The Ultimate Kilimanjaro & Safari Adventure

Introducing Tanzania: The Adventure Capital of Africa

Tanzania is the best place to experience an African safari. Safe, accessible and populated with large herds of Africa's most exotic wildlife, including the Big Five. Tanzania is best known for:

• The great migration
• Cultural immersions with the Maasai
• Go on a Big 5 Safari in Tanzania's best safari parks
• Climb Mt Kilimanjaro & Mt Meru treks
• Chimpanzee trekking at Gombe Stream National Park
• Zanzibar's historic Stone Town and pristine white beaches
• Swimming with whale sharks on Mafia Island
• Ol Doninyo Lengai volcano
• Visit the life-changing School of St Jude or East Meru Community School (our Tanzanian charity partners)

and much, much more. In our opinion, Tanzania is the adventure capital of Africa. 

About safari in Tanzania

Receiving approximately 1 - 2 million visitors each year, Tanzania is one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is a particular favourite, as it is one of only two places you can witness the Great Migration. The Serengeti has also been voted "The best safari destination in Africa" more times than any other safari park. 

Tanzania’s best safari parks can be split into two regions, the Northern Circuit and the Southern Circuit, and both offer incredible game viewing opportunities. 

1. The Northern Circuit is the most popular and the best place for your first safari.
   • Widely regarded as the best region to spot the BIG 5, huge herds of antelope, elephants and giraffe, and the only area you can spot the great migration, you can't go wrong with a Northern Circuit safari.
   • It’s worth remembering that, as a popular safari destination, large crowds can be expected, especially during the high season from July - September.
2. The Southern Circuit is a great place to experience a unique safari without the crowds.
   • The parks in this regional are less famous, but still offer a unique experience, and the animals tend to be a little more wild as they are less used to tourists.
   • There are fewer lodges in the South, so it is important to talk to an expert to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. 

Note: If you would like to add a safari in Tanzania, please talk to our team of experts. The safari included in this package is in Kenya. 

What is the best time to safari in Tanzania?

• The best time to visit Tanzania is between Jan - Mar and Jul - Sep when weather is clear and warm, and wildlife is abundant. Each month has its own pro's and con's though, and below is a breakdown to help you decide which time of year is best for you:

• January to March: Calving season
  • January to March is the best time to go on safari in Tanzania because it is calving season in the Serengeti.
  • At this time of year, the Great Migration herds slow down and mothers give birth to their calves. This is a great time of year to see young animals taking their first steps. Fresh babies also bring a lot of big cats!
• April to May: Big rains
  • The long rains are not an advisable time of year to go on safari, as roads can become flooded and riddled with potholes. Many tours also don’t operate during this time, and some camps and lodges close during this season.
• June: Early river crossings
  • June is a fantastic time to watch the early river crossings in the Western region of the Serengeti around the Grumeti River. 
  • Few tourists, great animal sightings and pre-peak season rates make for a fantastic safari. 
• July to August: Peak season
  • Late June to early August is the peak season for the Northern Circuit, especially in the Serengeti, as this is when the Great Migration occurs.
  • The north-western Serengeti is the best place to be for the beginning of the migration, between late June and July.
  • In August, the migration moves into the northern Serengeti. This is where you can catch a glimpse of herds making the perilous journey across the crocodile-infested Mara River into Kenya.
• September to October
  • The Great Migration moves into Kenya throughout September & October, so wildebeest sightings become less frequent. While you may catch the last of the Great Migration in early September, if you want to go on safari at this time of year, it is usually best to visit the Masai Mara in Kenya.
  • Unless you want to avoid the crowds of the Masai Mara and don't care about the great migration, then September - October is a wonderful time for safari. 
• November to December: Short rains
  • The short rains arrive through November to December, and the herds begin to return to the Serengeti following the Great Migration.
  • This is a good time of year to avoid crowds, but still see plenty of wildlife, as long as you aren't scared of getting a little wet. 

What do I need to know about travelling to Tanzania?

• Visa Requirements:

  • Most visitors will need a visa.
  • Australian tourists can get a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa before travel.

