Overview
5-Day North Explorer Safari
The Northern Safari Circuit is home to Tanzania’s most famous national parks and some of the best wildlife viewing on earth. In just five days, you will visit the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara each with its own unique landscapes and animals. This is where you can see the Big Five, watch the great wildebeest migration (seasonal), and enjoy the stunning scenery of baobab forests, open plains, and shimmering lakes. Every day brings something new from lions resting in the grass to herds of elephants walking across the savannah.
But the north is not just about wildlife. You will also meet the Maasai people, whose traditions have been passed down for generations, and explore the colorful village of Mto wa Mbu, where different cultures and flavors come together. With experienced guides by your side, you’ll have the chance to spot rare animals, learn about the land, and take in unforgettable views. Whether it’s watching the sun set over the Serengeti or standing at the edge of Ngorongoro Crater, this safari offers the best of Tanzania’s nature and culture in one exciting trip.
5-Day North Explorer Safari Itinerary
Glide silently over Serengeti as the sun rises, revealing wildlife below. End your aerial adventure with champagne and a gourmet breakfast in the bush.
Day 1 - Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha to Tarangire National Park

You start your journey in the morning (from Moshi, Arusha, or Kilimanjaro Airport at 08:00 am–10:00 am) and proceed west into the Northern Tanzanian safari circuit. Arriving at Tarangire National Park, you’ll begin your game drive in a landscape dotted with iconic baobab trees and sweeping savannahs. The park is renowned for its large elephant herds, diverse birdlife, and the seasonal Tarangire River that draws an abundance of wildlife, especially during the dry season. You may also spot lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and oryx in this stunning wilderness.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 2-4 hours
- Expected game drive: Late morning (time permitting), afternoon
- Meals usually included: Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Walking safari, canoeing safari, cultural walks, hot lunch at Lake Manyara Serena, hot village lunch at Mto wa Mbu, night game drive
- Commonly seen animals: Elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, vulture, warthog, impala, flamingo, marabu, hyena, waterbuck, dik-dik, blue monkey.
Night 1 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Style: Mid-range lodge
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Elephant Springs

Style: Mid range lodge
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nasikia Ndovu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid-range to up-market tented camp
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lake Burunge Tented Lodge

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Lake Burunge, Tarangire corridor, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Burunge Baobab Tented Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Lake Burunge / Mwada (just outside Tarangire National Park), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Sangaiwe Gate / Sangaiwe Hill, Tarangire National Park (border), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Sangaiwe Mbuyu Tented Lodge

Style: Budget lodge
Location: Western edge of Tarangire National Park, near Sangaiwe Gate, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Elephant Springs

Style: Luxury tented lodge
Location: Inside Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Asilia Olivers Camp

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Tarangire National Park (southeastern area near Silale Swamps), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Tarangire Treetops

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Randilen WMA (bordering Tarangire National Park), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Tarangire

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Private concession bordering Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tarangire Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Tarangire National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 2 - Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
Today begins your journey into Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site and Tanzania’s oldest National Park. Boasting an abundance of wildlife all year around easy to spot predators and preys, this is one of the most famous safari parks in the world and what usually comes to mind when someone thinks of an African safari. Covering just under 15,000km² / 6000ml²; bigger than entire countries! On your shorter itinerary, you will usually focus on the central Serengeti ‘Seronera’ area which is easily accessible and has plenty of resident and migratory game.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 3-4 hours
- Expected game drive: En-route, Afternoon
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Maasai village cultural visit, Olduvai Gorge Museum visit
- Commonly seen Animals: Elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lion, cheetah, hyena, warthog, kudu, leopard, ostrich, mongoose, hyrax, dik-dik.
Night 2 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Serengeti Arukore Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti National Park (Arukore area, ~25 km from Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Sametu Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Eastern edge of Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mbali Mbali Soroi Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Banagi / Western-Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Embalakai Serengeti Camp

Style: Mid-range tented camp
Location: Banagi area, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kenzan Central Camp

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Tunner 5, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Narudi Tented Camp

Style: Budget‑range
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Thorn Tree Camp

Style: Mid‑range lodge
Location: Karatu, Arusha Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Whisper Camp

Style: Boutique tented bush camp
Location: Seronera, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Melia Serengeti Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Serengeti

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti (near Makoma Hill), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lemala Serengeti Nanyukie

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Eastern Central Serengeti (east of Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Serengeti Pioneer camp

