Tanzania

Tanzania

Tanzania

Endless horizons and timeless safari magic

Tanzania is the soul of East African safari – where vast plains ripple with wildebeest migrations, towering volcanoes pierce the sky, and ancient cultures meet raw wilderness. From the legendary Serengeti to the mystical Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania offers some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring wildlife experiences on the continent. 


It's also a land of incredible diversity: lush forests, sparkling lakes, white sandy beaches and vibrant communities that make every journey unforgettable. At Ubon Safari, we bring you Tanzania’s magic in every season – with carefully crafted safaris that connect you deeply with nature, culture and adventure.


Map of Africa with Tanzania highlighted in gray.

Endless horizons and timeless safari magic

Tanzania is the soul of East African safari – where vast plains ripple with wildebeest migrations, towering volcanoes pierce the sky, and ancient cultures meet raw wilderness. From the legendary Serengeti to the mystical Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania offers some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring wildlife experiences on the continent. 


It's also a land of incredible diversity: lush forests, sparkling lakes, white sandy beaches and vibrant communities that make every journey unforgettable. At Ubon Safari, we bring you Tanzania’s magic in every season – with carefully crafted safaris that connect you deeply with nature, culture and adventure.


Endless horizons and timeless safari magic

Tanzania is the soul of East African safari – where vast plains ripple with wildebeest migrations, towering volcanoes pierce the sky, and ancient cultures meet raw wilderness. From the legendary Serengeti to the mystical Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania offers some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring wildlife experiences on the continent. 


It's also a land of incredible diversity: lush forests, sparkling lakes, white sandy beaches and vibrant communities that make every journey unforgettable. At Ubon Safari, we bring you Tanzania’s magic in every season – with carefully crafted safaris that connect you deeply with nature, culture and adventure.


Why Tanzania captivates every traveller

Tanzania is a safari giant, but it never feels overwhelming. It balances wildness with accessibility, drama with peace, and tradition with innovation. Whether you come for the Great Migration, the Big Five or a quiet moment in the bush, Tanzania offers a safari that’s both epic and intimate. 


Wildlife thrives year-round here, and each season brings something special – from the calving season in the Serengeti to the lush green months when newborn animals dot the landscape. The sheer scale of Tanzania’s parks and the diversity of ecosystems make it a year-round destination that always delivers unforgettable moments.


Silhouettes of the Big Five and an ape in orange circles, illustrating the African savanna animals.

Why Tanzania captivates every traveller

Tanzania is a safari giant, but it never feels overwhelming. It balances wildness with accessibility, drama with peace, and tradition with innovation. Whether you come for the Great Migration, the Big Five or a quiet moment in the bush, Tanzania offers a safari that’s both epic and intimate. 


Wildlife thrives year-round here, and each season brings something special – from the calving season in the Serengeti to the lush green months when newborn animals dot the landscape. The sheer scale of Tanzania’s parks and the diversity of ecosystems make it a year-round destination that always delivers unforgettable moments.


Silhouettes of the Big Five and an ape in orange circles, illustrating the African savanna animals.

Why Tanzania captivates every traveller

Tanzania is a safari giant, but it never feels overwhelming. It balances wildness with accessibility, drama with peace, and tradition with innovation. Whether you come for the Great Migration, the Big Five or a quiet moment in the bush, Tanzania offers a safari that’s both epic and intimate. 


Wildlife thrives year-round here, and each season brings something special – from the calving season in the Serengeti to the lush green months when newborn animals dot the landscape. The sheer scale of Tanzania’s parks and the diversity of ecosystems make it a year-round destination that always delivers unforgettable moments.


Silhouettes of the Big Five and an ape in orange circles, illustrating the African savanna animals.

Serengeti National Park

The heartbeat of the migration

Zebra mother and foal standing in green grass, looking towards the camera.

The Serengeti is arguably Africa’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, and for good reason. Its endless plains play host to the spectacular Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra move in a timeless circle of life. Of course, the Serengeti is much more than migration. It shelters abundant resident wildlife year-round – lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo and more. 