• Currency:

  • The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency.
  • US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but carry some Tanzanian Shillings for smaller purchases from local providers.
  • Australian dollars are unlikely to be accepted, and will receive a poor exchange rate from banks. 

• Language:

  • The official language is Swahili.
  • English is commonly spoken in urban and tourist areas.

• Health and Safety:

  • ellow Fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country with yellow fever (i.e. Kenya, Uganda, and many other countries in Africa).
    •  The yellow fever vaccination is a live vaccine and effective for life.
    • Your doctor may advise you not to have the vaccination if you are:
      • Over 60 years old
      • Have existing medical conditions.
    • Please consult a doctor for more information. 
  • Malaria is present and we recommend taking the necessary precautions, including mosquito repellents and anti-malaria medication.
  • Always drink bottled or filtered water.

• Electricity:

  • Tanzania uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with Type D and Type G plugs (three rectangular pins used in the UK).
  • Bring a travel adapter to ensure your devices stay powered.

• Time Zone:

  • Tanzania operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC+3.

After exploring Tanzania, it is also very easy to visit other East African countries where you can:

• Trek with gorillas, chimps and golden monkeys in Rwanda or Uganda.
• Witness the Great Migration or trek Mt Kenya in Kenya
• White water raft in Uganda
• Explore 4th - 13th century churches, marvel at active volcanoes and eat incredible food in Ethiopia
• And much more.

For more details, please visit our blog: https://www.adventureoutloud.com.au/blog/the-best-safari-parks-in-tanzania-and-when-to-visit

Introducing Kenya

Located in East Africa, Kenya is a land of diverse landscapes and unforgettable adventures. From the the expansive savannahs of the Masai Mara, where the Great Migration unfolds each year, to the:

• Towering peaks of Mount Kenya - Africa’s second-highest mountain,
• Iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli,
• Flocks of flamingos on Lake Nakuru - a bird and rhino conservation area,
• Giant black and white rhinos of Nairobi National Park - with a city skyline in the background,
• 42 unique tribes who call Kenya home - including the nomadic Maasai.
• Indian Ocean coastline, offering pristine beaches like Diani, Mombasa and Lamu - the perfect way to unwind after a busy safari, 

Kenya is a country made for explorers, offering a once in a lifetime experience full of stunning wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and deep cultural connections. 

When is the best time to visit Kenya?

• June to October: Peak season
  • Great Migration herds arrive and start crossing the crocodile infested Mara River.
  • This is the best and busiest time of year, and you can expect the best accommodation to sell out 6 - 12 months in advance, particularly in July and August when North Americans and Europeans like to vaccation. 
• January to March: High season
  • January to March offers incredible safari with an abundance of wildlife, fewer tourists and more bargains.
  • The weather is warmer, with fewer flies to annoy you.
  • You can expect the best accommodation to sell out 3 - 6 months in advance during this period. 
• March to May: Wet season
  • Some lodges and camps close and road quality drops significantly.
  • It is not an advisable time of year to go on safari, unless you want to avoid the crowds, are happy to get a little wet and are travelling on a budget.

What do I need to know before travelling to Kenya? 

• Visa Requirements

  • Most travelers need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to visit Kenya.

  • An eTA must be obtained online (instructions under TASKS once you register and pay your deposit) prior to arrival. 

• Currency

  • Kenyan Shilling (KES).

  • Credit cards are accepted in major cities and at most safari lodges, but cash is preferred in more rural areas.

• Language

  • The official languages are English and Swahili (Kiswahili).

  • Swahili is widely spoken and used in everyday interactions.

• Health Precautions:

  • Visitors should consult a travel doctor about vaccinations, including yellow fever and malaria prevention before visiting Kenya. 

    • If you are older than 60 or you have existing medical conditions that may prevent you from having a yellow fever vaccination, you should consult a travel doctor BEFORE purchasing your trip.  

• Time Zone:

  • Kenya operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC +3.

  • Kenya doesn’t observe daylight savings.

• Electricity:

  • Kenya uses 240V, and the plug type is G (three-pronged UK plug).

  • It’s best to carry a power adapter for your electronics.

