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Kilimanjaro Machame Route, Northern Safari & Zanzibar Excursions

Kilimanjaro Machame Route, Northern Safari & Zanzibar Excursions

Safari Overview

Embark on a 14-day odyssey through Tanzania, combining the challenge of the Machame Trek with the thrill of a safari adventure in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro. Traverse diverse landscapes as you ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, culminating in the summit at Uhuru Peak, before embarking on game drives in some of Africa's most renowned national parks, where you'll encounter lions, elephants, and other iconic wildlife against the backdrop of sweeping savannahs and ancient volcanic craters.
Kilimanjaro Machame Route, Northern Safari & Zanzibar Excursions Route

Day to day description

Arrival Kilimanjaro International Airport to your pre-climb lodge

Today you will arrive directly at Kilimanjaro International Airport (time and flight to be confirmed) and will be transferred to your pre-climb lodge in Moshi. 

 Driving time: 1.5 hours to hotel

Accommodation: Pink Flamingo Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Kilimanjaro International Airport to your pre-climb lodge photo 1
Kilimanjaro International Airport to your pre-climb lodge photo 2

Day 1 Moshi to Machame gate to Machame Camp

This morning, we indulge in a leisurely breakfast at our hotel, setting off in our vehicle around 08:00hrs to ensure a timely arrival at Machame Gate (1640 meters) by 10:00hrs as per our schedule. Upon arrival, our first task is to complete the necessary registration formalities before commencing our trek. Here, you'll have the opportunity to meet your mountain team, including guides, porters, and all other companions accompanying you on your ascent.

Today's trek covers considerable ground, with an elevation gain of approximately 1332 meters over a distance of just under 11km/7 miles, spanning a walking duration of approximately 5 to 6 hours.

The initial stretch of today's journey follows a broad track winding through dense forest, adorned with magnificent tall trees draped in green moss. As the trail gradually inclines and narrows, the landscape transforms, with the emergence of vibrant flowers such as impatiens Kilimanjaro and impatiens pseudoviola adding splashes of color to the surroundings. You'll also catch glimpses of Kibo Peak in the east. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife inhabiting the area, including species like olive thrush and stonechat. We aim to reach the camp by around 17:00hrs, providing you with a couple of hours to unwind before dinner is served.

Moshi to Machame gate to Machame Camp photo 1
Moshi to Machame gate to Machame Camp photo 2

Day 2 Machame Camp to Shira Caves

Today's leg of the journey is characterized by its brevity and steepness as we ascend to an altitude surpassing 3804 meters. Despite the challenging terrain encountered in the morning along a narrow path, our perseverance is handsomely rewarded at lunchtime with breathtaking vistas stretching both southward and toward Kibo. Indeed, one would be hard-pressed to find a more idyllic spot for a meal.

Commencing our day with an early start around 08:30hrs, we anticipate reaching our campsite by 14:00hrs. Along the way, we'll encounter the enchanting moorland lobelias and the distinctive dark obsidian rock formations of the Shira Plateau for the first time. Upon arriving at Shira Caves, you'll have ample opportunity to marvel at magnificent natural landmarks such as the renowned 'Shira Cathedral,' Klute Peak, and the majestic Mount Meru. Dinner will be served around 18:00hrs, allowing for a satisfying end to the day's adventures.

Machame Camp to Shira Caves photo 1
Machame Camp to Shira Caves photo 2

Day 3 Shira Caves to Barranco Camp

Today's stage presents a notable departure from yesterday's journey, featuring a longer trek and a shift in terrain. Beginning at 3804 meters, our route spans nearly 10km/6 miles, with a modest altitude gain of 146 meters by the time we reach Barranco Camp around 16:00hrs. Along the hike, we ascend to the base of the imposing Lava Tower, towering at a lofty 4630 meters, before descending for our overnight stop. While this descent may seem counterintuitive, it plays a crucial role in facilitating acclimatization to high altitude.