Game viewing here is world-class any time of year, with the dry season concentrating animals around waterholes, and the wet season bringing lush greenery and newborns. The Serengeti’s vastness, wildlife density and raw beauty make it a must-visit.



Best for: Great Migration, predator sightings, classic savannah landscapes.

When to go: June–October for dry season and migration crossings; December–March for calving and green season highlights.


Leopard in tall grass, with spotted coat, looking to the side.
Lion with a brown mane, resting on rocks, looking to the side against a blurry backdrop.

Serengeti National Park

The heartbeat of the migration

Zebra mother and foal standing in green grass, looking towards the camera.

The Serengeti is arguably Africa’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, and for good reason. Its endless plains play host to the spectacular Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra move in a timeless circle of life. Of course, the Serengeti is much more than migration. It shelters abundant resident wildlife year-round – lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo and more. 


Game viewing here is world-class any time of year, with the dry season concentrating animals around waterholes, and the wet season bringing lush greenery and newborns. The Serengeti’s vastness, wildlife density and raw beauty make it a must-visit.


Best for: Great Migration, predator sightings, classic savannah landscapes.

When to go: June–October for dry season and migration crossings; December–March for calving and green season highlights.


Leopard in tall grass, with spotted coat, looking to the side.
Lion with a brown mane, resting on rocks, looking to the side against a blurry backdrop.

Serengeti National Park

The heartbeat of the migration

Zebra mother and foal standing in green grass, looking towards the camera.

The Serengeti is arguably Africa’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, and for good reason. Its endless plains play host to the spectacular Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra move in a timeless circle of life. Of course, the Serengeti is much more than migration. It shelters abundant resident wildlife year-round – lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo and more. 


Game viewing here is world-class any time of year, with the dry season concentrating animals around waterholes, and the wet season bringing lush greenery and newborns. The Serengeti’s vastness, wildlife density and raw beauty make it a must-visit.


Best for: Great Migration, predator sightings, classic savannah landscapes.

When to go: June–October for dry season and migration crossings; December–March for calving and green season highlights.


Leopard in tall grass, with spotted coat, looking to the side.

Tarangire National Park

Giants of the baobabs

Tarangire is a quieter gem known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. During the dry months, wildlife crowds around the Tarangire River, creating excellent game viewing opportunities. It’s also a hotspot for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species including the striking yellow-collared lovebird. 


Tarangire’s mix of open plains, woodlands and riverine habitats offers a varied safari experience that’s accessible year-round.


Best for: Elephants, baobabs, birding, peaceful wilderness.

When to go: June–October dry season is prime for game viewing; November–May green season offers lush scenery and fewer tourists.


Tarangire National Park

Giants of the baobabs

Tarangire is a quieter gem known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. During the dry months, wildlife crowds around the Tarangire River, creating excellent game viewing opportunities. It’s also a hotspot for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species including the striking yellow-collared lovebird. 


Tarangire’s mix of open plains, woodlands and riverine habitats offers a varied safari experience that’s accessible year-round.


Best for: Elephants, baobabs, birding, peaceful wilderness.

When to go: June–October dry season is prime for game viewing; November–May green season offers lush scenery and fewer tourists.


Tarangire National Park

Giants of the baobabs

Tarangire is a quieter gem known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. During the dry months, wildlife crowds around the Tarangire River, creating excellent game viewing opportunities. It’s also a hotspot for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species including the striking yellow-collared lovebird. 


Tarangire’s mix of open plains, woodlands and riverine habitats offers a varied safari experience that’s accessible year-round.


Best for: Elephants, baobabs, birding, peaceful wilderness.

When to go: June–October dry season is prime for game viewing; November–May green season offers lush scenery and fewer tourists.


Lake Manyara National Park

Flamingos, tree-climbing lions and birdlife paradise

Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos that colour the alkaline lake pink. The park’s diverse habitats – from acacia woodland to papyrus swamps – make it a haven for more than 400 bird species. 


It’s smaller and easier to explore than Tanzania’s big parks, making it a perfect introduction or a relaxed stopover. Wildlife is abundant throughout the year, with seasonal migrations of animals across the park.


