Days - Machame Kilimanjaro, Great Migration Safari & Zanzibar
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OVERVIEW

Conquer Africa’s highest mountain, witness the Great Migration, and unwind on Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches on this unforgettable 19-day adventure. Summit Uhuru Peak via the Machame Route, explore Tarangire, the Serengeti, Mara River, and Ngorongoro Crater, then relax beside the turquoise waters of Nungwi Beach.

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ITINERARY

  • On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will meet you and transfer you to Arusha, a drive of about 45 to 60 minutes. As you settle in, you’ll begin to get a feel for the surroundings, with views of the landscape and glimpses of local life along the way. On arrival at your lodge, there’s time to relax after your journey before dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Planet Lodge offers a comfortable retreat in Arusha, with spacious accommodation, warm hospitality, tropical gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing stay.

  • Elevation: 1,640 m to 2,972 m | Distance: 11 km (7 miles) | Hiking time: 5-6 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

    After breakfast in Arusha, we set off towards Machame Gate, a drive of about two hours. On arrival, there is time for registration before we enjoy a hot lunch. We then begin the trek, walking through the dense rainforest on a winding trail that gradually climbs up a ridge. The forest is rich with birdlife and occasional monkeys along the way. The pace is steady as we make our way to Machame Camp, where dinner and overnight await.

    Elevation: 1,640 m to 2,972 m | Distance: 11 km (7 miles) | Hiking time: 5-6 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

    Accommodation

    Machame Camp offers a scenic rainforest camping experience surrounded by towering trees, fresh mountain air, and the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes.

  • Elevation: 2,972 m to 3,804 m | Distance: 5 km (3 miles) | Hiking time: 5-6 hours | Habitat: Moorland

    After breakfast at Machame Camp, we continue the climb, leaving the rainforest behind as the trail leads onto a steeper, rocky ridge. As we gain height, the landscape opens into heather and moorland, with wide views beginning to appear. We cross small streams and move across the Shira Plateau, taking in the changing scenery along the way. On arrival at Shira Caves Camp, we enjoy a hot lunch and have time to rest, with clear views of the Western Breach and its glaciers in the distance, before dinner and overnight.

    Elevation: 2,972 m to 3,804 m | Distance: 5 km (3 miles) | Hiking time: 5-6 hours | Habitat: Moorland

    Accommodation

    Shira Cave Camp offers a unique mountain camping experience on the Shira Plateau, with sweeping views, rugged landscapes, and a peaceful setting high on Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.

  • Elevation: 3,804 m to 3,950 m | Distance: 10 km (6 miles) | Hiking time: 6-8 hours | Habitat: Moorland

    Today we climb higher during the day before descending to sleep at a lower altitude, helping your body adjust well. After breakfast at Shira Caves Camp, we hike for 4 to 5 hours across open moorland, gradually gaining height as we make our way to Lava Tower. This is the highest point of the day and a real highlight of the trek. After a hot lunch here, we begin a 2-to-3-hour descent into the Barranco Valley, walking through unique plants and changing scenery. We arrive at Barranco Camp, set below the Barranco Wall, where we rest, have dinner, and overnight.

    Elevation: 3,804 m to 3,950 m | Distance: 10 km (6 miles) | Hiking time: 6-8 hours | Habitat: Moorland

    Accommodation

    Barranco Camp is nestled in a scenic valley below the Barranco Wall, offering breathtaking mountain views, a peaceful atmosphere, and one of the most picturesque camps on Kilimanjaro.

  • Elevation: 3,950 m to 4,033 m | Distance: 10 km (5 miles) | Hiking time: 8-10 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert

    After breakfast at Barranco Camp, we descend into a small ravine before reaching the base of the Barranco Wall. We then climb the wall, which looks steep but is not technical and is one of the highlights of the trek. From the top, there are great views, often above the clouds, with Kibo rising ahead. The trail then continues with a series of ups and downs across ridges and valleys as we make our way towards Karanga Camp. The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours and helps with acclimatisation. On arrival, we enjoy a hot lunch and have time to rest before dinner and overnight.

    Elevation: 3,950 m to 4,033 m | Distance: 10 km (5 miles) | Hiking time: 8-10 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert

    Accommodation

    Karanga Camp offers a memorable mountain camping experience with spectacular views, open alpine scenery, and a peaceful setting along one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic sections.

