10 Days Cycling Northern Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Moshi town. If you arrive early, you may opt for a day ride or walking tour. Dinner and overnight.

There are mountain biking trails for all skill levels in the area; beginners may cycle through pleasant banana or sugar cane plantations, or experienced riders could cycle through forest areas to a historic landmark and face some challenging hills. Ride varies from 5 kms – 35 kms, depending on preference. You may also pair this with a cultural tour and hot lunch of the local Chaaga tribe. Return to your accommodations for the evening. Full Board.

This exciting day is spent cycling in the rural area in West Kilimanjaro, known as ‘Maasai Land’. After breakfast, transfer by car to the starting point in West Kilimanjaro region and cycle through a protected wildlife area and traditional Maasai village. Animals sitings of impalas, zebras and wildebeests are common and if it is a clear day you may see great Mount Kilimanjaro as you ride. Option to overnight at a Maasai cultural lodge with swimming pool and other amenities, or stay with a local Maasai family in their boma for the ultimate cultural exchange. Full Board.

A 4-6 hour cycling day within Arusha National Park. After breakfast, depart by car to Arusha National Park Gate (Ngorongare Gate) to obtain permits and start your ride. Cycle through grasslands, along swampy areaa, and in the forests at the base of beautiful Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain. There is a good chance you will spy giraffe families in the grasslands and Cape buffalo in the swampy areas of this national park. Enjoy lunch at the relaxing Tululusia Waterfall or Momella Lakes. You may cycle the entire day or opt to return to your safari car if you are feeling tired after lunch. Departure through Momella Gate and overnight at a hotel/lodge in Arusha. Full Board

After an early breakfast, depart to Lake Manyara National Park in the safari jeep. See tree-climbing lions, herds of elephants, and of course, the impressive crater lake which it is named for. This is not a cycling day. Enjoy a full-day drive in this stunning park, with options to visit the hot springs and do a tree-top walk within the park. Overnight at a lodge or camp in the area. Full Board.

Enjoy the slower pace of life at Mtu wa Mbu Village, just outside of Manyara National Park. After a late breakfast, cycle through rice fields and banana plantations as you reach the Manyara lakeshore (2-3 hrs ride). Enjoy a local lunch with fresh fish from the lake. Option to add a school visit or a homestay in the Karatu area for an even more enriching experience. Overnight in Karatu (homestay or hotel/lodge). Full Board.

After an early breakfast, head to the famous Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive. Here you will see the highest density of animals in the world’s largest, intact volcanic caldera, including a chance to spy rhinos, hyenas, crater lions, and a multitude of zebras. A picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool is the perfect spot to relax and view hippos and exotic birds. This is not a cycling day, but if you’re feeling active, add a 1-2 hr Empakai Hike or nearby Elephant Cave Walk after lunch. Overnight in Karatu (homestay or hotel/lodge). Full Board.

The Ngorongoro Crater may be the most famous, but the entire conservation area is incredible, too! While cycling is not permitted in the crater, there are areas where cycling is permitted in the greater protected area. Enjoy a full day of cycling in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Highlands along the foothills of the beautiful Lolmalasin Mountain from Nainokanoka Campsite. Enjoy 3-6 hours of cycling, at your own pace and a picnic lunch during your ride. Ride length could be 10 km or 30, you decide! This is the last cycling day. Return to Karatu accommodations for overnight. Full Board.

After breakfast, depart to Tarangire National Park, famous for it’s large population of elephants, the Tarangire River, and baobab trees. Enjoy a full-day game drive, overnight at a lodge or camping within the park. Full Board.

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a half-day game drive in Tarangire National Park, where you might spot predators such as lions and leopards prowling in the tall grass. After lunch, return to Arusha. This is the final day of the tour. Breakfast and Lunch provided.