Diamonds in the Rough Mount Kenya Ascent & Zanzibar retreat

On arrival in Nairobi you will be meet and transferred to the group hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure in Kenya's capital city. Recommended group flight; 21 July EK 413 depart Sydney at 2120 arrive Dubai 0540 (22 July) connecting with 22 July EK 719 depart Dubai 1015 arrive Nairobi 1415 Overnight - Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill

Meals:  Nil

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 for the night. Our gear will be transported by Land Rovers while we acclimatise with our first walk at altitude (approx. 1 hour).

Meals:  B,L,D

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)

Meals:  B,L,D

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 hours)

Meals:  B,L,D

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)

Meals:  B,L,D

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 Liki North where we 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. 9-10 hours walking)

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast we continue descending for approximately 2 hours to Old Moses camp 3400m and the tarmac roadhead at the forest line. Here we bid farewell to the porters and crew and drive down through the lush forest belt to the Park Gate. After completing the exit formalities our transport will take us on the 5 hour drive back to Nairobi, and we farewell our Kenyan crew here. Overnight - Best Western Nairobi Upper Hill

Meals:  B,L

This morning you will transfer to Nairobi Airport for your flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar, "The Spice Island". Group flight; Recommended group flight; 29 July KQ 490 depart Nairobi 0800 arrive Zanzibar 0920 From the airport you will be transferred to your hotel in Stone Town. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore this magnificent, ancient town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stone Town is a port city on the western coast of Zanzibar and historically significant as it was one of the main coastal and slave-trading ports in East Africa. Enjoy free time to stroll around the narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses. You can spend many idle hours just wandering through the fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets, admiring the intricately carved wooden doors. Return to your hotel, which has local charm and character, authentic furniture and is in a good location. Be sure to take in the view from the rooftop terrace! Overnight - Swahili house hotel

Meals:  B

Morning at leisure in Stone Town. This afternoon you will transfer to the South West Coast (approximately 40 minutes) to our peaceful beach hideaway accommodation. Once settled in, there are several activities to enjoy or you may prefer to relax and not move beyond your front door. You can swim in the clear blue waters, soak up the sun or try your hand at some water sports available at the lodge such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or a sunset cruise (own expense). Overnight - Fumba Beach Lodge

Meals:  B,D

Time at leisure to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the beauty of the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean and this tropical island paradise. Take a Spice Tour, learn about the history of one of the most beautiful islands in the world, unwind at the swimming pool or enjoy the beach under the branches of the baobab and do nothing at all. Your time here will be relaxing and unforgettable. Overnight - Fumba Beach Lodge

Meals:  B,D

This morning you will be transferred back to Zanzibar Airport. Trip arrangements end on arrival at the airport. Recommended group flight; 1 August EK 2053 depart Zanzibar at 0800 arrive Dubai 1415 connecting with 1 Augut EK 416 depart Dubai 2130 arrive Sydney 1720 (2 August)

Meals:  B