For adventure travelers, Tanzania offers a rare opportunity to conquer the Roof of Africa and immerse yourself in the wild heart of its iconic national parks. Pairing a Mount Kilimanjaro climb with a Tanzanian safari is the ultimate bucket-list experience, blending the physical challenge of scaling Africa’s highest peak with the thrill of spotting the Big Five in their natural habitat. With Africa Paradise Adventures, you can seamlessly combine these adventures into one unforgettable journey. In this guide, we’ll explore why combining a Kilimanjaro trek with a safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park is a must-do, provide a sample 12-day itinerary, and highlight why Africa Paradise Adventures is your ideal partner for this Tanzanian odyssey.
Why Combine a Kilimanjaro Climb with a Tanzanian Safari?
Tanzania is a land of contrasts, from the snow-capped summit of Kilimanjaro at 19,341 feet to the sprawling savannahs teeming with wildlife. A Kilimanjaro climb tests your endurance and rewards you with breathtaking views across five ecological zones, from lush rainforests to arctic glaciers. Following this feat with a safari in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit—home to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park—lets you witness the world’s most spectacular wildlife, including the Great Migration and the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino).
This combination is perfect for adventure seekers who crave both physical challenges and immersive nature experiences. With Africa Paradise Adventures, based in Mississauga, Ontario, and deeply rooted in East African expertise, your journey is tailored to your preferences, ensuring a seamless transition from mountain to savannah. Our 95% summit success rate and expertly crafted safari itineraries make us the premier choice for this dual adventure.
Sample 12-Day Itinerary: Kilimanjaro Trek + Tanzanian Safari
Our 12-day Kilimanjaro and safari package, featuring the scenic Lemosho Route and a 3-day safari, offers the perfect balance of adventure and wildlife exploration. Below is a detailed itinerary to inspire your journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
- Activity: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Our team from Africa Paradise Adventures greets you and transfers you to your hotel in Moshi, the gateway to Kilimanjaro.
- Lodging: Stay at a comfortable lodge like Springlands Hotel, with time to relax and attend a pre-climb briefing.
- Highlights: Explore Moshi’s vibrant market or enjoy views of Kilimanjaro, weather permitting.
- Logistics: Airport transfers are included, ensuring a hassle-free start.
Day 2–8: Kilimanjaro Climb (Lemosho Route)
- Overview: The 7-day Lemosho Route is renowned for its scenic beauty, lower crowds, and high summit success rate. You’ll traverse rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic zones, culminating at Uhuru Peak.
- Daily Breakdown:
- Day 2: Drive to Londorossi Gate (2,100m), trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m) through lush rainforest, spotting colobus monkeys.
- Day 3: Ascend to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m), crossing heath and moorland with stunning views of the Shira Plateau.
- Day 4: Trek to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m), acclimatizing to the altitude.
- Day 5: Climb to Barranco Camp (3,950m) via Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization, passing dramatic cliffs.
- Day 6: Scale the Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp (4,000m), enjoying panoramic views.
- Day 7: Reach Barafu Camp (4,600m), preparing for the summit push.
- Day 8: Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at dawn, then descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for a celebratory rest.
- Support: Africa Paradise Adventures provides expert guides, porters, tents, oxygen tanks, and freshly prepared meals. Our team ensures safety and comfort, with a 40-page dossier for preparation.
Day 9: Descent and Transfer to Arusha
- Activity: Descend to Mweka Gate (1,800m), receive your summit certificate, and transfer to Arusha (2-hour drive) for a well-deserved rest.
- Lodging: Overnight at a lodge like Arusha Serena Hotel, offering spa facilities and scenic views.
- Highlights: Reflect on your summit achievement and prepare for the safari adventure.
Day 10: Tarangire National Park
- Activity: After breakfast, drive 2.5 hours to Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and the world’s largest elephant herds. Enjoy a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch.
- Wildlife: Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and predators like lions and leopards. Tarangire is also a birding haven with over 550 species.
- Lodging: Stay at a tented camp like Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, blending comfort with an authentic safari experience.
- Highlights: Witness the Tarangire River’s role as a wildlife magnet, especially during the dry season (June–October).
Day 11: Serengeti National Park
- Activity: Drive 4–5 hours to Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s premier wildlife destination. Enjoy afternoon game drives across its endless plains.
- Wildlife: Encounter the Big Five, cheetahs, hyenas, and the Great Migration (seasonal, December–March for calving, June–October for river crossings). The Serengeti hosts over 3 million animals, including 200,000 zebras and 300,000 wildebeests.
- Lodging: Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp, offering en-suite tents and views of the grasslands.
- Highlights: Experience the raw beauty of the Serengeti, where predators like lions and leopards roam freely.
