Twin Peaks
17 Days Starting in Nairobi, Kenya and ending in Arusha, Tanzania
Visiting: Nairobi, Mount Kenya National Park, Mount Kenya, Arusha, Lemosho Gate, Shira Plateau, Mount Kilimanjaro
Tour operator:
Tour code:
TWP
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 12
Trip Styles:
Active, Adventure Tours, Camping, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the ultimate adventure with the Twin Peaks tour, a thrilling journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania. This challenging trek takes you to the highest peaks in Africa, starting with the ascent of Mt. Kenya via the scenic Chogoria and Sirimon routes, culminating at Point Lenana (4985m). Experience the diverse flora and fauna as you traverse lush forests and high moorlands. Continue your adventure on the Lemosho route to conquer Mt. Kilimanjaro, reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak (5895m) for a sunrise like no other. With experienced local guides, porters, and fully supported camping, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Africa's majestic mountains, complete with panoramic views and encounters with wildlife. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in Nairobi and Arusha, and savor the thrill of standing atop Africa's iconic peaks.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Nairobi
Location: Nairobi
Accommodation Name: Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill Hotel
Upon arrival, please make your way to the group hotel for overnight accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure in Nairobi.
Overnight: Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill Hotel
Day 2 : Drive To Mt Kenya National Park
Location: Mount Kenya National Park
Accommodation Name: Bandas (cottages)
This morning we head to Chogoria Village (approx 4-5 hours drive). In the afternoon you will ascend the steep and rutted track to the Bandas (cottages) in woodland near the Chogoria gate (3,017m) of the Mt Kenya National Park. We will stay here overnight. Our gear will be transported by Land Rovers while we acclimatise with our first walk at altitude (approx. 1 hour).
Day 3 : Ascend Mt Kenya To Lake Ellis (3500M)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: Camp at Lake Ellis
Meals Included: Lunch
The flora and fauna surrounding the Bandas is prolific, with the possibility of seeing game in the surrounding forest (Elephant, Buffalo, Antelope, Colobus Monkey, Augur Buzzard & Verreaux's Eagle). As we walk, the forest gradually drops away and we enter a high moorland zone. En route we ascend nearby Mugi Hill (3600m) to help with acclimatisation before arriving to camp. Lake Ellis (3500m), where we camp tonight, is a peaceful spot with good views of the main peaks and we arrive in time for lunch. (approx. 6 hrs)
Day 4 : Trek To Lake Michaelson (4000M)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: Camp at Lake Michaelson
The initial trek away from the lake ascends gentle moorland to attain a ridge that eventually joins the main Chogoria route at its best viewpoint. After enjoying views of Vivienne Falls and the Gorges Valley we descend to the little visited Lake Michaelson (3,830m) and possibly the most beautiful campsite on the walk. Overhead tower the cliffs of the Temple while Tacazze Sunbirds flit amongst the giant Groundsel and Lobelia and Hyraxes hop around in the rocks.
(approx. 6 - 8 hrs)
Day 5 : Trek To Simba Tarn (4560M)
Accommodation Name: Simba Tarn
Meals Included: Lunch
The trek now enters the Alpine Zone - after quite a boggy start to the walk the walking surface soon becomes scree. You will soon reach Simba Tarn at 4560m, in time for a late lunch. An afternoon walk will assist with acclimatisation.
(approx. 4-6 hrs)
Day 6 : Ascend Point Lenana (4985M), Descend Via Mackinders Valley To Old Moses Camp (3400M)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: Old Moses Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a hot drink you will leave at 3:30 am for the steep ascent (2 - 2.5 hrs) of Point Lenana (4,985m) in time for sunrise. Although the climb is straightforward, the final section is hard work at this altitude. From the summit it is often possible to see Mt Kilimanjaro 320km away as well as the nearby climbing peaks of Mt Kenya; Nelion and Batian which should be bathed in golden sunlight at this time of the morning. We descend back to Simba Tarn for a well-earned cooked breakfast, and continue our descent via the Mackinder Valley to Shipton's Camp before joining the Sirimon Route to Old Moses Camp. The walk today is long and exhausting and will challenge even the fittest of walkers. However the thrill of standing on the roof of Kenya, will be sure to make the effort worthwhile. (approx 11-12 hours walking)
Day 7 : Descend Sirimon Valley To Base And Transfer To Nairobi
Location: Nairobi
Accommodation Name: Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast we head through the Sirimon Valley and down through the lush forest belt to the Park Gate where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Nairobi at around 10:00am (approx. 2 hours walking). We drive on to Nairobi where we farewell our Kenyan crew. Arrival at the hotel in Nairobi is around 16:00hrs. The remainder of the day is at leisure for showers, laundry and relaxing.
