Itinerary
Overview
Ultimate Tanzania Adventure
This 14-day adventure offers an incredible combination of summiting Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the scenic Machame Route and embarking on a thrilling Big Five Safari across Tanzania’s renowned national parks. This itinerary is perfect for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts, as it combines the challenging ascent of Kilimanjaro with a diverse wildlife safari, where you can spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes. Experience the beauty of Tanzania’s landscapes, from the glaciers of Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of the Serengeti, and conclude your journey with stunning views in Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara.
This 14-Day Kilimanjaro & Wildlife Safari combines the ultimate adventure of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro with a classic Tanzanian safari. Whether you’re taking in the sweeping views from the top of Africa or tracking the Big Five in Tanzania’s most famous national parks, this itinerary delivers a perfect mix of challenge, luxury, and wildlife. Ideal for those who want the best of both worlds – adventure and relaxation amidst Tanzania’s natural wonders.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Kilimanjaro Summit via Machame Route: Reach the roof of Africa on this scenic and rewarding trekking route.
- Big Five Safari: Enjoy game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, home to Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Trek through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciated peaks on Kilimanjaro, followed by exploring Tanzania’s diverse savannas and wildlife reserves.
- Cultural Experiences: Optional visits to Olduvai Gorge for a glimpse into ancient human history.
- Luxury Camping & Lodge Stays: Camp on Kilimanjaro and enjoy comfortable lodges and tented camps during your safari.
Itinerary
Day by day
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Begin your trek through the lush rainforest after registration at the Machame Gate. Reach Machame Camp for your first night on the mountain.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Hike through the moorlands, reaching the stunning Shira Plateau, with views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp for the night.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley
Conquer the Barranco Wall and hike through the Karanga Valley.
Day 5: Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp
A short trek leads to Barafu Camp, your staging point for the summit.
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha
After breakfast, descend to Mweka Gate and drive back to Arusha for a night of rest at The Outpost Lodge.
Day 8: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Begin your safari with game drives in Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.
Days 9-11: Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
Travel to the Serengeti and enjoy two full days of game drives. Explore the rich ecosystems, track the Great Migration (seasonal), and spot big predators like lions and cheetahs.
Day 12: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Craterongoro to Serengeti National Park
Morning game drive in the Serengeti before driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with an optional stop at Olduvai Gorge.
Day 13: Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of wildlife viewing. Look out for lions, rhinos, elephants, and more.
Day 14: Lake Manyara to Arusha
After breakfast, enjoy a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its birdlife and tree-climbing lions, before returning to Arusha for your departure.
What's Included?
- Accommodation: 6 nights in luxury tented camps and lodges.
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the safari.
- Transport: 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing, including airport transfers.
- Professional Guide: Services of an experienced, English-speaking safari guide.
- Park Fees: All national park entrance fees, including the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Game Drives: Daily game drives as per the itinerary.
Drinking Water: Bottled water during game drives. - Maasai Village Visit: A cultural visit to a Maasai village (if time permits on Day 7).
- Internal Flights: Domestic flight from Arusha to Serengeti (if applicable).
- Emergency Evacuation: AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance.
What's Excluded?
- International Flights: Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Visas: Entry visas for Tanzania.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
- Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs, additional beverages, and laundry services.
- Optional Activities: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., hot air balloon safari).
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks at lodges and camps unless otherwise stated.
- Covid-19 Related Expenses: Any testing or quarantine costs related to Covid-19 regulations.
Insider Insight
We know because we've been there.
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure on this bucket list African safari, featuring breathtaking highlights and serene sanctuaries.
Hamisi Mnaro
Africa Safari Specialist