From Nairobi in Kenya and Tanzania: 12 Days Group Budget Safari and Kilimanjaro Trek

Relaxing Day in Nairobi

Today is a full day to rest and prepare for the upcoming safari and Kilimanjaro trek. You can relax at the hotel or explore optional excursions at extra cost, such as visiting the Karen Blixen Museum or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. This day provides a gentle introduction to Kenya, allowing you to enjoy local culture, cuisine, and city life before the adventure begins. Evening at leisure.

Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve

Depart Nairobi and drive through the scenic Great Rift Valley, stopping at viewpoints for breathtaking photos of the valley floor. Arrive at your camp, check in, and enjoy lunch. In the late afternoon, embark on your first safari game drive, exploring the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Spot lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes, capturing stunning photographs as the golden light of sunset illuminates the savannah. Return to camp for buffet dinner and evening relaxation.

Full Day Game Drive in Masai Mara National Reserve

Wake up early for breakfast and depart for a full-day game drive in Maasai Mara National Reserve. Spend the day observing the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—alongside zebras, giraffes, and hippos. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park under a croton tree while admiring the vast landscape. In the afternoon, continue spotting predators and scavengers in action, witnessing the natural drama of the savannah. Return to camp for dinner and overnight under the stars.

Masai Mara National Reserve to Nairobi

After breakfast, check out and drive back to Nairobi. Optionally, visit a Maasai Village (extra cost) to experience traditional dances, local crafts, and cultural practices of this iconic community. Return to your hotel, relax, and enjoy the evening at leisure, preparing for your journey to Moshi for the Kilimanjaro trek.

Shuttle Bus from Nairobi to Moshi

After breakfast, transfer to the shuttle station and travel to Moshi, Tanzania. Upon arrival, meet your guide and check in at your hotel. The evening includes a briefing about the Lemosho trekking route, checking your gear, and understanding the safety procedures. This day provides time to rest, acclimatize, and enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner.

Moshi to Lemosho Gate then to Forest Camp

Elevation: 7,800 ft ? 9,500 ft

 Distance: 6 km

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

 Habitat: Rainforest

After a scenic drive to Lemosho Gate, complete entry formalities, then proceed to the Lemosho trailhead. Enjoy a light lunch before trekking through lush rainforest to Forest Camp, observing tropical plants, birds, and monkeys along the way. The forest provides excellent acclimatization while giving a sense of adventure as you begin your Kilimanjaro journey. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Forest Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 9,500 ft ? 11,500 ft

Distance: 8 km

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

 Habitat: Moorland

Trek from the forest into the open moorlands, crossing streams and rolling hills. Shira Plateau provides dramatic views of Mount Kibo. Along the way, spot unique flora, such as giant lobelias and groundsels. Arrive at Shira Camp 1, enjoy dinner, and relax, taking in the serene high-altitude environment while acclimatizing for higher elevations.

Shira Camp 1 to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 11,500 ft ? 13,800 ft

Distance: 14 km

Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Spend the day exploring the Shira Plateau, walking east toward Kibo’s glacier. Reach Shira 2 camp. Enjoy panoramic views, high-altitude wildlife, and alpine flora. Dinner and overnight provide a chance to rest before the more challenging trekking sections.

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 13,800 ft ? 13,000 ft

Distance: 7 km

 Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

Habitat: Semi-Desert

Ascend towards Lava Tower, a volcanic formation also known as the “Shark’s Tooth,” then descend to Barranco Camp. This day is critical for acclimatization while offering breathtaking views of the semi-desert landscape. Trek through unique high-altitude vegetation and rocky terrain, spotting alpine birds. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 13,000 ft ? 15,000 ft

 Distance: 9 km

Hiking Time: 8–10 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Climb the Barranco Wall to Karanga Valley, then continue to Barafu Camp, the staging point for the summit. Enjoy spectacular views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. This challenging day is designed to strengthen your endurance and prepare you physically and mentally for summit day. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak Summit to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 15,300 ft ? 19,345 ft ? 10,000 ft

 Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent / 4–6 hours descent

 Habitat: Arctic

Start very early (midnight–2 am) and ascend to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Witness sunrise at Stella Point and experience breathtaking views. Descend via Barafu to Mweka Camp, navigating scree and rocky terrain. Celebrate summit success and enjoy dinner before overnighting in the high forest.

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Elevation: 10,000 ft ? 5,400 ft

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Descend through tropical rainforest to Mweka Gate and receive your summit certificate. Drive back to your hotel in Moshi. Relax, recover from the trek, and enjoy a celebratory dinner while reflecting on your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight. Your 14-day adventure across Kenya and Tanzania, combining safari and Kilimanjaro trekking, concludes with unforgettable memories of wildlife, landscapes, and African culture.