Experience the ultimate adventure with this 10-day Tanzania safari and trekking expedition, designed for those who crave both the thrill of conquering Africa’s highest peak and the excitement of exploring its most iconic wildlife.
The journey begins with a **6-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame Route**, renowned for its stunning panoramic views and the gradual ascent that allows climbers to acclimatize properly, ensuring a safe and memorable climb. The Machame Route is considered one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers a mix of rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert, leading to the summit – **Uhuru Peak**, at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), where the sense of achievement is unmatched.
After reaching the summit, the adventure continues with a **3-day safari** to Tanzania’s top wildlife destinations. You'll explore the **Serengeti National Park**, famous for its vast savannahs and incredible wildlife migrations, and the **Ngorongoro Crater**, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” due to its rich diversity of animals in a stunning caldera.
Along the way, you’ll encounter Africa’s Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos – as well as a variety of other wildlife in their natural habitat, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and an array of bird species.
This 10-day tour is perfect for adventurers who are eager to push their limits on the mountain and then relax and immerse themselves in the beauty and grandeur of Tanzania’s wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, this combination tour offers a balanced and extraordinary experience of both nature’s rugged beauty and Africa’s breathtaking wilderness.
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Your adventure begins with a transfer to **Machame Gate**, the starting point for your Kilimanjaro climb. After completing the necessary park registration and meeting your trekking crew, you'll set off into the jungle. The hike begins through **lush rainforest**, where you'll find towering trees, ferns, and an abundance of wildlife, such as colorful birds and playful monkeys. As you make your way to **Machame Camp (2,835m / 9,301 ft)**, you'll experience a gradual climb that takes around **5-7 hours**, covering approximately **11 km (7 miles)**. The constant hum of nature will be a companion as you make your way to camp. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a hot dinner prepared by your crew, followed by rest to prepare for the days ahead.
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your ascent towards **Shira Camp (3,840m / 12,600 ft)**. The route takes you through the **moorland and heather zones**, offering incredible panoramic views of the mountain’s peaks and the surrounding landscape. The trek, lasting **4-6 hours**, covers approximately **5 km (3 miles)**. Along the way, you'll pass unique vegetation and possibly spot wildlife like the elusive blue monkey or the ever-present birds of prey. Upon arrival at Shira Camp, take time to relax and acclimatize, soaking in the breathtaking sunset views as the sky transforms over the towering summit of Kilimanjaro.
Today is a crucial acclimatization day. You will trek towards **Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190 ft)**, which is one of the highest points you’ll reach on this route before descending to aid your body’s adjustment to the altitude. The trek involves a climb of about **7-9 hours** and covers approximately **10 km (6.2 miles)**. As you approach Lava Tower, the landscape changes dramatically, offering stunning views of the towering cliffs and volcanic formations. Spend some time at Lava Tower to acclimatize, before descending to **Barranco Camp (3,950m / 12,960 ft)**. This descending trek helps your body adjust to the altitude, making it easier for the summit push. The camp itself offers beautiful views of the valley below and the dramatic Barranco Wall.
Today’s hike begins with a challenging but rewarding climb of the famous **Barranco Wall**, a steep section that provides panoramic views of the valley below. After conquering the wall, the trail continues through the alpine desert zone, where you’ll experience an almost lunar-like landscape. The trek to **Barafu Camp (4,673m / 15,331 ft)** takes **6-8 hours**, covering approximately **9 km (5.6 miles)**. As you approach Barafu, you’ll feel the excitement and anticipation build as you’re nearing the final stretch of your journey to the summit. Once you arrive, take a rest, eat, and prepare for the midnight ascent. You’ll get a good night’s sleep (as much as possible) in preparation for the challenging day ahead.
The final ascent to **Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341 ft)** begins around midnight, when you’ll trek in the dark with headlamps. This section of the climb is tough and requires determination, as you’ll ascend steep scree slopes under the starry African sky. The trek is physically demanding, but the reward at the summit – the **breathtaking panoramic views** – makes it all worth it. Upon reaching the summit, you can celebrate your achievement and take in the awe-inspiring views, including the ice fields and glaciers that surround the summit. After spending some time at the peak, you’ll begin your descent to **Mweka Camp (3,100m / 10,170 ft)** for a much-needed rest. This day covers **17 km (10.5 miles)** and takes **10-14 hours**.
The final descent takes you back through the lush rainforest to **Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380 ft)**, where you’ll sign out of the park and receive your **Kilimanjaro summit certificate** as a testament to your accomplishment. The 4-hour trek covers **10 km (6.2 miles)** and allows you to reflect on the journey. At the gate, you’ll be met by your transport and transferred back to your hotel in **Arusha or Moshi**, where you can relax and celebrate your successful climb.
After a restful night in Arusha, you'll set off on an exciting journey to the **Serengeti National Park**, home to the world-famous **Great Migration** and a diverse array of wildlife. The journey to the Serengeti takes you through scenic landscapes, and you’ll stop for a **game drive en route**, giving you the first chance to spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras. Upon arrival at your safari lodge or tented camp, you can relax and enjoy a delicious dinner. The sounds of the Serengeti will lull you to sleep as you prepare for your safari adventure the following day.
Today is dedicated to exploring the vast plains of the Serengeti, with **morning and afternoon game drives**. You’ll have the chance to witness the **Big Five** in action – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos – along with countless other species of wildlife. The Serengeti is home to some of the world’s most iconic wildlife scenes, including predator-prey interactions, wildebeest herds, and more. After a hearty lunch, you’ll transfer to the **Ngorongoro Conservation Area** and spend the night at a lodge near the crater’s rim, enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
On the final day of your safari, you’ll descend into the **Ngorongoro Crater**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most biodiverse places. The crater is home to a remarkable concentration of wildlife, and you’ll enjoy a **half-day game drive**, spotting rhinos, lions, zebras, flamingos, and more. The landscape is truly unique, with the expansive crater floor providing a stunning backdrop for your safari. After a memorable lunch, you’ll return to **Arusha**, where your adventure will conclude.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have the opportunity to explore **Arusha** or enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to **Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)** for your departure. Whether you’re flying home or continuing your travels, this 10-day journey will leave you with unforgettable memories of both the majestic Kilimanjaro and the vibrant wildlife of Tanzania.
This **10-day Tanzania adventure** combines the thrill of **climbing Kilimanjaro** with the excitement of a **Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari**, offering an unforgettable African experience.