The best 12 days Kilimanjaro climbing and Tanzania safari Tour
The 12 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing and Tanzania Safari Package offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, blending the excitement of conquering Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, with the awe-inspiring beauty of Tanzania’s top national parks. This carefully curated tour combines the thrill of trekking in one of the world’s most iconic mountains with the wildlife-rich safari experience that brings you face-to-face with the incredible fauna of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.
In this 12-day adventure, you’ll experience the challenge and exhilaration of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, followed by the serene beauty of Tanzania’s national parks, offering a perfect blend of physical achievement and natural wonder. Whether you’re an avid climber, a nature lover, or someone seeking to push their limits, this journey offers an exceptional opportunity to discover some of the most breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife on Earth.
The Best 12 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing and Tanzania Safari Tour
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly greeted by our friendly driver and transferred to your hotel in Moshi, located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. This charming town serves as the base for your Kilimanjaro climb and is a great place to relax after your international flight. You’ll have time to check into your hotel,
After an early breakfast, you’ll drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate, where you’ll begin your Kilimanjaro climb. The climb starts at the Machame Gate, located at 1,800 meters (5,900 feet), and will take you through lush rainforest. You’ll pass through dense vegetation, with the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves filling the air. The trail steadily ascends to Machame Camp, situated at 3,000 meters (9,840 feet).
The first day of climbing is moderate, allowing for some acclimatization. The trail is scenic, with views of waterfalls and the forest's diverse flora and fauna. The night will be spent camping in Machame Camp, where you’ll enjoy a hot meal prepared by the camp crew and have the chance to relax and rest before continuing your climb.
Elevation: 1,800m to 3,000m (5,900 feet to 9,840 feet)
Accommodation: Machame Camp
you’ll begin the ascent towards Shira Camp, located at 3,850 meters (12,600 feet). The trek takes you through a variety of ecosystems, from dense rainforest to open moorland. The terrain is rocky and involves some steep sections, but it’s a rewarding experience with stunning views.
As you ascend, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the temperature drops. The Shira Plateau offers a fantastic vantage point of Mount Kilimanjaro’s peaks, and the surrounding landscape will keep you engaged throughout the day. At Shira Camp, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Elevation: 3,000m to 3,850m (9,840 feet to 12,600 feet)
Accommodation: Shira Camp
The hike from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp takes you along the Shira Ridge and then down to the Barranco Valley. While the distance isn’t particularly long, the change in altitude makes it an important acclimatization day. The trail goes through alpine desert, and you’ll have the opportunity to see stunning views of the glaciers on Kilimanjaro’s summit.
As you descend towards the Barranco Valley, you’ll pass through a series of unique rock formations. Barranco Camp is situated at 3,960 meters (13,000 feet) and is a perfect place to rest and enjoy the serenity of the mountain. Be sure to look out for the impressive Barranco Wall, which you will scale the following day.
Elevation: 3,850m to 3,960m (12,600 feet to 13,000 feet)
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
This is one of the most exciting days of your climb as you’ll tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep section of rock that requires some scrambling. Don’t worry; it’s not technical, and your guides will assist you along the way. The climb is strenuous but incredibly rewarding with panoramic views.
Once you’ve conquered the wall, the trail leads you to Karanga Camp, which is located at 4,000 meters (13,120 feet). The camp offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro. After reaching camp, take time to relax, hydrate, and prepare for the higher altitudes that lie ahead.
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,000m (13,000 feet to 13,120 feet)
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
This day involves a relatively short but steep trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, located at 4,600 meters (15,090 feet). As you approach the higher altitudes, the landscape becomes more barren, with fewer plants and more volcanic rock formations. This part of the climb can feel physically demanding due to the altitude, so it’s crucial to pace yourself.
Barafu Camp is the final camp before the summit, and you’ll rest here in preparation for the summit attempt. Be sure to get as much rest as possible before the next day’s long and challenging trek.
