14-day Kilimanjaro and safari
Adventure safari Tanzania Kilimanjaro tour, wildlife, and the Maasai
Climb Mt Kilimanjaro Tanzania
Embark on a 14-day journey that blends the awe of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro with the adventure of a private safari.
Begin in Moshi, where your adventure begins, and ascend the Machame Route, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and diverse landscapes. After conquering the mountain, relax and reconnect with Tanzania’s incredible animals on a private safari. Witness the wildlife spectacle of Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire, share stories and smiles with a Maasai family, and soak up the colors and rhythms of local markets.
Including private 4×4 transport with an experienced guide, accommodation, meals, Kilimanjaro climb with full support and park fees.
Highlights of this Tanzania Kilimanjaro tour and Safari:
- Climb Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, and reach the “Roof of Africa”
- Professional climbing crew for safety and success
- Rewarding 4-day private safari to the northern parks
- Ultimate adventure combined with unspoiled wilderness
Safari schedule example
Your safari at a glance
Day 1
Arrival at Kilimanjaro, your gateway to adventure
Day 2
Acclimatize and explore Moshi
Day 3
The Kilimanjaro adventure begins
Day 4
Hiking in Kilimanjaro: into the highlands, trek to Shira Camp
Day 5
Lava Tower and Barranco Camp – acclimatization trek
Day 6
Steep ridge to Karanga Camp
Day 7
Final Ascent to Barafu Camp
Day 8
Summit day on Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 9
Descent and return to Arusha
Day 10
Recharge before your safari
Day 11
Cultural encounters in the Great Rift Valley
Day 12
Descending into nature’s grand amphitheater
Day 13
A night under the baobabs in Tarangire
Day 14
Last safari moments & departure
Day 1 – Arrival at Kilimanjaro, your gateway to adventure
Arrive in Tanzania and unwind at your lodge in lush gardens at the foot of Kilimanjaro. It’s the perfect base to acclimatize, enjoy the pool, and soak up the welcoming atmosphere before your adventure begins.
Day 2 - Acclimatize and explore Moshi
Take a restful day before you start on your Kilimanjaro climb. Meet the head guide for an expedition briefing, check your gear, and enjoy a stroll through Moshi or its vibrant local market to soak up the culture at the mountain’s base.
Day 3 – The Kilimanjaro adventure begins
After breakfast, drive to the Machame Gate (1,800 m) and start the trek through lush rainforest. Follow the winding trail as you climb to 3,000 meters, enjoying the vibrant greenery and fresh mountain air. Reach Machame Huts for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Elevation: 3,000 m/9,730 ft | Distance: 11 km | Hiking time: 6 – 7 hrs | Habitat: rainforest
Day 4 – Hiking in Kilimanjaro: into the highlands, trek to Shira Camp
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend through moorland and heather. Cross a small valley and follow a steep rocky ridge before reaching Shira Camp. Take in the views of Kilimanjaro and the forest below, then rest and enjoy dinner.
Elevation: 3,840 m/ 12,450 ft | Distance: 5 km | Hiking time: 4 – 5 hrs | Habitat: moorland/heather
Day 5 – Lava Tower and Barranco Camp - acclimatization trek
Today, you trek from the Shira Plateau to the striking Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. An essential day for acclimatization, as you soak in the dramatic landscapes while preparing your body for the summit ahead.
Elevation: 3,950 m/ 12,810 ft | Distance: 10 km | Hiking time: 6 – 7 hrs | Habitat: semi desert
Day 6 – Steep ridge to Karanga Camp
Leave the Barranco Huts and climb the steep ridge past the iconic Barranco Wall. This 1 – 1.5 hour climb leads you to the Karanga Valley campsite. This relatively short hike is designed to help your body acclimate before the final push to the summit. At Karanga Camp, you can rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next day’s hike.
Elevation: 4,010m /13,140ft | Distance: 5 km | Hiking time: 3- 4 hrs | Habitat: alpine desert
Day 7 – Final Ascent to Barafu Camp
A short but steep hike takes you to Barafu Camp, the high camp of Kilimanjaro. The landscape is stark and alpine, with stunning glacier views. You rest here, gather strength, and prepare for the final ascent to the Roof of Africa.
Elevation: 4,640 m / 15,220 ft | Distance: 4 km | Hiking time: 3 – 4 hrs | Habitat: alpine desert
Day 8 – Summit day on Mount Kilimanjaro
Just before midnight, your summit attempt begins. You climb steadily through scree to Stella Point before reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you descend past Barafu Camp for a short break and continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Elevation gain: 5,895 m / 19,341 ft (summit) | Distance: 5 km to summit, then 11 km descend to Mweka | Hiking time: 6–7 hrs to summit, 2.5 – 3 hrs to Barafu, 3 – 4 hrs to Mweka | Habitat: arctic / alpine desert
Day 9 – Descent and return to Arusha
Your final trek takes you through the lush rainforest back to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your well-earned summit certificate. Whether you reached Uhuru Peak or not, completing the Machame Route is an incredible achievement. At the gate, your driver awaits to transfer you to Arusha.