What are the best things to do in Kenya?

• Trekking Mt Kenya or the Ngong Hills
• Safari in
  • The Masai Mara (great migration from Jun - Oct)
  • Amboseli (views of Mt Kilimanjaro & flamingo)
  • Nairobi (best for rhino)
  • Nakuru & Naivasha (best for birds, particularly flamingo & rhino)
  • Tsavo (largest park in Kenya)
  • Samburu (very dry area with unique animals)
  • Ol Pejeta (last two northern white rhinos)
• Hot air ballooning over the Great Migration
• The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphange
• The Nairobi Giraffe Centre
• Cultural immersions with the Maasai tribe
• Re-visit history with a few days on historic Lamu Island
• Our Kiberan Immersion, where you will visit the home of one of Adventure Out Loud's sponsor students, meet their family and learn to cook a traditional Kenyan feast.

Alternatively, it is easy to add one of the other huge attractions that East Africa offers, including:

• Trekking Mt Kilimanjaro
  • For more check out our blog, ultimate guide to trekking Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda
  • For more read our ultimate guide to trekking with gorillas and chimps.
• Trekking with chimps in Tanzania, Rwanda or Uganda. 
• Swimming with giant whale sharks on Mafia Island
  • Annually between October - March. 
  • See our blog, "why you must visit Mafia Island" for more.
• Relaxing on Zanzibar's pristine beaches

Having travelled, lived and volunteered across Africa since 2008, Nate's knowledge of local customs, cultures and traditions allows you to fully immerse into the communities you visit on a deeper level. Nate is also a little OCD, meaning your adventure will be planned with great attention to detail, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey. 

Nate is also the founder of Adventure Out Loud and he is incredibly passionate about Africa and making a difference in the world. 

Notes:

• Minimum numbers
  • A minimum of 6 full paying trekkers are required for Nate to join this trek. 
  • If there are less than 6 trekkers, the tour may still run, but it will be guided by our local team instead. 
• Nate is not a doctor and cannot provide medical advice before or during your trip.
  • He is your tour leader and is only allowed to provide the basic first aid and general advice expected of a tour leader.
  • You are expected to speak to a doctor before your adventure for specific medical advice.  
• Tour guide v tour leader
  • Nate is not a certified guide in Africa and therefore cannot act as your guide.
  • Each adventure (i.e. safari, Kilimanjaro, etc) will be run by a team of certified local guides to ensure you are safe.
  • Nate's experience in Africa adds to the expertise of our local team, ensuring you have a stress-free and unforgettable African adventure. 
• Amateur photographer
  • Nate is also an amateur photographer and he'll be bringing his camera with him on this adventure.
  • Part of Nate's job is to capture the unforgettable memories on your trip so that you can be present and in-the-moment while you experience them.
  • Nate will share some photos during your adventure, the rest will be edited and shared on Adventure Out Loud's Flickr shortly after you return home. You can access and download these photo whenever you want. 

WHICH ROUTE WILL YOU BE TREKKING & WHY

During this adventure, you will be trekking the Lemosho Route over 8 days. Lemosho is one of the most scenic treks on Kilimanjaro, and an 8 day trek gives you the best chance to acclimatise and reach the summit. Lemosho is our favourite route and provides the best success rates (above 95%).

For more information about the different routes on Kilimanjaro, read our blog https://www.adventureoutloud.com.au/blog/what-route-is-best-for-me-when-climbing-mount-kilimanjaro

A NOTE ABOUT FITNESS

Most people who can comfortably complete 1 hour of continuous, high-intensity exercise will be fit enough to trek Kilimanjaro. The track is well maintained and in most sections flat or at a gentle incline. Some sections require scrambling, but most people are capable of completing these sections with the help of our guides and if this track was at sea level, most people would comfortably finish it.

Reaching altitudes of almost 6,000m, most people will struggle with altitude sickness at some stage of their trek. We highly recommend you physically and mentally prepare for this adventure, and one of the best ways you can do this is by choosing a 7 - 10 day trek. Read more in our beginners guide to high altitudes.

