12 Days Mount Kilimanjaro & Wildlife Tanzania Safari

12 Days Mount Kilimanjaro & Wildlife Tanzania Safari Combines Mount Kilimanjaro trekking via Machame route to the peak at 5,895m with Northern Tanzania wildlife(Big Five) across Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park for game drives to see tree-climbing lions and the Great Migration. This 12-day Tanzania Mount Kilimanjaro & Wildlife Safari itinerary provides an ideal combination of mountain trekking and wildlife viewing, guaranteeing that every day brings fresh experiences amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania.

Detailed 12 Days Mount Kilimanjaro & Tazania Wildlife Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Arusha

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your guide will be there to greet you and facilitate your transfer to your hotel in Arusha. At the base of Mount Meru, Arusha stands as an excellent entry point for your forthcoming adventure. Get comfortable in your cozy lodging, savor a delightful dinner, and soak up the lively ambiance of the town as you get ready for the adventure that lies ahead.

Day 2: From Machame Gate (1,490m) to Machame Camp (2,980m)

Following breakfast, you will be taken to Machame Gate, which serves as the starting point for your ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. The initial day of trekking leads you through the Montane Forest Zone, offering a picturesque hike amidst vibrant, green forests teeming with a variety of plant life and wildlife. The trek today will last approximately 5-6 hours, steadily ascending as you make your way to Machame Camp at an elevation of 2,980 meters. Establish your campsite, savor a hearty meal, and take the opportunity to rest before the ascent tomorrow.

Day 3: From Machame Camp (2,980m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)

Today, you will progress further on your journey as you travel from Machame Camp to Shira Camp, reaching an elevation of 3,840 meters. The trail provides stunning vistas of the nearby mountain slopes and the Shira Plateau, recognized as one of the highest plateaus on Kilimanjaro. As you climb higher into the Moorland Zone, the plant life diminishes, and you will begin to notice the air becoming thinner. This part of the ascent requires approximately 5-6 hours, so proceed at a leisurely pace, keep hydrated, and savor the stunning volcanic scenery. Upon reaching Shira Camp, take a moment to relax and appreciate the breathtaking views of the mountain’s summit.

Day 4: Departing from Shira Camp (3,840m), we ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m) before making our way to Barranco Camp (3,950m).

This day leads you to the Lava Tower, perched at 4,630 meters, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Upon arriving at the tower, you will make a slight descent to Barranco Camp at 3,950 meters, an excellent location to rest and acclimatize. The descent aids in adjusting to altitude, a crucial tactic during the climb to avoid altitude sickness. Prepare for a demanding 6-8 hour hike featuring both climbs and descents, but the payoff is a day filled with breathtaking vistas and a stronger bond with the mountain.

Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Barafu Camp (4,550m)

The journey proceeds from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp, situated at an elevation of 4,550 meters. The day’s ascent will guide you through the Karanga Valley, ultimately leading to the Barafu Camp, an essential waypoint prior to your summit endeavor. The 5-6 hour trek will test your stamina as you navigate rocky terrain and ascend in elevation. Upon arriving at Barafu Camp, take the time to rest, savor a light meal, and ready yourself for the challenging summit day that lies ahead. A good night’s rest is crucial for your energy levels ahead of the climb to Uhuru Peak.

Day 6: Summit Attempt – Departing from Barafu Camp (4,550m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and then descending to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Today marks the peak of your journey: the attempt to reach the summit. Beginning in the early hours, approximately at midnight, you will embark on a hike from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The ascent to the summit requires approximately 6-8 hours, traversing the Research Crater and rising to Stella Point before finally arriving at Uhuru Peak, which stands at 5,895 meters.

The summit serves as a well-deserved reward for your hard work, presenting breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers alongside the expansive savannah beneath. Following a short celebration at the summit, you will start your descent to Mweka Camp, situated at 3,100 meters, which will take approximately 5 to 6 hours. Take a deserved break after the challenging day.

Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,980m)

Following a rejuvenating night, you will make your way down from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, marking the conclusion of your Kilimanjaro trek. The descent lasts approximately 4-5 hours, meandering through the vibrant rainforest and providing chances to observe diverse wildlife, such as monkeys and numerous bird species. When you reach the gate, you will receive a summit certificate to honor your accomplishment. Following that, you will be taken to Arusha for a soothing evening to relax after your amazing mountain journey.

Day 8: Safari at Lake Manyara National Park

Today, set out on your inaugural wildlife safari to Lake Manyara National Park, a stunning destination celebrated for its varied ecosystems, featuring lush forests, open grassy plains, and unique soda lakes. On your game drive, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of wildlife, such as elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and the renowned tree-climbing lions. The park serves as a haven for birdwatchers, featuring flamingos, pelicans, and various other species that often visit the lake’s edges. Experience an entire day dedicated to observing wildlife, culminating in a tranquil evening at your lodge.

Day 9: Journey from Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for being one of the most distinctive ecosystems on the planet. Following breakfast, proceed to the crater, where you will begin a full-day safari. The crater floor boasts an impressive array of wildlife, featuring the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard—as well as wildebeest, zebras, and numerous other species. The lush soils within the crater nurture abundant wildlife, while the breathtaking scenery enhances the overall experience. After a day of exploration, head back to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.

Day 10: From Ngorongoro Crater to Tarangire National Park

Today, visit Tarangire National Park, famous for its remarkable baobab trees and substantial herds of elephants. Experience a full-day game drive in the park, where you will encounter wildebeest, zebras, lions, and a variety of bird species. The park is renowned for its seasonal migrations, which offer an astonishing spectacle.

While traversing the expansive savannah and soaking in the awe-inspiring vistas, you’ll have opportunities to capture remarkable photographs and experience wildlife interactions at close range. After a fulfilling day, return to your lodging for a soothing evening.

Day 11: Journey from Tarangire National Park to Arusha

After breakfast on your final day of safari, make your way back to Arusha. Depending on when you arrive, you might have the opportunity to explore the town and its markets.

Relish your lunch and consider taking one final walk, contemplating the remarkable adventure you’ve experienced through Kilimanjaro and the national parks of Tanzania. In the evening, you will be taken to your hotel, where you can relax and get ready for your departure the next day.

Day 12: Leaving Tanzania

After breakfast today, you will be taken to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home. Pause to consider your remarkable journey, from reaching the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro to the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters in the national parks. Wishing you safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in Tanzania.