Ol Doinyo Lengai & Mount Meru
Combine two of Tanzania’s most unique and thrilling climbs into one unforgettable journey. The ascent of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, offers breathtaking views and a challenging trek through lush forests and rugged terrain. Afterward, continue to Ol Doinyo Lengai, the active volcano known as the "Mountain of God." This adventure gives you the opportunity to experience both the majestic nature of Mount Meru, as the fascinating volcanic landscapes of Ol Doinyo Lengai.​​​
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All Stunning Kilimanjaro Tours & Excursions are private and fully guided, featuring a full-board meal plan with three nutritious meals per day.​ Flexible start dates are available all year round (subject to availability).​​​​
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A mountain trekking, combining two of Tanzania's most iconic peaks.
8 days.
Popular among adventure seekers seeking a double dose of unique experiences, combining activities while exploring different destinations.
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Details Ol Doinyo Lengai & Mount Meru Itinerary
On request
Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai rises to 2,962 meters and stands proudly in the Great Rift Valley near Lake Natron, recognized as the world’s only active carbonatite volcano.
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​​​Engaresero, a village northern of Ol Doinyo Lengai.
1 nightly hike.
5 km ascent, 5 km descent.
2,362 meters.
The summit at 2,962 meters.
A tough and steep ascent, requiring outstanding fitness, endurance, and mental toughness, due to loose volcanic ash and gravel.
Full board lodge, including swimming pool, restaurant & bar.
Read more on our Ol Doinyo Lengai & Lake Natron page.
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Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters, offers a unique trek through diverse ecosystems. Mount Meru provides a challenging yet rewarding journey with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Arusha National Park.
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Momella Gate, Arusha National Park's eastern entrance.
4 days.
25 km ascent, 23 km descent.
3,066 meters.
Socialist Peak at 4,566 meters.
Demands strong fitness and balance, due to steep ascents, and narrow ridges.
Shared mountain huts with bunk beds and private portable toilets.
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Mount Meru
Ol Doinyo Lengai & Mount Meru: Day-to-Day Itinerary
Keep in mind that these itineraries are just a starting point to help you plan your Stunning Kilimanjaro adventure. We specialize in creating tailor-made tours and personalized adventures and holidays, fully customized to match your personal preferences.​
Lake Natron & Ol Doinyo Lengai
- Day 1 -
Welcome to Arusha!
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Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), you’ll be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, the vibrant adventure capital of northern Tanzania.
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Later in the day, meet your experienced guide for a pre-climb briefing and gear check to ensure you are fully prepared for the thrilling journey ahead.
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Spend your evening enjoying a delicious dinner and resting in preparation for your East African adventure.
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Road Trip to the Lake Natron Area
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After breakfast, depart for Lake Natron, one of Tanzania’s most remote and extraordinary destinations.
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This alkaline lake, nestled within the Great Rift Valley, is a vital breeding ground for thousands of flamingos, creating a surreal landscape filled with vibrant hues and wildlife.
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Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy lunch.
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Relax by the pool or unwind at the bar before you start your afternoon adventure.​
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Driving distance: 250 km
Driving time: 5-6 hours
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- Day 2 -
The Ngaresero Waterfall Excursion
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Embark on a late afternoon hike to the Ngaresero Waterfall.
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Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery in the river gorge, the waterfalls offer a refreshing swim in a natural pool—an ideal way to cool off after your hike.
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Return to the lodge for dinner and a restful evening.
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Save your energy for the upcoming climb to Ol Doinyo Lengai's summit.
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Altitude: 600 m - 933 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 1-2 hours
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- Day 3 -
Midnight Ascent of Ol Doinyo Lengai
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Around midnight, depart for the base of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the world’s only active carbonatite volcano.
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Revered by the Maasai as the “Mountain of God,” this sacred peak offers a challenging yet rewarding climb.
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The trek features steep slopes and loose volcanic rock, demanding endurance and determination.
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Upon reaching the summit at dawn, witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Great Rift Valley and Lake Natron at 2,296 meters.
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The summit offers spectacular views of recent volcanic activity, including unique lava formations found nowhere else in the world.
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Altitude: 600 m - 2,962 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours​
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The Summit of Ol Doinyo Lengai (2,962 m)
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​After soaking in the panoramic scenery, begin your descent back to the base of the mountain.
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Due to the steep and challenging terrain, trekking poles are recommended.
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Return to your lodge to enjoy a well-deserved rest and recover for the remaining parts of your journey.
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Altitude: 2,962 m - 600 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 3-5 hours​
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Sunrise Lake Walk to Lake Natron
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Begin your day with a guided hike along the shores of Lake Natron, and watch the sunrise from behind the surrounding mountains.
