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Safari in Tanzania & Hiking on Kilimanjaro

Tanzania in 12 Days, 9 Nights in Destination

From

$6,299

$4,399

/person

-30%

Emma, Travel Expert

Emma
Travel crafter

Immerse yourself in Tanzania's beauty with an unforgettable experience. Hike the majestic Kilimanjaro, explore Serengeti National Park, and feel the thrill of spotting the elusive Big 5 on a safari adventure of a lifetime!

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    Arusha
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    Kilimanjaro
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    Ngorongoro
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    Serengeti National Park
  5. map-pin-check-icon
    Tarangire National Park

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Some meals

Availability

  1. Departures available until December 2025

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers from + $700

  4. Add up to 5 nights to your stay

  5. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. charm included

  2. WHAT'S THIS?

Book with an expert:

+1 888-354-2321

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Exoticca is a member of ASTA

Itinerary

Set off on your African safari in Arusha. Start with the first stage of your Mount Kilimanjaro hike, then journey to Tarangire National Park, where you'll be captivated by its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Next, visit the iconic Serengeti National Park and experience the thrill of encountering the Big Five. Finally, explore the vast Ngorongoro Crater.

1st Day: US - Night on board

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Arrive at your departure airport, ready for a flight* to Kilimanjaro. Night on board.

*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

2nd Day: Kilimanjaro - Arusha

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Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro Airport, you'll transfer to your hotel in Arusha for check-in (approx. 55 km/1 hour drive). Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania, is a charming town brimming with attractions and adventures.

If time allows after check-in*, spend the rest of the day at your leisure, starting to explore your new surroundings. Later, savor a delightful dinner while your tour guide briefs you on the exciting details of your African safari adventure. Overnight stay in Arusha.

*Early check-in allows you to enter your room before the hotel's regular check-in time for an additional cost. You will have the option to add early check-in on arrival in the next step of the booking process.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kerama Silent Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

7 Reviews

See our full selection

3rd Day: Arusha - Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park - Arusha

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Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, around 6 am, you will be picked up from your lodge with a packed lunch and transferred to Kilimanjaro National Park, Marangu Gate, at 1860 m. After completing the entry formalities, you will begin an exciting hike through a dense forest and along a picturesque stream, always accompanied by your mountain guide.

The hike, which lasts 3 to 4 hours depending on the group’s pace, will take you to Mandara Hut at 2700 m above the mountain's base. The ascent begins at an elevation of 1880 m. From there, you can enjoy a short excursion to the edge of the impressive Maundi Crater, a remnant of an ancient volcanic conduit, which offers spectacular views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks on a clear day. This experience is ideal for those who enjoy hiking and are ready for a physical challenge.

Afterward, you will have time to admire this natural setting while enjoying your packed lunch. Then, you will descend back to Marangu Gate, a journey that usually takes about 1 hour or more, depending on your pace. Finally, return to your accommodation to relax after a day full of adventures. Dinner and overnight stay in Arusha.

Distance and elevation gain: 17 km and 800 m ascent.

Please note: This excursion is not suitable for children or people with reduced mobility. It is essential to wear hiking clothes and mountain boots to ensure your comfort and safety during the hike. If needed, you can reserve walking sticks in advance and pay for them at the destination.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kerama Silent Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

7 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Kilimanjaro National Park Day Hike

Challenging

See more

4th Day: Arusha

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you have a free day to explore Arusha on your own, or if you prefer, you can join our exciting optional excursion to Arusha National Park*. Dinner and overnight stay in Arusha.

*Optional visit to Arusha National: You will be picked up from your lodge and driven to Arusha National Park, often referred to as the ‘mini-Serengeti’ due to its large populations of giraffes and buffalo. After completing the entry formalities, you'll enter the park for wildlife viewing. Start your adventure with a guided nature walk, offering a unique and thrilling opportunity to encounter wild animals up close. Arusha National Park is divided into three main areas: Momella Lakes, Mount Meru, and the Ngurdoto Crater. Explore the lush mountain forest, home to curious blue monkeys, vibrant turacos, trogon birds, and agile black-and-white colobus monkeys. Lunch will be served at a picnic site. Afterward, continue with a game drive through the park until late afternoon. Finally, return to your safari jeep and drive back to your accommodation for an evening of leisure. 