Overnight: Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill Hotel
Day 8 : Transfer To Arusha
Location: Arusha
Accommodation Name: Moivaro Coffee Plantation
This morning we are transferred by private transfer to our Lodge in Arusha. We will cross the Kenya - Tanzania border at Namanga and arrive early afternoon. We stay at the Moivaro Coffee Plantation which has spacious rooms, a pool, and restaurant. This afternoon at 16:30 you will meet the rest of the group and your guide for a trip
briefing.
Day 9 : Drive To Lemosho Gate, Commence Climb To Lemosho Big Tree Camp (2650M)
Location: Lemosho Gate
Accommodation Name: Lemosho Big Tree Camp
Meals Included: Lunch
After completing the necessary registration formalities, we drive through varied farmland with open views over the plains to reach the Lemosho Gate roadhead. The last section of the road is of poor quality and difficult to drive after rain, and the drive there should be considered as part of the adventure, sometimes we start walking a kilometre or two below the roadhead. We often have our lunch at the roadhead before starting to walk. It is an easy day of walking up a small path through beautiful and lush forest. We camp at Lemosho Big Tree Camp (2650m); [2-3 hours walking]
Day 10 : To Shira One Camp (3550M)
Location: Shira Plateau
Accommodation Name: Shira One Camp
We soon leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone of giant heather. The trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. There is a tangible sense of wilderness, especially if afternoon mists come in! We camp in the centre of the plateau at “Shira One” (3550m). [6-7 hours walking]
Day 11 : To Shira Hut Camp (3840M)
Location: Shira Plateau
Accommodation Name: Shira Hut Camp
An easy day to help acclimatisation, and to explore the volcanic rock formations of Shira Plateau. We walk to the summit of Shira Cathedral before reaching the next camp at Shira Hut (3840m). This campsite has stunning views, close to the glaciated dome of Kibo and the jagged rim of Shira Plateau. The views from here of Mt. Meru floating on the clouds are simply unforgettable. [4-5 hours walking]
Day 12 : Trek Near Lava Tower Junction (4550M)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Camp near Lava Tower junction
Meals Included: Lunch
A morning of gentle ascent and panoramic views, leaving the moorland plateau behind to walk on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch near the Lava Tower junction (4550m) we descend to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3900 m), sheltered by towering cliffs and with extensive views of the plains far below. [5-7 hours walking]
Day 13 : To Karanga (4000M)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Karanga Camp
A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us to an undulating trail on the southeastern flank of Kibo, with superb vistas of the Southern Icefields. The terrain changes to scree, with pockets of lush vegetation in sheltered hollows, and there is only a short distance to our camp at Karanga (4000m), the last water point on the way to the summit. [4-5 hours walking]
Day 14 : To Barafu Campsite (4600M)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Barafu Camp
Meals Included: Lunch
We follow an easy path on compacted scree with wide views that gains altitude unrelentingly to reach the Barafu campsite (4600m) for lunch. There is a short acclimatisation walk to the plateau at the bottom of the South-East valley (4800m). The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. [3-5 hours walking]
Day 15 : Summit Uhuru Peak (5895M), Then Descend To Millenium Camp (3800M)
Location: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation Name: Millenium Camp
We will start our ascent by torchlight at about 1 a.m. so that we can be up on the Crater rim by sunrise. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some wellgraded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to Stella Point (5735m), in about five or six hours. We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the two hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5895m), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Barafu is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach our final campsite Millenium (3800m). [11-15 hours walking]
Day 16 : Descend To Mweka, Transfer To Arusha
Location: Arusha
Accommodation Name: Moivaro Coffee Plantation
A sustained descent on a well constructed path through lovely tropical forest alive with birdsong and boasting lush undergrowth with considerable botanical interest. Our route winds down to the National Park gate at Mweka (1650m). Here we sign out from the National Park before walking on for a further 15 minutes through coffee and banana farms to Mweka village where our vehicle awaits. The shower, the beer, and the swimming pool are tantalisingly close! Overnight at Moivaro Coffee
Plantation. [4-6 hours walking]
Day 17 : In Arusha, Trip Concludes
Location: Arusha
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Arusha, after breakfast at your hotel, the trip arrangements end.
What's Included
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16 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 14 dinners
The tour includes 16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners.
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4 nights in 3 star hotels in Nairobi and Arusha on a twinshare basis
Accommodation includes 4 nights in 3-star hotels in Nairobi and Arusha on a twinshare basis.
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12 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis
The tour includes 12 nights of fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis.
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Private transfers (including one-way transfer from Nairobi to Arusha)
Private transfers are included, including a one-way transfer from Nairobi to Arusha.
