Kilimanjaro and safari: 7 days of hiking and 3 days of safari
In summary
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Sports
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Duration11 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationTanzania / Kilimanjaro
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AgeFrom 10 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions136.52 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
English
Spanish
In a few words
A complete adventure in Tanzania , combining a legendary climb with an exclusive safari . This journey takes you along the famous Machame Route, through the spectacular ecosystems of Kilimanjaro, from the lush rainforest to the arid heights of the caldera , for optimal progress towards the summit. After the exertion, prepare to be amazed with a private safari to discover the wildlife treasures of Tarangire , the Ngorongoro Crater , and Lake Manyara , essential sanctuaries for African wildlife. Thanks to gradual acclimatization , expertly managed logistics , and carefully selected comfortable accommodations , each stage combines a sporting challenge , natural discovery , and an authentic encounter with Tanzanian culture. An ideal itinerary for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable journey.
The highlights
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Summit of Kilimanjaro via the Machame route at sunrise
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Safari in Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Manyara to observe the Big Five
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Diverse landscapes: tropical rainforest, alpine desert, and golden savannas
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 9 km
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
English
Spanish
Dickson is an experienced Kilimanjaro guide and safari supervisor with over 10 years of experience leading treks and wildlife tours in Tanzania. He is certified in mountain safety, first aid, and wilderness rescue , ensuring that every climb and safari is conducted safely. Known for his friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and culture , Dickson is committed to providing a safe and unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Customers appreciate his ability to motivate during difficult climbs , share fascinating anecdotes about the mountain and wildlife, and support each participant throughout the journey.
Gasper is an experienced and passionate safari guide specializing in wildlife tours in northern Tanzania. He has a keen eye for spotting animals , including the Big Five, and extensive knowledge of local ecosystems, birds, and conservation . Known for his friendly and approachable manner , Gasper ensures that every safari is both educational and unforgettable . He is committed to providing safe, comfortable, and immersive wildlife experiences for all clients.
Program
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Arrival in Tanzania (Arusha)
- Transportation Minibus - 16h - 50km
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
You will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where your representative from our local agency will give you a warm welcome. Transfer to your hotel in Arusha, located in the heart of the city and surrounded by views of the mountains and local plantations. In the evening, you will meet your mountain guide for a comprehensive briefing: a detailed presentation of the route, safety instructions, a check of your equipment, and the option to rent any missing gear. This is also the perfect time to ask any questions you may have about the climb and the safari.
Day 1 -
Machame Gate → Machame Camp
- Transportation Minibus - 08h - 65km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate for registration with park authorities. The hike begins through lush rainforest, where you can observe colobus monkeys, exotic birds, and dense vegetation. The trail climbs gradually, offering magnificent panoramas and natural waterfalls. The day ends at Camp Machame, a comfortable tented camp nestled in the heart of the mountains.
Day 2 -
Camp Machame → Camp Shira
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 5 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You leave the rainforest and enter the alpine moorland zone, characterized by heather, lichens, and lunar landscapes. The panoramic view of Kibo Peak and the Shira Plateau is spectacular. This shorter stage allows for gradual acclimatization, with the opportunity to admire volcanic formations and wildlife adapted to high altitudes.
Day 3 -
Camp Shira → Lava Tower → Camp Barranco
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 10 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An important acclimatization day. You'll climb to the Lava Tower, a secondary peak offering breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys. After this ascent, you'll descend to Camp Barranco, located at the foot of the famous Barranco Wall. This stage combines physical exertion, altitude training, and majestic scenery. The sunset from the camp offers spectacular colors on the mountain.
Day 4 -
Camp Barranco → Camp Karanga
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 5 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An early start for the ascent of the Barranco Wall, a technical but safe experience, led by your guide. Once you reach the summit, you'll follow a rolling trail to Karanga Camp. This day offers panoramic views of glaciers and spectacular vistas of the Kibo massif. Karanga Camp is a smaller, more intimate camp, ideal for resting before the more challenging stages.
Day 5 -
Camp Karanga → Camp Barafu
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 4 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You'll make your way to Barafu Camp, the starting point for the summit ascent. The afternoon is dedicated to rest, hydration, and mental preparation for the night climb. You'll have the chance to observe the first stars and the lunar landscape surrounding Barafu. An early dinner and complete rest are essential for the effort ahead.
Day 6 -
Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 14h
- Distance 17 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure at midnight for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. The trek is demanding, but the sunrise views of glaciers, the Kibo crater, and the surrounding valleys make the effort unforgettable. After celebrating the summit, descend to Mweka Camp through a lunar landscape and alpine forest, offering a striking contrast between rocky and wooded areas.
Day 7 -
Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Arusha
- Transportation Minibus - 14h - 90km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 10 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Final descent through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate. Presentation of official certificates attesting to your achievement. Transfer back to Arusha, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest, a hot shower, and dinner in comfortable surroundings, celebrating your accomplishment.
Day 8 -
Arusha → Tarangire National Park
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An early departure takes you to Tarangire National Park, famous for its impressive herds of elephants and majestic baobab trees. Enjoy a safari in a 4x4 vehicle with a pop-up roof, ideal for spotting lions, giraffes, zebras, and a wide variety of birds. Your guides will share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna, ensuring an immersive and enriching experience.
Day 9 -
Tarangire → Ngorongoro Crater
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site. A safari in the crater offers excellent opportunities to spot black rhinos, lions, buffalo, elephants, and hippos. The landscapes are spectacular, alternating between open plains and wooded areas, and the guides share the geological and cultural history of the region.
