8 days / 7 nights Makoa-Farm Holidays
Kilimanjaro looks on as you discover an area of Tanzania far off the beaten path. Experience the African landscape from horseback – a refreshing change from being enclosed in a safari vehicle. We ride through wilderness and farmland, enjoying stunning scenery with opportunities for viewing Kilimanjaro up close.
Rates:
- 1,300 Euro pp sharing
- Single supplement 30 %
- Single supplement does not apply if you are willing to share the room / tent with a person of same sex
- Minimum 2 riders required
Included:
Transfers to and from Makoa Farm from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Moshi, accommodation in rooms with view at Makoa, all meals, snacks, tea, coffee and other beverages, wine/beer and alcoholic drinks in the evening, horses incl tack, luggage transfers where necc, English speaking guide
Not Included:
Other alcoholic drinks, tips and gratuities, laundry and phone calls, other items of a personal nature.
Dates 2008:
26. July – 2. August, 23. - 30. August,
20. - 27. September, 18. - 25. October, 22. - 29. November
More dates on inquiry.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Makoa Farm
Arrive at Makoa Farm, nestled into the southern slope of Mount Kilimanjaro. If you arrive early enough you can meet the horses where we will help you to choose a suitable one. Afterwards you start for an introductory ride, exploring the farm and getting to know your horse.
Farming in Africa may be a little different from what you are used to. On the 358-acre farm we grow coffee and vegetables, but a significant amount of land is left as natural grass and bush land. In addition to the expected farm animals like cattle, horses, pigs, chicken and geese, our farm becomes similar to Noah's arch and an increasing number of orpheans and injured animals become Makoa residents. The farm and bush area is also inhabited by a variety of wild creatures such as Sykes monkey, yellow baboon, bush buck and duiker and secret ones such as leopard, striped hyena, side striped jackal, aardvark and bush pig.
Day 2: Dayride into Masailand
This horseback trail leads through farmland and bush deep into Masasiland. We pass a historical bridge and move far down inside a fertile valley. Our crew prepared a delicious lunch at a scenic point.
Later on we return on another way to the farm, crossing the steep gorge of the Kikafu river. When we reach the Kikafu River Gorge, we’ll dismount and lead the horses into this enchanting area to explore.
After a small break or some exploring of the riverbanks on foot we make our way further through bush- and farmland, passing flower and coffee plantations.
Day 3: Excursion to the Hot Springs
Wake up early in the morning for an early morning ride. The ride leads you through Makoa-Farm and you have a good chance to meet some of the wildlife who shares the farm with us.
After breakfast we depart by 4xvehicle to the Hot Springs to see more of this unusual ecosystem. After arrival a guided walking tour will lead us through the numerous springs and small streams. As we retrace the footsteps of Dr. Livingstone, keep alert for exotic birds, different types of monkeys, and for crocodiles! We return to the springs for lunch and for a refreshing plunge into the spring, followed by an afternoon for leisure. Late afternoon we drive back to Makoa-Farm, arriving there just after sunset.
Day 4: Masailand and local market
This morning you have the chance to visit a local Masai market. You will be surprised what items Masai trade in and what they will take home, often multiple day-journeys away, carried on their donkeys back.
After lunch we depart for another ride towards the Masailand. We will find another place to reach the deep Kikafu river gorge and anyone who wants to join the horses for refreshing splashes or a plunge in the water is welcome. On our way back for sure you will experience one more of the unforgettable sunsets of Africa.
Day 5: Experience Makoa-Farm and surroundings
After breakfast we hike through Chagga villages and small farms, passing through scenic river valleys to reach a romantic spot on the river’s edge for light refreshments. See people’s daily life, admire their permanent good mood and learn about their farming methods.
In the afternoon start for another ride towards the Weru-Weru River, passing tobacco and smallholder farms.
We stop for a visit of the Makoa-River waterfall for some unusual wildlife viewing –a colony of rare mountain fruit bats in a cave below the waterfall. You may also see one of the shy, very impressive monitor lizards that live nearby.
Day 6: Day trip north-east through lush plantations…
… Chagga villages and small coffee farms, passing through scenic river valleys and a flower farm. We arrive on a beautiful coffee plantation with fantastic views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and over the Masaisteppe. Our lunch will be prepared under old trees.
Later in the afternoon we will make our way back, taking a slightly different route. What will not change is the permanent good mood of all local people we meet.
Day 7: Day trip to Kibo-Kikafu-Coffee Estate…
…..where we pay a visit to Tom, the 170 year old giant tortoise. During our lunch you will again enjoy breathtaking views. The ride back home through lush banana and coffee plantations as well as long fields offers possibilities for good canters.
The day ends with sunset on horseback and, weather permitting, the breathtaking scenery of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the evening sun.
Day 8: Ride and departure
After an early morning tea or coffee enjoy the day waking up from horseback. Take your last round through our coffee farm where you hopefully will spot some of the game which is on their way back to the riverine forest where they spend their day dozing in the shade.
After breakfast departure for your on- or home-going journey.