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kerama Silent Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

7 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
Arusha National Park excursion

Active

See more

5th Day: Arusha - Materuni Waterfalls - Arusha

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, embark on a fascinating full-day tour to Materuni Waterfalls, nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, with a visit to a local coffee plantation included (approx. 83 km/2.5-hour drive). Upon arriving in Materuni, a traditional Chagga tribal village, you’ll start with a 40-minute walk to the stunning waterfall.

As you hike, your guide will share insights into Chagga daily life, their culture, and the local flora and fauna. Once you reach the waterfall, you can marvel at its impressive 80-meter drop and take a refreshing swim in the pool at its base.

Next, visit Mama Agnes’ home for a traditional Chagga lunch, where you’ll enjoy local dishes and taste homemade banana beer.

After lunch, head to a nearby coffee plantation to learn about the cultivation, drying, and roasting processes. You’ll even get to grind your own coffee while enjoying Chagga songs and dances, providing an immersive cultural experience.

Before heading back, savor the coffee you made and soak in the views of the surrounding montane rainforest. If you wish, you can also opt for a Maasai Experience at Osiligilai Maasai Lodge*. If not, return to your lodge in Arusha for a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Arusha.

*Optional Maasai experience at Osiligilai Maasai Lodge: transfer by road to the impressive Osiligilai eco-lodge. Once here, we take a game drive to take in the scenery and enjoy the views of the mountains and savannah. We also visit the Maasai Boma village to discover the culture and way of life of the Maasai people and the nature and endemic species of the area. Afterwards we enjoy the sunset overlooking Kilimanjaro and return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight stay in Osiligilai Lodge.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kerama Silent Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

7 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Materuni Waterfalls Visit

Challenging

See more
Optional
Maasai experience in Osiligilai Lodge

Moderate

See more

6th Day: Arusha - Tarangire National Park

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Breakfast at the hotel. Say goodbye to Arusha as you head to the Tarangire National Park. Prepare to hop on a 4x4 Safari Jeep to cruise for a full-day safari experience. Tarangire rivals the Serengeti in the great number and diversity of its wildlife. It is a good choice for those looking to encounter more animals, particularly elephants, as this location is  renowned for their frequent sightings.

The Tarangire river is the only source of water in the area, attracting the reserves' abundance of exotic wildlife and making it a perfect spot for wildlife viewing. The landscape is a photographer's dream too, due to the high number of scenic baobab trees and its extensive marshlands. A packed lunch is included.

In the evening, enjoy free time to relax. Check-in to your lodge, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Tarangire.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Lake Burunge Tented Camp or similar
tripadvisor rating

605 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Game Drive in Tarangire National Park

Light

See more

7th Day: Tarangire National Park - Serengeti National Park

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Breakfast at the hotel. Meet up with the rest of your group and embark on a scenic drive from Tarangire to Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. The 190 km journey will take about 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and take some time to relax, enjoy lunch, and refresh after the drive. Rest up and get excited for a thrilling full day of safari exploration tomorrow! Dinner and overnight stay in the Serengeti National Park.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Osero Serengeti Tented Ca... or similar
tripadvisor rating

341 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Game Drive En Route to the Serengeti

Light

See more

8th Day: Serengeti National Park

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Enjoy the morning taking in the beauty of the Serengeti National Park; listen to the enchanting sounds, smell the wilderness and gaze at the breathtaking sunrise view of the endless plains of this location. Take some time to enjoy breakfast before starting today's adventure. Alternatively, take part in our optional morning hot air balloon* over the Serengeti plains.

Later, embark on yet another chance to explore the Serengeti by getting to know its wildlife. Spend the entire day enjoying a vehicle safari experience. Depending on what the majority of the group decides, lunch will either be had back at the lodge or brought with you as a picnic to enjoy during the game drive. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure. Return to your camp for dinner and overnight stay in the Serengeti National Park.

*Optional Hot Air Balloon Over Serengeti Plains: Get a spectacular bird’s eye view of the great migration and the unique landscapes of this location in an aerial experience you will not be forgetting any time soon!

