10 Days Exploring Mkomazi, Usambara Mountains & Saadani, Ending with Beach Leisure (7-Day Itinerary)

Best Season: June to October (Dry Season)

Max Group Size: 8 People
Elevation Gain: 1,500

What to Expect on This 10-Day Exploring Mkomazi, Usambara Mountains & Saadani, Ending with Beach Leisure

Tanzania’s incredible diversity captivates every traveler’s heart. Whether it’s an exhilarating safari tracking Africa’s Big Five, summiting the majestic Kilimanjaro, or unwinding on the pristine shores of Zanzibar, Tanzania truly has it all. At Paraiso, we specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored precisely to your dreams and desires.

Our most sought-after itineraries offer wonderful inspiration. Many of our guests cherish ending their thrilling safari adventure with a few tranquil days on Zanzibar’s breathtaking beaches. Does that sound like the perfect finale for you?

Whether you choose one of Paraiso’s curated journeys or prefer a completely personalized experience, our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Embark on your Tanzanian adventure with us, and explore this remarkable country exactly how you envision it.

Best season to visit: June to October (Dry Season)


Best Seasons to Trek
Jan–Mar

Peak trekking season: clear skies and stable weather.

Apr–Jun

Shoulder season: fewer crowds, occasional showers.

Jul–Sep

Dry season: best views but can be dusty.

Pricing


No pricing available for this trek.

What’s Included

  • Guided trekking with an experienced guide
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • All park fees & permits
  • Camping equipment & porters
What’s Not Included

  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses & tips
Arrival in Lushoto Day 1

Arrival in Lushoto

As you step out of Kilimanjaro International Airport, your personal Tanzania Specialist guide welcomes you warmly with a bright smile: “Karibu Tanzania – welcome to Tanzania!” From there, you’re escorted directly to your hotel, where you can unwind and soak in the vibrant African atmosphere. The following day, your guide leads you on an exclusive private safari, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Enjoy the comfort of your own safari vehicle and the freedom to pause as long as you wish to observe the incredible wildlife.

Accommodation
Salinero Kilimanjaro Lodge

Salinero Kilimanjaro Lodge

The Salinero Kilimanjaro Lodge is nestled in a leafy suburb, just a short 3-kilometer drive from Moshi town. Its well-ventilated rooms are thoughtfully designed to provide comfort after a busy … Lodge — 4★ Moshi
Mkomazi Nature Sanctuary Day 2

Mkomazi Nature Sanctuary

Covering an area of 3,200 square kilometers, Mkomazi National Park is located in northern Tanzania near Moshi and the Kenyan border. It forms an essential ecosystem together with Kenya’s Tsavo National Park, serving as a vital migration corridor for elephants, oryx, and zebras during the rainy season. A highlight of any visit is the Mbula Rhino Sanctuary, where you may get remarkably close to these majestic creatures right from your vehicle. On regular game drives, you’re likely to spot a variety of wildlife including giraffes, antelopes, buffalos, lions, leopards, and many more.

Accommodation
Mkomazi View Camp by African View

Mkomazi View Camp by African View

Mkomazi View Camp is tucked away in the remote Watershed Valley within Mkomazi National Park, offering breathtaking views over one of the park’s largest waterholes. Just a short distance from … Camp — 3★ Mkomazi
Western Usambara Mountains Day 3

Western Usambara Mountains

The Usambara Mountains, located just south of Mkomazi National Park, are a lush, green highland region known for their cool, refreshing climate—perfect for hiking adventures. Guided walks lead you across rolling hills, past cascading waterfalls, fertile farmlands, vibrant plantations, and through charming villages and lively markets, with breathtaking views around nearly every corner. Along the way, you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna, including colorful flowers, butterflies, chameleons, and an abundance of fruit trees. At the end of your trek, you’ll rest at Mambo View Point, one of the highest and most scenic lodges in the region, offering …

Accommodation
Mambo View Point Eco Lodge

Mambo View Point Eco Lodge

Mambo View Point Eco Lodge is a charming eco-retreat located in the remote village of Mambo, nestled high in the Usambara Mountains. Perched atop a mountaintop ridge, the lodge offers … Lodge — 3★ Mambo - Lushoto
Arrival & Waterfall Hike in Magoroto Forest Day 4

Arrival & Waterfall Hike in Magoroto Forest

Nestled at 850 meters above sea level, Magoroto Forest Estate sits within the lush Eastern Usambara Mountains, offering a serene escape surrounded by dense tropical rainforest. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a scenic hike along one of the estate’s tranquil trails, leading you to a picturesque waterfall — the perfect introduction to Magoroto’s natural beauty.

Accommodation
Magoroto Forest Estate

Magoroto Forest Estate

Magoroto Forest Estate is a unique lodge and campsite nestled deep within a tropical rainforest on the eastern slopes of the Usambara Mountains, not far from the city of Tanga. … Camp — 3★ Magoroto
Exploring Magoroto: From Boat Rides to Birdsong Day 5

Exploring Magoroto: From Boat Rides to Birdsong

Wake up to the sounds of the forest and a full day of adventure ahead. Enjoy a variety of activities including peaceful boat rides on the still freshwater lake, refreshing swims, catch-and-release fishing, birdwatching, horse riding, mountain biking, or exploring more hiking paths through the vibrant forest. Magoroto is a playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Accommodation
Magoroto Forest Estate

Magoroto Forest Estate

Magoroto Forest Estate is a unique lodge and campsite nestled deep within a tropical rainforest on the eastern slopes of the Usambara Mountains, not far from the city of Tanga. … Camp — 3★ Magoroto
Day 6 - 8: Saadani National Park Day 6

Day 6 - 8: Saadani National Park

Saadani National Park is a compact coastal park situated between Dar es Salaam and Tanga. It holds the unique distinction of being the only national park along East Africa’s coastline, offering a rare combination of daytime safaris followed by relaxation on pristine tropical beaches. During your safari—whether by vehicle, on foot, or by boat—you can expect to see waterbucks, gazelles, giraffes, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles, and baboons. With a bit of luck, you might even encounter elephants, lions, and leopards in this extraordinary setting.