Given the overall distance covered today, we anticipate walking for approximately 6 to 8 hours, excluding breaks. Our day commences with breakfast at 07:00hrs and departure at 08:30hrs, embarking on our trek across the rugged terrain of the Shira Plateau. Initially, vegetation is sparse, with only a few resilient lichens dotting the landscape. As we ascend towards the Lava Tower, a well-deserved picnic lunch awaits at 13:00hrs. Following our ascent to the pinnacle near the Lava Tower, we descend to Barranco Camp. Upon arrival, take a moment to admire the stunning vistas of Kibo's southern face and the majestic Heim Glacier. Dinner will be served at 19:00hrs, providing a satisfying conclusion to the day's endeavors.

Shira Caves to Barranco Camp photo 1
Shira Caves to Barranco Camp photo 2

Day 4 Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

Today promises to be a true test of endurance! We'll kickstart the day with breakfast at 07:00hrs, gearing up for what lies ahead on this demanding journey. Our departure is set for 08:00hrs, with a cooked lunch awaiting us at Karanga around midday. By 16:00hrs, we aim to reach our ultimate destination, Barafu Camp, where dinner will be served at 18:00hrs.

The beginning of today's trek presents a unique challenge: a rigorous scramble up the near-vertical Barranco Wall, aptly dubbed the 'Breakfast Wall' for its immediate ascent following breakfast! At the summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Heim Glacier before gradually descending into the stunning yet chilly Karanga Valley below.

Continuing onwards, we navigate a steep series of zig-zags until we reach Karanga Camp, where our lunch stops for the day. Departing from Karanga, our journey persists with a steady ascent, traversing through barren, rocky terrain with the Decken and Kersten glaciers visible to the left. As we crest the summit, the landscape remains stark as we descend into a valley, catching our first glimpse of the Rebmann Glacier. Our destination, Barafu Camp, awaits at the end of this valley, accessible after a brief, steep scramble and a final stretch of walking.

Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp photo 1
Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp photo 2

Day 5 Baraafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp

After a short rest at Barafu Camp, you will begin your midnight summit ascent to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak, passing through Stella Point as the sun rises over Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon reaching the summit, enjoy breathtaking views and celebrate your achievement at Africa’s highest point. After spending some time at Uhuru Peak for photos and relaxation, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short break and lunch before continuing down through the alpine and rainforest zones to Mweka Camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Baraafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp photo 1
Baraafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp photo 2

Day 6 Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha Town

Still thrilled by your achievement, breakfast is taken at 07.00hrs, and at 08.00hrs you can take the chance to reward your trekking team at the ‘Tipping Celebration.’

Although we still have 9km to walk, departure is at a leisurely 09.00hrs and you descend down to the Mweka Gate which sits at an altitude of 1640 metres. There, you will be served a cooked lunch at midday and be presented with your hard-earned certificate.

Your vehicle transport will be waiting to transfer you to your Hotel in Arusha, where you can choose to relax – or, if you have any energy left, to celebrate!

 Driving time: 2 hours to Arusha town

Accommodation: Njiro Luxury Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha Town photo 1
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha Town photo 2

Day 7 Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Karatu

Today pick up from the hotel and drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Upon arrival, dive into a thrilling game drive, exploring the park's diverse landscapes of savannah, acacia woodlands, and the life-giving Tarangire River. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants ambling amidst the baobabs, as well as lions, leopards, and a myriad of bird species, all thriving in this rich ecosystem. Late drive to for a Dinner & Overnight.

 Driving time: 2 hours to Arusha town

Accommodation: Peak Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Karatu photo 1
Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Karatu photo 2

Day 8 Karatu to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, start a journey towards Serengeti National Park, Tanzania's crown jewel of safari destinations. As you traverse the vast plains, keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including giraffes and herds of antelope. Arrive in the Serengeti in time for lunch at your campsite before embarking on an afternoon game drive. Witness the iconic savannah landscapes dotted with acacia trees and scan the horizon for feelings of pride of lions lounging in the shade. Return to camp for dinner and share stories of the day's adventures around the campfire.

