Overview
8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari
The 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari is a perfectly balanced journey that blends natural wonders, cultural encounters, and Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Begin with the lush Materuni Waterfalls and a guided day hike on Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau, offering spectacular mountain scenery without the need for a full climb.
Your adventure continues through the great northern circuit: explore Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant elephant herds and ancient baobabs; visit Lake Eyasi, where you meet the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes for unique cultural immersion; descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, home to rare black rhinos and Africa’s densest predator populations; and finally, spend days in the legendary Serengeti National Park, tracking lions, leopards, and the sweeping savannah landscapes that host the Great Migration.
With flexible accommodation options ranging from basic camping to luxury comfort lodges, this safari caters to every style of travel. Seamlessly combining Kilimanjaro’s highland beauty, cultural depth, and world-class game viewing, it is one of the most enriching and diverse safaris available in Tanzania.
8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari Itinerary Options
Experience the best of northern Tanzania with a Kilimanjaro day hike, Serengeti game drives, Ngorongoro Crater safari, Lake Eyasi cultural visits, and Materuni waterfalls.
Day 1 – Arusha / Moshi → Materuni Waterfalls & Chagga Coffee Tour

Your journey begins with a scenic drive to the lush foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. On arrival at the Chagga village of Materuni, enjoy a guided cultural walk before experiencing a traditional coffee-making ceremony from roasting beans to brewing your own cup. Later, hike through banana plantations and rainforest trails to the breathtaking Materuni Waterfalls. A picnic lunch will be served at the base of the falls, with time for an optional swim. In the evening, continue to your selected lodge for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 1–2 hours (Arusha/Moshi – Materuni)
- Expected highlights: Coffee tour, village walk, waterfall hike
- Meals usually included: Lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Swimming at the waterfall pool
- Commonly seen/enjoyed: Kilimanjaro views (weather permitting), Chagga culture, birdlife, lush rainforest
Night 1 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Kilimanjaro Machare Coffee Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Moshi foothills, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat

Style: Mid range
Location: Msaranga, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania (foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Bristol Cottage

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Chanya Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania (Plot 298, Kiboriloni, off Arusha-Himo Road, A23)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Maridadi Hotel

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi (Karanga), Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lindrin Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Style: High range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Basic camping is not recommended and a budget accommodation is usually a better choice
Day 2 – Kilimanjaro National Park (Shira Plateau Day Hike)

After breakfast, head west around Mount Kilimanjaro to Londorossi Gate and ascend by vehicle to the Shira Plateau (≈3,500 m / 11,500 ft). Walk across high-moorland dotted with giant heathers, proteas, and senecio/lobelia stands with sweeping views of Kibo and Shira Cathedral. A packed picnic lunch is enjoyed on the plateau before an afternoon hike back to the vehicle and return to Arusha/Moshi for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving time: 3–4 hrs each way (Arusha/Moshi → Shira)
- Expected activity window: Full day (hike + transfers)
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Extended hike (weather/park rules permitting)
- Commonly seen: Giant groundsels, everlasting flowers, moorland scenery, possible colobus/blue monkeys in lower zones
Night 2 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Meru view Lodge

Style: Mid-range
Location: Usa River, Arusha
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Outpost Lodge

Style: Budget-friendly
Location: Arusha
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Gran Melia Arusha

Style: Luxury city resort
Location: Arusha, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Basic camping is not recommended and a budget accommodation is usually a better choice
Day 3 – Tarangire National Park (or Lake Manyara)

Leave Arusha after breakfast for your first full wildlife day. If you choose Tarangire, you’ll roam vast savannahs studded with ancient baobabs and follow the park’s famous elephant herds along the Tarangire River. If you opt for Lake Manyara, explore groundwater forests and the lakeshore for hippos, flamingos in season, and tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a picnic lunch and an unhurried afternoon game drive before heading to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 2.5–4 hours Arusha → park gate (route and traffic dependent)
- Expected game drive: Afternoon
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Night game drive (where offered), guided walk near the lodge, Treetop Walkway at Manyara, Maasai boma visit
- Commonly seen animals: Elephant, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, impala, lion, hippo, abundant birdlife
Night 3 - 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 4 – Tarangire (or Lake Manyara) → Lake Eyasi

