure and picnic lunches are provided to ensure you reach your goal well fed.

END OF SERVICES

For agents that use Wetu, you can also view this trek on the multi-day tour builder here.

RiDE GIANTS!

A superb and active way to see the Shira Plateau on Kilimanjaro, Enduimet WMA for it’s super Tuskers and history, Arusha National Park and Mt Meru and all this with the addition of mountain bikes OR E-Bikes. Did you know? You can have multi activity options on this trek: bike or trek, the choice is yours. West Kili, Arusha National Park also great with vehicles - a great multi generation itinerary option with accommodation alternatives too!

Kilimanjaro Shira + West Kilimanjaro + Mt Meru 5 day / 4 nights

WHY THIS ITINERARY?

Mountain bike on Kilimanjaro! For those that love adventure and really want to get the heart pumping then this is a great add on to any safari that allows you to have a taste of the high altitude, see one of the prettiest parts of Kilimanjaro, West Kilimanjaro and even hike on Mt Meru. Alpine meadows, open plains with wildlife, thick afro montane forest and some amazing rides!

DESCRIPTION

Starting on the Western side of Kilimanjaro National Park, this hike explores the Shira Plateau – the oldest of the 3 volcanoes on Kilimanjaro and then the cycling takes you to the plains at the base before heading over to Mt Meru’s slopes to explore on foot and bike. Finale is village rides all the way back to Kilimanjaro airport (but note we can connect to Arusha etc).

HIGHLIGHTS

Riding Kilimanjaro! The Shira Plateau with stunning views of Kibo, crossing the Shira plateau, Shira Cathedral, the moorland, heath, afromontane forest, plantation forest, farmland rides, Enduimet with wildlife, Mt Meru hiking, wildlife such as giraffe on fott, amazing birds and butterflies!

ITINERARY

DAY 1

On arrival (ETA 9am) you are met and transfer to a nearby lodge to change clothes and store away any items that are not needed. We then transfer to West Kilimanjaro (2 hours) by safari landcruiser to the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro, and area called West Kilimanjaro. For those that have seen Kilimanjaro or maybe even hiked her majestic peak, then you will know that it is a massive sentinel on the earth's crust.. And today we mountain bike the Shira plateau! The bikes are serviced and we transfer up to the edge of the Shira plateau and we rise early to ensure the very best views. Once on the edge of the plateau we have a bush breakfast before we ride up to the end road at almost 3,800 meters before splitting into advanced and regular riding tracks. The way down is exhilerating, care must be taken and yet for those who remain on the rescue road, it can be a very controlled ride too. We then head down to a farm at the base of the forest zone for a scrumptious lunch, and once again options to ride exist before we all meet back at the tented lodge. Dinner & overnight Simba Farm (full board).

DAY 2

After the previous day's adventure we change up the scenery to day and after breakfast we meet our bikes at the edge of a wilderness zone call Enduimet WMA. After some setup adjustments we ride! The first section is mostly downhill all the way to the Amboseli eco system (on the Tanzanian side) and once down on the plains meet our team for a bush lunch under an acacia tree. The heat of the afternoon passes and we can then ride on into the plains looking for the last of Africa's great Tuskers (elephants) before then heading back to our lodge. Note: as this is the first day there are potentially two ride options this afternoon (long + short) and vehicle support is always available. Dinner & overnight Simba Farm Lodge (full board).

DAY 3

Today's ride is more about a safari, a journey from one place to another. Droppping down from the slopes of Kilimanjaro we pass ancient cones which were part of the first world war theatre of war, we cycle through Maasai land all the way towards Mt Meru. We aim to reach here for late lunch and then in the afternoon there is time to relax or even ride some more! This creative lodge is Maasai themed huts that are comfortable and even has an infinity pool and yoga spaces. A great spot to re energise, relax, or for those that need more exercise then the options are there! Dinner and overnight Original Maasai Lodge (fb).

DAY 4

Breaking it up today we head into Arusha National park to hike deep into the slopes and heart of Mt Meru. A giant of a volcano that blasted out sideways some 8,000 years ago, these thickly forested slopes are dripping in lichen covered trees with a plethora of widlife and insects. A trek up into this giant is a must and you set out with picnic lunches (you can opt to leave early and return for lunch too) and can spend the best part of the day hiking and even some game drives around the Momella lakes as well. A lovely way to spend an active day. Dinner & overnight Original Maasai Lodge (fb).

DAY 5

Our final ride is takes us all the way back to the airport, where there is a lodge to change and freshen up. Not before a lovely sunrise breakfast and ride though! The two rides this morning are clearly defined to be easier or tougher, and both great options for fun village settings, mixed tracks all the way back to the Kilimanjaro airport. At the lodge a well deserved shower and some lunch before departure is a solid plan.

