Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking & Tanzania Safari
Step outside of your comfort zone and discover the beauty and wonder of Tanzania on a trek to Kilimanjaro followed by a luxury safari in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
This unrivaled adventure begins with an awe-filled hike to the top of Kilimanjaro and a chance to stand on top of the world at 19,341 feet. Our path follows the less-crowded and longer Lemosho route, a breathtaking journey that winds through lush rainforest, crosses the expansive Shira Plateau, and passes beneath the majestic southern ice fields before a final push to the “Roof of Africa” where you’ll witness the sunrise above the clouds. The 8-day, 43-mile trek, with safety-conscious mountain guides, offers hikers a slower approach to hiking Kilimanjaro with more time to acclimatize, which can help improve the success rate for those vying to reach the top of Africa’s tallest peak. In celebration of your achievement, the journey then continues with a safari tour in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater where you’ll stay at two of Tanzania’s finest luxury safari camps and spend several days in search of Africa’s Big Five. For those looking to push your limits and senses to new heights, this trip promises both as you experience the best of Africa’s wild splendor.
Trip Highlights
What to Expect
Itinerary & Map
Itinerary at a Glance
We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every Kilimanjaro Trekking and Tanzania Safari is different depending upon the group, other trips in the area, and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:
Day 1
Soon after you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport an OARS representative will meet you and transport you to your lodging accommodations in the bustling city of Arusha, the gateway city to Mount Kilimanjaro and your Tanzania safari adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy lunch at the lodge. The afternoon is yours to relax after a big day of travel, or explore on your own. The group will gather for dinner together at the lodge, before settling in for the evening. (L, D)
Day 2
After breakfast at the lodge, we’ll gather for an excursion to a coffee farm in nearby Moshi Town. On this interactive tour, you’ll learn about organic coffee farming and Fairtrade and have the chance to pick and pulp coffee berries, as well as process the coffee from bean to cup. Of course, there will also be opportunities to try the delicious product first-hand.
Afterward, we’ll hike to the Materuni Waterfalls, which will help warm up our legs in preparation for the start of our Kilimanjaro trek the following morning.
Back at the lodge this evening we’ll gather for dinner, and your lead guide will provide a thorough trip orientation for Kilimanjaro and be available to ask any last-minute questions you might have about the trek.
Get some rest. The next week on the mountain will undoubtedly take you out of your comfort zone and test your endurance as you attempt to summit the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. (B, L, D)
Day 3
Your Kilimanjaro Trek Begins: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation gain: 1,804 feet (6,890 ft to 8,694 ft)
Distance: 3.7 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
After breakfast at the lodge, we’ll drive to the Londorossi Gate, where all climbers register and the Lemosho Route begins. The expedition begins with a slow ascent through lush rainforest, offering a chance to see wildlife and acclimatize to the increasing altitude.
Many believe that the hardest part about climbing Kilimanjaro isn’t the hiking, but the significant elevation change and how you acclimatize. Today is all about learning to go slow and preparing for the ascent. We’ll reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree), our first camp, by the afternoon.
The team supporting our expedition is recognized as one of the most capable and professional crews on the mountain. The group will be accompanied by a lead guide, as well as a team of Wilderness First Responder-trained mountain guides and a dedicated support crew, including a professional chef.
Each morning, the fastest porters will trek ahead to ensure that when hikers arrive in camp each day they have the opportunity to fully rest and reset for the next leg of the hike, without having to worry about carrying their gear, setting up tents or preparing meals. Safety and comfort are also top of mind, and each evening, your lead guide will take pulse oximeter readings for each climber to ensure everyone is acclimating properly. (B, L, D)
Day 4
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation gain: 3,149 ft (8,694 ft to 11,843 ft)
Distance: 5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Today is a challenging climb day as the trail leads over the Shira Ridge. Exiting the rainforest, the landscape transitions to the heather-filled moorland. As the trail steadily climbs, it’s important to remember this hike is about the simple mantra “one step at a time.”
