Combining hiking Mountain Kilimanjaro with a safari in Masai Mara offers an unparalleled safari adventure. Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, which occurs seasonally from June to September. During a game drive in Masai Mara, you can witness a plethora of wildlife, including gazelles, impalas, zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, bushbucks, elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and rhinos. If you visit during the migration season, you may see millions of wildebeest crossing the Mara River. Hiking Mountain Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa is a dream come true, offering about seven days of trekking through diverse vegetation zones and breathtaking scenery.
Imagine standing on the roof of Africa, having conquered the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, and then embarking on a thrilling safari in the iconic Masai Mara. This combination of hiking and wildlife adventure is a dream come true for many travellers. The journey offers a unique blend of physical challenges, natural beauty, and unparalleled wildlife experiences. In this article, we will explore the wonders of combining a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro with a safari in Masai Mara, highlighting the best times to visit, what to expect, and why this adventure should be on your bucket list.
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How to Plan a Trip to Masai Mara National Reserve and Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 1: Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve
Start your safari early in the morning as our safari guide picks you up from your hotel. The drive to Masai Mara National Reserve offers scenic views of diverse landforms and expansive plains. The distance from Nairobi to Masai Mara ranges from 225 to 280 kilometres, depending on the entry gate. Alternatively, you can opt for a flight to save time.
Day 2: Game Drive in Masai Mara National Reserve
Begin your day with an early morning game drive in Masai Mara National Reserve. As you navigate the park’s tracks, you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, impalas, zebras, waterbucks, bushbucks, gazelles, wildebeests, buffaloes, elands, Naivasha dikdiks, African elephants, and rhinos.
If you visit during the Great Wildebeest Migration season, the reserve is teeming with millions of herbivores and carnivores. The Mara River crossing is a dramatic highlight, where thousands of animals brave the crocodile-infested waters in search of greener pastures.
Remember to pack breakfast and lunch, as you may return to the lodge later in the day.
Day 3: Fly to Amboseli National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the Masai Mara airstrip for your flight to Amboseli National Park. Enjoy a game drive at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, where you can spot a variety of wildlife.
Day 4: Game Drive in Amboseli National Park
Rise early for breakfast and set out on a game drive in Amboseli National Park. Keep an eye out for elephants, waterbucks, bushbucks, lions, leopards, buffaloes, gazelles, zebras, impalas, hyenas, African civets, lesser kudus, and more.
Day 5: Cross to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
Cross the border into Tanzania via Moshi and drive to Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 6: Begin the Climb up Mount Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, head to the park entrance for registration and necessary clearances. Start your ascent via the Machame route, a popular choice for this adventure. Trek through the montane forest, where you may spot various birds and animals like elephants, buffaloes, and warthogs. The hike to Machame Hut takes about 6 to 7 hours, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 7: Hike to Shira Camp
From Machame Camp, hike to Shira Camp, passing through valleys and rock ridges covered in heath vegetation. The hike, which lasts about 4 to 6 hours, takes you to the gorge of the river. Spend the night at Shira Camp.
Day 8: Ascend to Barranco Camp
After an early breakfast, continue your ascent to Barranco Camp. As you approach the summit, you may start to feel the effects of the altitude. Climb to the Lava Tower for a rest before descending to Barranco Camp for the night. The camp is located in a valley with the impressive Barranco Wall. The environment here is semi-desert.
Day 9: Destination Karanga Camp
After breakfast, scramble up the Great Barranco Wall and cross the scree to Karanga Valley. This area is situated under the Decken, Heim, and Stersten glaciers, in an alpine desert environment.
Day 10: Ascend to Barafu Camp
Start early with breakfast and head towards Barafu Camp. Upon arrival, you will connect with the Mweka Trail. From Barafu Camp, you can see the summit from various angles, including the Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. The environment here is alpine desert.
Day 11: Destination Mweka Hut
Today’s goal is to summit the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Hike northwest to Stella Point, passing through a scree on the rim of the crater.
This revised version maintains the original structure and details while ensuring the content is unique. Hike northwest to Stella Point, passing through a scree in the rim of the crater. On a clear sunny day, the view of the sunrise at this point is heart-melting.
Arrive at Uhuru Point, which is the highest point of Mountain Kilimanjaro at 5895 meters above sea level. This is the coldest point of the entire hike on Mountain Kilimanjaro, but it is worth the victory. Some of the most important items to use include trekking poles to walk through the gravel. From the Uhuru peak, you descend to Mweka camp, where you will spend the night.
Day 12: Mweka Camp gate
After hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and descending to the bottom, you will reach the gate, where you will receive a certificate of accomplishment.
When Is the Best Time to go on a Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve and Hike Mount Kilimanjaro?
The dry season is the most preferred time for both hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and going on game drives in Masai Mara National Reserve. During this period, the trails on Mount Kilimanjaro are easier to navigate, and the tracks in Masai Mara are more accessible.
Scenic Views and Wildlife Activity
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro during the dry season offers the best views of the surrounding scenery. Similarly, game drives in Masai Mara are more rewarding as animals are more visible in the shorter, dry grass. Herbivores are more mobile due to the scarcity of grass, making it easier for carnivores to hunt, which means you might witness more predator-prey interactions.
High Demand and Preparation
Be aware that the dry season is also the peak time for tourists. Many people aim to combine mountain hiking with a safari in Masai Mara, so expect to share the space with other adventurers. It’s essential to book all necessary logistics, including accommodation and transport, well in advance.
Wet Season Considerations
The wet season, typically the low season, may not be ideal for mountain climbing due to intense rains. However, it can be a unique time to visit Masai Mara, as the abundance of food leads to more infant births, providing opportunities to see young animals and their interactions with the environment.
Planning your trip according to these seasonal insights can enhance your experience, whether you’re scaling the heights of Kilimanjaro or exploring the vast plains of Masai Mara.
How Safe is Masai Mara National Reserve and a Hike to Mount Kilimanjaro?
Both a safari in Masai Mara and hiking Mount Kilimanjaro are generally safe activities, provided you follow the necessary precautions.
Guided Tours and Safety Measures
For hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, it is mandatory to be accompanied by a professional ranger guide. These guides are equipped with emergency defence items to ensure your safety.
Safety in Masai Mara
While on a safari in Masai Mara National Reserve, it is crucial to stay inside your vehicle to avoid encounters with wild animals that could be dangerous. Avoid provoking any wildlife, as this can lead to aggressive behaviour.
Staying on Designated Paths
Whether hiking Mount Kilimanjaro or exploring Masai Mara, always stick to the designated trails. This helps prevent accidents and minimizes environmental impact.
Health Precautions
Avoid consuming contaminated food before or during your activities to prevent food poisoning, which could necessitate unscheduled stops. Such stops are not advisable in the game reserve or while hiking.
Emergency Preparedness
Carry a first aid kit with prescribed medications to handle any emergencies that might arise.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in both Masai Mara and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Cost of Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and Visiting Masai Mara
The expenses for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and visiting Masai Mara National Reserve can vary based on several factors, such as the chosen trail, the duration of the safari, and the size of your travel group. Entrance fees are mandatory for both activities.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Hiring porters for the hike
- Tips for guides and staff
- On-ground purchases
- Other miscellaneous expenses
What to Pack for Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and a Safari in Masai Mara
- Extra Batteries: Fully charged batteries for your devices.
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof boots for long-distance hiking.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from sunburn.
- Camera: To capture memories of your hike and safari.
- Sunglasses: To shield your eyes from sunlight and insects.
- Insect Repellent: To protect against stinging insects.
- Garden Gloves: To protect your hands from rough surfaces.
- Extra Clothes: For changing after a long day.
- Energy Bites: Snacks to keep you energized between meals.
- Hiking Rods: For extra support while hiking.
- Backpack: To carry your belongings securely.
- Torch: For lighting in the dark.
- Cash: For on-ground purchases like hiring equipment or buying food.
- Warm Clothing: As it gets cooler at higher altitudes.
- Binoculars: For better visibility of distant features.
- Stockings: To keep your feet warm.
- Head Gear: To protect against the cold.
- Sleeping Bag: For overnight stays on Mount Kilimanjaro.
- First Aid Kit: With emergency medication.
- Rainproof Gear: To stay dry and warm in case of rain.
- Ice Axes, Ropes, Harnesses, and Crampons: Specialized gear for challenging sections of the hike.
Contact Dav Safaris for more information, whether you opt for a 5 days Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route or a longer itinerary, we will help organize your entire safari to Masai Mara and Mount Kilimanjaro, depending on your budget. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor to make the right decision.