Accommodation
Kijongo Bay Beach Resort

Kijongo Bay Beach Resort

Kijongo Bay Beach Resort is nestled along a pristine shoreline near Saadani National Park on Tanzania’s northeast coast. The resort features luxurious two-story beach villas, with king-size beds on the … Resort — 3★ Pangani
Day 9 - 10: Day 7

Day 9 - 10:

The final day has arrived! Savor the last moments of your holiday before our driver collects you and transfers you to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam for your departure flight. Feeling tempted to stay longer? You can easily extend your stay with a visit to paradise islands like Zanzibar, Pemba, or Mafia.

Essential Gear for This Trek

🧳 Rent or Buy Your Gear?

If you’ve already climbed peaks above 5,000 meters, you likely have most of the gear needed for Kilimanjaro. But for many of our guests, this is their first big trek — and that’s perfectly okay!

At Africano Paraiso, we recommend renting gear locally if you're not planning future climbs. A full kit can cost over $1,000, while rentals for essentials like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles are typically just $250–$300.

Planning more hikes? Then investing in your own equipment makes sense. Just remember: a full kit can weigh 15–17 kg. This matters when booking flights to Zanzibar or safari extensions, where luggage limits often cap at 15 kg.

Even experienced hikers often rent heavier gear for convenience. Whether you rent or bring your own, Africano Paraiso ensures you're fully prepared for a smooth and unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

No gear list available at the moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

This itinerary can be enjoyed year-round, but the best months are June to October (dry season) and January to February (short dry season) for optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable hiking conditions.

Yes! The mix of safari, forest exploration, and beach relaxation makes it ideal for families. Activities can be tailored to kids, and many accommodations offer family rooms or cottages.

You’ll stay in a mix of eco-lodges, tented camps, mountain retreats, and beach resorts, each offering unique comfort and character. Most have ensuite bathrooms and many offer WiFi, except for more remote areas where disconnection is part of the charm.

Moderately active. You’ll go on nature walks and hikes in the Usambara Mountains, which require some fitness. However, most of the itinerary (game drives, boat trips, beach time) is relaxing and suitable for all ages.

All safaris and transfers on this itinerary are private, meaning you’ll have your own guide and vehicle throughout the journey.

WiFi is available at most accommodations, but connectivity may be limited or unavailable in remote locations like Magoroto Lake or Mkomazi wilderness camps. This offers a great chance to unplug and enjoy nature.

Expect to see a variety of animals including giraffes, zebras, elephants, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, lions, and leopards, plus green sea turtles along Saadani’s coast and rich birdlife in the Usambaras.

Yes, all lodges and camps offer vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary options. Just inform us in advance, and we’ll notify all providers.

Absolutely. Extensions to beach destinations like Zanzibar, Pemba, or Mafia Island can be arranged easily—perfect for a few extra days of tropical relaxation.

Bring light, breathable clothing, a hat and sunglasses, good hiking shoes, insect repellent, a daypack, and swimwear. A full packing list is provided upon booking.

Price

Group Size & Pricing
Climbing Cost Includes
  • All airport & trailhead transfers (Toyota Alphard, Hiace/Coaster)
  • 3★ hotel in Moshi (bed & breakfast; half- & full-board upgrades available)
  • Premium camping equipment: 4-season tents, 3″ mats, tables, chairs, mess tents, hand-washing station
  • All meals on the mountain (custom diet plans at no extra cost)
  • Experienced WFR-certified guides & porter support team
  • Preventive oxygen bottles
  • Real-time GPS tracking link
  • Daily medical check-ups, fully-stocked medical kits & in-company doctor
  • 24/7 satellite-phone emergency support
  • All park fees & Tanzanian taxes (VAT, crew, rescue, conservation fees)
  • Dedicated back-office support team
  • Innovative online Personal Trip Board
  • Free safe-room & luggage storage
  • “Leave No Trace” waste-management team
  • Social-impact contributions to local communities
Climbing Cost Excludes
  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Tips for guides & porters (recommended US $250–350 pp)
  • Tanzania visa fee (approx. US $50; US citizens pay US $100)
  • Personal gear rentals (boots, sleeping bags, poles, etc.)
  • Single-occupancy supplement (hotel & tent)
  • Travel insurance (6 000 m altitude & helicopter evacuation required)
  • Portable toilet rental on mountain
  • Lunch & dinner at hotel before/after climb

Trekking Overview

Your 7-day adventure at a glance

7-Day Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Lushoto
  • Day 2
    Mkomazi Nature Sanctuary
  • Day 3
    Western Usambara Mountains
  • Day 4
    Arrival & Waterfall Hike in Magoroto Forest
  • Day 5
    Exploring Magoroto: From Boat Rides to Birdsong
  • Day 6
    Day 6 - 8: Saadani National Park
  • Day 7
    Day 9 - 10:
← Back to All Treks