In this life-changing adventure, you will experience 7 days of trekking through the famous Machame Route followed by a 5-day safari through Tanzania’s most iconic national parks.
The Machame Route, known as the “Whiskey Route,” is a scenic path up Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking landscapes, gradual acclimatization, and high success rates. Completing this trek is an achievement of a lifetime, and to make the experience even more rewarding, you will go on a 5-day safari—the perfect way to unwind and reconnect with nature after your climb.
During your 5-day safari you will discover the untamed wilderness of Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti, where the magic of Africa unfolds before your eyes.
With over 20 years of experience, we provide safe, professional, and unforgettable experiences, ensuring that you reach your goals and leave with incredible memories. Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime journey where every step, from the mountain’s peak to the vast savannah, is an unforgettable story waiting to be told.
Your adventure begins as you enter Kilimanjaro National Park and trek through lush rainforest. Congratulations. Today, you will take your first steps toward the summit, embracing the spirit of adventure and determination.
Elevation Gain: 1,200 meters
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 11 kilometers
Habitat: Rainforest
Key Highlights: Immersion in dense vegetation, spotting wildlife, and adjusting to the trekking pace.
Today, you leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. A sense of accomplishment grows as the air gets thinner, bringing you closer to the mountain’s heart. The terrain becomes steeper, and the surroundings more open, offering stunning views.
Elevation Gain: 840 meters
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: 5 kilometers
Habitat: Moorland
Key Highlights: Transitioning landscapes, breathtaking views, and adaptation to altitude.
On day 3, you will experience the famous phenomena of hiking high, sleeping low, which is great for acclimatization. The climb to Lava Tower challenges you, but the descent to Barranco Camp strengthens your body’s adaptation to high altitude.
Elevation Gain: 790 meters (to Lava Tower), then descent of 670 meters to Barranco
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 10 kilometers
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Key Highlights: Acclimatization strategy, Lava Tower, stunning scenery, and first views of the Barranco Wall.
A fun and challenging morning scramble up the famous Barranco Wall awaits. At the top of the wall, you will be rewarded with one of the best views of your life. Take amazing photos to celebrate the achievement, then continue hiking towards Karanga Camp at a steady pace.
Elevation Gain: 75 meters
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 kilometers
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Key Highlights: Climbing the Barranco Wall, panoramic views, acclimatization benefits.
The summit is near! A short but steep climb takes you to Barafu Camp, the final base before summit night. Rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the upcoming challenge. An early dinner and sleep are essential.
Elevation Gain: 605 meters
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 4 kilometers
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Key Highlights: High-altitude experience, preparation for the final ascent.
This is it! Today, you will experience the toughest but most rewarding part of the trek. The summit attempt begins at midnight, and as you ascend, the air gets thin, and the temperature drops. With each step, the goal comes into view—Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa!
Elevation Gain: 1,255 meters (ascent), 2,815 meters (descent)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours (to summit), 4-6 hours (descent)
Distance: 17 kilometers total
Habitat: Arctic
Key Highlights: Witnessing the sunrise from the summit, personal triumph, celebration at the top.
The final descent through the lush forest is a moment to reflect on your achievement. With each step, you leave behind the altitude and embrace the satisfaction of conquering Kilimanjaro. At Mweka Gate, you receive your summit certificates before celebrating your success.
Elevation Loss: 1,440 meters
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 10 kilometers
Habitat: Rainforest
Key Highlights: Enjoying the final stretch, feeling accomplished, summit certificate celebration.
You will begin your safari adventure with a full-day game drive in Tarangire National Park, renowned for its dense elephant populations and majestic baobab trees. The park’s varied ecosystems, including river valleys, swamps, and acacia woodlands, support a wide array of wildlife. During the dry season (June to November), animals such as zebras, wildebeests, and buffaloes congregate near the Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline. Predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs are also prevalent. Bird enthusiasts can delight in over 550 bird species, making Tarangire a premier bird-watching destination.
Key highlights:
After breakfast in Karatu town, journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts a dense population of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Notably, giraffes are absent from the crater due to its steep walls. The crater’s diverse habitats also support a multitude of bird species. After a picnic lunch, proceed to Serengeti National Park for an overnight stay.
Key highlights:
You will wake very early for an amazing game drive in search for the big five. Witness the savannahs stretching as far as the eye can see. Spot predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards in their natural habitat.
Key highlights:
Continue exploring the Serengeti’s wilderness with another full-day game drive. Depending on the season, you may witness river crossings during the Great Migration—a spectacle of determination and survival. For a unique perspective, consider an early morning hot air balloon safari (additional cost), offering aerial views of the landscape and wildlife below.
Key highlights:
Conclude your safari with an early morning game drive, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities during the animals’ active hours. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying with you memories of Tanzania’s remarkable landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Our Machame 7 Days Trek and 5 Days Safari tour is highly customizable.
Ask for a quote and we can discuss your budget and specific preferences.