Best for: Birdwatching, tree-climbing lions, accessible safari.

When to go: Year-round, with dry season June–October offering the best visibility and bird activity.


Lake Manyara National Park

Flamingos, tree-climbing lions and birdlife paradise

Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos that colour the alkaline lake pink. The park’s diverse habitats – from acacia woodland to papyrus swamps – make it a haven for more than 400 bird species. 


It’s smaller and easier to explore than Tanzania’s big parks, making it a perfect introduction or a relaxed stopover. Wildlife is abundant throughout the year, with seasonal migrations of animals across the park.


Best for: Birdwatching, tree-climbing lions, accessible safari.

When to go: Year-round, with dry season June–October offering the best visibility and bird activity.


Lake Manyara National Park

Flamingos, tree-climbing lions and birdlife paradise

Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos that colour the alkaline lake pink. The park’s diverse habitats – from acacia woodland to papyrus swamps – make it a haven for more than 400 bird species. 


It’s smaller and easier to explore than Tanzania’s big parks, making it a perfect introduction or a relaxed stopover. Wildlife is abundant throughout the year, with seasonal migrations of animals across the park.


Best for: Birdwatching, tree-climbing lions, accessible safari.

When to go: Year-round, with dry season June–October offering the best visibility and bird activity.


Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A natural amphitheatre like no other

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders – a huge volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife and framed by towering crater walls. This ecosystem supports one of the highest concentrations of wildlife anywhere on Earth, including the Big Five. 


Its diversity ranges from grasslands to forested hillsides and soda lakes, creating rich habitats for species both common and rare. A visit here offers an unparalleled combination of dramatic scenery, cultural heritage and spectacular game drives.


Best for: Big Five, scenic landscapes, cultural Maasai visits.

When to go: Year-round, with the dry season June–October best for game viewing; green season December–May brings vibrant landscapes and bird activity.


Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A natural amphitheatre like no other

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders – a huge volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife and framed by towering crater walls. This ecosystem supports one of the highest concentrations of wildlife anywhere on Earth, including the Big Five. 


Its diversity ranges from grasslands to forested hillsides and soda lakes, creating rich habitats for species both common and rare. A visit here offers an unparalleled combination of dramatic scenery, cultural heritage and spectacular game drives.


Best for: Big Five, scenic landscapes, cultural Maasai visits.

When to go:  Year-round, with the dry season June–October best for game viewing; green season December–May brings vibrant landscapes and bird activity.


Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A natural amphitheatre like no other

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders – a huge volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife and framed by towering crater walls. This ecosystem supports one of the highest concentrations of wildlife anywhere on Earth, including the Big Five. 


Its diversity ranges from grasslands to forested hillsides and soda lakes, creating rich habitats for species both common and rare. A visit here offers an unparalleled combination of dramatic scenery, cultural heritage and spectacular game drives.


Best for: Big Five, scenic landscapes, cultural Maasai visits.

When to go:  Year-round, with the dry season June–October best for game viewing; green season December–May brings vibrant landscapes and bird activity.


Nyerere National Park

Tanzania’s vast wilderness frontier

Formerly Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is one of Africa’s largest protected areas and a true wilderness playground. Remote and less visited, it offers unspoiled landscapes where large herds of elephants, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles and numerous predators roam free. 


The park’s varied habitats include miombo woodlands, savannah, and the Rufiji River floodplains, making it ideal for walking safaris, boat trips and classic game drives. Its vastness guarantees a sense of discovery and exclusivity all year round.


Best for: Untouched wilderness, walking safaris, boat safaris, rare predators.

When to go: June–October dry season for best game viewing; November–May green season for birding and lush scenery.

Nyerere National Park

Tanzania’s vast wilderness frontier

Formerly Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is one of Africa’s largest protected areas and a true wilderness playground. Remote and less visited, it offers unspoiled landscapes where large herds of elephants, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles and numerous predators roam free. 


