Kilimanjaro Summit & Zambezi River Expedition
14 Days / 13 Nights · Tanzania, Zambia & Zimbabwe · From $9,850 per person
Overview
14-Day Ultimate Africa Adventure by SAZ Travel Collection
Embark on the ultimate African bucket-list expedition combining the legendary summit of Mount Kilimanjaro with the adrenaline-filled rapids of the powerful Zambezi River near the world-famous Victoria Falls.
This carefully curated 14-day luxury adventure by SAZ Travel Collection blends mountain achievement, safari-style luxury, African culture, wellness recovery, river rafting, wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes into one remarkable experience.
Perfect for adventure travelers, corporate incentive groups, friends and group expeditions, luxury active travelers, bucket-list seekers, couples, and thrill seekers looking for an experience that truly defines the word extraordinary.
Perfect For
Duration
14 Days / 13 Nights
Countries
Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Group Size
2-12 Guests
Style
Luxury Adventure
Best Season
Jun-Oct / Jan-Feb
Price
From $9,850/person
Highlights
Your Expedition Experience
Kilimanjaro Summit via Machame Route
Conquer Africa's highest peak via the scenic Machame Route - one of the best acclimatization routes with diverse landscapes from rainforest to alpine desert and glaciers at the summit.
Luxury Lodge Before & After Climb
Stay in premium lodges in Moshi before and after your summit attempt, with spa recovery, gourmet dining, and mountain views to celebrate your achievement in style.
Zambezi River White-Water Rafting
Experience the adrenaline-pumping rapids of the mighty Zambezi River - one of the world's greatest white-water rafting destinations, right below the thundering Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls Guided Tour
Stand in awe before one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Your private guide reveals the history, ecology, and spectacular viewpoints of the world's largest waterfall.
Sunset Zambezi River Cruise
Glide along the Zambezi at sunset aboard a luxury river cruise, with hippos, elephants, and crocodiles along the banks as the African sun melts into the horizon.
Private Chef Support on the Mountain
Unlike standard climbs, SAZ provides private chef support during your Kilimanjaro ascent - ensuring gourmet hot meals and proper nutrition at every camp to fuel your summit success.
Pricing
Suggested Luxury Pricing
Groups of 2-4 Travelers
$9,850
per person
Standard luxury pricing for small groups and couples.
Groups of 5-8 Travelers
$8,372
per person
Special group discount applied automatically.
Day by Day
Your 14-Day Expedition
Part I - Days 1-9
Kilimanjaro Summit Expedition
8-Day Luxury Machame Route Journey
1
Arrival in Tanzania - VIP Welcome to Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where your SAZ representative greets you with VIP airport assistance. Private transfer to your luxury lodge in Moshi with stunning views of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy a welcome cocktail reception, Kilimanjaro orientation and safety briefing, professional gear inspection, and a relaxing mountain-view dinner. Tonight, soak in the atmosphere as Africa's highest peak watches over you.
2
Acclimatization and Cultural Experience
Today is designed to help your body acclimate before beginning the climb. Activities include a light waterfall hike near Kilimanjaro, a local coffee plantation tour, and a Tanzanian cultural village visit. Your guides conduct final climb preparation in the afternoon. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, packing assistance, and early rest before the trek begins tomorrow.
3
Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Begin your Kilimanjaro adventure through lush rainforest landscapes filled with tropical vegetation and wildlife. Elevation climbs from 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft over 5-7 hours of hiking. Highlights include rainforest scenery, giant ferns and moss-covered trees, and your first panoramic mountain views. Your private chef prepares a warm camp dinner as you celebrate Day 1 on the mountain.
4
Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Leave the rainforest behind and enter dramatic moorland terrain with incredible views across the mountain. Experience scenic ridge trekking, volcanic rock landscapes, and stunning sunset photography opportunities. A campfire dinner experience awaits as you gain altitude and the stars of the African sky emerge above you.
5
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp - Acclimatization Day
One of the most important acclimatization days of the climb. Trek to Lava Tower for high-altitude acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. Highlights include Barranco Valley views and giant senecio plants and alpine scenery unlike anywhere else on earth. Group storytelling around camp and hot meals with wellness monitoring in the evening.
6
Barranco Wall and Karanga Camp
Conquer the famous Barranco Wall - one of Kilimanjaro's most exciting and memorable climbing sections. Experiences include scenic scrambling sections, glacier viewpoints, mountain photography opportunities, and powerful team bonding. A luxury mountain dining setup and summit preparation discussions cap off an extraordinary day on the mountain.
