Arusha: 5-Day Joining Safari with Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike

Planning a trip to Tanzania that combines incredible wildlife encounters with the thrill of conquering Africa’s highest peak? This 5-day safari package in Arusha, offered by Serengeti Insider Safaris, is designed to give travelers a well-rounded adventure with immersive game drives, cultural highlights, and a memorable day hike on Mount Kilimanjaro. While it’s perfect for those seeking a taste of everything Tanzania has to offer, keep in mind that the itinerary is quite packed, which may be a consideration if you prefer slower-paced travel.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to explore multiple iconic parks in just a few days, the inclusion of a Mount Kilimanjaro hike, and the chance to visit a Maasai village. The price of $2,240 per person offers a solid value when you consider the wide range of activities and accommodations included. That said, it’s a fairly active trip, so travelers who aren’t comfortable with early mornings or outdoor adventures might want to weigh that before booking.

This tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive Tanzanian experience—wildlife, culture, and adventure—packed into a manageable itinerary. If you’re eager to see some of Africa’s best landscapes, spot the Big Five, and enjoy a mountain trek without the logistics of arranging everything independently, this trip could be an excellent fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife Diversity: Visit Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro—each offering unique landscapes and animal sightings.
• Cultural Exposure: Opportunity to visit a Maasai village and learn about local traditions.
• Mount Kilimanjaro Hike: A full day of trekking through lush forests and moorlands, with panoramic views.
• Expert Guides & Comfortable Transport: Guides in safari outfits with a dedicated vehicle designed for game viewing.
• Accommodation & Meals: Stays at well-rated lodges and camps, with most meals included for convenience.
• Value for Money: The price packages a full safari experience with a notable mountain adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Journey

Starting in Arusha and Heading to Tarangire

Your adventure kicks off in Arusha, where your guide will meet you at your hotel or a designated landmark like the Clock Tower Roundabout. Leaving promptly at 7:30 AM, you’ll head towards Tarangire National Park—known for its towering baobab trees and large herds of elephants. The drive takes about two hours, giving you time to absorb the scenic landscapes of northern Tanzania and get excited about what’s ahead.

Once inside Tarangire, the focus shifts to wildlife spotting. Expect to see a broad spectrum of animals, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras. The park is particularly famous for its elephant population. Lunch is typically enjoyed by the Tarangire River, where animals gather to drink—an iconic view that captures the essence of Tanzania’s safari experience.

Guests have noted that Tarangire’s terrain offers some of the best opportunities for observing predators at work or resting in the shade. The highlight? The striking contrast between lush riverbanks and the acacia-dotted savannah.

Transition to the Serengeti and Maasai Cultural Experience

After a relaxed morning, you’ll drive roughly six hours through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area en route to the Serengeti. En route, the Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint provides a stunning panorama of the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, which is a significant highlight even if you don’t descend into it.

Many travelers appreciate the optional visit to a Maasai village, which enriches the trip with cultural insights. The Maasai are renowned for their vibrant dress, traditional singing, and warrior customs. While this visit is optional, it’s often praised as a meaningful way to connect with local traditions.

Arriving in the Serengeti in the late afternoon, you’ll settle into your campsite or lodge—such as Angata Serengeti Camp—located centrally for prime game viewing. The Seronera region is known as the park’s heart, teeming with wildlife and offering excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five during the evening game drive.

Early Morning in Serengeti and Transition to Ngorongoro

The next day begins with an early game drive—ideal for catching predators and prey before the heat of the day. Many reviews emphasize how stunning the Serengeti’s landscape is, especially as the light hits the plains during dawn. For wildlife enthusiasts, this is arguably the most rewarding part of the trip.

Later, you’ll return to camp for lunch, then set out towards the Ngorongoro Crater. The drive is scenic, with the landscape shifting from open plains to lush crater rim views. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon, allowing time to relax and appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

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Descending into Ngorongoro Crater

On day four, the tour descends into Ngorongoro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dense concentration of animals, including the rare black rhino. The crater’s ecosystem offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, often within a relatively small area. Many guests find that Ngorongoro feels like a natural zoo—so many animals in such a confined space.

