14 Days Kilimanjaro Hike and Northern Circuit Safari
Embark on a transcendent journey through the heart of Tanzania, where the towering majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro converges with the untamed beauty of the Serengeti. This meticulously crafted 14-day itinerary promises an unforgettable fusion of high-altitude adventure and unparalleled wildlife encounters.
Your odyssey commences with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro Airport, setting the stage for an immersive exploration of the legendary Kilimanjaro. The initial days trace the ascending rhythm of your Kilimanjaro climb, beginning at Machame Gate and winding through a mosaic of ecosystems – from rainforests to alpine deserts. With each step, the landscape transforms, culminating in the ultimate test of endurance as you ascend to the summit, Uhuru Peak, at sunrise on Day 7. The descent brings you back to the base, where a transition to Arusha awaits, offering a well-deserved respite.
Transitioning from the triumphant heights of Kilimanjaro, the journey seamlessly shifts gears to the boundless plains of the Serengeti. Days unfold in a symphony of wildlife encounters, with full-day game drives allowing you to witness the drama of nature in its purest form. The Serengeti, home to the iconic Big Five, welcomes you with open savannahs, winding rivers, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration. Interwoven into this safari narrative is a visit to a Maasai village, adding a cultural dimension to your Tanzanian adventure.
Your Tanzanian odyssey concludes with a cultural immersion in the vibrant Masai Market of Arusha. Engage with local artisans, peruse handcrafted treasures, and carry a piece of Tanzania’s soul with you. As you bid farewell at Kilimanjaro International Airport, carry not just memories but a profound connection to the raw beauty of Kilimanjaro and the timeless allure of the Serengeti. This 14-day itinerary is a tapestry of nature’s grandeur and cultural richness, promising an odyssey that will resonate in your heart long after the dust of the Serengeti has settled and the peaks of Kilimanjaro have faded from view.
Tour Summary
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and Get to Moshi for an overnight stay
Day 2: Transfer to Machame Gate to start your Hike
Day 3: Climb up to Shira Camp
Day 4: Hike to Barranco Camp
Day 5: Ascent to Karanga Camp
Day 6: Climb to Barafu Camp
Day 7: Finally Ascend to Mweka Summit camp
Day 8: Descend to the base of Kilimanjaro and Transfer to Arusha for Overnight stay
Day 9: Transfer to Ngorongoro for a mini tour and proceed to Serengeti for an overnight stay
Day 10: Serengeti Full Day game viewing experience
Day 11: Full-day Serengeti Tour
Day 12: Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Visit Masai & Lodge at Neptune Ngorongoro
Day 13: Transfer to Arusha for Relaxation
Day 14: Go Shopping in the Masai Market and Fly Out
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and Get to Moshi for an Overnight Stay
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. After a brief introduction and orientation, we will transfer you to Moshi, a charming town located at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Check into your hotel for some rest after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore Moshi’s vibrant local markets or take a stroll through the town.
Day 2: Transfer to Machame Gate to Start Your Hike
After a hearty breakfast, your adventure begins as we transfer you to Machame Gate, the starting point for your Kilimanjaro climb. Meet your experienced guides and support team, and embark on your trek through the lush rainforest. The Machame Route offers stunning scenery and is known for its gradual ascent, providing ample time for acclimatization. Reach Machame Camp in the evening, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
Day 3: Climb Up to Shira Camp
Today’s trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from the rainforest to the moorland. As you ascend, enjoy breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru. Reach Shira Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,840 meters (12,600 feet), and marvel at the vastness of the surrounding terrain. The evening offers a chance to acclimatize further and enjoy the tranquility of the high-altitude environment.
Day 4: Hike to Barranco Camp
Continue your journey through the alpine desert, navigating the rocky terrain toward Barranco Camp. Along the way, you’ll encounter the iconic Lava Tower, a natural lava formation. Barranco Camp, at an elevation of 3,960 meters (12,990 feet), offers spectacular views of the Barranco Wall and the distant summit. Spend the night surrounded by the unique flora of Kilimanjaro.
Day 5: Ascent to Karanga Camp
The trail takes you through the stunning Barranco Valley, and after conquering the Barranco Wall, you’ll continue to Karanga Camp. The camp is strategically located for acclimatization, providing a crucial resting point before the final ascent. Take in the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding glaciers and high-altitude landscapes.
Day 6: Climb to Barafu Camp
Your journey continues towards Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit push. The landscape transforms into a stark, lunar-like terrain as you approach the campsite situated at an elevation of 4,600 meters (15,090 feet). Take the afternoon to rest and mentally prepare for the challenging summit night.
Day 7: Finally Ascend to Mweka Summit Camp
The most challenging day has arrived. Begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro, starting in the early hours of the morning. The climb is demanding but immensely rewarding. Watch the sunrise from the summit and savor the accomplishment of reaching the top of Africa. Descend to Mweka Summit Camp for a well-deserved rest, surrounded by the beauty of the high-altitude landscape.
Day 8: Descend to the Base of Kilimanjaro and Transfer to Arusha for Overnight Stay
After a morning of celebration and reflection, descend to the base of Kilimanjaro. Your journey down offers new perspectives on the landscapes you conquered on your ascent. Once at the base, bid farewell to your mountain guides and transfer to Arusha for an overnight stay. Relax and rejuvenate at your hotel, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of the past week.
Day 9: Transfer to Ngorongoro for a Mini Tour and Proceed to Serengeti for an Overnight Stay
Leave Arusha behind as you embark on a scenic drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy a mini-tour of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich wildlife. After the tour, continue your journey to the Serengeti, a world-renowned national park teeming with diverse wildlife. Arrive at your accommodation and settle in for a night surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 10: Serengeti Full Day Game Viewing Experience
Dedicate the entire day to exploring the vast Serengeti plains, home to the iconic Big Five and an abundance of other wildlife. Embark on game drives, guided by experienced naturalists who will share their knowledge about the animals and ecosystems. Witness the incredible migration of wildebeest and zebras, and capture unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the Serengeti’s sweeping landscapes.
Day 11: Full-Day Serengeti Tour
Continue your exploration of the Serengeti with another full day of game drives. The park’s diverse ecosystems, from open savannahs to riverine forests, provide a variety of habitats for wildlife. Keep an eye out for predators and prey engaged in the timeless struggle for survival. As the sun sets, return to your accommodation for a restful night under the African sky.
Day 12: Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Visit Masai & Lodge at Neptune Ngorongoro
Bid farewell to the Serengeti as you drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, visit a Maasai village to experience the rich cultural heritage of these proud and traditional people. Continue to Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge, situated on the crater rim, and marvel at the panoramic views of the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a comfortable evening at the lodge, surrounded by the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Day 13: Transfer to Arusha for Relaxation
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive back to Arusha. Arrive at your hotel and spend the day at leisure. Take advantage of the opportunity to relax by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or explore the vibrant local markets. Reflect on your Kilimanjaro climb and the incredible wildlife experiences in the Serengeti as you prepare for your journey back home.
Day 14: Go Shopping in the Masai Market and Fly Out
Before departing Tanzania, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Masai Market in Arusha. Browse through a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, and traditional artifacts, and engage with local artisans. This is a perfect opportunity to purchase souvenirs and gifts to remember your Tanzanian adventure. In the afternoon, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, concluding a memorable journey filled with natural wonders and cultural richness.