After breakfast, enjoy a final sunrise game drive in Tarangire (or Manyara). Mid-morning you’ll travel west to the remote soda lake of Eyasi, skirting the Rift Valley escarpment and passing Maasai and Iraqw farmlands. Arrive in time for a relaxed late-afternoon walk along the lakeshore or the lodge grounds. Settle in and prepare for tomorrow’s early cultural activities with the Hadzabe (Bushmen) and Datoga.
Quick facts
- Approx driving time: 3–5 hours (route and traffic dependent)
- Expected game drive: Short sunrise drive in the park before departure
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Sunset stroll on the lakeshore, Datoga blacksmith visit, village walk, night walk around the lodge, birding around seasonal wetlands
- Commonly seen animals: Elephant, giraffe, zebra, impala, baboon, wildebeest, varied birdlife
Night 4 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Ziwani Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Lake Eyasi (Karatu), Arusha Region, Tanzania (on an escarpment overlooking Lake Eyasi)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge

Style: Budget lodge
Location: Lake Eyasi, Karatu, Tanzania (on the Rift Valley floor / edge of Ngorongoro Conservation Area)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lake Eyasi Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Lake Eyasi
No website available
No reviews available
Day 5 – Lake Eyasi (Hadzabe & Datoga) → Karatu / Ngorongoro Area

An unforgettable pre-dawn start to meet the Hadzabe (Bushmen) as they head out on their daily hunt/wild-foraging walk. Learn traditional tracking, fire-making and archery. Afterwards visit the Datoga blacksmiths, watching them smelt and hand-forge beadwork and arrowheads. Return to camp for a hearty brunch, then drive to Karatu or the Ngorongoro rim. Check in and relax—take a garden stroll, swim, or enjoy a coffee estate walk before dinner.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 1.5–3 hrs (Eyasi → Karatu or Ngorongoro rim; depends on tonight’s lodge)
- xpected activities: Dawn Hadzabe hunt/foraging + Datoga blacksmith visit; afternoon transfer
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Archery practice, Iraqw cultural visit, guided lodge walk/birding, massage (where available)
- Commonly seen animals: flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons, baboons, vervet monkeys, dik-dik, bushbuck
Night 5 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Karibu Lions Paw

Style: Mid range lodge
Location: On the Eastern Crater Rim, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

Style: Mid range safari lodge
Location: On the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Farm of Dreams

Style: Budget range
Location: Karatu, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Marera Valley Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Country Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kankari Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Eileens Tree Inn

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (just at the edge of Karatu town, in the Crater Highlands)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Bougainvillea Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Gibbs Farm

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (historic coffee & flower farm on the Ngorongoro Crater highlands)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Oldeani, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (just north of the Ngorongoro Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Plantation Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (close to the Ngorongoro Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Manor at Ngorongoro

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Shangri-La Coffee Estate, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Simba Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Ngorongoro National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 6 – Ngorongoro Crater → Serengeti National Park

Rise early for a spectacular descent into Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Africa’s “Garden of Eden.” Spend the morning on game drives across Lerai Forest, the central plains and Hippo Pool, with a picnic lunch on the crater floor. After lunch, exit the crater and drive northwest to the Serengeti (Seronera), enjoying wildlife sightings en route across the Naabi Hill area. Arrive at your camp/lodge in time to relax before dinner.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 4–6 hrs total (crater rim ↔ floor; crater → Central Serengeti, road/animal-viewing dependent)
- Expected game drive: Full morning in Ngorongoro Crater; afternoon game drive en route to camp in Serengeti
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Maasai boma visit (rim), Olduvai Gorge stop, Naabi Hill nature walk/lookout (time permitting)
- Commonly seen animals: Lion, African buffalo, elephant, hippo, hyena, jackal, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, warthog, baboon, ostrich, secretary bird, kori bustard
Night 6 - 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 7 – Serengeti National Park