Please note: The optional hot air balloon activity is contingent on weather conditions at the destination and will be confirmed the day before. If it cannot go ahead, a full refund will be issued. This activity is not wheelchair accessible nor is it allowed for children under 5 years of age.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Osero Serengeti Tented Ca... or similar
tripadvisor rating

341 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Full Day Serengeti Game Drive

Light

See more
Optional
Hot Air Balloon Over Serengeti Plains

Moderate

See more

9th Day: Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater - Karatu

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you will be making your way to the Ngorongoro Crater to experience the vastness of its landscapes and wildlife (approx. 145 km/3.5 hour drive).

Upon arrival, descend to the crater floor for a spectacular game viewing. You will be going down a lush highland forest, with magnificent birdlife to be spotted among the different species of flora. You will also have the chance to observe a large variety of herbivore species, as well as the predators that are attracted by this abundant supply of prey.

Its 260 sq km floor is very diverse; boasting a permanent lake, open savannah and areas of mature woodland. Surrounded by steep, densely forested walls rising over 600 m high, the effect is that of a huge natural Amphitheater.

You will then enjoy a packed lunch. Later, ascend and make your way to your hotel in Karatu (approx. 45 km/1.5 hour drive). Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Karatu.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kudu Lodge & Camp or similar
tripadvisor rating

259 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Ngorongoro Crater Tour

Light

See more

10th Day: Karatu - Mto Wa Mbu - Arusha

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Breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a journey to Mto Wa Mbu village, located near Lake Manyara National Park, for an unforgettable experience that blends nature and culture (approx. 28 km/35-minute drive). Discover local farms, vibrant food markets, lush paddy fields, and a charming banana beer bar. Enjoy a delightful lunch. Afterwards, return to Arusha for a relaxing evening and savor a delicious dinner. Please note that the drive back to Arusha is approximately 113 km and takes just under two hours. Overnight stay in Arusha.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kerama Silent Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

7 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Mto Wa Mbu Village Visit, Nature Walk & Cultural Experience

Active

See more

11th Day: Arusha - Night on board

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Breakfast* at the lodge. At the indicated time**, transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport (55 km/approx. 1hr drive) to catch your flight back to the US.  Night on board.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. 

**You will have the option to add late check-out upon departure in the next step of the booking process.

12th Day: US

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Touch down back in the US and end your adventure. 

Select a day to go to next step

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November 2024
December 2024
January 2025
February 2025

Categories Available:

charm

From $4,399

Selected

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    Accommodation: 9 Nights

    Included activities

    Included

    Kilimanjaro National Park Day Hike

    Included activity for day 3 in Kilimanjaro

    Experience a day hike in Kilimanjaro National Park, exploring lush forests and scenic trails at the base of Africa’s highest peak. Enjoy stunning views and diverse wildlife on this exhilarating adventure.

    Duration 06:00h Approx. Pick up time: 06:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Challenging

    This excursion is not suitable for infants, children, or individuals with reduced mobility. A good level of fitness and hiking experience is required. The route covers 17 km with an elevation gain of 800 m.

    more information
    Included

    Materuni Waterfalls Visit

    Included activity for day 5 in Arusha

    Visit the impressive 80 meter high waterfalls where the views are magical and take a dive in the pool found at the very bottom. Later, visit a coffee plantation to learn about the village’s coffee-making process.

    Duration 11:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:30 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Challenging

    Please note that this activity requires about a 40-minute walk, and you need to bring a swimsuit.

    more information
    Included

    Game Drive in Tarangire National Park

    Included activity for day 6 in Tarangire National Park

    Take part in an unforgettable 4x4 safari experience as you explore the diversity of this locations flora and fauna.

    Duration 10:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Game Drive En Route to the Serengeti

    Included activity for day 7 in Serengeti National Park

    Enjoy an exciting game drive as you make your way to the Serengeti and feast your eyes on an array of beautiful fauna.

    Duration 13:00h Approx. Pick up time: 07:30 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information

    Show more

    Available Activities

    Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
    Optional

    Arusha National Park excursion

    Suggested activity for day 4 in Arusha National Park

    Explore Arusha National Park's rainforests and the Ngurdoto Crater. Spot wildlife like giraffes and buffalo, and enjoy stunning views of Mount Meru.