7
Karanga Camp to Barafu Base Camp
Ascend to base camp in preparation for summit night. Included activities are a final equipment check, summit safety briefing, early dinner, and rest. Watch a stunning sunset over the clouds from Barafu Base Camp before your guides wake you in the early hours for your summit push.
8
Summit Night - Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft) and Descent
The defining moment of your expedition. Depart Barafu at midnight to reach Stella Point at dawn and push on to Uhuru Peak - the Roof of Africa at 19,341 ft. Stand on the summit as the sun rises over the continent in one of the most powerful moments of your life. Descend to Mweka Camp for rest and celebration. Your SAZ team ensures every safety protocol is followed for your wellbeing throughout.
9
Descent to Moshi - Luxury Lodge Recovery
Complete your descent to Mweka Gate and transfer back to your luxury lodge in Moshi. A well-earned spa treatment, hot shower, and gourmet celebration dinner await. Your summit certificate is presented with ceremony. Rest, recover, and relive the extraordinary achievement of summiting Africa's highest peak.
Part II - Days 10-14
Zambezi & Victoria Falls Experience
5 Days of River Adventure and Wonder
10
Fly to Livingstone, Zambia - Zambezi Arrival
After a leisurely morning in Moshi, transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight to Livingstone, Zambia. Arrive at your luxury riverside lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River. The sound of Victoria Falls can be heard in the distance. Enjoy a welcome dinner and orientation for the next thrilling chapter of your expedition.
11
Victoria Falls - The Smoke That Thunders
Experience one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders with a private guided tour of Victoria Falls - known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning 'The Smoke That Thunders.' Walk the rainforest paths along the gorge edge, feel the mist on your face, and witness the full 1.7 km curtain of water plunging 108 metres into the Batoka Gorge. Afternoon at leisure. Optional helicopter flight over the Falls for an unforgettable aerial perspective.
12
Zambezi River White-Water Rafting
An adrenaline-fueled day on the Zambezi - one of the world's great white-water rafting rivers. Navigate Grade 4 and 5 rapids through the dramatic Batoka Gorge with expert guides. This is bucket-list rafting at its finest - powerful water, towering canyon walls, and the thrill of conquering Africa's mightiest river. A riverside lunch and recovery time follow your rafting adventure.
13
Sunset Zambezi River Cruise and Zimbabwe Day Trip
Morning at leisure or optional Zimbabwe border crossing to visit the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls for additional viewpoints. Afternoon game drive along the Zambezi National Park. As the sun begins its descent, board your private luxury sunset river cruise - hippos, elephants, and crocodiles line the banks as the Zambezi turns to gold. A gourmet farewell dinner at your lodge rounds out an unforgettable evening.
14
Farewell Africa - Departure
Enjoy a final African breakfast at your riverside lodge. Private transfer to Livingstone Airport for your international departure. Your SAZ concierge handles all logistics ensuring a seamless conclusion to this extraordinary 14-day journey - from the summit of Kilimanjaro to the thundering waters of the Zambezi. An expedition that will define your sense of adventure forever.
Accommodations
Recommended Hotels & Lodges
Kibo Palace Hotel
Moshi, Tanzania
A luxury boutique hotel at the foot of Kilimanjaro with stunning mountain views, a swimming pool, spa services, and exceptional Tanzanian cuisine. The perfect base for your pre and post-climb recovery.
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Arusha, Tanzania
Set within a working coffee plantation, this Elewana Collection property offers elegant cottages, a world-class spa, and a serene atmosphere ideal for pre-expedition acclimatization and relaxation.
The Royal Livingstone Hotel
Livingstone, Zambia
An iconic luxury hotel perched on the banks of the Zambezi River, just 200 metres from Victoria Falls. Elegant colonial architecture, infinity pool overlooking the river, and exceptional service make this one of Africa's great hotels.
Tongabezi Lodge
Livingstone, Zambia
An extraordinary riverside lodge built into the banks of the Zambezi with open-fronted cottages and tree houses overlooking the river. Renowned for its romance, wildlife encounters, and legendary sunset dinners.
Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
One of Africa's most iconic grand hotels, dating to 1904, with sweeping views of the Victoria Falls Bridge and Zambezi Gorge. A timeless colonial landmark offering refined luxury and unparalleled history.