  • Elevation: 4033 m to 4640 m | Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert

    After breakfast at Karanga Camp, we continue the climb towards Barafu Camp, gradually gaining altitude as the landscape becomes more open, rocky, and alpine. The trail involves a steady uphill hike with beautiful views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding valleys. As we climb higher, the vegetation disappears and the environment becomes colder and more exposed. The hike usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, allowing enough time to rest and prepare for summit night. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, we have an early dinner, organise our summit gear, and rest before beginning the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

    Elevation: 4033 m to 4640 m | Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert

    Accommodation

    Barafu Camp offers a unique high-altitude camping experience with sweeping views across the mountain. Its dramatic setting creates an unforgettable atmosphere before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.

  • Elevation: 4,640 m to 5,895 m, then down to 3,080 m | Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles) | Hiking time: 10–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic to moorland

    Today is summit day. We wake up around 23:00hrs and take tea and biscuits before setting off at midnight. We begin the climb slowly in the dark, with headlamps lighting the way. This is the most challenging part of the trek, with cold temperatures and wind as we gain height. We take short breaks as we make steady progress towards Stella Point, reaching the crater rim at sunrise with views over Mawenzi. From here, it’s a gradual walk to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

    After spending time at the summit, we begin our descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest and hot lunch. We then continue down to Mweka Camp, taking care on the rocky sections. By late afternoon, we arrive at camp, where we enjoy dinner and a well-earned rest.

    Elevation: 4,640 m to 5,895 m, then down to 3,080 m | Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles) | Hiking time: 10–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic to moorland

    Accommodation

    Mweka Camp offers a peaceful forest camping experience surrounded by lush vegetation and fresh mountain air. It is the perfect place to rest and reflect after your Kilimanjaro summit adventure.

  • Elevation: 3,080 m to 1,640 m | Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Hiking time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

    After breakfast at Mweka Camp, we begin our final descent through the rainforest, a gentle walk compared to previous days. The trail can be wet and muddy, so we take our time as we make our way down to Mweka Gate, a hike of about 3 to 4 hours. On arrival, there is time to receive your summit certificates before we continue by vehicle back to Arusha, a drive of about 2 hours. On arrival at your lodge, there is time to relax, celebrate your achievement over dinner, and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

    Elevation: 3,080 m to 1,640 m | Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Hiking time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest

    Accommodation

    Planet Lodge offers a comfortable retreat in Arusha, with spacious accommodation, warm hospitality, tropical gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing stay.

  • After breakfast and a short briefing, we set off from Arusha and reach Tarangire in about two hours. As we enter the park, the baobabs and open landscape immediately stand out. We stop for a packed lunch inside, often with elephants not too far away. The afternoon is spent exploring, with good chances of spotting buffalo, giraffe, and more before we head to camp for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Tarangire Tortilis Camp offers an authentic safari experience overlooking wetlands and ancient baobab trees. Enjoy comfortable tented accommodation, warm hospitality, and excellent wildlife viewing in one of Tanzania’s most wildlife-rich national parks.

    Tarangire Elephant Springs offers a comfortable safari retreat overlooking the wildlife-rich landscapes of Tarangire. Enjoy stylish accommodation, warm hospitality, and beautiful views across the surrounding wilderness.

  • After breakfast in Tarangire, we set off towards the Serengeti, a drive of about six hours that always feels longer in a good way as the landscape keeps changing. As the plains begin to open up, you know you’re getting close. There’s a real sense of arrival as we enter the Serengeti. We stop for a packed lunch, then head out on our first game drive, with good chances of seeing hyenas, lions, elephants, and herds moving across the plains before continuing to camp for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Serengeti Tortilis Camp offers an authentic safari experience in the heart of the Serengeti. Enjoy comfortable tented accommodation, delicious cuisine, warm hospitality, and spectacular wildlife viewing in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

    Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge offers a comfortable safari retreat in the heart of the Serengeti. Enjoy stylish accommodation, warm hospitality, and sweeping views across the wildlife-rich plains of Tanzania’s most famous national park.

  • After breakfast in the Central Serengeti, we set off towards the Northern Serengeti, a drive of about five hours as we follow wildlife across the plains, with chances of seeing lions, cheetahs, and elephants. On arrival near the Mara River, your guide will take you straight to the river. Game drives here are all about timing and patience, positioning the vehicle at a safe distance, often under a tree, and as the wildebeest gather, we slowly move closer and stop to watch the crossing unfold. Later, we make our way to camp for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Nyikani Migration Camp offers an authentic tented safari experience in the Northern Serengeti. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and outstanding wildlife viewing near the Mara River during the Great Migration season.