Day 12: Ngorongoro Crater and Departure
- Activity: Depart early for a 3-hour drive to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Descend 600m into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera for a 5–6-hour game drive with a picnic lunch. Return to Arusha for your evening flight from JRO or extend your trip to Zanzibar.
- Wildlife: Spot up to 25,000 animals, including black rhinos, lions, flamingos, and buffalo. The crater’s dense wildlife population makes it one of Africa’s best game-viewing spots.
- Highlights: Marvel at the crater’s unique ecosystem, with acacia groves, lakes, and Maasai grazing their cattle alongside wildlife.
- Logistics: Transfers to JRO are included, ensuring a smooth end to your adventure.
Total Duration: 12 days (7 climbing, 3 safari, 2 travel/rest).
Optional Extension: Add a 3–5-day Zanzibar beach holiday for relaxation on pristine white sands.
Tanzania’s Wildlife Highlights
Tanzania’s Northern Circuit is a wildlife paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to see iconic species and natural wonders:
- Serengeti National Park: Famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains, pursued by predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The park’s 14,763 km² hosts 12 lion prides, servals, and African wild cats, making it a predator hotspot.
- Ngorongoro Crater: This 260 km² caldera is a natural enclosure with the highest density of big game in Africa. Spot the Big Five, including the critically endangered black rhino, alongside flamingos, hippos, and hyenas. The crater’s lush floor and steep walls create a Jurassic Park-like experience.
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its massive elephant herds (up to 300 in a single group) and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire is a quieter gem with diverse wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and over 550 bird species.
- Cultural Encounters: Interact with Maasai tribes near Ngorongoro, learning about their traditions and coexistence with wildlife. Africa Paradise Adventures includes cultural visits for a richer experience.
Seasonal highlights:
- Dry Season (June–October): Ideal for game viewing, as animals gather around water sources like the Tarangire River.
- Wet Season (December–March): Perfect for witnessing the wildebeest calving in the Serengeti and lush, green landscapes.
Logistics and Planning with Africa Paradise Adventures
Africa Paradise Adventures ensures a seamless experience with expert logistics and personalized service:
- Transfers: Complimentary pick-up and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), with transfers between Moshi, Arusha, and safari destinations in private 4×4 vehicles (max 7 passengers).
- Lodging: Comfortable stays in Moshi (e.g., Springlands Hotel), Arusha (e.g., Arusha Serena Hotel), and safari lodges or tented camps like Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge and Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp. All accommodations are vetted for comfort and authenticity.
- Guides and Support: Our Kilimanjaro treks feature experienced guides, porters, and a 95% summit success rate. Safari guides are local experts trained to spot wildlife and share cultural insights.
- Customization: Choose from routes like Lemosho, Machame, or Marangu for Kilimanjaro, and tailor your safari to include Lake Manyara, Zanzibar, or cultural tours.
- Health and Safety: Guides carry oxygen tanks and medical kits for Kilimanjaro, and safari vehicles are equipped for safety. We recommend travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and malaria prophylaxis.
Why Choose Africa Paradise Adventures?
Based in Mississauga, Ontario, with strong roots in East Africa, Africa Paradise Adventures specializes in crafting bespoke Kilimanjaro and safari packages. Our team’s decades of experience ensure every detail is handled, from gear rentals (sleeping bags, trekking poles) to gourmet meals on the mountain and in the bush. We offer:
- Tailored Itineraries: Customize your trip to match your fitness level, budget, and interests, whether it’s a private safari or a group climb.
- Sustainability: We support local communities through fair wages for porters and guides and eco-friendly practices.
- Comprehensive Support: Receive a 40-page dossier with packing lists, visa advice ($50–$100), and preparation tips.
- Customer Satisfaction: Our 4.5/5-star reviews highlight our responsive service and unforgettable experiences, as seen in testimonials like Starstwirl’s: “Africa Paradise Adventure took care of everything!”
Budget and Planning Tips
- Cost: Packages start at $2,500–$4,000 per person, depending on group size, route, and season. Contact us for exact pricing.
- Best Time: January–March and June–October for dry weather and optimal wildlife viewing.
- Preparation: Train for Kilimanjaro with cardio and hiking (4–6 months). Pack for both mountain (layered clothing, boots) and safari (light clothing, binoculars). Consult your doctor about Diamox and vaccinations (hepatitis A, typhoid).
- Tipping: Budget $200–$300 USD in small bills for guides and porters.
Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro and safari through Tanzania’s wild heart? Book our Kilimanjaro + Safari Package with Africa Paradise Adventures for an unforgettable Tanzanian adventure. Contact our team today to customize your 12-day journey, blending the thrill of Uhuru Peak with the wonders of Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire. Don’t miss your chance to experience the ultimate African adventure—reserve your spot now!
