19 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing, Ol Doinyo Lengai, Mount Meru and Wildlife Safari
This thrilling 19-day itinerary combines the best of Tanzania’s iconic landscapes, offering a chance to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, and Ol Doinyo Lengai, with spectacular wildlife safaris through Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Lake Natron. It’s a journey of a lifetime, where adventure, culture, and nature await at every turn.
19 days Kilimanjaro, Oldoinyo lengai, Meru & Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha, the vibrant city at the base of Mount Meru. Take the day to relax and prepare for your upcoming adventures. Arusha is a perfect starting point for exploring Tanzania’s natural wonders. Enjoy a delightful dinner and rest for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Arusha to Lake Natron
After breakfast, head towards Lake Natron, a beautiful soda lake known for its striking red waters, surrounded by dramatic landscapes. Lake Natron is famous for its proximity to Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano. On arrival, take some time to explore the area and get acquainted with the unique environment. You may also enjoy the sight of flamingos nesting in the lake’s alkaline waters, an extraordinary spectacle.
Day 3: Lake Natron
Spend a full day exploring Lake Natron and its surroundings. The area is incredibly rich in both natural beauty and wildlife. You can trek to Engare Sero Waterfalls, a hidden gem that offers a refreshing swim in a stunning natural setting. Keep your eyes peeled for flamingos, and enjoy the fascinating salt flats and volcanic formations around the lake. This is a photographer’s paradise, where the striking scenery will leave you in awe.
Day 4: Ol Doinyo Lengai
Today, prepare for an exciting day as you embark on an early morning trek to Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcanic mountain. The climb is challenging but rewarding, offering incredible views of the surrounding plains and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. After reaching the summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the vast Rift Valley. Spend some time at the top before descending and returning to Lake Natron for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, journey towards Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most iconic natural wonders of Africa. Upon arrival, head down into the crater floor for a full-day safari. The Ngorongoro Crater is a haven for wildlife, and here, you can expect to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard), along with countless other species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Spend the day immersed in the wildlife experience before returning to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater
Another day in the Ngorongoro Crater allows you to explore its diverse habitats in depth. Whether you’re seeking more wildlife sightings, photographing the mesmerizing landscapes, or learning about the area’s unique geological history, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. The crater is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden” for its lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. After a fulfilling day, return to your lodge for rest.
Day 7: Lake Manyara National Park
Today, visit Lake Manyara National Park, known for its diverse habitats that range from lush forests to soda lakes. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, herds of elephants, and an impressive variety of bird species. Enjoy a full-day game drive, where you may encounter baboons, zebras, flamingos, and more. The park’s unique scenery and wildlife make for an unforgettable experience.
Day 8: Mount Meru to Miriakampa Hut
After breakfast, head to the Mount Meru starting point at Momella Gate. You will begin your trek towards Miriakampa Hut, situated at an altitude of 2,514 meters. This hike will take you through lush montane forests, where you may spot monkeys, birds, and various plant species. The trail is relatively moderate and allows for acclimatization, which is important for the higher altitudes ahead. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, arrive at Miriakampa Hut and enjoy the evening with panoramic views of the mountain.
Day 9: Miriakampa Hut to Saddle Hut
From Miriakampa Hut, continue the hike towards Saddle Hut, located at 3,570 meters. The trek takes you through heath and moorland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The climb to Saddle Hut is moderately challenging and offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife. Once you reach Saddle Hut, 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. You’ll begin your ascent from Saddle Hut at the crack of dawn, heading towards the summit of Mount Meru. After a strenuous climb, you will reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Meru at 4,566 meters. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with expansive panoramas of the Rift Valley and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. After celebrating your summit achievement, you’ll begin your descent back to Miriakampa Hut for rest.
Day 11: Miriakampa Hut to Moshi
After breakfast, descend from Miriakampa Hut to the trailhead at Momella Gate. From there, you’ll be transferred to Moshi, a lively town 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: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
Your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure begins today as you head to Machame Gate. From there, trek towards Machame Camp, situated at 2,980 meters. The trail takes you through the lush montane forest, providing a stunning backdrop as you ascend towards Machame Camp. The day’s trek will take approximately 5-6 hours, giving you time to acclimatize and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Upon arrival, settle into camp for an overnight stay.
Day 13: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
Continue your journey up Mount Kilimanjaro by trekking from Machame Camp to Shira Camp, located at 3,840 meters. As you ascend, you’ll pass through the Moorland Zone, where the landscape becomes more rugged and barren. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Shira Camp, where you’ll rest and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain and its surroundings.
Day 14: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Today, you’ll ascend to Lava Tower at 4,630 meters, a great spot to take in the mountain’s stunning scenery. After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp at 3,950 meters. This strategy helps with acclimatization as you cross the Karanga Valley and get closer to the summit. Expect a challenging day of hiking, but the dramatic landscapes make it all worthwhile.
Day 15: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, head to Karanga Camp, located at 4,035 meters. The trail follows a steep and rocky path that will test your endurance, but it rewards you with incredible views of the mountain and surrounding areas. Enjoy the rest of the day at Karanga Camp, where you can relax and prepare for the next leg of your climb.
Day 16: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
Today, ascend from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp at 4,550 meters. This is a strenuous day, but once you reach Barafu Camp, you’ll be ready for the summit attempt. The camp is situated on a rocky ridge, offering a fantastic view of Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Take it easy and rest well, as the following day will be the highlight of your trek.
Day 17: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut
At midnight, start your summit attempt. Ascend through the night to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters). After a challenging climb, you’ll finally reach the summit, where the views are beyond breathtaking. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Hut for the night.
Day 18: Mweka Camp to Moshi/Arusha
Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Moshi or Arusha for your final evening in Tanzania.
Day 19: Departure
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Tanzania before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight. Reflect on your incredible journey, from climbing three of Tanzania’s greatest peaks to experiencing the wildlife safaris that showcased the nation’s natural beauty.
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