    Mara Mara Tented Lodge offers a comfortable safari retreat in the Northern Serengeti. Enjoy stylish tented accommodation, warm hospitality, and excellent access to the wildlife-rich plains and Mara River region.

  • Today is spent around the Mara River, where patience often leads to unforgettable moments. We head out after breakfast and position ourselves carefully, watching as herds gather along the riverbanks. There’s always a sense that something could happen at any time. When a crossing begins, it’s fast and full of energy, with crocodiles in the water and predators nearby. We enjoy a packed lunch in the area before continuing through the afternoon. As the light softens, the plains take on a warm golden glow before we make our way back to camp for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Nyikani Migration Camp offers an authentic tented safari experience in the Northern Serengeti. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and outstanding wildlife viewing near the Mara River during the Great Migration season.

    Mara Mara Tented Lodge offers a comfortable safari retreat in the Northern Serengeti. Enjoy stylish tented accommodation, warm hospitality, and excellent access to the wildlife-rich plains and Mara River region.

  • After breakfast, we set off from the Northern Serengeti towards the Central Serengeti, a drive of about five hours as we move through different parts of the park. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes, and wildlife remains part of the journey, with chances of seeing lions, cheetahs, elephants, and herds spread across the plains. We enjoy a packed lunch en route before continuing through the afternoon. By early evening, we arrive at camp, where dinner and a relaxed evening await.

    Accommodation

    Serengeti Tortilis Camp offers an authentic safari experience in the heart of the Serengeti. Enjoy comfortable tented accommodation, delicious cuisine, warm hospitality, and spectacular wildlife viewing in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

    Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge offers a comfortable safari retreat in the heart of the Serengeti. Enjoy stylish accommodation, warm hospitality, and sweeping views across the wildlife-rich plains of Tanzania’s most famous national park.

  • After breakfast in the Serengeti, we set out on a final morning game drive across the endless plains, a last chance to take in the wildlife before leaving. As we head towards Ngorongoro, we enjoy a packed lunch along the way. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, and as we reach the crater rim, the vast Ngorongoro Crater suddenly opens up below—a moment where you truly realise how big it is. By late afternoon, we arrive at the lodge for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp is nestled within a lush forest near the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy comfortable tented accommodation, warm hospitality, and a peaceful setting surrounded by highland scenery, Maasai culture, and visiting wildlife.

    Ngorongoro Lion’s Paw offers a comfortable safari retreat on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy stylish accommodation, warm hospitality, and spectacular views from one of Tanzania’s most remarkable locations.

  • After an early breakfast, we descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a morning game drive. The crater is rich in wildlife, with chances of spotting lions, elephants, buffalo, and if lucky, the rare black rhino. We enjoy a packed lunch before driving about 4 hours through the highlands and local villages to Arusha Airport. From here, we take a 1.5-hour flight to Zanzibar. On arrival, our driver will transfer you to Nungwi Beach, where the rest of the day is at leisure before dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Zanzibar Queen Hotel offers a peaceful beachfront retreat in Matemwe, surrounded by tropical gardens and ocean views. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and a relaxing setting close to the Mnemba Island area.

    The Mora Zanzibar offers a luxurious beachfront retreat on Zanzibar’s northeast coast. Enjoy elegant accommodation, warm hospitality, tropical surroundings, and direct access to a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach.

  • Today is at leisure on the beach, with time to enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. You can relax by the ocean, take a swim, or simply unwind and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Optional activities are available, including snorkelling, diving, or a visit to Stone Town. Whether you choose to explore or relax, the day is yours to enjoy. Later, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Zanzibar Queen Hotel offers a peaceful beachfront retreat in Matemwe, surrounded by tropical gardens and ocean views. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and a relaxing setting close to the Mnemba Island area.

    The Mora Zanzibar offers a luxurious beachfront retreat on Zanzibar’s northeast coast. Enjoy elegant accommodation, warm hospitality, tropical surroundings, and direct access to a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach.

  • Today is another day at leisure on the beach, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. You may choose to spend the day by the ocean, take a swim, or explore optional activities such as snorkelling, diving, or a visit to Stone Town. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the island atmosphere. Later, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Zanzibar Queen Hotel offers a peaceful beachfront retreat in Matemwe, surrounded by tropical gardens and ocean views. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and a relaxing setting close to the Mnemba Island area.

    The Mora Zanzibar offers a luxurious beachfront retreat on Zanzibar’s northeast coast. Enjoy elegant accommodation, warm hospitality, tropical surroundings, and direct access to a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach.

