Kilimanjaro Day Tours: Top 5 Unforgettable Experiences
So, you are looking to soak up some of the splendor surrounding Mount Kilimanjaro, huh? You know, maybe you don’t have weeks to dedicate to a full climb, very understandable! Well, it’s almost like full-day tours can provide a remarkable peek into the landscapes and local cultures that make this region so special. Now, that this iconic mountain has very diverse habitats and vibrant communities at its base, these day trips offer a blend of adventure and cultural exchange. You find yourself wanting something that goes a little beyond just the typical tourist traps? Then, let’s unpack the top five Kilimanjaro full-day tours that you should, in a way, look at.
Materuni Waterfall Hike and Coffee Tour
Alright, now if you enjoy a scenic hike with a caffeinated twist, this could be the choice for you. I mean, the Materuni Waterfall Hike and Coffee Tour is often ranked very high for those visiting the Kilimanjaro area. Now, Materuni is the home to the Chagga tribe, it’s a beautiful village that, too, offers a look into local life alongside some amazing natural beauty. As a matter of fact, you begin with a hike through lush landscapes, a little reminiscent of a scene from a movie, making your way towards the Materuni Waterfall. I think that reaching the waterfall is, almost, the best reward, with its clear water cascading down into a refreshing pool, a nice spot for some photos!
After the hike, there’s typically a visit to a local coffee farm where you learn everything about coffee production, all the way from bean to cup. You know, you get to participate in the roasting and grinding process, so it is an interactive and sensory experience. Honestly, I found that you can fully appreciate every sip knowing just how much labor went into it! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Materuni Waterfall Hike)
Chemka Hot Springs (Kikuletwa Hot Springs)
So, this tour is rather good for some relaxation with some natural beauty. As a matter of fact, the Chemka Hot Springs, often called Kikuletwa Hot Springs, is basically an oasis. Actually, it features incredibly clear, geothermal waters perfect for a relaxing swim. Usually located not too far from Moshi, these springs provide a super change of pace if you compare it with hiking. I mean, you can kick back under the shade of some trees, maybe get to enjoy the calming sounds around you. In other words, this makes Chemka Springs perfect spot for a chill day trip, right?
Now, the water temperature is just right for swimming, and because of the size of the area, it almost feels like you are at your own little private pool. Still, do remember that these areas can be quite popular during the peak seasons, like yours, it might be better to visit during the week, if possible, just so you are able to avoid some weekend crowds. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Chemka Hot Springs Tour)
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Day Hike
Alright, for a tiny taste of mountain climbing without a large commitment, you may find the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park day hike, is perfect. You see, this tour allows you to get, like, a sneak peek experience of what it’s kinda like trekking up this iconic mountain, but only just to a lower altitude! What usually happens is you can begin at the Marangu Gate, and that’s the official start of the famous Marangu Route, in other words, known as the “Coca-Cola” route. Basically, what’s special about it, is that this lets you hike through some stunning rainforest zones and get, too, the feel of being on the mountain. I mean, if you look around enough you could even spot some interesting birds and maybe a monkey or two if you are a little attentive to detail!
The day hikes usually include lunch and guided walks, so that too gives you, just the slightest hint, what those multi-day expeditions involve. You see, it is basically suitable for pretty much everyone, like anyone wanting a bit of adventure, but without the strains involved in bigger altitudes. Read our full review: Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Day Hike Full Review and Details
Lake Chala Day Trip
As a matter of fact, located on the border of Kenya and Tanzania, Lake Chala is often called, a hidden volcanic crater lake. This means, basically, that this offers some gorgeous views and some good hikes in the quiet countryside. Basically, that makes it a very perfect spot to escape any crowds and city buzz that there might be around. It, too, boasts a rich ecosystem; usually, you might just see a diverse range of birds and maybe some unique plants all over the place! Basically, what happens on these day trips, is it involves some nice walking down into the crater and so reaching the lakeside.
Anyway, Lake Chala’s appeal is in its tranquility, you know, its crystal-clear waters are great to watch. Anyway, for anyone seeking to snap some photos in solitude, then, so, too, this would make a superb photographic day trip destination. Yet do keep in mind, though, just because swimming can happen sometimes, water levels can still change the rules there so maybe it’s best to just double-check before you dip yourself in! Read our full review: Lake Chala Day Trip Full Review and Details
Arusha National Park Day Safari
Now, so, for some wildlife watchers, Arusha National Park does provides a mini safari. Anyway it’s not that far from Mount Kilimanjaro. As a matter of fact, the park offers you such things, maybe, as giraffes and zebras alongside things like flamingos, well maybe just some water buffalo if you are there at the right time of the season! Seriously, there’s something quite special if you paddle around the Momella Lakes! Usually, this trip lets you, well basically, just get really up close, not too close, still very up close when watching animals with a super backdrop made out of Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru off at the distant edges if that’s alright by you?
Frankly what’s very great about doing these quick jaunts as against longer game excursions that take up more travel distance somewhere deep through those plains which would have been so tiring. What’s also useful is that lunch plans get figured, in that sense providing those comfy safari rides without really burning through too much time finding grub otherwise needed, should visitors just have been wandering here all self guided somehow! Honestly? An excellent safari if anyone does desires viewing all the wildlife whilst really hugging that lovely majestic snow dusted peak you want see anyhow; win win right?!? Read our full review: Arusha National Park Day Safari Full Review and Details