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Marvel at the striking reflections on the lake’s surface and the sight of flamingos wading through its shallow waters.
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After breakfast back at the lodge, take some time to relax before starting the journey back to Arusha.
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Hiking distance: 4-6 km
Hiking time: 2-3 hours​​​​​​​​​​
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- Day 4 -
The Journey Back to Arusha
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The scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley includes opportunities to stop at viewpoints and local Maasai villages for a cultural experience.
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Upon arrival in Arusha, settle into your accommodation, enjoy a relaxing dinner, and prepare for the next leg of your adventure — climbing Mount Meru.
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Driving distance: 250 km
Driving time: 5-6 hours
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Mount Meru
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From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
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After breakfast, transfer to Momella Gate (1,500 m) in Arusha National Park.
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Here, your guide will handle registrations and permits before you begin your trek.
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The trail takes you through open grasslands and dense montane forests, offering frequent wildlife sightings, including giraffes, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys.
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The gradual ascent leads to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night.
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Altitude: 1,500 m - 2,500 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours
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From Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
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After a nourishing breakfast, depart from Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m) and continue your trek through the dense forest and into the heather zone.
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The trail becomes steeper as you approach Elephant Ridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro.
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Arrive at Saddle Hut (3,500 m) for lunch.
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Altitude: 2,500 m - 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking time: 3-5 hours
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Acclimatization Hike to Little Meru
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In the afternoon, take a short acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) and enjoy panoramic views of the Tanzanian plains and Mount Meru’s crater.
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Return to Saddle Hut (3,500 m) for dinner and an early night’s rest.
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Acclimatization hikes are a key component of a successful trek, offering a chance to adjust gradually to higher altitudes. These hikes help your body adapt to lower oxygen levels while providing opportunities to build mental resilience. Prioritizing acclimatization boosts your overall summit success rate and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Take these hikes seriously to ensure a safer and more fulfilling adventure.​​
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Altitude: 3,500 m - 3,820 m - 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 4 km
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
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- Day 7 -
The Final Climb: Socialist Peak (4,566 m)
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Begin your final ascent just after midnight.
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The trail to Socialist Peak (4,566 m) is rocky and requires careful navigation.
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As dawn breaks, you’ll reach the summit and be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and the expansive plains of East Africa.
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​​​​Altitude: 3,500 m - 4,566 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours
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The Descent Back to Miriakamba Hut
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After enjoying your achievement at the summit you will begin your descent back to Saddle Hut (3,500 m) for breakfast.
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After a brief rest, you'll continue your descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), where you’ll spend your final night on Mount Meru.
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​​​Descending is faster, but the trail remains steep and tough, especially after the extended morning trek. Be mindful of your pace to prevent exhaustion and maintain balance.​​
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​​​​Altitude: 4,566 m - 3,500 m - 2,500 m
Hiking distance: 13 km
Hiking time: 4-6 hours​​​​​​
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The Final Descent to Momella Gate
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After breakfast, embark on the final descent through the lush forest back to Momella Gate (1,500 m).
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Enjoy the last sightings of wildlife and lush Tanzanian landscapes surrounding you, as you complete your trek.
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At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate as a proud memento of your successful climb.
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Return to your accommodation in Arusha for an evening of relaxation, marking the end of your incredible Stunning Kilimanjaro adventure.
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Altitude: 2,500 m - 1,500 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 2-4 hours
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- Day 8 -
- Day 9 -
- Day 10 -
- Day 11 -
Keep Exploring
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After conquering two of Tanzania’s iconic peaks, why not discover its wildlife in the most legendary national parks, or unwind on Zanzibar’s pristine white-sand beaches?
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Extend your journey with a safari in Tarangire, Serengeti, or Ngorongoro Crater, or reward yourself with a Zanzibar beach retreat—where relaxation meets Swahili culture.
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Double Success!
You've achieved double success, conquering both Ol Doinyo Lengai & Mount Meru.
Included
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All entrance fees including government taxes.
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All activities (unless indicated as optional).
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All accommodations as mentioned in the itinerary.
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A professional driver and (local) mountain guides, including expert guidance and informative commentary.
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3 meals per day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Unlimited bottles of drinking water.
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Transportation during the entire itinerary.
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Pick-up and drop-off at the airport.
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Camping equipment and porter services.
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Official certificates issued by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA).​
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Excluded
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International and/or domestic flights.
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Tips (read Additional Advice).
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Visa (50 USD for Tanzania)
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Medical and/or travel insurance.
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Local SIM card.
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Personal expenses, such as souvenirs.
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Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and meals not specified as included.​
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Climbing gear (can be rented upon request).
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Medical evacuation by helicopter.
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Increases in taxes or park fees initiated by the government or other official authorities.​​​​​​​​​
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