The early start means you’re often among the first to see the animals waking up. After a picnic lunch on the crater floor, another game drive gives you a chance to see the Big Five, cheetahs, hyenas, and more. Ascending back to the rim in the afternoon, you’ll reflect on the day’s sightings from your camp near the crater.

The Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike

The final day is dedicated to an exhilarating hike on Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek begins early, with a drive to the mountain’s base, then a hike through lush rainforests that transition into expansive heather and moorland zones. The trail features stunning ecosystems, a variety of flora and fauna, and panoramic views that make every step worthwhile.

Multiple reviews mention how well-organized the hike is, with experienced guides leading the way. Rest stops along the trail allow for appreciation of the scenery, and many find the experience physically manageable even with limited hiking experience. Returning to Arusha after the hike, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on this peak adventure.

Transportation, Accommodations, and Group Size

Transportation throughout the trip is in a custom safari jeep with a pop-up roof—which is a big plus for wildlife viewing and photography. The vehicle is designed to maximize visibility, and guides are well-versed in spotting wildlife in various terrains.

Accommodations range from lodges like Summit Safari Lodge to mobile camps, offering a comfortable base after long days of game drives. Meals are included as per the itinerary, which makes logistics easier and ensures you’re well-fed for each adventure.

The group size is not specified, but the tour is described as a “joining safari,” which suggests small to medium groups that foster a more personal experience. Guest reviews have highlighted the professionalism and friendliness of guides, with some noting the personalized attention they received.

Value and Cost Considerations

At $2,240 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers most major highlights in Tanzania’s northern parks, plus the unique addition of a Mount Kilimanjaro hike. When you consider the included accommodations, meals, game drives, and cultural visits, it’s quite competitive compared to self-organized trips.

Many reviewers point out that the experience is value-packed, especially for first-time safari-goers or those wanting a guided, all-inclusive adventure. The inclusion of the Kilimanjaro hike adds a special touch, giving you a taste of mountain trekking without needing to climb the summit.

Practical Tips

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, sun protection, and a hat for the hike. Since wildlife viewing involves early mornings, packing layers for varying temperatures is wise. Respect park regulations—feeding animals and disturbing wildlife are strictly prohibited—and always follow guide instructions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is well-suited for travelers wanting a full-fledged Tanzanian experience in a relatively short time. It’s ideal for those who enjoy wildlife, cultural encounters, and outdoor activities like hiking. The inclusion of Mount Kilimanjaro’s day hike adds an extra element of adventure that’s perfect for active travelers.

It’s also a good choice for first-time safari-goers or those who prefer an organized, guided trip that covers a lot of ground without the stress of planning each detail solo.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely trip or are sensitive to early mornings, this itinerary might feel a bit rushed. It’s active, with plenty of moving parts, but for many, that’s exactly what makes it memorable.

FAQs

Is transportation in a safari vehicle?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in a custom safari Jeep with a pop-up roof, ideal for spotting wildlife and taking photos.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, accommodation as per the itinerary is included at lodges and campsites, providing a comfortable base for your adventures.

Can I visit a Maasai village?
Yes, there is an optional visit to a Maasai village where you can learn about their traditions and culture, though it’s not included in the base price.

What should I pack for the Mount Kilimanjaro hike?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and hiking shoes. The trail goes through lush rainforests and open moorlands, so layers are helpful.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the trip involves active outdoor activities and early mornings, so it’s best suited for active travelers or families with older children.

What is the group size?
The tour is described as a “joining safari,” implying smaller groups, but exact numbers aren’t specified.

Are meals included?
Most meals as per the itinerary are included, making it easier to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, according to the tour terms.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari offers a fantastic blend of wildlife viewing, cultural interactions, and mountain adventure, all curated by a reputable local operator. The chance to see the Big Five, the stunning scenery of Ngorongoro and Serengeti, and the thrill of climbing part of Kilimanjaro make it a well-rounded trip suitable for adventurous travelers eager to experience the best of Tanzania.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a landscape lover, or someone craving the challenge of a mountain hike, this tour delivers a memorable African adventure. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate guided excursions that take care of logistics and want to focus on the experience itself.

If you’re after a value-packed, authentic Tanzanian experience with a dash of mountain magic, this safari could be just what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for some early mornings and active days—every moment will be worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: