Across nine days, this journey blends trekking, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences through some of northern Tanzania’s most remote areas. Starting in Arusha, the trip moves into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, combining a classic crater safari with a multi-day trek that takes you far beyond typical tourist routes. The pace varies between walking days and key stops, giving a mix of activity and time to take in the surroundings.
Continuing through open highlands and volcanic terrain, the route leads towards Empakai Crater and down into the Great Rift Valley. The final stages bring you to Lake Natron, where the landscape becomes more dramatic and remote. With the option to climb Ol Donyo Lengai, this trip offers both flexibility and challenge, while maintaining a strong connection to local culture and traditional ways of travelling.
Drawing on extensive experience across Tanzania’s trekking routes and safari regions, each itinerary is carefully structured to offer both variety and depth. The focus is on combining different elements of travel, from wildlife encounters to remote trekking, ensuring a well-rounded experience that goes beyond a standard safari.
Equally important is the commitment to working closely with local communities, including Maasai guides who lead sections of the trek. This approach supports traditional practices while giving travellers a more authentic understanding of the region, all within a well-organised and fully supported journey.
Accommodation throughout the trek is primarily in campsites, with tents and full camping equipment provided. Camps are set up in remote locations, including crater rims and valley floors, offering a close connection to the environment. A support team handles camp setup and meal preparation each day.
Before and after the trek, accommodation in Arusha provides a more comfortable setting to prepare for the journey and recover afterwards. This balance between camping and lodge stays helps make the overall experience more manageable.
You will need comfortable walking boots suitable for uneven terrain, along with lightweight clothing for warm daytime conditions and warmer layers for cooler evenings. A waterproof jacket, hat, and sun protection are essential due to changing conditions across the trek.
A daypack is recommended for carrying water, snacks, and personal items during the trek, while your main luggage is transported separately. Head torches, reusable water bottles, and basic personal items should also be included.
The trek is not highly technical, but it does require a good level of fitness as you will be walking between 4 to 11 hours a day over varied terrain. Some sections include uneven ground, steep ascents, and exposure to heat, particularly when descending into the Rift Valley.
With a steady pace and support from guides, it is manageable for those who are active and prepared. The combination of trekking and rest stops helps balance the overall effort across the trip.
Unlike a traditional safari where most wildlife viewing is done from a vehicle, this experience combines walking with cultural interaction and remote camping. You will spend several days travelling on foot through areas that are not easily accessible by road.
This allows for a more personal connection to the landscape and local communities, offering a different perspective compared to typical safari itineraries.
Yes, particularly during the Ngorongoro Crater game drive and in areas like Empakai Crater. Wildlife sightings can include zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, and occasionally predators such as lion or leopard.
While trekking, wildlife is less concentrated than in the crater itself, but you may still encounter animals depending on the location and season.
You will stay in tents at designated campsites throughout the trek. These are set up by the support team, who also prepare meals and manage logistics.
The camps are in remote locations, offering a simple but rewarding way to experience the landscape without distractions.
The trek is led by experienced guides, often accompanied by Maasai guides who bring local knowledge of the land and culture. Their presence adds an extra layer of understanding to the journey.
They are supported by a wider team handling logistics, ensuring that everything runs smoothly throughout the trip.
This is a challenging night ascent on a steep volcanic mountain, starting in the early hours to avoid daytime heat. The terrain includes loose scree and volcanic rock, making it physically demanding.
It is best suited to those in strong physical condition and comfortable with steep climbs. The reward is a unique summit experience with views across the Rift Valley.
Temperatures vary depending on location and altitude. The highlands are generally cooler, while the Rift Valley and Lake Natron areas can be very hot, especially during the day.
Starting early on certain days helps avoid the worst of the heat, and staying hydrated is essential throughout the trek.
About the centre
Kilimanjaro International Airport, Kilimanjaro Airport Rd, Tanzania
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Nature Bound Africa, a partner of adventuro.
Kilimanjaro & Arusha, Tanzania
From $2600
Drakensberg Amphitheatre, South Africa
From R14964
Quito & Avenue of Volcanoes, Ecuador
From $1972