Day 10 -
Lake Manyara National Park → Arusha / Departure
- Activity Autre
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Early morning safari at Lake Manyara, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, flamingo colonies, and lush forest. After the safari, return drive to Arusha and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight, or check into your hotel depending on your travel plans.
Day 11
Note
- Weather dependent: The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather conditions . Heavy rain, storms, or extreme temperatures may affect walking times, camp availability, or safaris. Safety is our top priority.
- Flexibility: Although the program is structured, daily schedules may change to ensure proper acclimatization, safety, and the best chances of observing wildlife.
- Wildlife and environment: Encounters with animals on safaris are unpredictable . While we cannot guarantee specific sightings, we maximize the chances through experienced guides and optimal timing.
Accommodation
Access
Transfers and arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
To begin your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure and safari, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main point of entry. The airport is located approximately 50 km from Arusha , about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic.
Arrival options:
- International flights: Several airlines serve JRO from Europe, Africa, and Asia. Major flights originate from Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Doha, Istanbul, and Amsterdam.
- Regional flights: From Nairobi or Dar es Salaam, short daily flights (1 to 2 hours) allow you to quickly reach JRO.
Transfers:
- Upon your arrival, a representative will greet you at the airport with a sign bearing your name.
- A private vehicle will take you directly to your hotel in Arusha for your first night.
- All transfers related to the safari and Kilimanjaro climb are included: Machame gate, mountain camps and national parks.
- For clients arriving earlier or later than the start of the program, we can arrange a personalized transfer from the airport or from Arusha to the starting point of the trek.
Practical advice:
- It is recommended to arrive at least the day before the start of the climb to rest and acclimatize.
- Have your passport and tickets ready for airport security.
- Golden Trips vehicles are spacious and equipped for hiking transport
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Airport transfers
- Professional mountain guide, safari guide, cook, and porters
- Park entrance fees and camping fees
- All the accommodations mentioned
- Meals specified in the itinerary
- Private safari vehicle with sunroof
- Rescue costs (Kilimanjaro)
The price does not include
- International flights
- Personal hiking equipment (available for rent)
- Tips for the mountain and safari team
- Personal expenses and drinks
- Mandatory NIC Inbound Travel Insurance: USD 44 (approx. €39) per adult
Options
- Private portable toilet : CHF356.77 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Group camping equipment: Tents, dining areas and group shelters are provided at all camps.
- Cooking equipment: Shared and individual cooking equipment is provided, including stoves, utensils, and pots and pans. Meals are prepared by our professional cooking team during the trek.
- Additional support equipment: Tables, chairs and basic amenities for comfort at camp.
- Safety equipment: First aid kit and communication devices available on site.
Note: Guests do not need to bring their own tents, stoves or cooking utensils unless they wish to use personal items for added comfort.
Equipment to bring
Essential items for hiking and safari:
- Plastic bags / Waterproof bags: To protect your belongings, clothes and electronic devices.
- Dirty laundry bag: To separate used clothes and keep the bag organized.
- Wet towels / Wipes: Like “Calinette” for washing when water is cold or limited.
- Earplugs: Always useful for sleeping well in camps or lodges.
- Notebook, pen, book or deck of cards: For writing, entertaining or playing in the evening.
- Walking sticks / Trekking poles (optional but recommended):
- They help protect your knees during descents (up to 30% of your weight + bag is supported by the poles).
- They support your arms on steep climbs, reducing fatigue .
- Binoculars: Essential for observing wildlife during safaris or birds in the mountain forest.
- Camera / GoPro / Drone (if permitted): To capture landscapes and wildlife.
- Headlamp / Torch with spare batteries: Essential for summit night and camps.
- Sunglasses with UV protection: Protection against intense sunlight at altitude.
- Personal medications / First aid kit: Include altitude sickness medication, pain relievers and prescriptions.
- Reusable water bottles or hydration system: Minimum 2 liters per person to stay hydrated.
- Optional extras: Small travel pillow, hiking gaiters, dry socks, sunscreen, mosquito repellent.
Clothing to bring
Shoes :
- Hiking boots: Essential for trekking. They must be sturdy, waterproof, and offer good ankle support (high-top design). The soles should be non-slip and relatively rigid , such as Vibram.
- Lightweight footwear: Tennis shoes or sandals for evenings in lodges, villages or towns.
- Bathing shoes: Useful for lakes, rivers or lodge pools.
Clothes :
- Underwear / Base layers: First layer of insulation. Opt for technical fibers like Carline or Polartec : warm, flexible, lightweight, comfortable and quick-drying.
- Hiking pants: Durable, lightweight, and flexible. Convertible pants with removable legs are ideal.
- T-shirts: Breathable and moisture-wicking. Short and long sleeves for sun and insect protection.
- Fleece jacket or mid-layer: For warmth in the morning and evening.
- Softshell or waterproof jacket: Protection against wind, rain and climate changes at altitude.
- Warm hat and gloves: Essential for the ascent to the summit, as temperatures can drop sharply.
- Hat or cap: For sun protection during hikes and safaris.
- Socks: Good quality hiking socks, made of wool or technical fibers, plus light socks for the evening.
- Optional: Gaiters (against mud or snow), buff or scarf to protect against wind and dust.
Accessories :
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Lightweight backpack for day hikes
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles or hydration system (minimum 2 liters per person)