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: South-Central Serengeti (near Moru Kopjes), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Seronera Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Serengeti National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 3 - Serengeti National Park
A full day inside of Serengeti National Park with flexibility in your direction, route and duration you spend out in the savannah today searching for the Big 5 and exploring this vast National Park. The mornings and evenings are usually the best time to spot wildlife however this is an unpredictable park where anything can happen at any time and we always recommend a picnic lunchbox so you can spend maximum time in the park (although a hot lunch can also be arranged at your camp / lodge).
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: 3-4 hours
- Expected game drive: En-route, Afternoon
- Optional activities: Hot air balloon safari
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, picnic lunch or hot lunch, dinner
- Commonly seen:Elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lion, cheetah, hyena, warthog, kudu, leopard, ostrich, mongoose, hyrax, dik-dik.
Night 3 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Serengeti Arukore Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti National Park (Arukore area, ~25 km from Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Sametu Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Eastern edge of Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mbali Mbali Soroi Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Banagi / Western-Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Embalakai Serengeti Camp

Style: Mid-range tented camp
Location: Banagi area, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kenzan Central Camp

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Tunner 5, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Narudi Tented Camp

Style: Budget‑range
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Thorn Tree Camp

Style: Mid‑range lodge
Location: Karatu, Arusha Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Whisper Camp

Style: Boutique tented bush camp
Location: Seronera, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Melia Serengeti Lodge

Style: Upscale safari lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Serengeti

Style: Boutique tented lodge
Location: Central Serengeti (near Makoma Hill), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lemala Serengeti Nanyukie

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Eastern Central Serengeti (east of Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

Style: 5-star safari lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Serengeti Pioneer camp

Style: Luxury tented camp (1930s pioneer style)
Location: South-Central Serengeti (near Moru Kopjes), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Seronera Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Serengeti National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 4 - Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater Rim
You will spend the whole day today exploring the plains of Central Serengeti National Park with an optional early morning game drive before breakfast (if you can wake up!). The circuits and plains of the Serengeti are endless, and many can spend weeks in the park without covering the entire vastness. You will explore the Central Serengeti plains before you journey back across the Ngorongoro Highlands into Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: 3-4 hours
- Expected game drive: Morning, en-route
- Optional activities: Hot Air Balloon safari, Maasai village visit, Olduvai Gorge Museum visit, walking safaris
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Commonly seen Animals: Elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lion, cheetah, hyena, warthog, kudu, leopard, ostrich, mongoose, hyrax, dik-dik
Night 4 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Karibu Lions Paw

Style: Luxury tented camp
Location: Eastern rim, Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

Style: Luxury safari lodge
Location: Rim of Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Embalakai Ngorongoro Camp

Style: Budget range
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (inside Ngorongoro Crater), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Kuhama Camp

Style: Budget range
Location: Eastern rim of Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Wilderness Collection - Craters Edge

Style: Luxury tented lodge
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Crater Rim), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Melia Ngorongoro Lodge

Style: 5-star crater-rim lodge
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Crater Rim), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lemala Ngorongoro

Style: Tented camp (crater rim forest)
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Crater Rim), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Simba Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Ngorongoro
No website available
No reviews available
Day 5 - Ngorongoro Crater to Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha

Your final day on safari starts with an early departure down into the Ngorongoro Crater where it's not uncommon to find all of the Big 5 in one day, and likely where you will spot a black Rhino if you didn't find one in the Serengeti. You can spend a maximum of 6 hours inside of the crater in one day and you will end your safari this evening at Arusha, Moshi or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for night flights.
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: 4-5 hours
- Expected game drive: Maximum 6 hours
- Optional activities: None, speak to your consultant
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch
- Commonly seen: Elephant, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lion, hyena, jackal, vulture, warthog, impala, flamingo, ostrich, waterbuck.
Overnight Accommodation options
- None included but you can add pre / post tour accommodation to any of our safaris on request in Arusha, Moshi or around Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Prices, Inclusions & Custom Options
Enjoy flexible pricing with key inclusions, and tailor your 5-Day North Explorer Safari with optional cultural visits, extra activities, or luxury lodge upgrades.
Private group (private departure)
please request a quoteScheduled group (shared departure)
please request a quote* All prices are in USD ($) and serve as indications only for a standard package excluding pre/post accommodation, add-ons and comfort upgrades.
Scheduled departures for Complete North safari are currently not available however for small groups we can consider offering your dates for others to join.
Standard packages usually include
- Comprehensive big game viewing across Northern Tanzania, visiting Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater. Each park offers distinct landscapes and wildlife, from baobab woodlands and soda lakes to volcanic highlands, with chances to see elephants, lions, flamingos, hippos, and even the black rhino.
- Famous for its diversity in just five days, this itinerary blends varied habitats, abundant wildlife, and cultural encounters without long travel times. Highlights include Tarangire’s elephant herds, Ngorongoro’s UNESCO‑listed crater, and Lake Manyara’s tree‑climbing lions.
- Carefully planned for efficiency and comfort, it features well‑located lodges and tented camps close to park gates and prime wildlife areas. The schedule allows early morning and late afternoon game drives, maximizing opportunities to witness peak animal activity.
- All government taxes, VAT, and local levies
- Full safari itinerary coverage, including crater descent fees
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, radio calls, English-speaking driver-guide, charging ports, and luggage space (soft bags, max 20kg per person).
- 1.5 litres bottled water per person per day
- Comfortable, handpicked full-board lodges depending on category selected)
- For basic camping at special campsites: Portable camping shower and toilet (with porter to service)
Optional extras, add-ons and comfort upgrades
Looking for more comfort or a tailored experience? Explore our optional upgrades, add-ons, and customization ideas below.
Standard packages usually exclude
- Tips and gratuities for guides, cooks, hotel staff and other crew
- Beverages such as soft drinks, bottled juices, and alcoholic drinks (unless your accommodation is booked with an all inclusive drinks package)
- International flights. Learn more about international airports.
- Insurance. Learn more about insurance.
- Visas. Learn more about visas.
- Personal items not specifically listed in the inclusions
Trip Add-Ons & Comfort Upgrades
Personalize your 5-Day North Explorer Safari with immersive cultural encounters, scenic adventure activities, and premium lodge upgrades, creating a journey that’s truly your own.

Lake Manyara Night Game Drive

Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Olduvai Gorge Museum Visit

Ngorongoro Crater Rim Walking Safari

Mto wa Mbu Rift Valley Plateau Hike

Maasai Village Cultural Visit

Tarangire Walking Safari

Premium Picnic Lunchbox

Mto wa Mbu Village Walk

Kilimanjaro Scenic Flight

Lake Manyara Canoeing Safari

Arusha National Park Walking Safari

Tarangire Hot Bush Lunch with Miracle Experience

Karatu Elephant Cave & Endoro Nature Walk
Essential Information for Your 5-Day North Explorer Safari
Discover expert tips, insider advice, and practical details to ensure your North Explorer Safari is seamless, comfortable, and filled with unforgettable moments across Tanzania’s iconic northern parks.

Travel Info for Tanzania

Which Airport to Choose?

Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & Videos at 5-Day North Explorer Safari
Browse breathtaking images and videos showcasing thrilling wildlife encounters, sweeping savannahs, and the diverse landscapes that define this unforgettable northern Tanzania adventure.
Why Book Your 5-Day North Explorer Safari Tour with Shah Tours?
Benefit from our decades of experience, skilled safari guides, and in‑depth local insight to enjoy a safe, seamless, and unforgettable journey across Tanzania’s most celebrated northern parks.

Decades of Cultural Safari Expertise

Local Guides Who Understand the Land

Safe, Comfortable & Respectful Travel
Frequently Asked Questions About 5-Day North Explorer Safari in Tanzania
Get clear answers about the itinerary, wildlife you can see, the best times to visit, park rules, and useful tips to help you plan your northern Tanzania safari.
Best time to enjoy the 5‑Day north explorer safari in Tanzania
The best month for a 5‑Day North Explorer Safari in Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to October. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense, making sightings easier. July to September is especially ideal for visiting Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater due to cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. If you prefer fewer crowds and lush scenery, late January to February after the short rains is also a great time for this itinerary.
Great Migration on 5 ‑ Day North Explorer Safari

