The Safari to the Summit Expedition is an extraordinary 13-day journey designed for adventurers who wish to experience the very best of Tanzania — from thrilling wildlife safaris to conquering the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Machame Route.
Your adventure begins with a week-long exploration of the legendary northern circuit safari — Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara. You’ll traverse majestic landscapes filled with elephants, lions, leopards, and wildebeests, witnessing the true spirit of Africa.
After immersing yourself in the wilderness, return to Arusha for a rest and preparation day. Then, embark on the six-day Machame Route climb — widely regarded as the most beautiful route up Kilimanjaro. From lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glaciers, each day offers breathtaking scenery and a steady acclimatization pace that enhances your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak, the “Roof of Africa.”
This itinerary perfectly balances the best of both worlds — the excitement of safari and the triumph of the climb.
Arusha City
6 AM (EAT)
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Meet your safari guide for a briefing and Arusha City tour, and enjoy a relaxing evening before your adventure begins.
After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, famous for its immense elephant herds and ancient baobabs. Enjoy a full-day game drive exploring the park’s savannahs and riverine forests.
Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge near Tarangire.
After breakfast, travel through the scenic highlands and Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti National Park. Enjoy an en route game drive, spotting giraffes, zebras, and predators along the way.
Arrive in the Serengeti for an afternoon game drive and overnight stay in the heart of the park.
Spend a full day exploring the vast Serengeti plains. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration — a spectacular display of wildebeests and zebras crossing the open savannah.
Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation under the stars.
Enjoy a morning game drive in Serengeti before heading to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Stop at a Maasai village en route for a cultural encounter.
Arrive at the crater rim in the afternoon for dinner and overnight with stunning views.
Descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable game drive. The crater floor hosts an abundance of wildlife, including rhinos, lions, and flamingos.
After lunch, drive to Lake Manyara for dinner and overnight.
Spend the morning exploring Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. After a picnic lunch, return to Arusha for dinner and rest.
This day serves as a relaxation and preparation day before your mountain adventure.
After breakfast, drive to the Machame Gate for registration. Begin your hike through lush rainforest filled with monkeys and exotic flora.
Arrive at Machame Camp in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight. (Hiking time: 5–7 hours)
Ascend gradually through the forest zone, emerging into the moorland where giant lobelias and heathers dominate the landscape.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak before reaching Shira Camp for dinner and overnight. (Hiking time: 4–6 hours)
Climb toward Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp, located beneath the famous Barranco Wall.
Though challenging, this day is key for proper acclimatization. (Hiking time: 6–8 hours)
Tackle the steep Barranco Wall in the morning — a highlight of the Machame Route. Continue to Karanga Camp with scenic views of glaciers and valleys.
Dinner and overnight at Karanga. (Hiking time: 4–5 hours)
Ascend to Barafu Camp, your base before the final summit attempt. Have an early dinner and rest as your guide briefs you for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak. (Hiking time: 4–5 hours)
Start the final ascent around midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, at sunrise — an unforgettable moment.
Descend to Mweka Camp for lunch, then transfer back to Arusha for your celebration dinner and overnight stay.