  • Today is another relaxed day on the beach, with time to fully unwind and enjoy the island at your own pace. You can spend the day by the ocean, take a swim, or choose from optional activities such as snorkelling, diving, or exploring Stone Town. By now, you may find yourself settling into the rhythm of island life, enjoying the calm and peaceful surroundings. Later, return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

    Accommodation

    Zanzibar Queen Hotel offers a peaceful beachfront retreat in Matemwe, surrounded by tropical gardens and ocean views. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and a relaxing setting close to the Mnemba Island area.

    The Mora Zanzibar offers a luxurious beachfront retreat on Zanzibar’s northeast coast. Enjoy elegant accommodation, warm hospitality, tropical surroundings, and direct access to a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach.

  • After breakfast and some time to enjoy the beach, our driver will transfer you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight. The drive takes you through coastal villages and local scenery, offering a final glimpse of Zanzibar’s beaches and daily life along the way. Upon arrival at the airport, your driver will assist you with drop-off before saying goodbye.

    Accommodation

What's Included?

Accommodation: 6 nights on the mountain, 2 nights in Arusha, 6 nights on safari and 4 nights in Zanzibar

Safari Vehicle: 4×4 Land Cruiser with charging ports, fridge & binoculars.

Airport Transfers: One arrival and one departure airport transfer.

Safari Treats: Soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water during game drives.

Game Drives: Guided game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Meals & Water: All meals on the mountain plus treated drinking water.

Mountain Team: Professional driver-guide, mountain guides, chef, and porter team.

Park Fees: All national park, Ngorongoro Crater, and camping fees included.

Camping Equipment: Tents, mattress, dining tent, tables, chairs, and utensils.

Flight: Arusha to Zanzibar (20kg luggage allowance including hand luggage).

What's Excluded?

Insurance: Must cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 metres.

Flights & Visa: International & domestic flights, and visa fees are not included.

Drinks: Soft drinks, alcohol, and bottled beverages are not included.

Personal Gear: Clothing, equipment, toiletries, and laundry are not included.

Tips: Tips for driver-guide, mountain guides, porters, and mountain crew are not included.

Balloon Safari: Serengeti balloon safari with bush breakfast, $450 per person.

  • Accommodation: 6 nights on the mountain, 2 nights in Arusha, 6 nights on safari and 4 nights in Zanzibar

  • Safari Vehicle: 4×4 Land Cruiser with charging ports, fridge & binoculars.

  • Airport Transfers: One arrival and one departure airport transfer.

  • Safari Treats: Soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water during game drives.

  • Game Drives: Guided game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

  • Meals & Water: All meals on the mountain plus treated drinking water.

  • Mountain Team: Professional driver-guide, mountain guides, chef, and porter team.

  • Park Fees: All national park, Ngorongoro Crater, and camping fees included.

  • Camping Equipment: Tents, mattress, dining tent, tables, chairs, and utensils.

  • Flight: Arusha to Zanzibar (20kg luggage allowance including hand luggage).

  • Insurance: Must cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 metres.

  • Flights & Visa: International & domestic flights, and visa fees are not included.

  • Drinks: Soft drinks, alcohol, and bottled beverages are not included.

  • Personal Gear: Clothing, equipment, toiletries, and laundry are not included.

  • Tips: Tips for driver-guide, mountain guides, porters, and mountain crew are not included.

  • Balloon Safari: Serengeti balloon safari with bush breakfast, $450 per person.

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Booking & Travel Information

  • This adventure is ideal for travellers seeking the ultimate Tanzania experience, combining the challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro, the excitement of the Great Migration, and the relaxation of Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches.

  • The 7-day Machame Route is moderately challenging and suitable for anyone with a good level of fitness. The additional day improves acclimatisation and increases the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak, while the safari and Zanzibar portions are suitable for travellers of all ages.

  • Expect opportunities to see migrating wildebeest and zebras, lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, crocodiles, and many other species. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the Mara River is renowned for its dramatic river crossings and predator encounters.

  • This adventure is best experienced from June to October, when conditions on Kilimanjaro are generally favourable, the Great Migration is typically found around the Mara River, and Zanzibar enjoys warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

  • Yes. This itinerary can be tailored to suit your travel dates, accommodation preferences, route options, and budget. Additional safari days, Zanzibar nights, and other activities can also be added.

  • To confirm your adventure, a 30% deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid at least 45 days before departure. For bookings made within 45 days of travel, full payment is required at the time of booking.

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