Final accommodation selection is confirmed based on travel dates, availability, and group preferences. SAZ Travel Collection sources the finest available options for every stay.
Elevate Your Experience
Upgrade to VIP
Take your expedition to the next level with these exclusive add-on experiences curated by SAZ Travel Collection.
Helicopter Summit Overflight
Add a private helicopter flight over Kilimanjaro's glaciers and crater for a once-in-a-lifetime aerial perspective of Africa's highest peak.
Victoria Falls Bungee Jump
Take the ultimate leap from the Victoria Falls Bridge - 111 metres above the Zambezi Gorge - for an adrenaline experience that matches the scale of your expedition.
Private Helicopter over Victoria Falls
Soar above the full 1.7 km curtain of Victoria Falls in a private helicopter for unparalleled aerial photography and perspective of the world's largest waterfall.
Gorilla Trekking Extension - Rwanda
Add 3 nights in Rwanda for a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park before or after your Kilimanjaro summit.
Serengeti Safari Extension
Extend your Tanzania experience with a 3-night luxury safari in the Serengeti - witnessing the Great Migration, Big 5, and the endless plains from a private luxury camp.
Private Summit Celebration Dinner
A private chef-prepared celebration dinner at your Moshi lodge on summit night - champagne, gourmet cuisine, and a personalised summit certificate ceremony.
Contact our concierge to discuss VIP upgrade pricing and availability for your expedition dates.
Included
What's Included
- 13 nights in luxury lodges and riverside accommodations
- Kilimanjaro park permits and rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- Premium mountain tents and equipment
- All meals during the Kilimanjaro climb
- Private chef support on the mountain
- Oxygen and emergency support equipment
- Zambezi River rafting excursion with expert guides
- Sunset Zambezi river cruise
- Victoria Falls private guided tour
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Select fine dining experiences
- Local guides and concierge support throughout
- 24/7 SAZ Travel Collection concierge support
Price is per person. Groups of 5-8 receive 15% discount ($8,372/person). International airfare not included. Contact our concierge for a customised quote.
Kilimanjaro Packing List
Expert-curated gear checklist for Saz, covering every zone from tropical rainforest to arctic summit. Separate lists for her and him with all essentials included.
Print-friendly with checkboxes
Critical Gear Note
Your hiking boots must be broken in before arrival. New boots cause severe blisters at altitude. Begin wearing them on training hikes at least 6-8 weeks before departure. Gear rental is available in Moshi.
72+
Total Items
44
Essential
7
Categories
Clothing & Layers
- Moisture-Wicking Base Layer Top (Fitted)★
- Moisture-Wicking Base Layer Leggings★
- Mid-Layer Fleece Jacket★
- Insulated Down Jacket (Summit Night)★
- Waterproof Hardshell Jacket★
- Waterproof Hardshell Trousers★
- Trekking Trousers x2 (Lightweight)★
- Lightweight T-Shirts x3-4
- Sports Bras x3 (Moisture-Wicking)★
- Thermal Underwear Set★
- Wide-Brim Sun Hat★
- Warm Beanie Hat★
- Balaclava Or Neck Gaiter★
- Lightweight Gloves★
- Expedition-Weight Mittens (Summit)★
- Gaiters (Waterproof)For Summit Night Snow
- Comfortable Camp Clothes For Evenings
Footwear
- Waterproof Hiking Boots (Broken In)★Must Be Worn In 6-8 Weeks Before Arrival
- Trekking Poles (2 Poles)★
- Camp Sandals / Flip-Flops
- Liner Socks x4-6 Pairs
- Thick Hiking Socks x4-6 Pairs★
- Plastic Bag Liners For Boots (Wet Conditions)
Gear & Equipment
- Sleeping Bag Rated To -10C Or Colder★
- Sleeping Bag Liner (Adds Warmth)
- Daypack 20-30L (Carried By You)★
- Large Duffel Bag 70-90L (Carried By Porter)★
- Dry Bags / Waterproof Stuff Sacks★
- Headlamp + Spare Batteries★
- Water Bottles (2 x 1L) Or Hydration Bladder★
- Thermos Flask (For Hot Drinks At Summit)
- Sunglasses (Category 3-4 UV Protection)★
- Buff / Neck Gaiter
Health & First Aid
- Diamox (Altitude Medication)★Consult Your Doctor Before Departure
- Personal Prescription Medications★
- Blister Plasters / Moleskin★
- Ibuprofen / Paracetamol★
- Anti-Diarrhea Medication
- Rehydration Salts / Electrolyte Tablets★
