12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo with 3 Nights in Serengeti

Dreaming of a Kilimanjaro trek and safari combo in May? This 12-day adventure with Capable Africa Tours combines a 7-day Machame route trek with a 4-day Serengeti safari, including 3 nights in Serengeti, plus visits to Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. Perfect for off-peak Kilimanjaro climbers, May offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and lush landscapes. Conquer Africa’s highest peak and witness the Big Five in Tanzania’s iconic parks. Read on for a detailed itinerary, pricing, and tips to make your May adventure in Tanzania unforgettable!

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12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo Highlights

Duration: 12 Days, 11 Nights
Destinations: Kilimanjaro (Machame Route), Serengeti (3 nights), Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire
Main Focus: Kilimanjaro summit, Big Five, Great Migration, Maasai culture
Tour Style: Guided trek and safari, small groups (2–12 people)
Best Time: May for off-peak Kilimanjaro climb and lush safari landscapes
Ideal For: Adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers

Climbing Kilimanjaro via Machame route in May

Why Choose a 12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo in May?

This 12-day Kilimanjaro and safari package with Capable Africa Tours is the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. May is an ideal time for an off-peak Kilimanjaro climb, offering cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant green landscapes due to the tail end of the wet season. The 7-day Machame route trek takes you to the summit of Africa’s highest peak (5,895m), while the 4-day Serengeti safari, including 3 nights in Serengeti, immerses you in Tanzania’s world-class wildlife. Add in Ngorongoro Crater’s dense wildlife and Tarangire’s elephant herds, and you have a perfectly balanced adventure. With expert guides, eco-friendly camps, and small group sizes, this itinerary ensures a personalized and unforgettable May adventure in Tanzania.

From the challenging yet rewarding Machame route to the vast Serengeti plains teeming with wildlife, this Kilimanjaro and safari package delivers a mix of physical achievement and awe-inspiring nature. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or seasoned safari-goer, this itinerary is crafted to maximize your experience.

Detailed 12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo Itinerary

This 12-day Kilimanjaro and safari combo is designed to optimize your adventure, blending a 7-day Machame route trek with a 4-day Serengeti safari, including 3 nights in Serengeti, plus visits to Ngorongoro and Tarangire. Below is a day-by-day breakdown of your May adventure in Tanzania.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your May adventure in Tanzania begins in Arusha, the gateway to Kilimanjaro and Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide for a briefing on the Machame route trek and safari ahead.

Activities: Airport transfer, trek and safari briefing
Highlights: Cultural introduction, preparation for adventure
Meals: Dinner at hotel
Accommodation: Arusha hotel or lodge

Day 2: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Drive to Machame Gate (1,800m) to start your Kilimanjaro trek via the Machame route. Trek through lush rainforest to Machame Camp (2,850m). May’s cooler weather and occasional light rain create a serene, less crowded trail.

Trekking Time: 5–7 hours, 11 km
Highlights: Rainforest scenery, off-peak tranquility
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Machame Camp (tented)

Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Continue your Machame route trek to Shira Camp (3,750m), climbing through heath and moorland. Enjoy panoramic views of Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak under May’s clear skies.

Trekking Time: 4–6 hours, 5 km
Highlights: Shira Plateau, first views of Kibo
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Shira Camp (tented)

Day 4: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Trek to Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,976m). May’s lush vegetation enhances the dramatic Barranco Wall views.

Trekking Time: 6–8 hours, 10 km
Highlights: Lava Tower, Barranco Wall
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tented)

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Scale the Barranco Wall and trek to Karanga Camp (3,995m). The shorter day aids acclimatization, with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s southern glaciers.

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours, 5 km
Highlights: Barranco Wall climb, glacier views
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tented)

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Trek to Barafu Camp (4,673m), your base for the summit push. Rest early to prepare for the midnight ascent, enjoying May’s cooler temperatures.

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours, 4 km
Highlights: Alpine desert, summit preparation
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tented)

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak & Mweka Camp

Begin your summit ascent at midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for rest after your triumphant climb.

Trekking Time: 10–14 hours, 12 km
Highlights: Summit at Uhuru Peak, sunrise views
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tented)

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Arusha

Descend to Mweka Gate (1,640m) to complete your Kilimanjaro trek. Transfer back to Arusha for a well-earned rest at your hotel.

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours, 10 km
Highlights: Trek completion, certificate ceremony
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Arusha hotel or lodge

Day 9: Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Begin your 4-day Serengeti safari with a drive to Serengeti National Park. Enjoy a game drive en route, spotting lions, cheetahs, and Great Migration herds. Spend your first of 3 nights in Serengeti at a tented camp.

Drive Time: 5–6 hours (with game drive)
Highlights: First Serengeti game drive, Big Five
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tented camp in Central Serengeti

Day 10: Full-Day Serengeti Exploration

Spend a full day exploring Serengeti’s vast plains during your second of 3 nights in Serengeti. Morning and afternoon game drives offer chances to see predators and the Great Migration’s dramatic scenes.

Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives
Highlights: Great Migration, predator-prey interactions
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tented camp in Central Serengeti

Day 11: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Enjoy a morning game drive during your final of 3 nights in Serengeti, then drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Visit a Maasai village en route to learn about their culture. Arrive at your lodge on the crater rim.