The terrain becomes more rugged and open as we approach Shira 1 Camp. Located on the Shira Plateau and situated next to a stream, our second camp offers expansive views of Kilimanjaro above and the plains below. (B, L, D)
Day 5
Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation gain: 788 feet (11,843 ft to 12,631 ft)
Distance: 4.3 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Gently ascending through the lower alpine moorland, today is a relatively easy and shorter day aimed at acclimatization. The trek crosses the vast Shira Plateau with views of Kibo Peak and the Western Breach. Shira 2 Camp also provides a strategic location for further acclimatization, with optional walks in the afternoon. This camp is more exposed, so be prepared for windy and cold conditions. (B, L, D)
Day 6
Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Elevation gain: 2,460 feet (12,631 ft to 15,091 ft)
Elevation loss: 2,296 feet (15,091 ft to 12,795 ft)
Distance: 6.2 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
From Shira 2, the Lemosho Route becomes significantly more steep and challenging as we ascend to the Lava Tower at 15,091. Today is a crucial day for acclimatization and your guides will likely tell you to “pole, pole,” Swahili for “go slowly.”
Upon reaching Lava Tower, there will be a short break before descending to Barranco Camp, which sits in a valley below the Barranco Wall in a starkly beautiful alpine desert setting. This “walk high, sleep low” strategy aids with acclimatization, but some hikers may start to feel the effects of the altitude—shortness of breath and general fatigue. (B, L, D)
Day 7
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation gain: 311 feet (12,795 ft to 13,106 ft)
Distance: 3.1 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
The day begins with a steady hike up the eastern side of the infamous Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding scramble that rewards hikers with breathtaking views. The route then passes through glacial valleys to the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley and up to Karanga Camp. Lunch is typically in camp and the afternoon offers plenty of time for relaxing. If the conditions permit, Mount Kilimanjaro will loom in the distance. (B, L, D)
Day 8
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation gain: 2,225 feet (13,106 ft to 15,331 ft)
Distance: 2.5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
The half-day ascent leads us through dry, barren alpine desert to Barafu Camp, the base camp for our summit bid. Situated on a narrow ridge and exposed to the elements, Barafu Camp can be quite windy but offers breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
Lunch today will be served in camp allowing plenty of time for you to relax, hydrate and prepare for the final ascent, including organizing your equipment and cold-weather clothing. After an early dinner, try your best to get some sleep before waking this evening for the final push to Uhuru Peak, the top of Kilimanjaro. (B, L, D)
Day 9
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation gain: 4,010 feet (15,331 ft to 19,341 ft)
Elevation loss: 9,171 feet (19,341 to 10,170 ft)
Distance: 8.1 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to summit, 6-7 hours to descend
We’ll begin the bid for the summit around midnight, slowly ascending the difficult and rocky terrain to Stella Point in the dark. From here, it’s a final gradual ascent along a snow-covered trail to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most memorable sunrises of your life (assuming the weather cooperates!).
Standing on the “Roof of Africa,” after climbing nearly 15,000 feet, take a moment to celebrate accomplishing this massive endeavor.
Of course, the journey isn’t over yet and we’ll begin the descent from the summit towards Barafu Camp, where the group will pack up and enjoy a quick rest. The route down will use the same rock and scree path as the ascent, continuing down to Mweka Camp. You should reach the final camp by late afternoon. (B, L, D)
Day 10
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation loss: 4,790 feet (10,170 ft to 5,380 ft)
Distance: 6.2 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
This morning, we’ll make the final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where climbers will receive their summit certificates. From here, a vehicle will transport the group back to Arusha and our lodging accommodations for the evening where a hot shower and celebratory dinner await. (B, L, D)
Days 11-12
Serengeti National Park & Stay at Sametu Camp
After breakfast at the lodge, the group will meet up around 8:30 a.m. for a short, 45-minute flight to Serengeti National Park and the start of our Tanzania safari adventure.
Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to spot some of the incredible wildlife that inhabits this vast and diverse ecosystem on an exhilarating game drive in search of the elusive black rhinos and Africa’s Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos. Serengeti is also famous for the annual Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the grassy plains in search of water and greener pastures. The migration typically moves into the northern Serengeti and Kenya in September and our expert safari guides will be tracking the migrating herds for the best wildlife viewing experiences.