You will only see the Great Migration on a 5‑Day North Explorer Safari if your travel dates fall between June and October and your itinerary includes the western or northern Serengeti. June - July High chance near the Grumeti River (western corridor). August - October High chance near the Mara River (northern Serengeti). If you travel outside these months or do not visit these areas, you will not see the main migration herds, though wildlife viewing will still be excellent.
A perfect 5‑day Journey through Tanzania’s iconic parks
A 5‑Day North Explorer Safari can be enough to experience some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks if the itinerary is well‑designed. It often includes Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, and either Tarangire or Lake Manyara. While it won’t cover the entire range of Tanzania’s wilderness, this duration offers diverse wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable highlights. For travelers with limited time, it’s an excellent introduction, though extended safaris allow for deeper exploration and more immersive experiences in each destination.
Top wildlife parks featured in the 5‑day north explorer safari
The 5‑Day North Explorer Safari typically includes game drives in three of northern Tanzania’s most iconic parks: Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees; Lake Manyara National Park, famous for tree‑climbing lions, birdlife, and diverse habitats; and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the world‑famous Ngorongoro Crater with its high density of wildlife, including the Big Five. These parks offer varied landscapes and exceptional biodiversity, ensuring a rich and well‑rounded safari experience within a short itinerary.
Wildlife highlights of the 5‑Day north explorer safari
On the 5‑Day North Explorer Safari, you can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife across different ecosystems. In Tarangire, large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and buffalo are common, along with predators like lions and leopards. Lake Manyara offers sightings of tree‑climbing lions, hippos, baboons, flamingos, and diverse bird species. The Ngorongoro Crater hosts all members of the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino alongside cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, and abundant plains game, providing a comprehensive and rewarding safari experience.
Family‑friendly adventures on the 5‑Day north explorer safari
Yes, the 5‑Day North Explorer Safari is well‑suited for families, offering comfortable travel distances, diverse wildlife experiences, and a mix of landscapes that keep all ages engaged. Parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater provide safe, guided game drives with opportunities to see elephants, lions, zebras, and more in their natural habitats. Many lodges and camps along this route offer family‑friendly accommodations, child‑friendly meals, and activities tailored for younger travelers, making it an excellent choice for a memorable family adventure in Tanzania.
Seasonal Weather Guide for the 5‑Day North Explorer Safari
Weather during a 5‑Day North Explorer Safari varies by season but is generally mild and pleasant due to the region’s elevation. June to October is the dry season, with sunny days, cool mornings, and minimal rainfall ideal for game viewing. November to December brings short rains, creating lush landscapes without significantly disrupting activities. March to May is the long rainy season, with heavier showers and greener scenery. Daytime temperatures average 20–28°C (68–82°F), while early mornings and evenings can be cooler, so layered clothing is recommended.
Yes, you can Customize your 5‑Day north explorer safari experience
Yes, the 5‑Day North Explorer Safari itinerary can often be customized to suit your preferences, budget, and travel style. You can adjust accommodation levels, add extra activities such as cultural visits, night game drives, or walking safaris, and even extend the trip to include destinations like the Serengeti or Arusha National Park. Customization depends on availability, travel season, and logistical feasibility, so it’s best to plan in advance with your tour operator to ensure your desired experiences are included seamlessly.
Packing essentials for the 5‑day north explorer safari
For a 5‑Day North Explorer Safari, pack lightweight, neutral‑colored clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cool mornings and evenings. Include a wide‑brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. Comfortable, closed‑toe shoes are essential for game drives or walks. Bring binoculars, a good camera with extra batteries. Insect repellent and any necessary prescription medication are important. A light waterproof jacket is useful in case of rain. Soft‑sided luggage is recommended for easier handling in safari vehicles.
Other Tours & Destinations Connected to 5-Day North Explorer Safari
Complement your crater adventure with unique experiences, from tracking the Great Migration in the Serengeti and exploring Tarangire’s baobab valleys to escaping to Zanzibar’s idyllic shores.