Elevation: 4,000m to 4,600m (13,120 feet to 15,090 feet)
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
This is the day you’ve been waiting for—the summit day! You’ll begin your ascent in the early hours of the morning, around midnight or 1:00 AM, to give yourself enough time to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
The journey to the summit will take 6-8 hours, passing through cold, rocky terrain. The steep climb can be physically taxing, but the reward of standing on the Roof of Africa makes it all worth it. After reaching the summit and celebrating your achievement, you’ll begin your descent to Mweka Camp.
Elevation: 4,600m to 5,895m (15,090 feet to 19,341 feet)
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
On your final day of climbing, you’ll descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, completing the trek down the mountain. The descent is easier but still requires focus, as the rocky and muddy trail can be slippery.
Once at the gate, you’ll be awarded your Kilimanjaro summit certificate, celebrating your successful climb. You’ll then be transferred back to Moshi to rest and relax after your incredible achievement.
After a restful day in Moshi, you’ll begin your Tanzania safari portion of the trip. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for a flight or a scenic drive to the Serengeti National Park. The Serengeti is world-renowned for its rich wildlife and the annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeests and zebras.
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your safari lodge or camp where you’ll settle in for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a gourmet meal and get ready for an exciting safari experience the following day.
Accommodation: Serengeti Lodge or Tented Camp
Spend the day exploring the vast plains of the Serengeti, which offers one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in Africa. You’ll embark on morning and afternoon game drives, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) and a wide range of other animals, including cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and more.
The Serengeti’s endless plains offer the perfect backdrop for game viewing, and your expert guide will ensure you have an unforgettable experience. there after you will drive to Ngorongoro crater for overnight
you’ll head to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique places on Earth. The crater is home to a rich concentration of wildlife, including black rhinos, elephants, lions, and numerous bird species. The day will be spent in a thrilling game drive within the crater, with plenty of time for photography and wildlife viewing.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Lodge or Tented Camp
On your final day, you’ll visit Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and baobab trees. After a morning game drive, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha for your flight or your journey home.
The Best 12 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing and Tanzania Safari
Cost Includes
- Guide
- Park Fees
- Tax
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Gate transfer
- Crew wages
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Environment fees
- During the climb you will sleep in Camp
- Breakfasts
- Lunches
- Dinners
- Drinking Water
- Guide
- Porters
- Cook
- 4x4 Safari Car
- Park fees
- All activities
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- All transportation
- All Taxes/VAT
- All Meals
- Drinking water on all days
Cost Excludes
- Flights
- Items of a personal nature
- Laundry Services
- Tips to mountain crew
The Best 12 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing and Tanzania Safari
The 12-day package includes a 6-day trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, followed by a 6-day safari through Tanzania’s most iconic parks, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. The tour includes accommodation, park fees, all meals during the climb and safari, transportation, professional guides, and porters for the Kilimanjaro climb.
The Machame, Lemosho, or Marangu routes are typically recommended for this 12-day climb, depending on your preference. Machame and Lemosho routes are preferred for their scenic beauty and higher success rates due to better acclimatization opportunities.
Yes, the 12-day climb is designed for trekkers with moderate fitness. While the climb itself can be challenging, especially at higher altitudes, the slower pace and acclimatization days make it accessible to beginners with basic hiking experience.
It is recommended to train by hiking at elevation if possible, and work on building endurance and strength. Proper physical conditioning, along with gear like well-fitted boots, layered clothing, and a good sleeping bag, are crucial for a successful climb.
Accommodation ranges from mid-range lodges to luxury tented camps depending on the package you choose. Options include en-suite rooms with hot water, comfortable beds, and scenic views, ensuring a comfortable experience after long days of wildlife viewing.
The best months for this tour are during Tanzania’s dry season: from June to October and December to March. These months offer the best weather for climbing and game viewing, with clear skies and a lower chance of rain.
For Kilimanjaro: A good pair of hiking boots, warm clothes (including thermal layers), a rain jacket, sun protection, gloves, a hat, a sleeping bag, and trekking poles are essential.
For the safari: Pack light clothing in neutral colors, binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
The tour can typically be booked with a deposit, with the balance due before the start of the trip. Most tour operators accept payments via credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal.
The cost varies depending on the accommodation type, group size, and the specific itinerary. On average, the cost for this tour ranges from $6,500 to 8000 per person for a mid-range experience, with luxury options costing more.
