9-Day Safari & Day Hike on Kilimanjaro's Shira Plateau

This journey takes you through Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, including Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater—each offering unique landscapes and extraordinary wildlife sightings. The safari portion is complemented by a guided day hike on the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic areas, located at approximately 3,500–4,000 meters above sea level.

The Shira Plateau hike allows you to experience Mount Kilimanjaro’s alpine environment, unique flora, and sweeping views without the technical demands of a full climb. It is ideal for active travelers, photographers, and those wanting a taste of Kilimanjaro’s magic.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and prepare for your adventure.
Overnight: Midrange lodge in Arusha
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 :

Arusha – Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park for a full-day game drive. Tarangire is famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and seasonal Tarangire River that attracts wildlife year-round.
Overnight: Midrange lodge or tented camp near Tarangire
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 :

Tarangire – Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, drive toward Serengeti National Park via the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy game viewing en route as the vast Serengeti plains unfold before you.
Overnight: Midrange tented camp in Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Spend the entire day exploring Serengeti National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. Spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and large herds of wildebeest and buffalo.
Overnight: Midrange tented camp in Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive in Serengeti before traveling to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a thrilling wildlife experience in one of Africa’s most unique ecosystems.
Overnight: Midrange lodge on the crater rim or nearby
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Ngorongoro – Moshi (Kilimanjaro Region)

After breakfast, depart Ngorongoro and drive to Moshi at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy scenic landscapes along the way. The evening is free to relax.
Overnight: Midrange lodge in Moshi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 :

Day Hike on Kilimanjaro – Shira Plateau

After an early breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. Continue by vehicle to the Shira Plateau. Begin your guided day hike across alpine moorland, surrounded by giant lobelias and senecios. Enjoy spectacular views of Kibo Peak and, on clear days, Mount Meru.

After a picnic lunch on the plateau, descend and return to Moshi in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Midrange lodge in Moshi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 :

Leisure Day in Moshi / Optional Activities

Enjoy a relaxed day in Moshi. Optional activities include a coffee tour, village walk, waterfalls hike, or simply resting after your mountain adventure.
Overnight: Midrange lodge in Moshi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 :

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or continue to Zanzibar or another destination.
Meals: Breakfast

9-Day Safari & Day Hike on Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau

Overview

Itinerary

Cost