Elevation: 3,100 m / 10,050 ft | Distance: 10 km | Hiking time: 3 hrs | Habitat: rainforest
Day 10 – Recharge before your safari
Take time to rest, reflect, and celebrate your Kilimanjaro achievement. Unwind by the pool, enjoy a book on your private veranda, or treat yourself to a well-deserved massage. Optional activities include a canoe trip on Lake Duluti, a coffee tour, or a gentle bike ride.
Day 11 – Cultural encounters in the Great Rift Valley
This morning, you leave Arusha and travel into the Great Rift Valley. Along the way, you’ll visit a traditional Maasai family, stroll through a lively local market, and, if you wish, explore the area by bike with a guide. Your lodge in Karatu offers a peaceful setting surrounded by rolling hills. It is the ideal base for tomorrow’s crater adventure.
Day 12 – Descending into nature’s grand amphitheater
As the morning mist lifts, you descend over 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, a breathtaking natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. Every turn reveals something new on the crater floor: a pride of lions lazing in the sun, elephants wandering the swamps, flamingos shimmering on the lake, and, with a bit of luck, the elusive black rhino. This truly is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacles. You return to your lodge in the afternoon to relax and savor the day’s impressions.
Day 13 – A night under the baobabs in Tarangire
From the Great Rift Valley, you journey into Tarangire National Park. Your game drive reveals majestic elephants by the river, herds of wildebeest, zebras, and buffaloes gathering at waterholes, and the park’s stunning mix of baobab trees, palms, and savannah. After a day of exploration, you’ll spend the night within the park, immersing yourself fully in the African wilderness.
Day 14 – Last safari moments & departure
Rise early for your final taste of the African wilderness with a morning game drive, or opt for a guided safari walk to experience the savannah’s sights, sounds, and scents up close. Marvel one last time at elephants, giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife as the golden morning light sweeps across the landscape.
Plan your safari
Combine hiking in Kilimanjaro with a spectacular safari
After this unforgettable journey, you’ll return to Kilimanjaro Airport for your farewell. But why end the adventure here? Treat yourself to a few days of pure relaxation on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, perfectly capping off your Kilimanjaro & Safari triumph.
Did you know…
Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, yet it’s one of the most accessible high peaks to climb. With the proper guidance, support, and a little determination, reaching its summit is a challenge that’s within reach. When climbing with Ajabu Adventures, you’ll feel fully supported every step of the way. While you conquer its heights, we take care of the details, so you can focus on the thrill, the views, and the joy of the experience.
Travel stories
What our guests say about THIS safari
“We did both the Kilimanjaro climb and the safari with them and were truly impressed! ! Both on the mountain and on safari we had a chance to compare the various companies and we always came to the conclusion that we were so lucky with Ajabu as the standard of their services is very high!”
– Arta, Belgium
“Our trip included a 6 day Machame Route climb on Kilimanjaro, a 6 day safari in the north, and 6 days on Zanzibar. All in all we could not have planned a better honeymoon; it was easily the best trip we have taken and we have to thank Ajabu Adventures for making sure everything was perfect.”
– Emilio S., Spain
Frequently asked questions
FAQ about this Mount Kilimanjaro climb plus safari adventure
Didn’t find the answer you were looking for?
What is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro, followed by a private safari?
The ideal months are during the dry seasons: January to early March and June to October. These periods offer clear skies, spectacular views from the summit, and excellent safari conditions. Wildlife congregates around water sources, making sightings abundant and memorable.
How physically demanding is the Machame route, and do I need prior hiking experience?
The Machame route is often called the “Whiskey Route” because it’s challenging yet immensely rewarding. You don’t need to be an expert hiker, but a reasonable level of fitness and stamina helps. The key is a steady pace, proper acclimatization, and trusting your guides, who are there to support you every step. With patience, determination, and our encouragement, reaching the summit becomes an achievable and deeply satisfying triumph.
What are the chances of reaching the summit, and what happens if I don’t?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is as much about the journey as the destination. Every step brings stunning landscapes, unforgettable experiences, and another story. Our expert expedition team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring your safety and well-being. And whether or not you reach the summit, the sense of achievement and pride in what you’ve accomplished is undeniable!
Can the trip be extended with more safari days or a beach stay in Zanzibar?
Absolutely! Your Kilimanjaro & Safari adventure can be tailored to your wishes. You can add extra days in the Serengeti to explore its vast plains or witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration. And for the ultimate finale, why not unwind on the powdery white beaches of Zanzibar, soaking up the sun and turquoise waters after your mountain and safari adventure?
What makes this Kilimanjaro & Safari experience different from a typical tour?
This journey is a unique mix of personal challenge and awe-inspiring nature. First, you push yourself on Kilimanjaro, testing your limits and embracing the challenge, guided every step of the way by your expert team. Then, as you descend into the safari, you can breathe and be present. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the wild, while every detail of your comfort, meals, and logistics is taken care of. It’s a journey of contrasts: the thrill and pride of conquering a mountain, followed by the gentle wonder and serenity of life on the savannah.