12 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Hiking and Serengeti Safari in Tanzania

Relaxing Day in Arusha

Spend a leisurely day acclimatizing to the region. Optional excursions (extra cost) include visiting local coffee farms, where you can learn about the coffee-growing process and sample fresh brews, or exploring Arusha National Park for a gentle introduction to Tanzanian wildlife. Use this time to pack, check your trekking gear, and enjoy local cuisine at your hotel. Evening at leisure with dinner at the hotel.

Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Depart Arusha early in the morning for Serengeti National Park. Travel along the scenic rim of Ngorongoro Crater, stopping to enjoy panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Picnic lunch at Naabai Kopje provides an excellent opportunity to spot small reptiles, antelopes, and birds unique to the Serengeti ecosystem. Spend the afternoon on a relaxed game drive, observing wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and potentially a pride of lions lounging under acacia trees. Experience the Serengeti’s vast, golden plains and open skies, truly a landscape unlike anywhere else.

Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater

Begin with a sunrise game drive in the Serengeti National Park, when predators are most active and the savannah comes alive with morning sounds. Learn from your guide how to read animal tracks and recognize hunting signs. After a mid-morning snack, drive toward Ngorongoro Crater. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints to admire the crater rim and photograph dramatic landscapes. Upon arrival, settle into the Public Campsite, enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner, and soak in the evening views of the surrounding highlands.

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Descend early into Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and natural wonder. The crater floor is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the Big Five: lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo. Spot flocks of flamingos in Soda Lake, watch hippos wallowing in water, and see cheetahs stealthily hunting. Picnic lunch at a quiet lakeside spot allows for wildlife observation in a serene setting. After a full day of sightings, return to Arusha for overnight at The hotel, reflecting on the unparalleled wildlife experiences.

Arusha to Moshi

After breakfast, drive to Moshi, the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, meet your trekking guide for a comprehensive briefing, gear check, and preparation tips for the Lemosho route. Learn about safety measures, daily trekking routines, and the unique flora and fauna of Kilimanjaro. Overnight at your budget hotel, with time to relax, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest for the start of the trek.

Moshi to Lemosho Gate to Forest Camp (Mti Mkubwa)

Elevation: 7,800 ft ? 9,500 ft

Distance: 6 km

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Depart from Moshi and begin your trek at Lemosho Gate after completing entry formalities. Trek through lush rainforest filled with mossy trees, towering ferns, and exotic bird species. Streams provide refreshing stops along the way. Arrive at Forest Camp / Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you can enjoy the serene forest atmosphere and take short walks to observe the diverse plant life. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Forest Camp / Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp

Elevation: 9,500 ft ? 11,500 ft

Distance: 8 km

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Leave the rainforest behind and enter the Shira Plateau, a highland area with vast plains, volcanic rock formations, and scattered heather. Cross streams and gentle hills while spotting endemic plants and insects. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, with sweeping views of Kibo. This day emphasizes acclimatization while allowing time to enjoy the dramatic landscape and photograph the iconic Kilimanjaro.

Shira I Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 11,500 ft ? 13,800 ft

Distance: 14 km

Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Trek across the Shira Plateau, exploring volcanic formations, highland meadows, and small streams. Stop at Shira 2 Camp for lunch, dinner, and overnight.. Enjoy short acclimatization hikes and marvel at panoramic views of Kibo’s glaciated peak. Evening provides time for reflection and preparation for higher altitude trekking.

Shira II 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 gently to the famous Lava Tower, a volcanic landmark known as the “Shark’s Tooth,” before descending to Barranco Camp. The terrain transitions from moorland to semi-desert, and the day is key for acclimatization. Stop to admire geological formations, spot high-altitude birds, and rest in the crisp air. Dinner and overnight at Barranco 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 steep Barranco Wall for dramatic views of the Karanga Valley, then continue to Barafu Camp via the South Circuit. The route showcases different angles of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. This challenging but scenic trek prepares you mentally and physically for summit day. Rest, enjoy dinner, and admire the alpine desert landscape.

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 between midnight and 2 am for the summit ascent. Trek through scree to Stella Point, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend via Barafu to Mweka Hut, navigating loose gravel and rocky paths. Dinner and overnight at Mweka Hut, celebrating the achievement of reaching the summit.

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, where you receive your summit certificate. Continue by vehicle to your Hotel for a warm shower, comfortable bed, and celebratory dinner. Reflect on your trekking adventure and share experiences with fellow travelers.

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight. This marks the end of your 12-day Budget safari adventure through Tanzania’s most iconic destinations. From the towering presence of Kilimanjaro to the endless plains of the Serengeti National Park and the dramatic landscapes of Ngorongoro Crater, depart with cherished memories and unforgettable experiences that will remain with you for a lifetime.