12-Day Private Kilimanjaro Climb & Tanzania Safari
Overview
This 12-day Private Kilimanjaro Climb & Tanzania Safari combines the challenge of summiting Africa’s highest mountain with unforgettable wildlife encounters in Northern Tanzania, offering a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The journey begins with a fully supported private Kilimanjaro climb along a scenic route, allowing proper acclimatization as you trek through diverse landscapes from lush rainforest to alpine desert and onward to the iconic Uhuru Peak, guided by an experienced mountain crew focused on safety and summit success. After the climb, the adventure continues with a private safari to Tanzania’s premier national parks, including Tarangire, the Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater, where you will enjoy exceptional game viewing of elephants, big cats, and abundant wildlife, creating the perfect blend of personal achievement and classic African safari experience.
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Transfer to hotel/lodge; briefing with your private guide.
- Budget : Jevas Encole Hotel
- Mid-Range : Parrot Hotel
- Luxury : Mount Meru Hotel
Day 2: Machame Gate - Machame Camp
Trek through rainforest (~5–7 hrs).
Accommodation: Machame Camp
Day 3: Machame - Shira Camp
Alpine moorland trek (~5–6 hrs).
Accommodation: Shira Camp
Day 4: Shira - Barranco Camp
Trek past Lava Tower (~7 hrs), acclimatization.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Day 5: Barranco - Karanga Camp
Barranco Wall scramble (~4–5 hrs).
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Day 6: Karanga - Barafu Camp
Trek to base camp for summit prep (~4–5 hrs).
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Day 7: Summit & Transfer to Arusha
Midnight climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) for sunrise.
Descend to Mweka Gate; private transfer to Arusha (~2–3 hrs).
- Budget : Jevas Encole Hotel
- Mid-Range : Parrot Hotel
- Luxury : Mount Meru Hotel
Day 8: Arusha - Tarangire National Park
Morning transfer (~2–3 hrs). Afternoon game drive.
Wildlife: Elephants, giraffes, lions, baobabs.
- Budget : Fig Tree Camp
- Mid-Range : Ngorongoro Forest Lodge
- Luxury : Ngorongoro Oldean Mountain Lodge
Day 9: Tarangire - Serengeti National Park
Drive (~5–6 hrs) with optional Olduvai Gorge stop.
Afternoon Serengeti game drive.
- Budget : Serengeti Public Camp
- Mid-Range : Friends Serengeti Lodge
- Luxury : Escarpment Luxury Lodge
Day 10: Full Day Serengeti Safari
Morning & afternoon drives for predators and migrating herds.
Optional luxury add-ons: Hot air balloon, bush picnic.
- Budget : Serengeti Public Camp
- Mid-Range : Friends Serengeti Lodge
- Luxury : Escarpment Luxury Lodge
Day 11: Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater
Drive to Ngorongoro (~4–5 hrs).
Afternoon game drive on crater floor.
- Budget : Fig Tree Camp
- Mid-Range : Ngorongoro Forest Lodge
- Luxury : Ngorongoro Oldean Mountain Lodge
Day 12: Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha
Early morning short game drive or scenic crater rim viewing.
Breakfast, then drive back to Arusha (~3–4 hrs).
Departure from Kilimanjaro Airport or last night in Arusha depending on flight.
Inclusions & Exclusion
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- International flights (From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
12-Day Private Kilimanjaro Climb & Tanzania Safari
Budget
2 pax
$3,500 USD*
4 pax
$3,200 USD*
6 pax
$3,000 USD*
Mid-Range
2 pax
$5,200 USD*
4 pax
$4,800 USD*
6 pax
$4,600 USD*
Luxury
2 pax
$8,000 USD*
4 pax
$7,000 USD*
6 pax
$6,500 USD*
Ready to Book Your Tanzania Safari?
Reserve your spot today or let us tailor the experience to your travel dates and preferences.
Frequently Ask Questions
What currency should I bring?
We would recommend bringing USD (United States Dollars) with you and withdrawing some Tanzanian Shillings once you arrive. There are ATMs in Arusha/JRO Airport. Most places that you will visit accept USD but it’s always good idea to have local currency.
What vaccinations do I need?
You will require vaccinations for your trip. All travellers should visit either their personal physician or a travel health clinic about 3 months before departure. Ask your doctor about vaccinations recommended by your government before travelling to Tanzania. Yellow Fever Vaccination is compulsory and to be taken at least 10 days before arriving in Tanzania. The other recommended vaccinations are Tetanus, Polio and, Malaria (prophylaxis).
Which airport should I fly to?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is approximately 60km (60 min) from Arusha city centre. Kilimanjaro International Airport is the closest International Airport to Arusha.
Arusha Municipal Airport (ARK) is on the outskirts of Arusha but only operates domestic flights (Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Serengeti).
Other options include flying to Dar es Salaam and then catching a domestic flight to Kilimanjaro or Arusha. You can also fly to Nairobi (Kenya). International flights to this destination are often cheaper. You can then fly from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro or take a bus from Nairobi Airport to Arusha (approximately 7 hours).
How can I pay the balance for my Climb and Safari?
- Cash in USD before the tour start.
- Pay by card before the tour starts with a 5% card processing fee. (Applicable throughout Tanzania)
- Pay by bank transfer at least 4 weeks in advance.
What gear should I bring for Safari and Kilimanjaro?
Waterproof, windproof, breathable pants and jacket with hood Goretex is excellent. packs (like Camelbaks) also work well, although the hose can freeze on the summit climb. Headlamp with extra batteries You might also consider a backup flashlight in case your headlamp fails.
Kilimanjaro and Safaris Packing List You can hire the required gear on the spot when you arrive in Tanzania.
Should I bring a First aid kit?
There will be basic First Aid Kit in the Safari Vehicle, also we have it for the Kilimanjaro climbing, but still we recommend bringing a personal First Aid Kit. This is a suggested list of supplies: Sun Screen, Antihistamine cream & tablets,
What is the weather like in Tanzania?
The weather varies greatly, depending on where you are. Whatever time of year you come, please bring some warm clothes! It gets really cold in some places because of the high altitude, especially in June, July and August. It can also get very hot during afternoon. We advise dressing in layers. Typically, the long rains are March, April, and May. The short rains are in November / early December.
Can I visit a Maasai village after Kilimanjaro?
It is possible to visit one of several Maasai villages during your safari. However, these villages are close to the main roads and whilst you will meet many Maasai, have a tour around their village and have an opportunity to learn about their culture, some clients have given the feedback that the experience felt a little uncomfortable. It costs $25 per person and during the visit, you will be encouraged to buy some of their jewellery/craft (this is by no means compulsory). It is inevitable that over time, the experience has become less authentic and we are in the process of sourcing alternative options for our clients. You are very welcome to visit, but we wanted to be open and transparent about the kind of experience you can currently expect.
How much is the Tipping for Supporting Teams??
Tipping is highly expected in Tanzania. There is a well- established culture of tipping.
Guides: If you feel you have received good service, a typical tip is U$D 10-15 per person, per day. The guides work extremely long hours and tips supplement their income significantly. Anything you can afford is appreciated.
Tipping in accommodation is also discretionary. Most accommodation will have a tip box in Reception. We would recommend putting something in at the end of your stay, rather than giving individuals money. Depending on the level of service, we recommend $10 per day (for a group of 2).
How many crew staffs for the Kilimanjaro climb?
The crews for one person for Kilimanjaro climbing include:
=> 1 Guide
=> 1 Chef Cook
=> 1 Waiter
=> 1 Toilet Porters
=> 4 Supporting Porters