After a full-day game drive, we’ll arrive at Sametu Camp, our luxury oasis nestled along the banks of the Ngarenanyuki River. Settle into your well-appointed safari tent with modern amenities and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the wild savannah from your own personal deck.
Then wander over to the opulent lounge and dining area to indulge in gourmet cuisine prepared by skilled chefs, offering a fusion of local flavors and international delicacies. As the sun sets, unwind with sundowner cocktails against the backdrop of the African horizon, accompanied by the sounds of the wild.
Your second day in Serengeti will offer the opportunity for an early morning game drive to capture the park’s wild inhabitants during their most active hours. Alternatively, guests can opt for a hot air balloon safari for a mesmerizing bird’s eye view of the Serengeti as the sunrise paints the landscapes with hues of gold.
Back at camp, relax and rejuvenate by the pool, or simply enjoy your private accommodations and soak in the surroundings of the dramatic bushland sprawled out in every direction. (B, L, D)
Days 13-14
Ngorongoro Crater & Stay at Lion’s Paw
After breakfast, we’ll head toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The scenic beauty of the region, coupled with the diverse wildlife, makes the drive an exciting experience. We’ll proceed to Sematu Camp’s sister property, Lion’s Paw, for an evening of relaxation and delicious cuisine in preparation for the crater tour the following morning.
After an early breakfast, we’ll embark on a morning game drive in Ngorongoro Conservation Area before stopping mid-day for a picnic lunch at the base of the crater. Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, one of the 8 Wonders of the World, is the world’s largest unbroken caldera, an extinct volcano that collapsed millions of years ago, leaving behind a natural sanctuary that is home to a stunning variety of wildlife. Following lunch, we’ll venture into the crater, which is nearly 2,000 feet deep and 115 square miles, and home to an array of wildlife that inhabit this unique landscape. In the crater, you might see large herds of wildebeest, African cape buffalo, zebras, Thomson and Grant gazelles, hippopotamus, black-backed jackals, lions, hyenas, and hundreds of different bird species.
Following the crater tour, we’ll return to our elegant safari accommodations at Lion’s Paw for a final night in nature’s grandeur. (B, L, D)
Day 15
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha where we’ll enjoy lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the area and prepare for your departure the following day. We’ll gather for a final celebratory dinner together, toasting to new friends and shared memories together. (B, L, D)
The Last Day of Your Trip
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge, before being transferred to the airport for flights home. (B)
Contact an OARS adventure consultant if interested in extending your trip with a safari in the northern Serengeti or to the coast to see the famed Zanzibar.
Meeting Time & Place
Location
Kilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania
Meeting time
Arrive any time on day 1
Return
Any time on day 16 for returning flights
Trip Map
Dates & Prices
Book this adventure and earn a 5% rebate, redeemable on select adventures throughout the American West!
| 2025 Departures | Price |
|---|---|
| September 14 | $9,250 |
Deposit
20% of the trip cost
Additional Costs
• Mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
Single Supplement
$2600
The Need-to-Know Info
Trip Details
Included in Your Trip Cost
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- Airfare to and from Ashura, Tanzania
- Travel visa (required by Tanzania)
- Pre- and post-trip accommodation and meals
- Single supplement fee
- Personal trekking gear
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
- Emergency air evacuation from Kilimanjaro (available at a supplement)
- Gratuities
Tents & Camp Gear
Our dedicated campsite manager and head porter will ensure expert setup and breakdown of each camp, practicing Leave No Trace outdoor ethics, while also ensuring the crew is fairly loaded and treated each day. Our fastest porters will then hike ahead to ensure the very best camp location and tent sites each day.
The Kilimanjaro trekking portion of the trip includes seven nights of camping in extreme mountain conditions. In order to provide the ultimate level of comfort that can be expected in this environment, hikers will be provided with a heavy-duty tent rated for high winds and low temps.
