Tanzania Safari and Kilimanjaro Itinerary: Planning a Climb and Game Viewing Together

Climbing Africa's highest mountain and watching big game on the plains are the two great Tanzanian experiences, and they combine well in about two weeks. Planning matters, because the climb is demanding and the safari is long on early starts.

This page explains the best order, how many days to allow and a sample outline, with links to detailed climbing and safari guides.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Why Climb First

The climb needs the freshest legs and the least interruption, and a safari after it is a gentle reward. If you do the safari first, early starts and long drives can leave you tired before the mountain. A climb first also gives clearer information about your physical state before you commit to long safari days. Some travellers prefer safari first to enjoy lower altitudes, but most operators suggest the climb first. Read the Kilimanjaro climbing guide for background.

Sample 14-Day Outline

• Day 1: Arrive, transfer to Moshi or Arusha, rest and check equipment.
• Days 2 to 8: Climb Kilimanjaro on a route of around seven days, with a summit night and descent. Route length affects acclimatisation.
• Day 9: Rest day in Moshi or Arusha for showers, laundry and recovery.
• Day 10: Drive to Tarangire or Lake Manyara for an easy first safari day.
• Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater game drive, then to the highlands.
• Days 12 and 13: Serengeti game drives, with a flight or road transfer depending on plan.
• Day 14: Return to Arusha or Kilimanjaro airport for departure.

Choosing the Route and Length

Longer routes usually give better acclimatisation and higher summit success, so avoid choosing the shortest option purely to save days. Routes differ in scenery, crowds and difficulty. Read Kilimanjaro routes compared and Kilimanjaro itineraries before deciding.

Altitude and Health

Altitude sickness can affect fit and unfit climbers alike. Good operators build in gradual ascents, monitor health daily and carry emergency equipment. See the altitude sickness guide and health and vaccinations. Speak to your doctor well before you travel.

Season Considerations

The climbing seasons are usually the drier periods, which also suit many safari regions. Align your climb with the dry months and your safari with the region where herds will be. See best time to climb Kilimanjaro and best time for Tanzania.

Packing for Both Trips

Climbing needs technical layers, warm gear and sturdy boots, while a safari needs neutral clothing and a light jacket. Pack a day bag for the climb and a separate soft bag for safari, and ask your operator to store luggage between trips. See the packing list.

Training and Kit Checklist

Start training months ahead with long hill walks carrying a loaded pack, and wear in your boots before departure. Break in layers, gloves, a warm hat and a good sleeping bag if your operator does not supply one. Hire specialist items locally if you prefer to travel light. A realistic training plan improves comfort and summit chances more than any single piece of gear.

Recovery After the Summit

After the descent, expect tired legs, sunburn and a strong appetite. Use the rest day for a proper meal, washing kit and sleeping late, and avoid scheduling an early flight or a dawn start straight afterwards. Some travellers feel a dip in energy two days after finishing, so keep the first safari day short. A lower-altitude first stop such as Tarangire or Lake Manyara works well, and the crater rim follows once you feel recovered.

Add-Ons and Alternatives

If you do not want to summit, consider shorter hikes on the mountain's lower slopes or at Arusha National Park, described in the Arusha National Park activities guide. A beach stay on Zanzibar is also a popular finish, see safari and Zanzibar combinations.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team