Private Tanzania Safari and Kilimanjaro Tours: A Unique Journey Across Iconic Landscapes
Arusha, Tanzania,Nov 21,2024-Combining a private Tanzania safari with a Kilimanjaro trek offers an unparalleled adventure, blending thrilling wildlife encounters with the challenge of Africa’s tallest peak. With well-known and reputed Tanzanian safari tours provider Safari Soles Tours, these 12- and 13-day itineraries capture the essence of Tanzania’s iconic landscapes—from the vast Serengeti to the snow-capped summit of Kilimanjaro. Guests are immersed in Tanzania’s diverse national parks, experience luxurious accommodations, and follow scenic routes, making for a journey that’s both deeply engaging and exceptionally comfortable.
BUT FIRST: Practical Information for Planning a Private Safari and Kilimanjaro Trek
Timing Your Visit
The ideal time for a Kilimanjaro trek and safari balances favorable weather and peak wildlife viewing. For Kilimanjaro, January to March and June to October offer clearer skies and milder temperatures, making these months optimal for climbing. The safari portion of the trip is best during the dry season (June to October), when wildlife is easier to spot around water sources. Travelers aiming to witness the famed wildebeest migration should consider a safari between June and September, when herds are most active in the Serengeti.
Health and Safety
Tanzania’s parks and trekking routes are generally safe for tourists, though health precautions are recommended. Vaccinations for diseases like yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid are advisable, and travelers should consider anti-malarial medications and insect repellent, especially during the safari portion. To prevent altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro, gradual acclimatization is key, with the Machame route providing a paced ascent. Medication like acetazolamide is also an option for those who want extra support in adjusting to the altitude.
Overview of Tanzania’s Private Safari & Kilimanjaro Packages
Two exceptional tour options highlight the best of Tanzania’s attractions: the 13-Day Safari and Mt. Kilimanjaro Tour and the 12-Day Kilimanjaro Hike and Safari. Each package combines immersive safaris in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire with Kilimanjaro climbs via the scenic Lemosho or Machame routes.
- 13-Day Safari & Mt. Kilimanjaro Tour
Perfect for travelers wanting a balance of wildlife and trekking, this tour starts with four days of game drives across the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The following seven days involve summiting Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho route, known for its high success rates and gradual altitude gain.
Cost: $4,470 per person. - 12-Day Kilimanjaro Hike & Safari
This itinerary offers an eight-day climb via the Machame route, famed for its scenic vistas and variety of landscapes, followed by a four-day safari across Tarangire, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater.
Cost: $4,145 per person.
These private tours are designed with flexibility, ensuring personalized itineraries with expert guides for a seamless and enriching adventure.12-Day Kilimanjaro Hike & Safari Tour ($4,145)
Days 1-8: Kilimanjaro Climb via the Machame Route
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Guests are greeted at the airport and transferred to the Tulia Boutique & Spa. Here, travelers have a chance to settle in before a pre-tour briefing on the adventure ahead.Days 2-8: The Climb
- Day 2: The Machame Gate serves as the starting point of this exhilarating trek. This day includes a journey through the rainforest, with hikers reaching Machame Camp by late afternoon.
- Day 3: Ascending through the moorlands, trekkers make their way to Shira Camp, gaining views of Kibo Peak and acclimatizing to the altitude.
- Day 4: This day focuses on acclimatization, moving through a semi-desert landscape to reach Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. These adjustments to altitude prepare hikers for the higher elevations.
- Day 5: The hike up Barranco Wall is both challenging and rewarding, leading to breathtaking views of the Heim Glacier and the alpine desert landscape.
- Day 6: Barafu Camp is the final stop before summit night, allowing hikers to rest and prepare for the ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- Day 7: The summit attempt begins at midnight, culminating at Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point—just as the sun rises over the plains below. After celebrating at the summit, trekkers descend to Mweka Camp.
- Day 8: A final descent to Mweka Gate concludes the Kilimanjaro journey, followed by a transfer back to Arusha for some much-needed rest.