Southern & Eastern Tanzania Safaris

Mount Kilimanjaro Treks

Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking

Cultural Tours in Tanzania

Usambara Mountains Hiking

Kilimanjaro Culture & Coffee Walks
Jump to section
Excellent rating
Based on 347 reviews![]()
![]()
My group of five colleagues and I climbed Kilimanjaro via the seven-day Machame Route with Shah Tours. Communication with Ramon before and after the climb was seamless and extremely professional. All questions were answered quickly and promptly. Even a glove I forgot in my rental luggage was later delivered to my hotel in Arusha by our guide. Our guides, Baraka, Hillary, and Felix, were excellent mountain guides who provided outstanding support throughout the tour and kept our spirits up even during the most challenging moments. The food during the climb was always freshly prepared. We usually had soup as a starter, followed by either a stew with rice or noodles, or, for example, potatoes with fried fish or meat. A delicious pizza was served the evening before the summit attempt. I would also like to commend the rest of the crew for their consistently positive attitude and courteous service. The rental equipment was of good quality. However, on a future tour, I would opt for better sleeping mats, as the standard ones became quite thin after a while. Overall, it was a great experience to do the climb with Shah Tours.
(Translated by Google, see original)
Nils Bindauf14 September 2026Verified
Kilimandscharo It was the best experience we have ever had with Shah Tours. We always felt completely comfortable and well taken care of. The guides, porters, and cook were incredibly kind and friendly. They always greeted us with a smile and even sang for us. Even at 4,700 meters above sea level, they baked us a cake because it was our wedding anniversary. That was such a special and unforgettable gesture. I can honestly say that this was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives, and we would recommend Shah Tours to anyone without hesitation! Thank you all and best wishes to Mathayo, Felix and the Team! We miss you guys.
Laura S2 September 2026Verified
7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame circuit climb Our Kilimanjaro trek via the 7-day Machame Route was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The admission fee for our group of 12 was included in the tour package. The route itself was breathtaking, with incredible scenery that changed every day—from lush rainforest and dramatic valleys to rocky alpine landscapes and the spectacular summit views above the clouds. What truly made the trip exceptional was the professionalism and kindness of the Shah Tour and guides with special mention of Matheyo. The Matheyo and team was organized, supportive, and attentive throughout the hike. Our guides set a steady, comfortable pace, constantly checked on everyone’s wellbeing, and shared valuable encouragement and knowledge about the mountain. Their experience and calm leadership gave us confidence, especially on the more challenging summit night. The porters and camp crew also deserve enormous appreciation. They worked incredibly hard to make sure we were comfortable, well fed, and prepared each day. The meals were delicious and surprisingly varied for a mountain trek, and the camps were always ready when we arrived. Reaching Uhuru Peak was one of the proudest moments of our lives, and we could not have done it without this amazing team. We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. Their care, expertise, and genuine commitment to their guests made this adventure truly special.
2jipatel25 August 2026Verified
Great Kili hike Great hike! Guides and support staff handled all the logistics and we made it up to the summit. A challenging hike, but our experience was great
Cooper N22 August 2026Verified
Pole pole to the roof of africa with Shah, was great. When deciding which company to book for our Kilimanjaro and Safari trip in Tanzanie we have been in contact with several companies. We wanted to do the private tour as a couple. We had 9 full days to organize. Firstly we thought we will do 7 days and 2 days safari (Tarangire and Ngorngoro). Nevertheless, as our priority was Kilimanjaro we selected 8 days Lemosho route to increase our chances to reach the top. This left only 1 day for safari first. I was trying to discuss with companies the options to go faster If we feel well and then possibly have time to do both national Parks of Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Shah Tours tourned out to be the only very flexible operator to offer this option of shortening the trip If everything goes well. So, on the day 6, when arriving to Kosovo camp from Karaga camp, we asked If we could proceed with our summit on the same day, they did not hesitate to support us. During the whole trip the guides (Innocent and Leon) and the porters shared very positive energy and support. A Lot of dancing, laughter and happy faces even in hard moments. Finally, thanks to all that, we manager to finish our hike in 7 days instead of 8 and had enough time to include another day of safari in our itinerary. No planning, no phone calls, no waiting. Shah was monitoring our progress and once the office received the message we are descending on day 7, everything was organized (additional accomodation and guide for safari, food and transport). We had amazing time in tanzanie, Thank you Shah Tours for your work and efforts in making our trip unforgetable.
Anna M17 August 2026Verified
Enjoyed We started our tour with 4 guides, the walk through the different terrains was an amazing experience, i was happy that Shah Tours catered for vegan food through and the chef cooked delicious food apt for mountain climbing. This route was hard for me as a beginner but i made it. All the personal porters were amazing.
Krunali G16 August 2026Verified
An unforgettable experience we wouldn't want to miss Great, motivating guides, superbly organized tour, very customer-focused, friendly, courteous, and very attentive porters… absolutely no complaints! Highly recommended!
Esther D12 August 2026Verified
Unique, years-long contact with Shah Tours. There's nothing better for travel off the beaten track.
(Translated by Google, see original)
Andreas kurt B6 August 2026Verified
Kilimanjaro I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with Joker as the main tour operator and Shah Tours as the local partner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, thanks to the amazing team that supported us throughout the entire trek. Our head guide, Calvin, and our second guide, August, were both incredibly experienced, professional, and motivating. Their knowledge and guidance made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. They did everything they could to help us reach the summit safely and successfully. The entire crew, including the porters and cooks, was outstanding. After seven days together on the mountain, they felt like a second family. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication made this challenging adventure even more special and memorable. I highly recommend Joker and Shah Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for an incredible experience—I will never forget it!
Justine A25 July 2026Verified
Just do it whit shah tours! We had a great experience!! From emails at home to pickup, hotel,... Shoutout to our guide Mathayo, he's the best. Amazing work by the porters!! So much respect.
Lennert F24 July 2026