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Experienced local guides, cook and camp crew
The tour includes experienced local guides, a cook, and a camp crew.
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Group camping equipment including tent (sleeping bag and mat not included)
Group camping equipment, including tents, is provided (sleeping bags and mats are not included).
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Porters to carry personal and group equipment
Porters are provided to carry personal and group equipment.
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Park entrance fees valued at US$1464
Park entrance fees valued at US$1464 are included.
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Safety equipment including portable altitude chamber and group medical kit (Mt Kenya); emergency group oxygen and group medical kit (Mt Kilimanjaro)
Safety equipment, including a portable altitude chamber and group medical kit for Mt Kenya, and emergency group oxygen and group medical kit for Mt Kilimanjaro, is included.
What's Not Included
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International or domestic flights
International or domestic flights are not included.
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Arrival or departure transfers in Nairobi and Arusha
Arrival or departure transfers in Nairobi and Arusha are not included.
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Sleeping bags & sleeping mats
Sleeping bags and sleeping mats are not included.
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Restaurant meals in Nairobi and Arusha and meals not mentioned in the itinerary as included
Restaurant meals in Nairobi and Arusha and meals not mentioned in the itinerary as included are not provided.
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Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Bottled water, aerated, and alcoholic drinks are not included.
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Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls and laundry are not included.
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Tips & gratuities
Tips and gratuities are not included.
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Airport and departure taxes
Airport and departure taxes are not included.
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Additional transport or accommodation required due to any emergency situation
Additional transport or accommodation required due to any emergency situation is not included and should be covered by travel insurance.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights in 3-star hotels in Nairobi and Arusha on a twin-share basis, and 12 nights of fully supported camping with twin-share tents. All accommodations are of a good standard, ensuring comfort throughout your adventure.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rain jacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc. Porters carry all group gear and your main luggage in your own trek pack/ duffle bag.
Grading
To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the walking terrain, the altitude, and the length of the trek. Twin Peaks is graded challenging and is considered to be one of the most difficult treks in Africa, suitable for experienced walkers only. Undoubtedly the altitude is the main factor in determining the challenging grade of the trip, however, the terrain you will be required to ascend and descend through is difficult to negotiate at times, with some rock scrambling and long ascents. This trip has been designed to achieve the best possible acclimatisation in the time frame.
As with all our Challenging programs, we expect people to be regular outdoors people, enjoying aerobic sport around four or five times a week over some period of time. Preferably this has been a long term interest but if not, you have set a program of fitness preparation with at least three months lead in time to your trip. The fitter you are for your trip, the more of a holiday it will be. Activities as close to the actual activity on your trip are the best training; in this instance walking and climbing, with and without a pack. This builds leg strength, aerobic capacity and confidence in your ability to travel comfortably with a pack for extended periods.
Whilst the ascents of both Mt Kenya & Mt Kilimanjaro are not a technical climb, it is nevertheless a short and steep trek at altitude in possibly adverse weather conditions, and for many people it will be the hardest physical trek of their life. In order to get the most out of the trip, people should join in Nairobi with a maximum state of fitness. There is not time to ‘get fit on the trek’ as with some of our other longer trekker programs elsewhere.
Wildlife
The wilderness areas of Africa are populated by large numbers of wild and potentially dangerous animals. The trip aims to view these animals in their natural habitat, uncontrolled by fences. Your experienced guides will make every effort to ensure the safety of the group at all times. Please be aware that all safari travel, including vehicle safaris in the proximity of wild animals is never entirely without risk. By travelling into wild areas in search of wild animals, all participants accept that they are choosing an adventure that includes an element of risk and this is an inherent aspect of the enjoyment of this style of travel.
Mode of Transport
Private transfers are provided, including a one-way transfer from Nairobi to Arusha. Gear is transported by Land Rovers during the trek, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights in 3-star hotels in Nairobi and Arusha on a twin-share basis, and 12 nights of fully supported camping on a twin-share tent basis.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners.
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What kind of support is provided during the trek?
The trek is fully supported with experienced local guides, a cook, and camp crew. Porters are available to carry personal and group equipment.
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What safety equipment is available during the trek?
Safety equipment includes a portable altitude chamber and group medical kit for Mt Kenya, and emergency group oxygen and a group medical kit for Mt Kilimanjaro.
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What is the grading of the Twin Peaks trek?
The Twin Peaks trek is graded as challenging and is considered one of the most difficult treks in Africa, suitable for experienced walkers only.
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What wildlife might be encountered during the trek?
While trekking, there is a possibility of seeing wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, antelope, colobus monkeys, augur buzzards, and Verreaux's eagles in the surrounding forest areas.
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What should I carry in my daypack during the trek?
In your daypack, you should carry extra warm clothing, a rain jacket, a water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.