The park’s varied habitats include miombo woodlands, savannah, and the Rufiji River floodplains, making it ideal for walking safaris, boat trips and classic game drives. Its vastness guarantees a sense of discovery and exclusivity all year round.


Best for: Untouched wilderness, walking safaris, boat safaris, rare predators.

When to go: June–October dry season for best game viewing; November–May green season for birding and lush scenery.

Nyerere National Park

Tanzania’s vast wilderness frontier

Formerly Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is one of Africa’s largest protected areas and a true wilderness playground. Remote and less visited, it offers unspoiled landscapes where large herds of elephants, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles and numerous predators roam free. 


The park’s varied habitats include miombo woodlands, savannah, and the Rufiji River floodplains, making it ideal for walking safaris, boat trips and classic game drives. Its vastness guarantees a sense of discovery and exclusivity all year round.


Best for: Untouched wilderness, walking safaris, boat safaris, rare predators.

When to go: June–October dry season for best game viewing; November–May green season for birding and lush scenery.

Ruaha National Park

Tanzania’s hidden jewel

Ruaha is a vast and rugged wilderness where you’ll find some of the largest elephant populations in East Africa alongside prides of lion, leopard, cheetah and rare wild dogs. 


Known for its dramatic baobabs and winding Great Ruaha River, the park offers a wild, authentic safari experience far from the crowds. Ruaha’s remoteness and diverse ecosystems support a rich tapestry of wildlife and bird species, rewarding visitors throughout the year with spectacular sightings.


Best for: Big game, remote wilderness, birding, off-the-beaten-track safaris.

When to go: June–October dry season for game concentrations; November–May green season for bird activity and lush landscapes.

Ruaha National Park

Tanzania’s hidden jewel

Ruaha is a vast and rugged wilderness where you’ll find some of the largest elephant populations in East Africa alongside prides of lion, leopard, cheetah and rare wild dogs. 


Known for its dramatic baobabs and winding Great Ruaha River, the park offers a wild, authentic safari experience far from the crowds. Ruaha’s remoteness and diverse ecosystems support a rich tapestry of wildlife and bird species, rewarding visitors throughout the year with spectacular sightings.


Best for: Big game, remote wilderness, birding, off-the-beaten-track safaris.

When to go: June–October dry season for game concentrations; November–May green season for bird activity and lush landscapes.

Ruaha National Park

Tanzania’s hidden jewel

Ruaha is a vast and rugged wilderness where you’ll find some of the largest elephant populations in East Africa alongside prides of lion, leopard, cheetah and rare wild dogs. 


Known for its dramatic baobabs and winding Great Ruaha River, the park offers a wild, authentic safari experience far from the crowds. Ruaha’s remoteness and diverse ecosystems support a rich tapestry of wildlife and bird species, rewarding visitors throughout the year with spectacular sightings.


Best for: Big game, remote wilderness, birding, off-the-beaten-track safaris.

When to go: June–October dry season for game concentrations; November–May green season for bird activity and lush landscapes.

Katavi, Saadani and Gombe

Off-the-beaten-path parks with big rewards

For travellers seeking the road less travelled, Tanzania’s lesser-known parks deliver unforgettable safari adventures. Katavi National Park is a wild and pristine area where large herds of buffalo and elephant gather around seasonal floodplains, and predators abound. Saadani National Park offers a rare blend of wildlife and Indian Ocean beaches, with boat safaris and coastal game drives. 


Gombe Stream National Park is famous for Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research and intimate primate encounters in lush forests. These parks offer exclusivity, wildness and discovery throughout the year.


Best for: Remote wilderness, primate encounters, beach and bush combos.

When to go: June–October dry season for best game viewing; green season offers lush beauty and birding.


Katavi, Saadani and Gombe

Off-the-beaten-path parks with big rewards

For travellers seeking the road less travelled, Tanzania’s lesser-known parks deliver unforgettable safari adventures. Katavi National Park is a wild and pristine area where large herds of buffalo and elephant gather around seasonal floodplains, and predators abound. Saadani National Park offers a rare blend of wildlife and Indian Ocean beaches, with boat safaris and coastal game drives. 