END OF SERVICES

INCLUDES  

• Support vehicle with fridge (water + some soft drinks)

• Picnic hamper with teas / coffee

• Meals as noted in itinerary

• Mountain bike with front suspension (send size info in advance, failure to do so may result in a smaller or larger bike than you are used to) - current stock is Titan Racing Drone ELITE model + Giant Fathom. Full suspension and electric on request (additional payment).

• Water bottle

• Cycling helmet WFR certified bike guide + small first aid kit

• For a full list of includes and excludes please refer to your tour operator as itineraries in this region can be complicated and require many moving parts.  

WHAT TO WEAR/ BRING  

• Sun hat

• Sunglasses

• Buff or lightweight neck gaiter (for keeping out dust)

• Rain shell

• Mid layer down (very cold mornings)

• Long sleeve t shirt 

• Hiking trousers (zip off style are recommended so you have shorts too)

• Mountain biking shorts (padded a good idea)

• Your own peddles if clips are to be used (you can request in advance for our double sided ones too)

• Waterproof trousers Socks Trail or hiking boots

• Water bottle for extra water

• Small backpack

• Small first aid kit

Climb the mountain of god!

This trek is not for the faint hearted but worth it for the un-paralleled views from the top at sunrise. On a clear day you can expect to see the tips of Meru and Kilimanjaro pierce through the horizon to the east. To the north you can see to the far end of Lake Natron, where its northern shores border Kenya. To the west you will be able to see over the escarpment across the Sale Plains all the way to the Gol Mountains in a view that is so spectacular it doesn’t look real! Did you know? This is one of the most challenging 1 day climbs in East Africa! Who is ready to take on the challenge?!

Ol doinyo Lengai Volcano Climb |$100 per person or $70 per person for groups of 2 or more| 12 – 14 hours

An overnight ascent to the summit of the famous “Mountain of God”. Climbing the 2,962 volcano under moonlight is an unforgettable and mystical experience. 

One of the most challenging 1 day climbs in East Africa! Who is ready to take on the challenge?!

This trek is not for the faint hearted but worth it for the un-paralleled views from the top at sunrise. On a clear day you can expect to see the tips of Meru and Kilimanjaro pierce through the horizon to the east. To the north you can see to the far end of Lake Natron, where its northern shores border Kenya. To the west you will be able to see over the escarpment across the Sale Plains all the way to the Gol Mountains in a view that is so spectacular it doesn’t look real!

Sample Itinerary

11:30pm wake up, go to mess area for tea/coffee and snacks before driving to the base of Lengai

1am arrive at the base of Lengai and start your ascent

6am you are at the top of Lengai!

6:30am start your descent

12pm arrive at the base of Lengai, drive back to Lake Natron Camp

1pm arrive at Lake Natron Camp greeted by a cold face towel and fresh cold drink

1:30pm have lunch, relax by the pool, have a massage!

Please note, these timings are estimates. For some people it may take longer & for some a lot quicker!

 Notes

•  All fees paid directly to the Village Office. - 1 pax $100 - $118 inc VAT. 2 or more pax $70 per person - $82.60 inc VAT.

•  TAWA climb fees need to be paid in advance - $20 per person - $23.60 inc VAT.

•  If guests are staying for 3 nights or more then the climb becomes free (excluding TAWA fees)

• We supply helmets, Maasai walking sticks, food and water for the climb

Conditions on Lengai can change daily. It must be understood that it is the guide’s decision if he believes the weather is not safe enough for to start a climb. Once on the mountain, to reach the summit section is also based on daily conditions and guests should be aware that there is the possibility of not reaching the true summit. In which case, refunds will unfortunately not be available.

Fees for Mt. Lengai are governed by the Village Office and are subject to change. Please confirm prices with the Camp Manager before booking. 

Kilimanjaro MouNtain biking

Day Trip - SHIRA - 1 day

WHY THIS ITINERARY?

Mountain bike on Kilimanjaro! For those that love adventure and really want to get the heart pumping then this is a great add on to any safari that allows you to have a taste of the high altitude, see one of the prettiest parts of Kilimanjaro and see all the different habitats in one ride / transect.

DESCRIPTION

Starting on the Western side of Kilimanjaro National Park, this hike explores the Shira Plateau – the oldest of the 3 volcanoes on Kilimanjaro. An EARLY start is required to make the most of this itinerary and we strongly recommend our 2 day program so you can sleep closer to the mountain to maximise the early part of the day on the Shira Plateau. Starting points are selecting according to ability with the more adventurous rides incorporating the Shira Cathedral route, then onto the rescue track and latterly once out of the National Park gate you enter the forest reserve. For advanced riders the forest sections are well worth it. For more conservative riders the rescue track is a great scenic ride that takes you through all zones.