All sleeping tents have custom-made ground sheets covering both vestibules, to allow clean and dry storage of gear, as well as cold-weather sleeping mats (closed cell foam) that cover the entire floor of the sleeping tent, ensuring that you (and all your gear) stay dry throughout the climb. Each hiker is also provided with a sleeping cot, air mattress and sleeping bag rated 14°F to -4°F to ensure warmth and comfort during the trek.
You can also expect the following in camp:
- Large custom-designed and fabricated weatherproof dining tents with high-powered solar LED lights for headlamp-free dining
- Dining tables and large aluminum chairs with backs and armrests
- Large private toilet tent(s) with portable flush toilets, hand sanitizer, and a built-in wastebasket
- Washstands provided for washing hands before each meal
- Fresh hand towels provided for each trekker, before each meal
- Wash basins provided for each trekker upon reaching camp
- Hot water bottles prepared each night (using your own bottles) to keep you toasty in your sleeping bag
- Purified water
If you have any questions about the gear provided, please inquire with your adventure consultant as there are a number of optional gear and service upgrades available to trekkers.
Camp Meals & Dietary Restrictions
We produce and prepare most of our recipes in our Arusha base kitchen, using only fresh and high-quality ingredients, for delicious and energizing meals necessary for high-altitude mountain trekking. We have an exciting menu that includes inspired vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu plans. We can also cater to guests’ allergies or faith-based dietary restrictions. We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we must consider in planning your trip.
Our menus have been developed by a team of professional cooks and mountain foodies who have long-term experience in food service in Tanzania and have excelled at creating astonishingly great meals in harsh environments, using only propane gas cookers. You can expect:
- Three healthy and energizing meals per day that provide the right combination of protein, carbs, and fat, expertly and hygienically prepared to give you energy for the task at hand.
- Nutritious menu plans for those who are gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan
- Specialty desserts after each dinner
- Tea-time snacks upon arrival at camp
- Trail snacks, including dried fruit and delicious homemade energy bars (five different varieties)
- Gourmet Tanzanian coffee, prepared and served with insulated stainless steel cafetières (French Press machines).
On every trek, the dining crew is trained to expedite the meal service and ensure our climbers’ nourishment is their top priority. They also ensure that the dining tent is clean, organized, and ready for you when you arrive at each camp.
Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. On the Lemosho Route, you will ascend nearly 15,000 feet over 42 miles, therefore previous high-elevation hiking is recommended for this adventure. The level of exertion will undoubtedly take a toll on the average person and good physical fitness is required. While this route is intended to provide more time for acclimatization, it is a good idea to come prepared with proper elevation sickness medicine, which can be prescribed by your local doctor before your trip. This trip is not recommended for people who have a fear of heights or children under the age of 18 years.
Mountain Safety
Our mountain guides and core crew are recognized as the most capable and professional crew on the mountain. All of our mountain guides are WFR trained and certified, which separates us from all other companies on Kili. Hikers will only be required to carry their day pack on the trail, while their gear will be transported by the porters.
When it comes to safety equipment, there are a number of important and relevant items to make your trek as safe as possible:
- A comprehensive safety briefing is performed by the head guide before the trek, covering expectations, risks, safety gear and proactive safety.
- Oxygen for emergency use – for groups of 2-6 hikers, two kits (360L medical oxygen bottles, each with a regulator & two nasal cannula masks) are provided. For 7 or more climbers, we supply 3 full O2 kits.
- Stretcher – a fully rigid steel-framed stretcher is provided on each trek.
- First-aid / trauma & medicine kit fully stocked as per Wilderness First Responder guidelines, with medicine instructions. Two first-aid kits are carried for groups of 9 or more.
- Pulse-oximeters to evaluate daily numbers for each climber.
- VHF handheld radios for quick communication between head and assistant guides at the back and front of the group, and the camp manager. An extra battery accompanies each radio.
- Mobile phones carried by all guides, for daily communications with our base in Arusha.
- Satellite phone carried at all times by the head guide, for use in emergencies no matter where we are during an emergency. An extra battery accompanies each satellite phone.
- Safety equipment porter(s) stay with the group at all times, to ensure that the safety gear is always nearby and ready to employ. We send a second medical equipment porter with every group, allowing us to split oxygen and other emergency supplies.