- Antiseptic Cream And Bandages
- Lip Balm With SPF★
- Sunscreen SPF 50+★
- Insect Repellent (DEET-Based)
- Hand Sanitizer★
- Wet Wipes / Biodegradable Soap
- Feminine Hygiene Products★Pack More Than You Think You Need
- Anti-Malaria Tablets★Begin Before Departure
Personal & Comfort
- Passport + Copy (Keep Separately)★
- Travel Insurance Documents★Must Include Emergency Evacuation Cover
- Emergency Cash (USD)★
- Snacks (Energy Bars, Nuts, Dried Fruit)★
- High-Energy Summit Snacks (Chocolate, Gels)
- Toothbrush And Toothpaste
- Small Microfibre Towel
- Minimal Skincare / Moisturiser (Altitude Dries Skin)
- Earplugs (Camp Noise)
- Journal / Reading Material
- Small Padlock For Duffel
Electronics & Photography
- Camera With Extra Batteries / CardsCold Kills Batteries Fast At Altitude
- Portable Power Bank (Large Capacity)★
- Universal Travel Adapter
- Phone With Offline Maps Downloaded★
- Earphones / Headphones
- Waterproof Phone Case Or Dry Bag
- Solar Charger (Optional)
Documents & Admin
- Valid Passport (6+ Months Validity)★
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate★Required For Tanzania Entry
- Travel Insurance Policy★
- SAZ Booking Confirmation
- Emergency Contact List
- Medical Information Card
- Credit Card + Cash (USD)★
Expert Advice
SAZ Guide Tips
Layer System Is Everything
Kilimanjaro spans 5 climatic zones. You will go from tropical heat to arctic cold. Pack layers you can add and remove quickly.
Weight Matters On The Mountain
Your daypack (carried by you) should weigh no more than 8-10kg. Your porter carries the rest. Pack smart and pack light.
Break In Your Boots
This is the single most important preparation step. New boots cause debilitating blisters. Start wearing your summit boots 6-8 weeks before departure.
Cold Kills Batteries
Lithium batteries perform much better than alkaline in extreme cold. Keep your headlamp and camera batteries warm in your inner pockets on summit night.
Download The Complete Packing List For Kilimanjaro
Print-friendly PDF with checkboxes - includes Her and His lists
Before You Book
Booking Policy
Clear, fair, and transparent. Here is a summary of our key booking terms for this expedition. Please read the full policy before confirming your reservation.
Payment Terms
- 25% non-refundable deposit required at booking
- Remaining balance due 90 days before departure
- Full payment required if booking within 90 days of departure
- Accepted: wire transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Amex, ACH
Cancellation Schedule
- !120+ days before: deposit only forfeited
- !91-119 days: 30% of total trip cost
- !61-90 days: 50% of total trip cost
- !0-60 days: 75-100% of total trip cost
Changes & Amendments
- Amendment fee of $150 per change may apply
- Date changes 90+ days before: treated as amendment
- Date changes within 90 days: treated as cancellation
- All change requests must be submitted in writing
Travel Insurance (Required)
- Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory
- Must cover emergency medical evacuation
- Minimum $100,000 USD evacuation coverage recommended
- Must include trip cancellation and interruption cover
At a Glance
Deposit
25% at booking
Final Payment
90 days out
Amendment Fee
$150 per change
Insurance
Required
By confirming a booking you acknowledge that you have read and agreed to our full booking policy. Read the full Booking Policy
Starting from
$9,850
per person (groups of 2-4)
Trip Details
Duration
14 Days / 13 Nights
Countries
Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Group Size
2-12 Guests
Style
Luxury Adventure
Best Season
Jun-Oct / Jan-Feb
Price
From $9,850/person
Group Discount
15% OFF
Groups of 5-8 travelers save $1,478 per person
Kilimanjaro Packing List
Download our complete packing list for your Kilimanjaro climb.
Download Packing List
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Reserve Your Expedition
Book Your Kilimanjaro & Zambezi Expedition
Complete the form below and our concierge will respond within 24 hours to confirm availability and begin personalising your expedition.
Questions? CONCIERGE@saztravelscollections.com
Ready for Your Ultimate Africa Expedition?
Let SAZ Travel Collection craft your Kilimanjaro and Zambezi adventure - fully personalised, expertly guided, and unforgettable.