HIGHLIGHTS

Riding Kilimanjaro! The Shira Plateau with stunning views of Kibo, crossing the Shira plateau, Shira Cathedral, the moorland, heath, afromontane forest, plantation forest, farmland rides.

ITINERARY

Early in the morning, normally around 6am, you are collected from your hotel with a packed lunch and transferred to Kilimanjaro National Park. Formalities are completed at Londorosi Gate before getting back in the car and transiting past Morum Barrier, right on to the edge of the Shira Plateau and onwards to the end road. Here, dpeending on your ability and guides discretion, there are two route options, one via Shira Cathedral or staying on the rescue road. It is a thrilling and stunning ride down, and for advanced riders single track routes exist in the forestry zone below the national park. Linking from this itinerary you can head back to accommodation or link to other biking and hiking modules (West Kili, Arusha National Park, Natron and so on).

END OF SERVICES

INCLUDES  

• Support vehicle with fridge (water + some soft drinks)

• Picnic hamper with teas / coffee

• Meals as noted in itinerary

• Mountain bike with front suspension (send size info in advance, failure to do so may result in a smaller or larger bike than you are used to) - current stock is Titan Racing Drone ELITE model + Giant Fathom. Full suspension and electric on request (additional payment).

• Water bottle

• Cylcing helmet WFR certified bike guide + small first aid kit

• For a full list of includes and excludes please refer to your tour operator as itineraries in this region can be complicated and require many moving parts.  

WHAT TO WEAR/ BRING  

• Sun hat

• Sunglasses

• Buff or lightweight neck gaiter (for keeping out dust)

• Rain shell

• Mid layer down (very cold mornings)

• Long sleeve t shirt 

• Hiking trousers (zip off style are recommended so you have shorts too)

• Mountain biking shorts (padded a good idea)

• Your own peddles if clips are to be used (you can request in advance for our double sided ones too)

• Waterproof trousers Socks Trail or hiking boots

• Water bottle for extra water

• Small backpack

• Small first aid kit

Arusha National Park MouNtain biking - 1 day

WHY THIS ITINERARY?

Hike + bike in Arusha National Park. A great day out that can be tailored to be more challenging or a bit more relaxed.

DESCRIPTION

A ride on mountain bikes through Arusha National Park which covers a variety of habitats from open plains to thick afromontane forest. The second half is a trek and you can request shorter or longer treks depending on how much time is available. Normally guests opt for a short game drive around the Momella lakes as well.

HIGHLIGHTS

Wildlife on bikes, beautiful forests, historical area, possibly views of other mountains such as Kilimanjaro!

ITINERARY

Early in the morning, normally around 6am, you are collected from your hotel with a packed lunch and transferred to Arusha National Park. Formalities are completed at the gate and then the bikes are set up for you (note please send guest heights and riding ability PRE TRIP at least 2 weeks out if possible). The ride is approx 15km and there are some steep hills and so be aware a vehicle backup is there too. Your biking guide is on hand to show you various animals and assist with the bikes as needed. Once at the Momella gate you leave your bikes and then move to hiking! Choose a shorter hike from the gate or for those that want much more activity, consider heading up Mt Meru to the end road and doing the crater hike. A late afternoon drive around the Momella lakes is possible if time permits before transferring back to your lodge.

END OF SERVICES

INCLUDES  

• Support vehicle with fridge (water + some soft drinks)

• Picnic hamper with teas / coffee

• Meals as noted in itinerary

• Mountain bike with front suspension (send size info in advance, failure to do so may result in a smaller or larger bike than you are used to) - current stock is Titan Racing Drone ELITE model + Giant Fathom. Full suspension and electric on request (additional payment).

• Water bottle

• Cylcing helmet WFR certified bike guide + small first aid kit

• For a full list of includes and excludes please refer to your tour operator as itineraries in this region can be complicated and require many moving parts.  

WHAT TO WEAR/ BRING  

• Sun hat

• Sunglasses

• Buff or lightweight neck gaiter (for keeping out dust)

• Rain shell

• Mid layer down (very cold mornings)

• Long sleeve t shirt 

• Hiking trousers (zip off style are recommended so you have shorts too)

• Mountain biking shorts (padded a good idea)

• Your own peddles if clips are to be used (you can request in advance for our double sided ones too)

• Waterproof trousers Socks Trail or hiking boots

• Water bottle for extra water

• Small backpack

• Small first aid kit