Mount Kilimanjaro, Ol Doinyo Lengai, Mount Meru 19 Days Tanzania Safari

This thrilling 19-day Tanzania safari itinerary highlights Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Ol Doinyo Lengai climbing and Tanzania wildlife safari to Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Lake Natron. This journey is truly exceptional, brimming with adventure, culture, and nature at every turn.

Detailed 19 Days Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Ol Doinyo Lengai and Tanzania wildlife safari

Day 1: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha

When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your guide will welcome you and assist with your transfer to your hotel in Arusha, a vibrant city located at the base of Mount Meru. Take the day to relax and prepare for the exciting journeys ahead. Arusha is a perfect starting point for exploring the natural wonders of Tanzania. Enjoy a delightful dinner and get ready for the adventure that awaits.

Day 2: Travel from Arusha to Lake Natron

After breakfast, head to Lake Natron, a beautiful soda lake renowned for its striking red waters, surrounded by magnificent landscapes.

Lake Natron is famous for its proximity to Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano. Upon arrival, take a moment to explore the surroundings and get acquainted with the unique environment. The view of flamingos nesting in the lake’s alkaline waters is an exceptional sight that you might also appreciate.

Day Three: Lake Natron

Devote a full day to exploring Lake Natron and its surrounding regions. The area is rich in stunning landscapes and a variety of wildlife. Set off on a journey to Engare Sero Waterfalls, a hidden gem that offers a refreshing swim surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Be vigilant for flamingos, and appreciate the fascinating salt flats and volcanic formations that encircle the lake. This location is a paradise for photographers, with stunning landscapes that will enchant you.

Day 4: Ol Doinyo Lengai

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating adventure as you embark on an early morning hike to Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcanic mountain. The climb offers a significant challenge while providing substantial rewards, revealing stunning views of the surrounding plains and facilitating a close encounter with volcanic activity.

As you arrive at the summit, you will be greeted by breathtaking views of the vast Rift Valley. Pause to appreciate the scenery at the summit before descending and returning to Lake Natron for a well-deserved rest.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, set off on an adventure to the Ngorongoro Crater, a remarkable symbol of Africa’s natural beauty. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the crater floor for a full day of safari adventures. The Ngorongoro Crater acts as a refuge for wildlife, offering the chance to see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard—along with a diverse array of other mammals, birds, and reptiles. Spend a day immersed in the wildlife experience, then head back to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

A day in the Ngorongoro Crater provides an opportunity to deeply investigate its diverse ecosystems. Whether you seek more wildlife encounters, wish to capture stunning landscapes, or desire to explore the area’s distinctive geological history, a wealth of activities awaits to engage you.

The crater is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden” because of its lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. After a fulfilling day, return to your lodge for some much-needed relaxation.

Day 7: Lake Manyara National Park

Today, discover Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its diverse ecosystems that range from lush forests to soda lakes. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, extensive herds of elephants, and an impressive variety of bird species.

Embark on an exciting full-day game drive, where you could encounter baboons, zebras, flamingos, and a diverse array of wildlife. The park presents a unique landscape and a variety of wildlife, resulting in an unforgettable experience.

Day 8: Journey from Mount Meru to Miriakampa Hut

After breakfast, head to the Mount Meru starting point at Momella Gate. Your journey will begin towards Miriakampa Hut, situated at an elevation of 2,514 meters. This hike will take you through lively montane forests, where you may come across monkeys, birds, and an array of plant species. The trail offers a balanced challenge and aids in acclimatization, an essential aspect for the higher elevations that await.

Following around 5-6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Miriakampa Hut, where you can enjoy the evening and soak in the breathtaking mountain views.

Day 9: Journeying from Miriakampa Hut to Saddle Hut

From Miriakampa Hut, continue your hike towards Saddle Hut, located at an elevation of 3,570 meters. The path takes you through heath and moorland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The journey to Saddle Hut offers a reasonable challenge and excellent opportunities to witness wildlife. Once you reach Saddle Hut, take a moment to relax and enjoy the evening as you prepare for the summit attempt the next day.

Day 10: Summit Attempt – Saddle Hut to Uhuru Peak, Descent to Miriakampa Hut

Today marks your summit day. Your adventure will begin at Saddle Hut at dawn, as you head towards the peak of Mount Meru. After conquering a demanding climb, you will reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Meru, which rises to 4,566 meters. The views from the summit are absolutely stunning, providing expansive sights of the Rift Valley and the far-off Mount Kilimanjaro. After celebrating your summit achievement, you will begin your descent back to Miriakampa Hut for a well-earned rest.

Day 11: Journeying from Miriakampa Hut to Moshi

After breakfast, proceed from Miriakampa Hut to the trailhead at Momella Gate. Your adventure will lead you to Moshi, a lively town nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and reflecting on your summit experience, or explore the local markets and attractions of Moshi.

Day 12: Journey from Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Your adventure to Mount Kilimanjaro begins today as you head towards Machame Gate on the Machame Kilimanjaro Route. Proceed on your journey to Machame Camp, situated at an elevation of 2,980 meters. The trail guides you through the lively montane forest, presenting a stunning vista as you ascend towards Machame Camp. The trek for the day is anticipated to take approximately 5-6 hours, providing an opportunity to acclimatize and enjoy the breathtaking views. Once you arrive, settle in and get comfortable at camp for the evening.

Day 13: Journeying from Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Continue your journey up Mount Kilimanjaro by trekking from Machame Camp to Shira Camp, located at an altitude of 3,840 meters. As you ascend, you will navigate the Moorland Zone, where the landscape shifts into a more rugged and barren expanse. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach Shira Camp, a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain and its surroundings.

Day 14: Departing from Shira Camp, we journey to Lava Tower, and then continue on to Barranco Camp.

Today, you will ascend to Lava Tower at 4,630 meters, a remarkable spot to take in the stunning vistas of the mountain. After reaching Lava Tower, you will descend to Barranco Camp, located at an altitude of 3,950 meters. This method facilitates acclimatization during the journey through the Karanga Valley and as one nears the summit. Get ready for a challenging day of hiking, but the breathtaking views make all the hard work rewarding.

Day 15: Journey from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

After breakfast, make your way to Karanga Camp, located at an altitude of 4,035 meters. The trail climbs a steep and rugged path that tests your endurance, but it rewards you with stunning views of the mountain and its landscape. Enjoy your time at Karanga Camp, a perfect place to relax and prepare for the next phase of your climb.

Day 16: Journeying from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Today, journey from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, ascending to an elevation of 4,550 meters. Today presents its challenges, but upon reaching Barafu Camp, you will be ready for the summit attempt. The camp is perched on a rugged ridge, offering a breathtaking view of the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Take a moment to unwind and rejuvenate, as tomorrow holds the potential to be the highlight of your adventure.

Day 17: Journey from Barafu Camp to the Summit and onward to Mweka Hut

Begin your climb at the hour of midnight. Ascend during the night to arrive at Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters.

After finishing a challenging climb, you will reach the summit, where the views are absolutely breathtaking. After celebrating your achievement, proceed to Mweka Hut for the evening.

Day 18: From Mweka Camp to Moshi/Arusha

Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Afterward, you will be transported to Moshi or Arusha for your final evening in Tanzania.

Day 19: Departure

After breakfast, relish your final moments in Tanzania before being transported to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight. Reflect on your extraordinary journey, from conquering three of Tanzania’s most breathtaking peaks to experiencing the wildlife safaris that showcased the country’s incredible natural beauty.