    Duration 06:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Active

    Bumpy roads during the game drive.

    more information
    Optional

    Maasai experience in Osiligilai Lodge

    Suggested activity for day 5 in Kilimanjaro

    Transfer to this eco-lodge in West Kilimanjaro and drive to see the landscape and visit the Maasai Boma village to discover their culture and way of life and enjoy the sunset overlooking Kilimanjaro.

    Duration 16:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    It is a very local experience. Not recommended for vegans and vegetarians.

    more information
    Optional

    Hot Air Balloon Over Serengeti Plains

    Suggested activity for day 8 in Serengeti National Park

    Appreciate the beauty of the Seregenti from high above as you embark a hot air balloon to appreciate the great migration and spectacular landscapes from a bird’s eye’s perspective.

    Duration 01:30h Approx. Pick up time: 05:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    The optional Hot Air Balloon is dependent on weather conditions and will be confirmed (or refunded) the day before. This activity is not suitable for children under 5 and is not wheelchair accessible.

    more information

    The price includes

    • Departures from main US airports.
    • International flights: US - Kilimanjaro - US.
    • 9 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels and lodges. *
      more information
      See hotels included
    • 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 9 dinners.
    • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
      See itinerary
    • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
    • WIFI on Safari jeep.
    • Mineral water on game drive, coffee, and some other soft drinks.
    • Kilimanjaro National Park Day Hike.
    • English-speaking guide
    • Exoticca exclusive groups of maximum 7 pax.
    • Safari in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, game drive in the Serengeti National Park, game drive in Tarangire National Park in 4x4.

    Not included

    Visa (required) *, drinks, tips ** and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

    * The Tanzanian authorities have established a new procedure for obtaining visas on arrival at Kilimanjaro airport, without prior notice and effective immediately. Upon arrival, the following procedure must be followed, which is done in 3 steps at 3 different counters:

    1) Get a visa registration number

    2) Pay for the visa (by cash or card)

    3) Verify the regulations and obtain your visa

    In each of these stages, you will need to queue and the process can take up to 2 hours. If you have applied for the visa online (this process takes between 2 and 3 weeks), you will only need to queue once.

    The price for Visa is USD50.

    ** Tips are not included. Although tipping is not mandatory, we highly recommend an average of USD10 per day per person for the guide as well as for the driver. Keep in mind that tipping is an important part of country culture and customary in this line of work.

    Travellers are advised to carry cash in the form of USD or TSH to pay for any extras in Tanzania. Credit cards are not widely accepted. If you plan on spending US dollars in Tanzania, please ensure your banknotes are no more than five years old. Large banknotes may be difficult to change, so please bring small banknotes with you.

    * Accommodation at Osiligilai Maasai Lodge will only be enjoyed if the optional "Maasai experience in Osiligilai Lodge" activity is booked.

    • Entry requirements

      Passport valid for six months and a return ticket required. Starting September 1, 2024, Air Tanzania passengers need mandatory inbound travel insurance. From October 1, 2024, Zanzibar visitors must have travel insurance from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation

    • Visa

      A visa is required. Issued on arrival in the country. Price approximately $100. Maximum 3 months stay. Visas are paid in cash only, with USD banknotes issued after 2006.

    • Currency

      Tanzanian Shilling.

    • Language

      Swahili and English.

    • Electricity

      230 V. Adapter not required.

    • Health

      Please consult your doctor regarding the vaccination against yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis. Travellers over 60 years must consult their doctor as the Yellow Fever vaccine can have serious side effects.

    • Time zone

      UTC + 03:00.

    • Other useful information

      Tanzanians drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you plan on spending US dollars in Tanzania, please ensure your banknotes are no more than five years old. Large banknotes may be difficult to change, so please bring small banknotes with you.

    • Tourist Office website

      http://www.tanzaniatouristboard.com

    Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

    Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

    In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

    It is possible to have 3 adults in a triple room under request. The extra bed in hotels are fold-out style and smaller in size than a standard single bed. Triple rooms are not bigger or more spacious because they are occupied by 3 people.

    If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 888-488-0592 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

    While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

    Pay in installments

    60%

    At time of booking

    40%

    60 days before departure