Another full day to soak up the drama of the Serengeti. Begin with a sunrise game drive as the plains wake and predators return from the hunt. Explore the Central/Seronera valley’s kopjes and riverlines prime big-cat country and follow the herds across the open grasslands. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic site, then continue on a leisurely afternoon game drive before returning to camp for dinner. Optional sunset/sundowner at camp.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Flexible within park
- Expected game drive: Full day (sunrise + afternoon)
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Dawn hot-air balloon safari; sundowner at camp; short guided walk around camp (where available)
- Commonly seen animals: Lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, hippo, hyena, jackal, topi, hartebeest, warthog, Thomson’s & Grant’s gazelle, crocodile (rivers/ponds), ostrich, secretary bird, vultures, and many more savannah species
Night 7 - 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 8 – Serengeti → Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha

Your final safari morning begins with an optional sunrise game drive in the Serengeti, catching predators as they wind down from the night and grazers on the move. After then, transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight to Arusha. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to Arusha (or JRO) for your onward journey. A day room or extra night in Arusha can be arranged on request.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 50–75 minutes (Seronera/central Serengeti → Arusha)
- Expected game drive: Optional short sunrise game drive (time permitting)
- Optional activities: Day room in Arusha, craft shopping, Shanga cultural/glass workshop visit, coffee tour (timing permitting)
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch
- Commonly seen: Lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, hyena, wildebeest, zebra, Thomson’s & Grant’s gazelles, topi, hartebeest, warthog, jackal, ostrich, secretarybird, kori bustard, vultures, and numerous raptors/wetland birds.
Overnight Accommodation options
- None included but you can add post tour accommodation to any of our safaris on request in Arusha, Moshi or around Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Prices, Inclusions & Custom Options
Enjoy transparent 8-Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari prices with park fees, 4×4 transport, and full-board stays included. Personalize your journey with cultural add-ons, Kilimanjaro day hikes, premium lodge upgrades, or unique wildlife experiences for a truly tailored adventure.
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
- Thrilling Big Five game drives through Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti, offering unmatched chances to spot lions, elephants, and rhinos.
- An immersive 8-day adventure blending Materuni waterfalls, Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau hike, Lake Eyasi tribal culture, Ngorongoro’s wildlife haven, and Serengeti’s vast savannahs
- Carefully chosen lodges, tented camps, or campsites, combining authentic charm, comfort, and ideal locations close to key safari highlights
- 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
Enhance your 8-Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari with optional extras such as hot air balloon rides, Maasai village visits, walking safaris, treetop walkways, or luxury lodge upgrades for added comfort.

Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari

Serengeti Walking Safari

Ngorongoro Crater Highlands Trek

Lake Eyasi Cultural Experience

Laetoli footprints (prehistoric site)

Serengeti hot bush lunch

Mto wa Mbu Village & Activities

Chemka (Kikuletwa) Hot Springs

Olduvai Gorge & Shifting Sands

Materuni waterfall, coffee & Chagga village experience

Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau day hike

Kilimanjaro Marangu rainforest day hike

Maasai cultural village visit

Tarangire Hot Air Balloon Safari

Tarangire walking safari

Tarangire hot bush lunch

Lake Manyara Canoeing safari

Lake Manyara treetop walkway

Lake Manyara night game drive

Lake Manyara walking safari

Ngorongoro walking safari
Essential Information for Your 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari
Key tips, packing advice, park rules, and travel details ensure a seamless journey through Kilimanjaro, Tarangire, Eyasi, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti.

Travel Info for Tanzania

Which Airport to Choose?

Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & Videos at 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari
Discover stunning Photos & Videos from the 8-Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari, featuring Serengeti wildlife, Ngorongoro Crater views, Lake Eyasi culture, Tarangire elephants, and Materuni waterfalls.
Why Book Your 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari with Shah Tours?
Choose Shah Tours for expert guides, smooth logistics, and an unforgettable 8-day journey combining Kilimanjaro hikes, culture, and thrilling safaris.

Decades of Cultural Safari Expertise

Local Guides Who Understand the Land

Safe, Comfortable & Respectful Travel
Frequently Asked Questions About 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari
Get quick answers to common questions about the 8-Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari, including highlights, wildlife, best seasons, accommodations, park fees, cultural experiences, and essential travel tips.
Inclusions of the 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari
This safari package includes accommodation, daily meals, park fees, professional guides, the Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau hike, Materuni Waterfalls excursion, Lake Eyasi cultural visit, and game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti. Transfers between destinations are also covered. Exclusions generally include international flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses. This ensures travelers enjoy a seamless, well-organized safari experience with flexible lodging options tailored to different budgets.
Best Airports for Arrival and Departure