Drive Time: 3–4 hours
Highlights: Maasai cultural tour, crater rim views
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Lodge on Ngorongoro Crater rim

Day 12: Ngorongoro Crater to Tarangire & Arusha

Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive, spotting black rhinos and flamingos. Drive to Tarangire National Park for an afternoon game drive among elephant herds, then return to Arusha for departure.

Drive Time: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire elephants
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Transfer to Arusha hotel or airport

Why This 12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo Stands Out

This Kilimanjaro and safari package is unmatched for its blend of adventure and wildlife. The Machame route trek in May offers a less crowded, scenic climb, while the 4-day Serengeti safari, with 3 nights in Serengeti, maximizes wildlife sightings. Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire add diverse ecosystems, ensuring a comprehensive Tanzania experience. Small groups, expert guides, and eco-conscious camps make this itinerary a top choice for your May adventure in Tanzania.

12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo Gallery

What to Pack for Your Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo

Packing for a 12-day Kilimanjaro and safari package requires preparation for both trekking and safari conditions. May’s weather is cooler on Kilimanjaro and lush in the parks, so pack versatile gear. Below is a detailed packing list for your May adventure in Tanzania.

Trekking Gear: Waterproof hiking boots, trekking poles, and layered clothing for Kilimanjaro’s varying climates.
Neutral Clothing: Khaki/beige long-sleeved shirts and pants for safari sun protection.
Binoculars: 8x42 for spotting wildlife during your 3 nights in Serengeti.
Sunscreen & Hat: SPF 50+ and wide-brimmed hat for open savannah drives.
Insect Repellent: DEET-based for evenings in Serengeti and Tarangire.
Camera with Zoom: 200mm+ lens for capturing Kilimanjaro views and Great Migration.
Reusable Water Bottle: Essential for treks and 3–6-hour game drives.
Warm Layers: Fleece jacket for Kilimanjaro’s cold nights and Ngorongoro mornings.

How Much Does a 12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo Cost?

A 12-day Kilimanjaro and safari combo typically costs between $3,500 and $6,500 per person, depending on accommodation level, group size, and inclusions. Capable Africa Tours offers competitive pricing with transparent inclusions. Here’s a breakdown:

Budget Combo: $3,500–$4,500 per person (shared camps, group tours).
Mid-Range Combo: $4,200–$5,500 per person (lodges, private vehicles).
Luxury Combo: $5,500–$6,500 per person (premium lodges, exclusive experiences).

12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo Price Inclusions & Exclusions

The price for this Kilimanjaro and safari package covers Kilimanjaro climbing permits, park fees, expert guides, and most meals. Exclusions include international flights and optional activities. Below is a detailed breakdown for clarity.

Price Inclusions

Kilimanjaro climbing permits and park fees
Round-trip transfers from Arusha
4WD safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking trek and safari guides
Full-board meals and eco-friendly lodging
Tented camps on Kilimanjaro and 3 nights in Serengeti
Maasai village cultural tour

Price Exclusions

International flights to Tanzania
Travel or medical insurance
Tips for guides and porters (~$15–20 pp/day, optional)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.)
Optional activities like balloon safaris
Alcoholic beverages

Ready for Your 12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo?

Join Capable Africa Tours for a 12-day adventure, conquering Kilimanjaro via the Machame route and exploring Serengeti (3 nights), Ngorongoro, and Tarangire. Summit Africa’s highest peak and witness the Big Five in one unforgettable trip.

90% summit success rate on Machame route
95% success rate for Big Five sightings
Expert-guided treks and game drives
Eco-friendly camps supporting conservation
Small groups for personalized experiences

Limited spots for this May Kilimanjaro and safari combo—book now to secure your adventure!

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Frequently Asked Questions about 12-Day Kilimanjaro & Safari Combo

1. Why choose May for a Kilimanjaro trek and safari combo?

May offers cooler temperatures for the Kilimanjaro trek and fewer crowds in Serengeti, making it ideal for an off-peak Kilimanjaro climb and safari.

2. What is the Machame route like in May?

The Machame route in May is less crowded, with cooler weather and occasional light rain, offering lush scenery and a rewarding climb.

3. What fitness level is required for this 12-day itinerary?

Moderate to high fitness is needed for the Kilimanjaro trek. The safari portion requires minimal fitness, suitable for most travelers.

4. Are park fees and climbing permits included in the price?

Yes, all park entry fees, Kilimanjaro climbing permits, and conservation fees are included in the package price.

5. Can beginners climb Kilimanjaro via the Machame route?

Yes, beginners with good fitness and preparation can tackle the Machame route with experienced guides from Capable Africa Tours.

6. What wildlife can I see during the 4-day Serengeti safari?

Expect to see the Big Five, Great Migration herds, cheetahs, giraffes, and over 500 bird species during your 3 nights in Serengeti.

7. Is May a good time for a Tanzania safari combo?

May is excellent for a Tanzania safari combo, with lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and active wildlife in Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

8. What is the cancellation policy for this itinerary?

Free cancellation up to 21 days before departure. Contact Capable Africa Tours for full terms.