Days 9-12: Safari Across Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
Day 9: Tarangire National Park
Known for its towering baobabs and herds of elephants, Tarangire provides a picturesque start to the safari experience. Game drives along the Tarangire River allow for close-up encounters with diverse wildlife.Day 10: Serengeti National Park
The journey continues to the iconic Serengeti, where endless plains teem with wildlife. After a scenic drive through Ngorongoro Conservation Area, guests arrive at the Serengeti for an evening game drive amidst lions, zebras, and more.Day 11: Full Day in Serengeti
This day offers a deeper dive into the Serengeti’s rich ecosystems, with morning and afternoon game drives. Guests can observe predators in action, watch herds grazing, and, depending on the season, witness the annual wildebeest migration.Day 12: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
The safari culminates with a visit to Ngorongoro Crater. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this volcanic caldera is home to a high concentration of wildlife, including black rhinos and elephants. After a morning of exploration, travelers return to Arusha in the evening.Why Choose a Private Tanzania Safari & Kilimanjaro Tour?
A private safari and Kilimanjaro trek offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation. This tailored experience ensures that each traveler has the flexibility and freedom to explore at their own pace, with an itinerary designed specifically for their interests. Here are several compelling reasons why this journey is so appealing:
Personalized Experience
One of the standout features of this private tour is the level of personalization. Guests are not part of large groups; instead, they enjoy a customized adventure led by expert guides who are dedicated to providing the best possible experience. Whether it’s choosing the best times for game drives or adjusting the schedule to fit personal preferences, the focus remains on the individual needs of the travelers.
Expert Guides and Support Staff
Guides play a crucial role in elevating the experience. Both the Kilimanjaro trek and safari involve highly trained, local experts who share their knowledge of the environment, culture, and wildlife. On Mount Kilimanjaro, climbers are supported by skilled porters, cooks, and assistant guides, ensuring a safe and enjoyable climb. In the national parks, safari guides use their deep understanding of animal behavior and park dynamics to offer guests the best opportunities to observe the “Big Five” and other incredible wildlife.
Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife Encounters
This tour is designed to take guests through a variety of ecosystems, each with its own unique beauty. From the rainforest on Kilimanjaro to the vast savannahs of the Serengeti, the tour provides an immersive journey through Tanzania’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether observing the migration of wildebeest in the Serengeti, marveling at the geological wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater, or encountering elephants in Tarangire, guests will find themselves in the heart of nature’s most spectacular spectacles.
13-Day Safari Tour & Mt Kilimanjaro Climb ($4,470)
This 13-day adventure combines an unforgettable safari experience with a thrilling Kilimanjaro climb, offering the best of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Perfect for travelers seeking excitement and variety, this package includes eight days exploring Tanzania’s national parks, followed by a five-day trek on Africa’s highest peak.
Safari Adventure (Days 1-4)
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
After airport pickup, guests are transferred to Tulia Boutique & Spa. They have the option of a brief city tour or a small sunset hike at Kilima Moto. Later, a trip briefing covers all safari details.
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique & Spa, Mid-range Hotel.Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park
The journey to Serengeti begins early, with an 8-hour drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Travelers may stop at a Maasai village (optional) to learn about Maasai culture. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening game drive in central Serengeti’s Seronera area, with a chance to spot hunting predators at sunset.
Accommodation: Serengeti Safari Camp, Mid-range Tented Camp.Day 3: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro
After a morning game drive and lunch, the group heads to Ngorongoro, stopping for additional wildlife viewing along the way. They spend the evening near the Ngorongoro Crater’s rim.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Luxury Lodge.Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
An early descent into Ngorongoro Crater allows guests to view diverse wildlife, including the elusive black rhino. After a game drive and lunch, the group returns to Arusha.
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique & Spa, Mid-range Hotel.Kilimanjaro Trekking (Days 5-12)
Day 5: Arusha to Londorossi Gate to Forest Camp
After breakfast, transfer to Londorossi Gate for park registration, then proceed to the Lemosho trailhead. A short trek through the rainforest leads to Forest Camp (Big Tree Camp).- Elevation: 7,800 ft to 9,500 ft
- Distance: 6 km, 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Forest Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 6: Forest Camp to Shira 1 Camp
The hike continues through savannah terrain, with rolling hills and streams, until reaching Shira Ridge and then Shira 1 Camp.- Elevation: 9,500 ft to 11,500 ft
- Distance: 8 km, 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Shira One Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 7: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 to Moir Hut
Hiking east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, the group reaches Shira 2 Camp or, optionally, continues to Moir Hut. Acclimatization hikes around Lent Hills are available here.- Elevation: 11,500 ft to 13,800 ft
- Distance: 14 km, 5–7 hours
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 8: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
The route heads southeast to the Lava Tower and the famous “Shark’s Tooth” formation before descending to Barranco Camp.- Elevation: 13,800 ft to 13,000 ft
- Distance: 7 km, 4–6 hours
Accommodation: Barranco Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 9: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After a steep climb up Barranco Wall, the group arrives at Karanga Valley Camp for further acclimatization.- Elevation: 13,000 ft to 13,100 ft
- Distance: 5 km, 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Karanga Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 10: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Continuing along the South Circuit, climbers reach Barafu Camp, where they prepare for the summit attempt.- Elevation: 13,100 ft to 15,300 ft
- Distance: 4 km, 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Barafu Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 11: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
Around midnight, climbers ascend through scree to Stella Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak for a breathtaking sunrise. After a brief celebration at the summit, they descend to Mweka Camp.- Elevation: 15,300 ft to 19,345 ft (summit), down to 10,000 ft
- Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent
- Hiking Time: 7–8 hours up, 4–6 hours down
Accommodation: Mweka Camp, Budget Bush Camp.