The safari is best accessed through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located between Moshi and Arusha, offering convenient connections for international travelers. For domestic flights within Tanzania, Arusha Airport (ARK) is a practical choice. Most itineraries include transfers back to Arusha after the safari. Choosing the right airport ensures smooth logistics, minimizes travel time, and allows more time to focus on your Kilimanjaro hike and Northern Tanzania safari highlights.
Accommodation Options on the Safari
Travelers can choose from three accommodation levels: basic camping, budget lodges, and comfort lodges or tented camps. Basic camping offers affordability and a close-to-nature experience, while budget lodges provide comfort at reasonable rates. Comfort options include well-appointed lodges or luxury tented camps offering superior service and amenities. All options are strategically located near major attractions, ensuring easy access to Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and cultural experiences like Materuni and Lake Eyasi.
Kilimanjaro Hike Experience
This safari does not include a full Kilimanjaro climb but features a day hike on the Shira Plateau. The hike is accessible to most fitness levels and provides panoramic views of Africa’s tallest mountain. It’s a rewarding way to enjoy Kilimanjaro’s highland scenery, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking landscapes without the demanding requirements of a multi-day trek. This short hike makes the safari unique by blending adventure with accessible mountain exploration.
Wildlife Sightings on Safari
The safari offers exceptional opportunities to see the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino along with giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and cheetahs. The Serengeti is famous for predator action and seasonal migrations, while Ngorongoro Crater guarantees dense wildlife encounters. Tarangire adds elephants and baobabs, while Lake Eyasi complements the journey with cultural depth. This variety ensures every traveler enjoys unforgettable wildlife moments, with excellent opportunities for photography and game viewing.
Cultural Experiences During the Safari
Beyond wildlife, the safari includes authentic cultural encounters. At Materuni Village, guests enjoy a coffee tour with the Chagga community, learning traditional farming and roasting methods. At Lake Eyasi, travelers meet the Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and Datoga blacksmiths, gaining insights into unique tribal lifestyles. These cultural interactions enrich the safari, providing a rare opportunity to engage with Tanzania’s heritage, traditions, and people, creating a balanced experience that goes beyond wildlife viewing alone.
Best Time to Travel for the Safari
The safari can be enjoyed year-round, but the dry season (June to October) is best for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is sparse. The green season (November to May) offers lush scenery, fewer crowds, and excellent birdwatching, especially from November to March. Travelers seeking the Serengeti migration should plan between June and July or December to March. Each season provides unique opportunities for memorable safari experiences.
Time Spent on Game Drives
Game drives typically last between 4 to 8 hours per day, depending on the park and stage of the itinerary. Some days include early morning and late afternoon drives, while in Serengeti, full-day safaris with picnic lunches allow extended exploration. This schedule maximizes wildlife encounters, from predators on the move to grazing herbivores, ensuring guests experience the diversity of Tanzania’s ecosystems and landscapes while maintaining comfort and flexibility during their safari.
Travel Insurance Requirements
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for this safari and often required by operators. Coverage should include emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and personal belongings. Safaris take place in remote areas where access to hospitals may be limited, making insurance crucial for peace of mind. Ensuring proper coverage before travel guarantees that unexpected issues won’t disrupt your safari experience, allowing you to focus fully on enjoying Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
Packing List for the 8 Day Safari
Travelers should pack light and practical clothing in neutral colors, a warm jacket for cool mornings and evenings, sturdy walking shoes, and a hat. Essentials include sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, binoculars, and a camera for wildlife photography. Soft-sided bags are recommended due to space restrictions in safari vehicles. Don’t forget personal items, medications, and copies of travel documents. Smart packing ensures comfort and readiness for every stage of this 8-day adventure.
Other Tours & Destinations Connected to 8 Day Kilimanjaro & Northern Safari
Extend your 8-day adventure with Kilimanjaro climbs, Zanzibar beach escapes, Tarangire or Manyara add-ons, and cultural village experiences for a complete Tanzania journey.

Southern & Eastern Tanzania Safaris

Mount Kilimanjaro Treks

Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking

Cultural Tours in Tanzania

Kilimanjaro Culture & Coffee Walks

Usambara Mountains Hiking
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


