12 Days Mt. Kilimanjaro & Tanzania Wildlife Viewing Safari
Embark on an extraordinary adventure that combines the challenge of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro with thrilling wildlife safaris through Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park. This 12-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of mountain trekking and wildlife viewing, ensuring that each day presents new experiences in the heart of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes.
Detailed Itinerary for 12 days Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Located at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha serves as a great gateway for your upcoming adventure. Settle into your comfortable accommodation, enjoy a relaxing dinner, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the town as you prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Machame Gate (1,490m) to Machame Camp (2,980m)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Machame Gate, the starting point for your climb up Mount Kilimanjaro. The first day of trekking takes you through the Montane Forest Zone, where you’ll enjoy a scenic hike through lush, green forests filled with diverse plant life and wildlife. This day’s trek will take about 5-6 hours, gradually gaining altitude as you head towards Machame Camp at 2,980 meters. Set up camp, enjoy a warm meal, and get some rest before the next day’s climb.
Day 3: Machame Camp (2,980m) to Shira Camp (3,840m)
Today, you’ll continue your climb as you make your way from Machame Camp to Shira Camp at 3,840 meters. The path offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountain slopes and the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Kilimanjaro. As you ascend through the Moorland Zone, the vegetation becomes sparse, and you’ll start to feel the thinning air. This section of the climb takes about 5-6 hours, so take it slow, stay hydrated, and enjoy the beauty of the volcanic landscape. Upon arrival at Shira Camp, rest and take in the incredible views of the mountain’s peak.
Day 4: Shira Camp (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
This day takes you to the Lava Tower, located at 4,630 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas. After reaching the tower, you’ll descend slightly to Barranco Camp at 3,950 meters, a fantastic spot to rest and acclimatize. The descent will help with altitude adjustment, an important strategy in the climb to prevent altitude sickness. Expect a challenging 6-8 hour trek with a combination of ascents and descents, but the reward is a day of spectacular views and a deeper connection to the mountain.
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Barafu Camp (4,550m)
The trek continues from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp, located at 4,550 meters. The day’s climb will take you across the Karanga Valley before reaching the Barafu Camp, a critical stop before your summit attempt. The 5-6 hour trek will challenge your endurance as you cross rocky terrain and gain elevation. Once you reach Barafu Camp, rest, enjoy a light meal, and prepare yourself for the long summit day ahead. An early night is essential for your energy levels before the ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Barafu Camp (4,550m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Today is the culmination of your trek: the summit attempt. Starting in the early hours (around midnight), you’ll hike from Barafu Camp towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The climb to the summit takes about 6-8 hours, passing through the Reusch Crater and ascending the Stella Point before reaching the Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The summit is a reward for your effort, offering panoramic views of glaciers and the surrounding savannah below. After a brief celebration at the peak, you’ll begin your descent to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters, a journey that takes 5-6 hours. Enjoy a well-earned rest after the strenuous day.
Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,980m)
After a restful night, you’ll descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, completing your Kilimanjaro trek. The descent takes about 4-5 hours, passing through the lush rainforest and offering the opportunity to see more wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll be presented with a summit certificate, commemorating your achievement. You’ll then be transferred to Arusha for a relaxing evening to unwind after your incredible mountain adventure.
Day 8: Lake Manyara National Park Safari
Today, embark on your first wildlife safari, traveling to Lake Manyara National Park, a picturesque park known for its diverse habitats, including dense forests, grassy plains, and soda lakes. During your game drive, you’ll have the chance to spot a wide variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and the famous tree-climbing lions. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with flamingos, pelicans, and other species frequenting the lake’s shores. Enjoy a full day of wildlife viewing, followed by a relaxing evening at your lodge.
Day 9: Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. After breakfast, head to the crater, where you’ll embark on a full-day safari. The crater floor is home to a remarkable concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard—along with wildebeest, zebras, and many other species. The fertile soils in the crater support rich wildlife, and the stunning landscape adds to the experience. After a day of exploring, return to your lodge for dinner and a restful night.
Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater to Tarangire National Park
Today, head to Tarangire National Park, known for its iconic baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Enjoy a full-day game drive in the park, where you’ll also spot wildebeest, zebras, lions, and various bird species. The park is especially famous for its seasonal migrations, which can be an incredible spectacle. As you explore the vast savannah and enjoy breathtaking views, you’ll have the chance to take stunning photographs and enjoy wildlife encounters up close. After a rewarding day, retire to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
Day 11: Tarangire National Park to Arusha
On your final day of safari, return to Arusha after breakfast. Depending on your time of arrival, you may have a chance to explore the town and its markets. Enjoy lunch and perhaps a last stroll around, reflecting on your incredible journey through Kilimanjaro and Tanzania’s national parks. In the evening, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can rest and prepare for your departure the following day.
Day 12: Departure from Tanzania
Today, after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight back home. Take a moment to reflect on your unforgettable experience, from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to the incredible wildlife sightings in the national parks. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Tanzania.
Tour Price
Tour Price: US$ 2,950 per person staying in a campsite while on safari
Tour Price: US$ 3,800 per person staying in a mid-range lodge while on safari
Tour Price: US$ 4,370 per person staying in a Luxury lodge while on safari
Machame Trek price includes:
-Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
-Machame Route trek as per the itinerary
-Full board accommodation in tents whilst on the trek.
-2 nights hotel accommodations in Arusha before and after the trek and in huts on the mountain as per the itinerary
-All park entrance fees to include government taxes
-Service of an English speaking professional Mountain guide on the mountain, porters and skilled cook/s
-All services begin and end at Kilimanjaro Airport as per the itinerary
-Treated water on the trek
-Return airport transfers from/to Kilimanjaro Airport or Nairobi Return Shuttle transfers
Machame price Excludes:
-Tips, laundry, sleeping bags, drinks and climbing gears
-Medical evacuation, USD 30 per person value
-International flights and taxes
-Visas
-Items of a personal nature and any other extras not detailed in the above itinerary
For more information about the Mount Kilimanjaro climbing safaris, trekking and hiking packages, contact Bushtroop tours and Safaris on www.bushtroop-safaris.com, by emailing info@bushtroop-safaris.com, or call/whatapp us on +254 722 802513