Day 12: Mweka Camp to Arusha
The final descent brings climbers to Mweka Gate. Transportation back to Arusha awaits, where a comfortable stay at Tulia Boutique & Spa awaits.- Elevation: 10,000 ft to 5,400 ft
- Distance: 10 km, 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique & Spa, Mid-range Hotel.
Day 13: Departure
After breakfast, guests are transferred to the airport for their departure, concluding an incredible Tanzanian adventure.
Included in Both 12 & 13 Day Tour Package:
- All park fees and taxes, covering anticipated increases
- Accommodations throughout the trip, including hotels, lodges, and campsites
- Daily meals and bottled water, with beer and wine included
- Professional safari guide, chef, and camp crew
- Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping bags
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Internal flight from Arusha to Zanzibar
Not Included:
- Gratuities (guidelines provided)
- Visa fees and other personal expenses
Exploring 3 of Tanzania’s National Parks: The Safari Experience
While the Kilimanjaro trek is the focal point of these tours, the safari portion is equally captivating. Tanzania’s national parks are among the best places in the world for wildlife viewing. From the elephant herds of Tarangire to the iconic lions of the Serengeti, these parks are teeming with life.
1. Tarangire National Park: A Paradise for Elephants
Tarangire National Park, known for its striking baobab trees and the largest elephant population in Tanzania, offers visitors an incredible wildlife experience. The park is also home to a variety of other species, including zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests. Game drives through Tarangire offer the chance to witness the complex social dynamics of elephant herds, a memorable experience for any safari-goer.
2. Serengeti National Park: The Land of the Big Five
The Serengeti is perhaps the most famous of Tanzania’s parks. Known for its endless plains and vast wildlife populations, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime destination for spotting the “Big Five”—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The Serengeti is also home to the annual wildebeest migration, a spectacular event that draws visitors from around the world to witness the dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions.
Seronera, the park’s central region, is one of the best places to observe predators such as lions and cheetahs, making it an essential part of the safari itinerary.
3. Ngorongoro Crater: A Natural Wonder
No trip to Tanzania would be complete without a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater. This collapsed volcanic caldera is one of the world’s most unique wildlife habitats. With its rich soil and ample water sources, the crater floor supports a dense population of wildlife, including the elusive black rhino, elephants, and flamingos. The opportunity to explore the crater’s diverse ecosystems on a game drive is one of the highlights of the tour.
Preparing for Your Tanzania Safari Adventure
Travelers embarking on these tours should prepare for the physical demands in case of the Kilimanjaro climb, and for both tours the excitement of the safaris. For Kilimanjaro, proper gear is essential, including warm clothing for the mountain. For both safaris, lightweight clothing and good quality hiking boots are must-haves. Safari-goers should bring binoculars for wildlife spotting and cameras to capture unforgettable moments.
Additionally, ensuring that you have the necessary travel documents, such as a visa and vaccination records, is vital. Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation, is highly recommended for peace of mind during both the hike and safari.
Tanzanian Private Safari Tours… The Ultimate African Adventure!
These private Tanzanias safari tours, are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore two of Africa’s most iconic destinations The combination of mountain adventure and wildlife exploration offers a thrilling and enriching experience that appeals to adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers alike. Whether you’re summiting the peak of Kilimanjaro or observing the majestic wildlife of Tanzania’s national parks, these tours provide the ultimate African adventure. A forever to remember UNIQUE holiday experience!
Contact Details:
Country: Arusha, Tanzania
Email: info@safarisolestours.com
tel:+255766322264