Mount Meru & Historic Zanzibar
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and culture with a climb of Mount Meru and a historic visit to Zanzibar Island. Explore the historic Stone Town, relax on Nungwi Beach, visit Prison Island, and discover Zanzibar's spices on a Spice Tour. End the trip with a nature walk through Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, home to the endangered Red Colobus Monkeys. The ideal journey for travelers looking to combine adventure and culture.
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:
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Popularity:
A combined adventure featuring a mountain trek, followed by a cultural visit to the tropical island of Zanzibar.
10 days.
Popular among active travelers seeking the perfect combination of adventure and rich cultural exploration.
Estimated Price:
Details Mount Meru & Historic Zanzibar Itinerary
On request
At 4,566 meters, Tanzania's second-highest peak offers a distinctive trek through varied ecosystems, presenting a challenging but fulfilling journey, with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Arusha National Park along the way.
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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.
Requires good fitness and balance due to the steep trails, narrow ridges, and rugged terrain.
Shared mountain huts with bunk beds and private portable toilets.
Mount Meru
This exotic paradise off the coast of East Africa, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. From Zanzibar City's historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, its spice plantations, and its pristine beaches with turquoise waters, it presents the perfect tropical getaway.
Length of Stay:
Highlights;
Accommodations:
Explore More:
5 days.
Stone Town guided Tour.
Beach day at Nungwi Beach.
Traditional Spice Tour.
Jozani Forest guided Tour.
Prison Island guided Tour.
Bed & breakfast based hotel, and all-inclusive beachside resort.
On our What Awaits You on Zanzibar page.
Zanzibar
Mount Meru & Zanzibar: 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 -
The Start of Your East African Journey
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Your journey begins as you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK).
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A private transfer will take you to your accommodation in Arusha, the adventure hub of 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 Mount Meru ascent.
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Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest well before the start of your Mount Meru & Zanzibar adventure.
From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
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After breakfast, drive to Arusha National Park, where your adventure officially starts at Momella Gate (1,500 m).
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The trek takes you through open savannahs and lush forests, home to wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, colobus monkeys, and colorful bird species.
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Enjoy breathtaking views as you ascend toward Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), your first overnight stop.
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The hut offers basic amenities and spectacular sights of Mount Meru's crater — an absolute highlight en route.
Altitude: 1,500 m - 2,500 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 5-7 hours
- Day 2 -
- Day 3 -
From Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
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Leave behind the dense forest as you climb higher toward Elephant Ridge, where panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro come into sight.
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The trail steepens as you approach Saddle Hut (3,500 m), nestled at the base of the final ridge before the summit.
Altitude: 2,500 m - 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking duration: 3-5 hours
Acclimatization Hike to Little Meru
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To enhance your acclimatization process, take an optional hike to Little Meru (3,820 m), where your effort will be rewarded with sweeping views of Mount Meru's crater and the vast Tanzanian landscape.
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Enjoy a warm dinner at Saddle Hut (3,500 m), before resting in preparation for your summit attempt.
Acclimatization hikes are an essential part of high-altitude trekking. It helps your body adjust to lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. By ascending higher before returning to camp, you improve endurance and increase your chances of success. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and enjoy the views.
Altitude: 3,500 m - 3,820 m - 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 4 km
Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
The Final Ascent to Socialist Peak (4,566 m)
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Begin your final ascent around midnight, navigating a steep, rocky path toward Socialist Peak (4,566 m).
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As the sun rises over Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti plains, you'll experience one of the most breathtaking panoramas in East Africa.
Altitude: 3,500 m - 4,566 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking duration: 5-7 hours
- Day 4 -
The Descent Back to Miriakamba Hut
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After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Saddle Hut (3,500 m) for a break before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m) for a well-earned rest.
Descending may feel easier on the lungs, but it puts significant strain on your knees and muscles. After several days of climbing, fatigue can make steep sections challenging, so maintaining a steady pace is key and the usage of trekking poles is recommended.
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
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After breakfast, trek through the forest, spotting wildlife on your way to Momella Gate (1,500 m), where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
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A private transfer will take you back to Arusha, where you can enjoy the rest of the day relaxing, while looking back with satisfaction on a successfull Mount Meru experience.
Altitude: 2,500 m - 1,500 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 2-4 hours
Zanzibar
Welcome to Zanzibar – Stone Town
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In the morning you’ll board a domestic flight to the exotic island of Zanzibar.
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Upon arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA), enjoy a guided exploration of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Wander through narrow alleys, visit the House of Wonders, Darajani Market, and admire the blend of Swahili, Arabic, and European architecture.
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Cap off your day with a delicious Zanzibari dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views over the Indian Ocean before heading to your beachfront resort.
- Day 6 -
- Day 7 -
Paradise at Nungwi Beach
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Head to the northern coast of Zanzibar to experience the famous white sands and crystal-clear waters of Nungwi Beach.
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Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or taking a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.
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Indulge in Zanzibar's cuisine at one of the local beachside restaurants and visit a local fisherman's village to learn more about their cultural traditions or attend a dhow-building workshop.
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Witness a breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean, while tasting a fresh seafood dinner in Nungwi, before enjoying a peaceful night in your resort.
Traditional Spice Tour & Jozani Forest
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Begin your day with a visit to a spice farm, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the cultivation of cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg—the flavors that made Zanzibar globally renowned.
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Enjoy a spice-infused local lunch before heading to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, home to the endangered Red Colobus Monkeys.
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Enjoy the beautiful nature with a local guide and explore the mangrove swamp.
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Afterward, relax at your resort or visit the lively beaches of Jambiani or Paje for a sunset cocktail by the ocean.
- Day 8 -
- Day 9 -
Prison Island – Nature & History
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Take a short boat trip to Prison Island (Changuu Island), where you can explore the historic prison ruins and where you can interact with the giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old!
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Enjoy snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters before heading for lunch on the island or at a restaurant in Stone Town.
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Spend the afternoon at your leisure — shop for handcrafted souvenirs, take some time to relax at your resort, or unwind during a beachfront spa treatment.
Departure – The Final Moments on Zanzibar
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Before your flight takes off, take a final stroll along the beach, pick up some local Zanzibari spices and crafts, or enjoy a last taste of the Swahili cuisine.
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Your adventure ends with a transfer to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA), marking the conclusion of your Mount Meru & Historic Zanzibar beach holiday—a true East African experience filled with trekking adventures, cultural discoveries, and paradise-like relaxation on the exotic and white sandy beaches of Zanzibar.
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- Day 11 -
- Day 12 -
- Day 13 -
From Heights to the Horizon
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After trekking Mount Meru, you’ve already experienced Tanzania’s stunning landscapes.
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If you’re seeking more adventure, add a Serengeti safari to witness Africa’s magnificent animal kingdom up close before fully relaxing on Zanzibar.
A Story Worth Telling!
You have successfully summited Mount Meru and explored the rich history and paradise beaches of Zanzibar.
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 mountain guide, 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 to and from the base of the mountain.
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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).
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.