Gombe Stream National Park is famous for Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research and intimate primate encounters in lush forests. These parks offer exclusivity, wildness and discovery throughout the year.


Best for: Remote wilderness, primate encounters, beach and bush combos.

When to go: June–October dry season for best game viewing; green season offers lush beauty and birding.


Katavi, Saadani and Gombe

Off-the-beaten-path parks with big rewards

For travellers seeking the road less travelled, Tanzania’s lesser-known parks deliver unforgettable safari adventures. Katavi National Park is a wild and pristine area where large herds of buffalo and elephant gather around seasonal floodplains, and predators abound. Saadani National Park offers a rare blend of wildlife and Indian Ocean beaches, with boat safaris and coastal game drives. 


Gombe Stream National Park is famous for Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research and intimate primate encounters in lush forests. These parks offer exclusivity, wildness and discovery throughout the year.


Best for: Remote wilderness, primate encounters, beach and bush combos.

When to go: June–October dry season for best game viewing; green season offers lush beauty and birding.


Mahale Mountains National Park

Pristine forest and chimpanzee trekking

Set on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s most special spots. It’s home to habituated chimpanzee troops that you can trek on foot in ancient rainforest surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. 


The park is also a sanctuary for other primates, rare birds and hippos in the lake. The remote setting and combination of forest, mountains and water create a truly unique safari experience available all year round.


Best for: Chimpanzee trekking, primate watching, lake scenery, remote wilderness.

When to go: Year-round; dry season June–October is ideal for trekking conditions.



KILIMANJARO

CLIMB AFRICA'S HIGHEST PEAK

Standing at 5,895m, Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and one of the world’s most iconic trekking challenges. Reaching the summit is not just about determination and fitness — the route you choose makes a big difference to your experience and your chances of success. At Ubon Safari we help you match your ambitions, timeframe and style of travel to the path that will give you the best shot at standing on Uhuru Peak.


Whichever route you choose, climbing Kilimanjaro is an adventure that rewards with more than just a summit. It is about the journey, the changing landscapes, the camaraderie of the trail and the moment you step onto Africa’s roof with the world spread out beneath you.


At Ubon Safari we craft tailored Kilimanjaro itineraries, combining your climb with the chance to explore Tanzania’s wildlife reserves or relax on the beaches of Zanzibar. With the right preparation and route, your dream of standing on Uhuru Peak is well within reach.


Here are the routes:


Marangu Route – the “Coca-Cola” climb


Often considered the easiest way up the mountain, Marangu has gentler slopes and hut accommodation rather than tents. It is popular with those who prefer comfort, but its shorter itinerary means acclimatisation can be limited. Success rates average between 50 and 70 percent, though choosing the six-day option improves your chances.


Machame Route – the “Whiskey” route


The most popular way to climb Kilimanjaro, Machame combines dramatic scenery with a well-paced climb. Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” for being tougher than Marangu, it rewards with sweeping landscapes and a varied trek. On a seven-day itinerary, success rates climb to 70–90 percent thanks to better acclimatisation.


Lemosho Route – remote and spectacular


Many trekkers consider Lemosho the finest of all Kilimanjaro routes. Beginning on the quiet western side, it takes you through remote forest and wilderness before joining the Machame path higher up. With fewer crowds, incredible scenery and 7–8 days to acclimatise, it offers one of the best combinations of beauty and summit success, with rates of 85–95 percent.


Rongai Route – the northern approach


Rongai comes in from the north near the Kenyan border. It is a drier route and often chosen during the rainy season, when southern slopes can be muddy. Less crowded than Marangu or Machame, it is moderate in difficulty, with summit success rates of around 65–80 percent depending on whether you opt for six or seven days.


Northern Circuit – the ultimate trek


The longest and most comprehensive option, the Northern Circuit is a favourite for those who want to maximise their time on the mountain. Over 8–9 days it circles around Kilimanjaro’s northern flanks, with wide open views and almost no crowds. With excellent acclimatisation built in, it boasts the highest success rates of all, between 90 and 95 percent.


