5 days Kilimanjaro Wilderness
Including alternative non-riders itinerary
The great "Out of Africa" experience on horseback, on Hemingway’s tracks over the western game corridor of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy the savannah, where African animals roam freely as they have for thousands of years. This safari is designed for experienced riders and offers breathtaking views, exhilarating canters and close contact with wildlife such as elephant, zebra, eland, wildebeest - to name but a few...
Further 24 hours bush-feeling, menus lighted by lanterns, listening to animal voices next to the camp fire… and much more!
Rate:
- Per Person sharing 1,670 Euro for riders, minimum of 2 riders
- Per person sharing 800 Euro for non-riders alternative itinerary (minimum of 2 guests)
- Single supplement 200 Euro.
The rate includes:
5 days / 4 nights on a full board basis in Ndarakwai Camp*, activities described as in the itinerary, during the day non-alcoholic drinks, in the evening all drinks, horse including equipment, back-up vehicle, English speaking guides.
Not included:
Transfers from and to Ndarakwai Camp, personal expenses (e.g. phone calls), tips and gratuities, national and international flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ndarakwai, The West Kilimanjaro Wilderness
Arrive at Ndarakwai Camp, our starting point for the safari. This is a permanent tented lodge on Ndarakwai Ranch, West Kilimanjaro. With views of both Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, the camp is nestled in a lush forest of towering fig, podo, and yellow-barked acacias that line the seasonal Ngare Nairobi River (North).
After lunch you will receive a briefing on all details about riding in game area.
During the afternoon we will introduce you to the horses and can help you choose one to match your size and skill. Then we embark on a ride so you can become familiar with your horse.
The non-riders will take the chance for a hike to the nearby water hole for some wildlife viewing. The elevated wooden platform on the waterhole offers great sightings and riders and non-riders will meet here at this perfect place for a sun downer drink.
Back in camp you will enjoy your spacious and comfortable tent and after the traditional bush shower we meet for dinner.
Day 2: Tracking game on horseback
Wake up early with a cup of steaming tea or coffee served in your tent. This will be an exciting day for game viewing; the route will be mostly dictated by the game situation.
You are in the heart of the West-Kilimanjaro wilderness and we may find seasonally large herds of Elands, sometimes up to 100, and up to 200 Elephants. Expect to spot lesser kudu, waterbuck, zebra, impala, bush pig and warthog, with some luck even predators as striped and spotted hyena, cheetah and leopard.
The non-riders will be accompanied by their own armed ranger for extended game walks where they will also spot plenty of different animals.
We return to camp for brunch. In the afternoon we start in an open game-drive vehicle for another excursion. We drive through bush savannah and plains to track some more game; for sure we will meet indigenous Masai herding their cattle. You may take the chance to visit them in their Masai Boma to learn more about their daily life.
Day 3: More game…
Start early for a long morning ride for spotting game along the western boundary of the ranch. In addition to the ever-present antelopes, zebras and gazelles, we'll keep an eye out for giraffes, ostriches, warthogs and maybe a cheetah. What we really hope for though, is the chance for a peaceful meeting with a herd of magnificent African elephants. Don't forget your binoculars and camera!
The non-riders may decide to go for a game walk or a game drive. Maybe climb Pasironga Hill that offers an incredible view over the whole area, from here you can observe game movements and even the riders group.
Lunch is back in camp for the whole group. The afternoon may be spent for leisure; e.g. for another walk to the tree house or some bird watching along the river bed, or watch the animals that pass by the veranda of your tent.
After an early dinner we head out for a night-game drive. Here you can view, with the aid of a spotlight, all the nocturnal species not generally seen during the day.
Day 4: Out of Africa
Rise to an African sunrise for an early breakfast. We mount our horses and head out into the savannah. Kori bustards and secretary birds are often seen here stalking their prey. Slowly and carefully we approach the wildlife we find along the way - lesser kudus, antelopes, gazelles and a lot of other animals. If you feel up to it, you can canter with zebras and wildebeests. This is a safari the way it was meant to be!
The non-riders and their ranger will find their own route through the wilderness and meet with the riders at Mgunga. Here the whole group will be welcomed by the crew with a delicious picnic lunch in the shade of an ancient African Acacia tree, with stunning views of Mt. Meru.
Late afternoon we start for our last sunset-ride into the savannah.
Evening rides are especially good for photography because of the beautiful light, and with photos in mind, it will be a calm ride. The non-riders may decide to walk or drive back (with the picnic vehicle) to camp.
Day 5: Early-Morning-Ride and Departure
Depending on your future schedule there may be time for an early-morning ride. After breakfast we say good bye to new friends and horses, afterwards transfer to Makoa-Farm or your home- or ongoing journey.
*Catering to a maximum of 24 guests, Ndarakwai Camp offers an intimate atmosphere where your every need is catered to. Mealtimes are flexible and can be arranged with your guide and the camp Manager. Picnic lunches, bush breakfasts, and a bush campfire & bar are easily arranged. In the evening guests can gather around either of 2 indoor fireplaces, or an outdoor campfire for snacks and sundowners.
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