In addition to camping on Kilimanjaro with expert guides, this trip includes 4 nights in a comfortable mountain lodge before and after trekking Kilimanjaro, as well as 4 nights in two different luxurious safari camps.
Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge (Nights 1, 2, 10 and 15)
Ngare Sero Lodge in Arusha offers a charming blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort, nestled amidst lush gardens and tranquil ponds. The lodge features well-appointed rooms and cottages, each with unique decor, private verandas, and stunning views of the surrounding nature. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, organic farm-to-table dining, and guided walks through the serene, wildlife-rich grounds.
Serengeti Sametu Camp (Nights 11, 12)
Serengeti Sametu Camp offers an intimate safari experience with luxurious tents that boast spacious interiors, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandas with panoramic views of the Serengeti plains. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining experiences featuring locally-sourced ingredients, served in an open-air setting under the stars. The camp also provides exceptional amenities, including a cozy lounge area, a well-stocked bar, on-site restaurant and pool, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay.
Ngorongoro Lion’s Paw (Nights 13, 14)
Ngorongoro Lion’s Paw offers elegant safari tents that combine comfort and style, featuring en-suite bathrooms, king-sized beds, and private decks with breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater. Guests can enjoy exquisite dining experiences with gourmet meals prepared from fresh, local ingredients, served in a charming dining tent. The camp’s amenities include a cozy lounge area with a fireplace, on-site restaurant and bar, and expert-guided safari excursions, providing an unforgettable and immersive wildlife adventure.
Meals & Dietary Restrictions
All meals are included and some alcoholic beverages as noted in the itinerary. We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we must consider in planning your trip. If you have food allergies or necessary restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Hiking Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho route offers varied weather conditions, with warm temperatures and clear skies at the lower elevations, becoming cool and misty as you ascend through the rainforest. Higher altitudes bring colder temperatures, with the potential for rain or snow, especially near the summit. Overall, hikers should be prepared for a range of extreme weather, from sunny days to freezing, windy conditions as they approach the peak.
The dry seasons from late June to October and from December to March are considered the best times to climb Kilimanjaro. Clear skies, mild temperatures, and less precipitation enhance the overall climbing experience.
In September, average temperatures at the base range from 59°F to 68°F, while temperatures at higher elevations can drop significantly, reaching below freezing at the summit. The summit temperature will be below freezing ranging anywhere between -20°F to 20°F when factoring in windchill. Rainfall is generally low, with the region receiving around 1-2 inches throughout the month. Due to Mount Kilimanjaro’s high altitude, it generates its own variable weather that is difficult to predict and requires appropriate gear.
Serengeti & Ngorongoro Region
The weather in Serengeti National Park and nearby Ngorongoro is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from June to October, features warm days with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F and cool nights, with minimal rainfall and clear skies. The wet season, from November to May, brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 75°F to 81°F, and significant rainfall, particularly from March to May, which transforms the landscape into lush greenery but can make some roads difficult to navigate.
For trips in September, you can expect daytime temperatures typically range from 68°F to 82°F, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 59°F. Rainfall is minimal, making it an ideal time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and the vegetation is less dense.
Before booking your trip with OARS, there are a few important considerations we’d like you to know about.
Reservations and Deposits
A deposit of 20% of the trip cost is required at the time of booking with final payment due 90 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 80 days before the departure date will be canceled.
Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. Prices are in US Dollars, and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.
Cancellations and Refunds
Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.
| Date of Cancellation | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| 90 or more days before your trip | Deposit |
| 89 – 60 days before your trip | 50% of the trip cost |
| 59 days or less before your trip | Full fare |
Requests to transfer a date will be treated as a cancellation, per the terms above.
We regret we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.
Canceled Trips
OARS International and the outfitter WildReality Safari reserve the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. In such instances, we will inform you at least 30 days prior to departure. Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have verified with OARS that your trip is confirmed.
If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers; however, we cannot guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.
Our Kilimanjaro Trekking and Serengeti Safari trips are run by an affiliate company and arranged through O.A.R.S. International, Inc.
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