3-Day Voi Tsavorite Mining & Gemstone Market Expedition – Kenya

Expedition Highlights

• Explore the Tsavorite mining deposits around Voi, Kenya.

• Learn about the geology, formation, and extraction of Tsavorite, a highly valued green variety of garnet.

• Meet local miners and gain firsthand insight into artisanal gemstone mining.

• Visit the Voi gemstone market to discover Tsavorite and other minerals available for trade.

• Learn about gemstone sourcing, local trading practices, and opportunities to purchase gemstones.

• Experience the landscapes and local communities of the Voi region.

On Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport – Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by your Tanzania Gem Ventures representative, who will accompany you throughout the expedition. After a short briefing about the itinerary and travel arrangements, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Moshi.

Enjoy dinner and relax at your hotel in preparation for the journey to Kenya the following morning.

Meals: Dinner and breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Moshi.

Day 1: Moshi – Voi, Kenya

After breakfast, depart Moshi and travel towards Kenya via the Holili–Taveta border crossing. Following the necessary immigration and border formalities, continue to Voi, a region known for its gemstone resources, including Tsavorite.

Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy some time to relax after the journey. Depending on availability and your confirmed arrangements, your overnight stay may be at Salt Lick Safari Lodge or another agreed accommodation option.

Enjoy dinner and the peaceful surroundings before preparing for the following day’s mining experience.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Voi.

Day 2: Voi Tsavorite Mining Experience

After breakfast, set out to explore selected Tsavorite mining areas around Voi. This experience introduces you to the geological conditions that produce this distinctive green gemstone and the mining activities associated with its recovery.

Visit authorized mining sites and learn about the history of Tsavorite in the region, the methods used by local miners, and the tools and techniques involved in extracting gemstone-bearing material. You will also have the opportunity to interact with miners and learn about their experiences, working practices, and the role of gemstone mining in the local economy.

Throughout the visit, gain a deeper understanding of the journey from mineral deposits to the gemstone market, including the importance of identifying, evaluating, and sourcing quality stones.

After completing the day’s activities, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Voi.

Day 3: Voi Gemstone Market – Return to Moshi

After breakfast, visit the local gemstone market in Voi, where you can explore the variety of minerals and gemstones available through local traders. Learn about the trading process, gemstone selection, and the role of local markets in connecting miners and buyers.

Tsavorite will be a key focus of the visit, although other gemstones may also be available depending on current market supply. Guests interested in purchasing gemstones will have an opportunity to examine available stones and discuss buying options with local traders.

Around midday, begin the return journey to Moshi via the Taveta–Holili border crossing, allowing time for immigration and customs formalities. Upon arrival in Moshi, transfer to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, subject to your confirmed accommodation arrangements.

Your expedition concludes with firsthand knowledge of Kenya’s Tsavorite mining region and its local gemstone trade.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Moshi, if included in your confirmed package.

What’s Included

• Expedition activities as described in the itinerary.

• Transportation in a suitable 4×4 vehicle.

• Professional English-speaking guide.

• Meals as specified in the confirmed itinerary.

• Bed and breakfast accommodation as confirmed.

• Drinking water throughout the expedition.

• Visits to the specified mining sites and gemstone market, subject to access and authorization.

• Applicable government fees for included activities.

What’s Excluded

• International and domestic flights.

• Optional activities not specified in the itinerary.

• Visa fees and applicable cross-border travel documentation.

• Tips and gratuities.

• Personal expenses, souvenirs, and gemstone purchases.

• Travel insurance.

• Additional accommodation or meals not specified in the confirmed package.

• Any extra costs arising from itinerary changes or services not listed under inclusions.

Important Travel Information

This expedition involves crossing from Tanzania into Kenya. Travellers are responsible for carrying valid travel documents and meeting the applicable entry requirements for both countries. Border crossing arrangements, immigration formalities, and any required permits should be confirmed before departure.

Access to mining areas depends on mine-owner authorization, operating conditions, and safety requirements. The availability of gemstones at local markets may vary, and gemstone purchases are optional and charged separately unless otherwise agreed.

Accommodation, transport, meals, border arrangements, and applicable fees should be confirmed before booking.