Driving time: 4 hours to Serengeti National Park

Accommodation: Zuhumath Tented Camp

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Karatu to Serengeti National Park photo 1
Karatu to Serengeti National Park photo 2

Day 9 Serengeti National Park (full day in Seronera)

Spend a day immersed in the endless plains of Serengeti National Park. As the sun rises, set out to witness the stirring wildlife activities. The park’s diverse habitats are home to a rich tapestry of animals, from majestic lions to elegant giraffes. Every turn reveals new surprises, ensuring a day filled with awe-inspiring encounters and photogenic landscapes.

Accommodation: Zuhumath Tented Camp

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Serengeti National Park (full day in Seronera) photo 1
Serengeti National Park (full day in Seronera) photo 2

Day 10 Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Serengeti National Park with a half-day safari immersing you in its endless plains, where each corner unveils a new marvel of nature. Traverse the iconic savannah landscapes, encountering a diverse array of wildlife in their natural habitat, from majestic lions to graceful giraffes and everything in between. As the sun sets, embark on a journey towards the enchanting rim of Ngorongoro Crater for an overnight stay, where the day's cherished memories will seamlessly blend with the tranquility of the African night, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience that will linger in your heart forever.

Accommodation: African Safari Ngorongoro Ndutu Camp

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area photo 1
Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area photo 2

Day 11 Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro International Airport - fly to Zanzibar

After breakfast, descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater for a morning game drive surrounded by breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Explore the crater floor while searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and the rare black rhino. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the crater before ascending and driving to  Arusha Airport for your domestic flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel for relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay.

Driving time: 3 hours to Arusha Airport

Accommodation: Ngalawa Hotel & Resort

Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro International Airport - fly to Zanzibar photo 1
Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro International Airport - fly to Zanzibar photo 2

Day 12 Nungwi Beach Relaxation

After breakfast, drive to Nungwi Beach to enjoy a full day of leisure and relaxation along the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar. Spend your time relaxing on the soft white sands, swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or simply enjoying the peaceful tropical atmosphere. You may also take optional activities such as beach walks, sunbathing, or enjoying refreshing tropical drinks while admiring the stunning ocean views. This day offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and experience the beauty and tranquility of Zanzibar before returning to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation: White Paradise Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

Nungwi Beach Relaxation photo 1
Nungwi Beach Relaxation photo 2

Day 13 Prison Island & Spice Farm tour

After breakfast, you will depart for a boat excursion to Prison Island, where you will explore the historic prison ruins and visit the famous giant Aldabra tortoises. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters surrounding the island before returning to Stone Town. Later, continue with a guided spice farm tour to discover Zanzibar’s rich spice heritage, where you will see, smell, and taste a variety of spices and tropical fruits including cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. Learn about their traditional uses in local cuisine and medicine before transferring back to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation: White Paradise Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

Prison Island & Spice Farm tour photo 1
Prison Island & Spice Farm tour photo 2

Day 14 Departure Day

After breakfast, enjoy some leisure time at the hotel depending on your flight schedule. Later, transfer to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach holiday.

Accommodation: None

Meals included: Breakfast

- from US$ 5,580 per person
Make Booking for this Tour
Trekking, Safari and Zanzibar Holidays

Includes

  • All accommodation (safari + Zanzibar)
  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle throughout
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • All game drives per itinerary
  • Internal flight to Zanzibar
  • All national park & conservation fees
  • Airport transfers on arrival & departure
  • Meals per stated board basis
  • Drinking water in vehicle
  • All meals are included for safari only
  • For Zanzibar - meal is only bed & breakfast basis

Excludes

  • International flights 
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Visa fees (approx. USD 50 per person)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses & gratuities
  • Optional excursions not listed above
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