Umbwe Route – short, steep and tough


Umbwe is the shortest and most direct climb, but it comes with a price. Its steep slopes allow very little time for acclimatisation, which is why success rates hover between 40 and 60 percent. It is only suitable for highly experienced and fit trekkers who want a demanding challenge.


Get in touch to find out more about climbing Kili!


KILIMANJARO

CLIMB AFRICA'S HIGHEST PEAK

Standing at 5,895m, Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and one of the world’s most iconic trekking challenges. Reaching the summit is not just about determination and fitness — the route you choose makes a big difference to your experience and your chances of success. At Ubon Safari we help you match your ambitions, timeframe and style of travel to the path that will give you the best shot at standing on Uhuru Peak.


Whichever route you choose, climbing Kilimanjaro is an adventure that rewards with more than just a summit. It is about the journey, the changing landscapes, the camaraderie of the trail and the moment you step onto Africa’s roof with the world spread out beneath you.


At Ubon Safari we craft tailored Kilimanjaro itineraries, combining your climb with the chance to explore Tanzania’s wildlife reserves or relax on the beaches of Zanzibar. With the right preparation and route, your dream of standing on Uhuru Peak is well within reach.


Here are the routes:


Marangu Route – the “Coca-Cola” climb


Often considered the easiest way up the mountain, Marangu has gentler slopes and hut accommodation rather than tents. It is popular with those who prefer comfort, but its shorter itinerary means acclimatisation can be limited. Success rates average between 50 and 70 percent, though choosing the six-day option improves your chances.


Machame Route – the “Whiskey” route


The most popular way to climb Kilimanjaro, Machame combines dramatic scenery with a well-paced climb. Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” for being tougher than Marangu, it rewards with sweeping landscapes and a varied trek. On a seven-day itinerary, success rates climb to 70–90 percent thanks to better acclimatisation.


Lemosho Route – remote and spectacular


Many trekkers consider Lemosho the finest of all Kilimanjaro routes. Beginning on the quiet western side, it takes you through remote forest and wilderness before joining the Machame path higher up. With fewer crowds, incredible scenery and 7–8 days to acclimatise, it offers one of the best combinations of beauty and summit success, with rates of 85–95 percent.


Rongai Route – the northern approach


Rongai comes in from the north near the Kenyan border. It is a drier route and often chosen during the rainy season, when southern slopes can be muddy. Less crowded than Marangu or Machame, it is moderate in difficulty, with summit success rates of around 65–80 percent depending on whether you opt for six or seven days.


Northern Circuit – the ultimate trek


The longest and most comprehensive option, the Northern Circuit is a favourite for those who want to maximise their time on the mountain. Over 8–9 days it circles around Kilimanjaro’s northern flanks, with wide open views and almost no crowds. With excellent acclimatisation built in, it boasts the highest success rates of all, between 90 and 95 percent.


Umbwe Route – short, steep and tough


Umbwe is the shortest and most direct climb, but it comes with a price. Its steep slopes allow very little time for acclimatisation, which is why success rates hover between 40 and 60 percent. It is only suitable for highly experienced and fit trekkers who want a demanding challenge.


Get in touch to find out more about climbing Kili!


KILIMANJARO

CLIMB AFRICA'S HIGHEST PEAK

Standing at 5,895m, Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and one of the world’s most iconic trekking challenges. Reaching the summit is not just about determination and fitness — the route you choose makes a big difference to your experience and your chances of success. At Ubon Safari we help you match your ambitions, timeframe and style of travel to the path that will give you the best shot at standing on Uhuru Peak.


Whichever route you choose, climbing Kilimanjaro is an adventure that rewards with more than just a summit. It is about the journey, the changing landscapes, the camaraderie of the trail and the moment you step onto Africa’s roof with the world spread out beneath you.


At Ubon Safari we craft tailored Kilimanjaro itineraries, combining your climb with the chance to explore Tanzania’s wildlife reserves or relax on the beaches of Zanzibar. With the right preparation and route, your dream of standing on Uhuru Peak is well within reach.


