The best African journey is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and go on a Big Five safari through Kenya and Tanzania. It will be hard for you to climb Africa’s highest peak, but it will also be exciting to see lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes in their native habitat.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan your summit-to-safari trip, such as the best ways to get to Kilimanjaro, the best places to go on safari, and how to make the most of your time in East Africa.
Conquering Mount Kilimanjaro – The Roof of Africa
Towering at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and a magnet for adventurers worldwide. Though no technical climbing is required, the trek demands physical and mental stamina, making proper preparation essential.
Top Kilimanjaro Routes
| Route | Duration | Pros |
| Machame | 6–7 days | Scenic and great for acclimatization |
| Lemosho | 7–8 days | Remote, panoramic views, high success rate |
| Marangu | 5–6 days | Hut accommodation, steady incline |
| Rongai | 6–7 days | Drier conditions, less traffic |
| Northern Circuit | 9 days | Longest, quietest, best acclimatization |
When to Climb
- Best Months: January–March, June–October
- Avoid: April–May (long rains)
Fitness & Preparation
Training in advance is key. Build cardio endurance with hiking, running, or stair climbing. Include strength training and practice hikes with a weighted backpack to simulate real conditions. Altitude awareness is crucial—acclimatize properly and stay hydrated during the trek.
The Big Five Safari Experience
After the climb, it’s time to rest your legs and switch into safari mode. Kenya and Tanzania offer some of the most diverse and abundant wildlife viewing on Earth, especially for travelers seeking the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Best Safari Parks in Tanzania
- Serengeti National Park
- World-famous for the Great Migration
- Exceptional predator sightings
- Vast plains teeming with wildlife year-round
- Ngorongoro Crater
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Highest density of wildlife in Africa
- Great for spotting the elusive black rhino
- Tarangire National Park
- Known for massive elephant herds
- Baobab-studded landscapes
- Fewer crowds than Serengeti
Best Safari Parks in Kenya
- Masai Mara National Reserve
- Best for witnessing the Wildebeest Migration (July–October)
- High chance of spotting Big Cats
- Rich cultural experiences with the Maasai people
- Amboseli National Park
- Elephants with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop
- Scenic views and birdlife
- Ideal after your Kilimanjaro trek
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Leading rhino sanctuary
- Home to the last two northern white rhinos
- Excellent conservation-focused safaris
Suggested Itinerary: From Summit to Safari
Day 1–2: Arrive in Arusha or Moshi, Tanzania
Day 3–10: Kilimanjaro Climb (via route of your choice)
Day 11: Rest day and transfer to safari base
Day 12–17: Safari in Tanzania (or continue to Kenya)
Day 18+: Optional beach extension in Zanzibar or Diani Beach
Pro tip: Book your Kilimanjaro climb and safari with the same operator for seamless logistics, gear storage, and transportation.
What to Pack for Both Adventures
For Kilimanjaro:
- Thermal layers & down jacket
- Waterproof gear & hiking boots
- Sleeping bag (for colder camps)
- Headlamp, gloves, sun protection
- Altitude medication if prescribed
For Safari:
- Neutral-colored, lightweight clothes
- Binoculars & camera
- Sunglasses & hat
- Insect repellent & sunscreen
- Travel documents & park permits
Why Combine Kilimanjaro and Safari?
A dual adventure like this offers the best of both worlds:
- Challenge and achievement: Conquer a world-renowned mountain
- Relaxation and immersion: Unwind while spotting iconic wildlife
- Diverse landscapes: Glaciers, rainforests, plains, and crater lakes
- Cultural richness: Engage with Chagga, Maasai, and Swahili communities
It’s an enriching journey that speaks to the soul of adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers alike.
Final Thoughts: Your African Dream Starts Here
Mount Kilimanjaro and Kenya and Tanzania safaris together make for a memorable trip, whether it’s for a honeymoon, a trip on your bucket list, or a personal milestone. Your summit to safari dream can come true if you plan ahead, get the right help, and love exploring new places.
Are you ready to take over all of Africa?
Plan your safari in Kenya and Tanzania today with a trustworthy company that focuses on Kilimanjaro hikes and Big Five safaris, and then you can just enjoy every step, sight, and story.