Mount Meru & Northern Tanzania Safari
Experience an unforgettable combination of adventure and wildlife with a climb of Mount Meru, followed by a safari in northern Tanzania. The trek to the summit of Mount Meru offers stunning views and a challenging route through lush forests and rugged slopes. After the climb, embark on a safari in northern Tanzania, where you'll encounter the majestic nature of Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. This journey offers the perfect balance between adventure and wildlife, giving you the opportunity to summit one of Tanzania's most beautiful mountains and spot Africa’s iconic wildlife.
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).
Tour Type:
Total Duration:
Popularity:
Combined package of a private and guided trekking to Mount Meru's summit and a wildlife Safari in the renowned National Parks of northern Tanzania.
8 days, with 3 nights on Mount Meru.
A popular choice for adventurers seeking two unique experiences, combining a physical challenge with the thrill of unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Estimated Price:
Details Mount Meru & Northern Tanzania Safari Itinerary
On request
Mount Meru
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.
Starting Point:
Hiking Duration:
Hiking Distance:
Elevation Gain:
Highest Point:
Difficulty Level:
Accommodation:
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.
"Safari" literally means "journey" in Swahili. Embark on an adventure in the renowned national parks of northern Tanzania, where vast savannas, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife come together. Spot the Big Five, and witness the Circle of Life and the Great Migration.
Starting Point:
Safari Duration:
National Parks:
Accommodation:
Explore More:
From your accommodation in
the Lake Manyara area.
3 days.
The Ngorongoro Crater.
Tarangire National Park.
Lake Manyara National Park.
Full board lodges, including swimming pool, restaurant & bar.
On our All You Need to Know About Safari page.
Safari
Mount Meru & Safari: 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.
Mount Meru
- Day 1 -
Your Adventure Begins in Arusha
-
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), your transfer will be ready to take you to your chosen accommodation in Arusha.
-
Meet your experienced guide for a preparational briefing and gear check to ensure you are fully prepared for the upcoming climb.
-
Enjoy dinner and rest before your Mount Meru trekking and safari adventure begins.
From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
-
After breakfast, transfer to Momella Gate (1,500 m) in Arusha National Park.
-
Here, your guide will handle the necessary registrations and permits.
-
Begin your trek through open grasslands and lush forests, where you may encounter wildlife such as giraffes, buffalos, colobus monkeys, and a variety of birds.
-
Arrive in the late afternoon at Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), which offers basic amenities and breathtaking views of Mount Meru’s crater, where you spend your first night.
Altitude: 1,500 m - 2,500 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours
- Day 2 -
- Day 3 -
From Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
-
Start your day with breakfast at Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m) before ascending along a scenic forested trail.
-
As the path steepens toward Elephant Ridge, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
-
Reach Saddle Hut (3,500 m), nestled beneath the final ridge.
Altitude: 2,500 m - 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking time: 3-5 hours
Acclimatization Hike to Little Meru
-
After lunch, you will take an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) for breathtaking panoramic views over the valley, before returning to Saddle Hut (3,500 m) for dinner and some time to rest.
Acclimatization hikes play a crucial role in allowing your body to adjust to lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes, reducing risk of altitude sickness, and improving your summit success rate. These short treks with gradual altitude gains also help climbers build a better endurance and confidence. Taking these hikes seriously is essential for a safer, more comfortable, and rewarding climbing experience.
Altitude: 3,500 m - 3,820 m - 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 4 km
Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
Sunrise at Socialist Peak (4,566 m)
-
Begin your summit push around midnight.
-
The steep and rocky trail requires careful navigation in the dark.
-
Upon reaching Socialist Peak (4,566 m), witness a spectacular sunrise over Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape, while celebrating your achievement.
Altitude: 3,500 m - 4,566 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 5-7 hours
- Day 4 -
The Descent Back to Miriakamba Hut
-
Descend back to Saddle Hut (3,500 m) for a short rest, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m) for your final night on the mountain.
Although descending is faster than ascending, it can be just as challenging. Steep and uneven trails require careful footing to prevent strain on the knees and legs, especially after the summit push. Due to pacing yourself and using trekking poles for stability you can help reduce your body's impact.
Altitude: 4,566 m - 3,500 m - 2,500 m
Hiking distance: 13 km
Hiking duration: 4-6 hours
- Day 5 -
The Final Descent to Momella Gate
-
After breakfast, trek down through the forest to Momella Gate (1,500 m).
-
Enjoy your final wildlife sightings before receiving your official summit certificate.
-
A transfer will take you to your accommodation near Lake Manyara for relaxation and dinner.
Altitude: 2,500 m - 1,500 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 2-4 hours
Safari
The Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Density
-
Depart this morning for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
-
The drive takes approximately two hours, ascending into the highlands with stunning views.
-
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day safari.
-
This UNESCO World Heritage wonder is home to an incredible high concentration of wildlife, including elephants, lions, zebras, wildebeests, and you'll possibly witness the endangered black rhinoceros.
-
Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the crater, and an afternoon of exploring the crater’s grounds, before returning to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Day 6 -
- Day 7 -
The Diverse Ecosystem of Tarangire National Park
-
Early morning departure for the entrance of Tarangire National Park, where your guide will handle park entry permits.
-
This park, famous for its large elephant herds and towering baobab trees, has all kind of diverse landscapes.
-
From savannah grasslands, and open woodlands, to rocky hills and granite outcrops, and even swamps and wetlands serving as a refuge for animals during the dry season.
-
Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated site while observing wildlife at a nearby water source.
-
In the late afternoon, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Last Day of Safari at Lake Manyara National Park
-
After breakfast, your guide will drive you to Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife.
-
With three-quarters of the park covered in water, it is a paradise for flamingos and other aquatic species.
-
Following a picnic lunch, explore the park’s lush forests and open plains, keeping an eye out for giraffes, hippos, and elephants.
-
In the late afternoon, you will leave the park and return to Arusha.
-
Depending on your flight schedule or additional travel plans, this marks the end of your unforgettable Mount Meru & Safari adventure.
- Day 8 -
- Day 9 -
- Day 10 -
- Day 11 -
Why Stop Now?
-
You’ve conquered Mount Meru and experienced Tanzania’s wildlife wonders, but there’s still more to see!
-
Consider a Zanzibar extension, where pristine beaches, rich Swahili culture, and a laid-back atmosphere await.
A Remarkable Milestone!
You’ve experienced the beauty of Northern Tanzania's wildlands and the heights of Mount Meru.
Included
-
All entrance fees including government taxes.
-
All activities (unless indicated as optional).
-
All accommodations as mentioned in the itinerary.
-
A professional driver, mountain guide and safari guide, including expert guidance and informative commentary.
-
3 meals per day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
-
Unlimited bottles of drinking water.
-
Transportation during the entire itinerary.
-
Pick-up and drop-off at the airport.
-
Camping equipment and porter services.
-
Official certificates issued by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA).
Excluded
-
International and/or domestic flights.
-
Tips (read Additional Advice).
-
Visa (50 USD for Tanzania)
-
Medical and/or travel insurance.
-
Local SIM card.
-
Personal expenses, such as souvenirs.
-
Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and meals not specified as included.
-
Climbing gear (can be rented upon request).
-
Medical evacuation by helicopter.
-
Increases in taxes or park fees initiated by the government or other official authorities.