Our team of high-altitude experts are very experienced and whilst we will push you to the absolute limit, we have a "Safety over Summit" policy and will never risk your life to summit a mountain. A few of the ways we keep you safe included:

• Twice daily altitude scorecard and oxygen checks
• Carrying oxygen tanks for emergencies
• Only selling 7 or more day treks. 

Kilimanjaro will be one of the hardest, yet most rewarding experiences of your life. Take the first step to standing on the Roof of Africa by EXPRESSING INTEREST below.

A NOTE ABOUT HEIGHTS

For trekkers with a fear of heights, Day 4: Baranco Camp to Katanga Camp, involves scrambling up a 300m high rock wall. The trail is well defined and safe, with vistas that will test your head-game if you have a fear of heights. If you have concerns, book a free consultation with one of our African experts. For most, this is a challenging day, but is also usually the highlight of their trek. 

PAST SUCCESS RATES ON KILIMANJARO

Since 2015, we've helped 98% of our adventurers SAFELY summit Kilimanjaro and we'd love to help you do the same. 

With sheer cliff faces, giant towering glaciers and endless panoramic views, Kilimanjaro is a trekkers holy grail. Reaching Kilimanjaro’s highest point is an extreme challenge. Battling multiple long days trekking, freezing conditions and high altitudes, trekkers must leave their comfort zones and push themselves to the limit. 

There may be blisters and tears, but as you stand on top of the “Roof of Africa”, watching the sun rise over Africa’s endless savannahs, you’ll feel a sense of “Freedom”, at one with yourself and with nature, and the euphoria of success. 

With challenging treks, stunning scenery and 5 different ecosystems, it is no wonder Kilimanjaro has been voted “Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction” for the past 3 consecutive years. Here's a sneak peak of what you can expect...

Here are a few interesting facts about Mt Kilimanjaro:

• Tallest Free-Standing Mountain

  • At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.

  • This means that it is the tallest single mountain in the world. 

  • Not the tallest mountain on the planet, this is Mt Everest. 

• Three Volcanic Cones

  • Kili has three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo (the highest and dormant), Mawenzi (eroded and rugged), and Shira (extinct).

  • If successful, you will be summiting Kibo, to Uhuru ("Freedom") Point.

• World Heritage Site

  • Kilimanjaro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its unique ecosystem and biodiversity.

  • Established in 1973, the park spans more than 1,688 square kilometres.

  • The blue monkey, colobus monkey and the adorable bush baby all make their homes around the mountain, along with many other unique animals.

• Changing Glacier

  • The ice cap and glaciers on Kilimanjaro are rapidly retreating and could disappear in the near future. 

• Five Climate Zones

  • Kilimanjaro features five distinct ecological zones: cultivated farmland, rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and arctic summit.

  • You will pass through each zone during your trek. 

• Highest Point in Africa

  • Kilimanjaro is the highest point on the African continent, earning it the nickname "The Roof of Africa."

  • On a clear day, Kilimanjaro's highest peaks, can be seen from hundreds of kilometres away.

• Accessible to Many

  • Kilimanjaro is considered the "easiest" of the “Seven Summits”.

  • Despite its height, Kilimanjaro is the most accessible and does not require technical climbing skills, making it popular among trekkers of all ages.

  • Most trekkers who train will, AND ALLOW ENOUGH TIME TO ACCLIMATISE, will reach the summit. 

• Marathon at Altitude

  • The Kilimanjaro Marathon, held annually, is one of the most unique races in the world, offering breathtaking views of the mountain as runners tackle high altitudes.

• Records

  • Youngest climber: Coaltan Tanner | U.S.A | 6 years in 2018.
  • Oldest climber: Anne Lorimor | 89 years in 2019.
  • Fastest ascent: Karl Egloff | Ecuador | Umbwe Route: 4 hours, 56 minutes in 2014
  • Fastest round trip: Karl Egloff | Ecuador | 6 hours, 42 minutes.
  • First wheelchair ascent: Bernard Goosen | South Africa | 2003 | He completed the climb using a specially modified wheelchair.
  • First ascent: Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller in 1889.
  • Annual trekkers: approximately 50,000 trekkers.  

