Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Machame Trek – 9 Days

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day adventure with Capable Africa Tours, combining the thrilling Serengeti National Park safari with the iconic Machame Route trek to Kilimanjaro’s summit. Witness the Big Five and conquer Africa’s highest peak.

Book Your Adventure Now

Tour Highlights

  • Duration: 9 Days, 8 Nights
  • Destinations: Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro (Machame Route)
  • Main Focus: Big Five safaris, Kilimanjaro summit trek
  • Tour Style: Guided wildlife safari and mountaineering adventure
  • Best Time to Go: Dry season (June–October) for wildlife and clear trekking conditions
  • Ideal For: Adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and experienced hikers
Serengeti wildlife and Kilimanjaro trek

Tour Overview

The 9-day Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Machame Trek by Capable Africa Tours is the ultimate adventure for those seeking both wildlife thrills and mountaineering challenges. Begin in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning 14,750 km², home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) and the Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeests.

After exciting game drives, head to the Machame Route, called the “Whiskey Route” for its tough but beautiful climb up Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). With a summit success rate of about 85%, this route provides amazing views, from rainforests to alpine deserts. Capable Africa Tours keeps you safe with skilled guides, porters, and a thorough acclimatization plan.

This tour offers exciting safaris along with the challenge of climbing Africa's highest peak. It is perfect for adventure lovers aged 16 and older who have a moderate level of fitness.

9-Day Itinerary

Below is a detailed itinerary for the 9-Day Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Machame Trek with Capable Africa Tours, combining wildlife adventures with a challenging climb.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Arrive in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s adventures. Check into a comfortable lodge, attend a trek and safari briefing, and enjoy a hearty dinner.

Day 2: Transfer to Serengeti National Park

Fly or drive to Serengeti (4–5 hours by road). Enjoy an afternoon game drive to spot zebras, giraffes, and possibly lions. Overnight in a luxury safari lodge.

Day 3: Full-Day Serengeti Safari

Embark on a full-day game drive to witness the Big Five and the Great Migration (seasonal). Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush. Return to the lodge for dinner.

Day 4: Serengeti to Moshi

Fly or drive to Moshi (5–6 hours by road). Rest and prepare for the Kilimanjaro trek with a gear check and briefing. Overnight in a Moshi hotel.

Day 5: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Drive to Machame Gate (1,800m). Trek through rainforest to Machame Camp (3,000m, 5–7 hours). Overnight in tents.

Day 6: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Trek to Shira Camp (3,850m, 4–6 hours) through moorland. Enjoy panoramic views and acclimatization. Overnight in tents.

Day 7: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp

Trek to Barranco Camp (3,950m, 6–8 hours) via Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization. Pass through alpine desert. Overnight in tents.

Day 8: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp & Summit

Trek to Barafu Camp (4,600m, 4–6 hours). Rest, then begin the summit push at midnight to Uhuru Peak (5,895m, 6–8 hours). Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m).

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Departure

Descend to Mweka Gate (1,650m, 3–4 hours). Receive summit certificates, transfer to Moshi, and depart from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Why Choose This Adventure

Key Features

  • Big Five Safaris: Spot lions, leopards, and more in Serengeti’s vast plains.
  • Machame Route Trek: Scenic and challenging climb with an 85% summit success rate.
  • Expert Guides: Certified safari guides and Kilimanjaro porters ensure safety and engagement.
  • Eco-Friendly Camps: Sustainable lodging in Serengeti and quality tents on Kilimanjaro.
  • Comprehensive Support: All meals, transfers, and park fees included for a seamless experience.

Essential Information

Trip Aspect Details
Serengeti Area 14,750 km², UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kilimanjaro Height 5,895m, Africa’s highest peak
Group Size 2–12 people, adventure-focused tours
Wildlife Population ~1.5 million wildebeests, 4,000 lions in Serengeti
Summit Success Rate ~85% on Machame Route with proper acclimatization
Visitor Numbers ~350,000 tourists in Serengeti, ~50,000 trekkers on Kilimanjaro annually
Tour Satisfaction 4.8/5 based on adventure traveler reviews

Experience Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

Discover the thrill of Serengeti safaris and the challenge of Kilimanjaro’s Machame Route with Capable Africa Tours.

What to Bring for Your Adventure

  • Hiking Gear: Sturdy boots, trekking poles, and layered clothing for Kilimanjaro.
  • Safari Attire: Neutral-colored, breathable clothing for game drives.
  • Binoculars: For spotting wildlife in the Serengeti.
  • Sunscreen & Hat: Essential for sun protection during safaris and trekking.
  • Camera: Capture wildlife and summit moments.
  • Water Purification Tablets: For safe drinking water on the trek.
  • Personal Medications: Including altitude sickness prevention (consult a doctor).

Tour Price & Customization

Below are the pricing details for the 9-Day Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Machame Trek with Capable Africa Tours, tailored for adventure seekers.

1–2 Travelers

From $4,500 per person

  • Private safari and trek guides
  • Luxury safari lodge and quality tents
  • All meals, transfers, and park fees
  • Personalized acclimatization support

3–6 Travelers

From $4,200 per person

  • Small group safaris and treks
  • All-inclusive meals and lodging
  • Domestic flights and transfers
  • Expert guide and porter support

7+ Travelers

From $3,900 per person

  • Ideal for group adventures
  • Customized safari and trek schedules
  • Group discounts and flexible itinerary
  • All-inclusive package

Customize Your Adventure

Enhance your tour with these add-ons:

  • Hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti
  • Extra acclimatization day on Kilimanjaro
  • Maasai village visit post-safari
  • Zanzibar beach extension post-trek
  • Luxury lodge upgrades in Serengeti

Contact Capable Africa Tours to tailor your adventure!

Price Inclusions & Exclusions

Our 9-day Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Machame Trek offers a comprehensive package for a seamless adventure.

Price Inclusions

  • Domestic flights (Arusha–Serengeti–Moshi)
  • Game drives with professional guides
  • Kilimanjaro trek with porters and guides
  • All meals, accommodations, and park fees
  • Tents and sleeping mats for the trek
  • Bottled water and transfers

Price Exclusions

  • International flights to Tanzania
  • Travel or medical insurance
  • Tips for guides and porters (optional)
  • Personal trekking gear (e.g., boots, sleeping bags)
  • Optional activities like balloon safaris
  • Alcoholic beverages

Ready for Your Serengeti & Kilimanjaro Adventure?

Join Capable Africa Tours for a 9-day journey blending thrilling Serengeti safaris with the iconic Kilimanjaro Machame Route trek.

  • Expert-led game drives and treks
  • High summit success rate with acclimatization
  • Comfortable lodges and quality tents
  • Support for conservation and local communities
  • Memorable wildlife and summit experiences

Limited spots available — book now to secure your adventure!

Book This Adventure Now

Book Your Serengeti & Kilimanjaro Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the fitness level required for the Kilimanjaro Machame trek?
The Machame Route requires moderate to high fitness levels due to steep ascents and high altitude. Regular hiking and cardio training are recommended.
2. What wildlife can I expect to see in the Serengeti?
You’ll likely see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), plus zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and cheetahs during game drives.
3. What is the best time for this 9-day tour?
The dry season (June–October) is ideal for both Serengeti safaris and Kilimanjaro trekking due to clear weather and optimal wildlife viewing.
4. Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, all meals are included, with hearty options for the trek and safari, plus dietary accommodations upon request.
5. What is the success rate for summiting Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route?
The Machame Route has a summit success rate of approximately 85% with proper acclimatization and experienced guides.
6. Is the tour safe for first-time trekkers?
Yes, our expert guides and porters ensure safety with thorough briefings, equipment checks, and health monitoring throughout the trek.
7. Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely, Capable Africa Tours offers customizable itineraries, including extra safari days or rest days post-trek.
8. What gear is provided for the Kilimanjaro trek?
We provide tents, sleeping mats, and dining equipment. Trekkers need personal gear like hiking boots, clothing, and sleeping bags.