Here are the routes:


Marangu Route – the “Coca-Cola” climb


Often considered the easiest way up the mountain, Marangu has gentler slopes and hut accommodation rather than tents. It is popular with those who prefer comfort, but its shorter itinerary means acclimatisation can be limited. Success rates average between 50 and 70 percent, though choosing the six-day option improves your chances.


Machame Route – the “Whiskey” route


The most popular way to climb Kilimanjaro, Machame combines dramatic scenery with a well-paced climb. Nicknamed the “Whiskey Route” for being tougher than Marangu, it rewards with sweeping landscapes and a varied trek. On a seven-day itinerary, success rates climb to 70–90 percent thanks to better acclimatisation.


Lemosho Route – remote and spectacular


Many trekkers consider Lemosho the finest of all Kilimanjaro routes. Beginning on the quiet western side, it takes you through remote forest and wilderness before joining the Machame path higher up. With fewer crowds, incredible scenery and 7–8 days to acclimatise, it offers one of the best combinations of beauty and summit success, with rates of 85–95 percent.


Rongai Route – the northern approach


Rongai comes in from the north near the Kenyan border. It is a drier route and often chosen during the rainy season, when southern slopes can be muddy. Less crowded than Marangu or Machame, it is moderate in difficulty, with summit success rates of around 65–80 percent depending on whether you opt for six or seven days.


Northern Circuit – the ultimate trek


The longest and most comprehensive option, the Northern Circuit is a favourite for those who want to maximise their time on the mountain. Over 8–9 days it circles around Kilimanjaro’s northern flanks, with wide open views and almost no crowds. With excellent acclimatisation built in, it boasts the highest success rates of all, between 90 and 95 percent.


Umbwe Route – short, steep and tough


Umbwe is the shortest and most direct climb, but it comes with a price. Its steep slopes allow very little time for acclimatisation, which is why success rates hover between 40 and 60 percent. It is only suitable for highly experienced and fit trekkers who want a demanding challenge.


Get in touch to find out more about climbing Kili!


Mahale Mountains National Park

Pristine forest and chimpanzee trekking

Set on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s most special spots. It’s home to habituated chimpanzee troops that you can trek on foot in ancient rainforest surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. 


The park is also a sanctuary for other primates, rare birds and hippos in the lake. The remote setting and combination of forest, mountains and water create a truly unique safari experience available all year round.


Best for: Chimpanzee trekking, primate watching, lake scenery, remote wilderness.

When to go: Year-round; dry season June–October is ideal for trekking conditions.


Mahale Mountains National Park

Pristine forest and chimpanzee trekking

Set on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s most special spots. It’s home to habituated chimpanzee troops that you can trek on foot in ancient rainforest surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. 


The park is also a sanctuary for other primates, rare birds and hippos in the lake. The remote setting and combination of forest, mountains and water create a truly unique safari experience available all year round.


Best for: Chimpanzee trekking, primate watching, lake scenery, remote wilderness.

When to go: Year-round; dry season June–October is ideal for trekking conditions.


Planning your trip

Seasons at a glance

June–October (Dry season): Best for game viewing and migration crossings.

November–May (Green season): Lush landscapes, calving season, fewer tourists.


Tanzania offers year-round safari magic with each season bringing its own unforgettable experiences.



  • Check with your local embassy for visa requirements
  • Always drink bottled water in rural areas
  • Mobile signal is strong in most towns and lodges
  • Wi-Fi is widely available but can be limited in remote camps
  • Carry travel insurance and notify your bank of travel plans
  • Tipping is customary – ask us for up-to-date guidance
  • Respect local customs and ask permission before photographing people
  • Support conservation by avoiding purchase of animal products
  • A US$44 mandatory travel insurance is applicable for travel to Tanzania


This is your Tanzania

Let’s create something extraordinary

From the vast Serengeti plains to the shores of the Indian Ocean, Tanzania is a country of epic landscapes and timeless adventure. With Ubon Safari, your journey will be crafted with care, passion and expertise – delivering moments that will stay with you forever. Let’s make your Tanzanian dreams come true.