Find out more, visit: https://www.adventureoutloud.com.au/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-trekking-mount-kilimanjaro

Embark on an unforgettable safari through the iconic landscapes of some of Africa's best safari parks where luxury meets untamed wilderness. Enjoy daily safaris and witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the African savannah awakening for the safety of your opulent tented safari camp, seamlessly blending indulgence with nature's raw beauty. Expert guides unveil the secrets of the wildlife, from majestic lions to elusive leopards. Enjoy gourmet meals under the vast African sky, accompanied by the symphony of the wild. 

About Amboseli

Amboseli is the only safari park in Africa where we can snap a stunning picture of an elephant or giraffe with Mt Kilimanjaro snow capped peak in the background (like the pic below). It is also one of Kenya's best safari parks and offers a very unique experience. Amboseli is teeming with an eclectic array of wildlife, showcasing the majestic African elephant, graceful giraffes, and iconic lions. Zebras elegantly graze alongside wildebeests, while elusive leopards and cheetahs add an air of mystery. A birdwatcher's delight, the park harmonises nature's wonders against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro and the vast wetlands offer a fantastic opportunity to spot large flocks of flamingo. 

About Nairobi National Park

The Nairobi National Park is the only safari park in Africa where you can snap a picture of a giant white or black rhino with a skyscraper in the background. Located in the heart of Nairobi, this national park is a sanctuary for rhinos, and a fantastic place to start your African adventure. This park is also home to large cats, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, various antelopes and many different bird species. 

Explore the sights and sounds of Africa’s largest slum. Meet the life changing Mirror of Hope, visit the home of our sponsor students, meet their family and learn how to cook a delicious Kenyan feast. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse in Kenyan culture, practice your Swahili and get to know some of the most resilient and remarkable people on the planet.

The Mirror of Hope (MOH) was founded in 2010 by Tommy & Judy Nyawir, to empower vulnerable women & children living in the Kibera Slums. MOH achieves their mission through the implementation of a range of innovative health, education and entrepreneurship initiatives. We first visited MOH in 2015 and we have been supporting them ever since. 

Here is a little more about the Mirror of Hope:

East Africa has a tipping culture that is similar to America. This can be frustrating and confusing for Australians. To make this easier, your guide will calculate and collect tips from you at the start of the trip. Your guide will then tip on behalf of the group through the trip. 

Here are a few notes about tipping:

• Tips will be collected in USD cash (a mixture of notes is best). 
• Tips will be split between the group equally.
• A tip estimate will be provided once final trekker numbers are known (expect approx. US$300 - 500pp). 

Here is a guide to help you understand tipping in Africa:

• Safari guides
  • US$30 - $50/day per guide.
• Lodges:
  • We recommend you tip US$5 - $10 per person, per night.  
  • These tips are shared between all of the cleaners, cooks, reception staff, etc. 
  • The best way to tip at lodges is to deposit the tip into the tips box when you check-out. 
• Restaurants:
  • There is no general rule, we usually recommend to round the bill up with a tip. 
• Kilimanjaro
  • Tips vary depending on the number of people in your group.
  • See our tipping guide for an estimate of tips. 

This is a guided trip where our team will be with you 24/7 to ensure you have a safe and unforgettable adventure. 

In the event you are away from your guide, or your guide is injured, please contact:

• Our Australian office (first instance)
  • WhatsApp: +61 432 822 652
  • Email: [email protected]
• Our East African office (second instance)
  • WhatsApp
    • Aloyce (Tanzania): +255 624 009 895
    • Jacob (Kenya): +254 726 555 776
  • Email: [email protected]
• The Australian Embassy
  • High Commission of Australia in Kenya (for all East African countries)
    • Address: Limuru Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
    • Phone: +254 204 277 100

Talk to one of our African experts about adding:

GORILLAS	CHIMPS	MADAGASCAR
EHTIOPIA	CAPE TOWN	EGYPT
VICTORIA FALLS	ZANZIBAR	MAFIA ISLAND

We have been exploring Africa since 2008, and can help you with all of Africa's big attractions. Simply call us on +61 432 822 652 or email [email protected]