14-Days Mt. Meru Trekking Safari and Zanzibar

Tour Overview

Embark on an extraordinary 14-day Mt. Meru Trekking Safari and Zanzibar adventure that seamlessly combines Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, thrilling wildlife encounters, and serene beach escapes. This well-rounded itinerary takes you from the challenging summit of Mount Meru to the idyllic shores of Zanzibar, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Begin your journey with an exhilarating trek to Mount Meru’s summit (4,566 m), situated in the heart of Arusha National Park. Ascend through lush tropical forests, captivating moorlands, and along a narrow ridge that provides awe-inspiring views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the park’s diverse terrain. This trek is ideal for acclimatization and promises spectacular scenery and wildlife encounters.14 Days Mt. Meru Trekking Safari and Zanzibar

After your climb, transition into a classic safari experience starting at Tarangire National Park. Known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds, this park offers exceptional bird watching and an authentic African safari ambiance.

Next, explore the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best locations in Africa to witness the ‘Big Five.’ Marvel at the crater’s unique ecosystem, which is home to a dense concentration of wildlife in a stunning natural setting.14 Days Mt. Meru Trekking Safari and Zanzibar

Conclude your adventure on the picturesque island of Zanzibar, where pristine beaches and turquoise waters await. Enjoy the tranquility of the Indian Ocean, with opportunities to snorkel, dive, and explore vibrant marine life. Zanzibar’s rich culture and history add a unique dimension to your tropical retreat.

This 14-day journey offers a blend of high-altitude trekking, unforgettable safari experiences, and peaceful beach relaxation, making it the ultimate Tanzanian adventure. Book now for an experience filled with diverse landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and cherished memories.

Day 1

Arrival in Arusha – Orientation and Warm Welcome

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, your designated driver will be ready to greet you and provide a private transfer to your selected hotel in Arusha. Subsequently, your knowledgeable guide will conduct a comprehensive briefing, offering insights into the upcoming journey. To kick off the adventure, an evening welcome dinner awaits you. Enjoy an overnight stay at Mount Meru Hotel or Tulia Hotel, embracing the start of your exploration (Dinner included).

Day 2

Arusha to Miriakamba Hut Trek (2,514m) – 4 to 6 Hours

Commence your adventure with an early morning departure from Arusha, heading to the Momella Gate (1,500m) of Arusha National Park. Once through the park entry formalities, our trek kicks off, guided by a dedicated park ranger ensuring your safety throughout the journey.

The trail winds through expansive grasslands, offering glimpses of buffalo, warthogs, and other wildlife. As we ascend, the path transforms into a gradual climb through a lush tropical montane forest. A lunch break is scheduled near the impressive Fig Tree Arch. Continuing through less dense forests teeming with diverse birdlife and black-and-white colobus monkeys, we aim for Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) by late afternoon.

Weather permitting, the evening affords spectacular views of towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. Miriakamba Hut, nestled in a picturesque grassy clearing, provides a tranquil setting to relish the last rays of the sun and admire the panoramic vista across the plains toward Kilimanjaro. Enjoy an overnight stay at Miriakamba Hut, surrounded by nature’s beauty (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner included).

Day 3

Miriakamba Hut (2514m) to Saddle Hut (3570m) Hike – 4 to 5 Hours

Embark on a short yet steep ascent from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle just below Little Meru. The trail leads us through lush montane forests, and we reach the notable Elephant Ridge halfway through the journey. This vantage point offers a splendid view of the summit ridge and the expansive crater floor below.

Continuing through the enchanting landscape adorned with giant heather and captivating moorland vegetation, we make our way to Saddle Hut (3,570m) for a well-deserved lunch break. The hut provides a strategic location for taking in the surroundings. Spend the night at Saddle Hut, surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountain (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner included).

Day 4

Saddle Hut (3570m) to Socialist Peak (4566m) Summit and Return to Miriakamba Hut (2514m) – 10 to 12 Hours

Embark on an early start around 2 am for an exhilarating ascent. The steep climb takes us to Rhino Point (3,800m), and from this juncture, the path becomes more challenging, demanding full concentration and sure-footedness. As the sun rises, we traverse a wavy ridge of ash and rock, reaching Cobra Point (4,350m). The panoramic view is awe-inspiring, featuring the crater rim’s cliffs, a cinder cone rising from the crater floor, and the silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro seemingly floating on morning clouds. On clear days, the Rift Valley unfolds to the west.

The summit push to ‘Socialist Peak’ (4566m) takes about an hour on a good but steep trail, which may be slippery in places. Capture stunning summit photos before descending back to Saddle Hut. The return journey to Rhino Point in the morning light, along a narrow ridge, offers a different charm.

After a hearty breakfast at Saddle Hut, descend to Miriakamba Hut, retracing the path with newfound memories of your successful summit. Enjoy an overnight stay at Miriakamba Hut, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountain (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner included).

Day 5

Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Arusha Hotel – Approximately 3 Hours Hike

Embark on the direct route, traversing open grassland and mixed forests with ample opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. This trail provides splendid panoramic views of the crater and the expansive plains of the national park. Expect to reach the Momella Gate by late morning, where a heartfelt farewell awaits from our incredible crew, marked with traditional singing and dancing.

Following the farewells, a drive will take you back to Arusha, where you’ll be accommodated at Hotel Ilboru or a similar category establishment. Reflect on the unforgettable journey while enjoying an overnight stay (Breakfast included).

Day 6

Tarangire National Park – Elephant Haven and Transfer to Arusha – 135 km, 2.5 Hours Drive

Commence your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a journey to Tarangire National Park. Nestled slightly off the main safari route, Tarangire spans approximately 2,600 km², offering a serene and picturesque setting. Renowned for its captivating elephant gatherings, diverse birdlife, and an authentic safari ambiance, Tarangire is a hidden gem in northern Tanzania.

Home to a plethora of wildlife, Tarangire hosts all of Tanzania’s major animals, including the majestic African elephants and towering giraffes, making it a sought-after destination for global visitors. Beyond these iconic species, the park is a haven for three endangered animals unique to Tanzania: the fringe-eared oryx with its graceful horns, the towering greater kudu, and the diminutive Ashy starling.

After a day of exploration, transfer to Arusha, covering a distance of 135 km with a 2.5-hour drive. Rest and rejuvenate at Eileen’s Inn or a similar category accommodation, reflecting on the wonders of Tarangire National Park during an overnight stay (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner included).

Day 7

Commence your day with an early breakfast, followed by a private safari guide picking you up for an extraordinary adventure. Head directly to the gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater – an almost 600 m deep caldera with a diameter of up to 19 km and an area of 264 km². The heavily forested rim rises 610 meters above the caldera floor, reaching an elevation of up to 2,286 meters.

The Ngorongoro Crater, surrounded by scenic highlands, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. The volcanic crater serves as a stunning backdrop to some of Africa’s most fertile and richest pastureland. The caldera floor is predominantly open grassland, offering the best wildlife viewing opportunities in East Africa, famously known as the habitat for the ‘Big Five’ – elephant, black rhino, leopard, buffalo, and lion. Additionally, the area hosts a variety of other wildlife, including zebra, warthog, wildebeest, gazelles, and boasts the world’s densest population of lion.

Indulge in an idyllic picnic amidst this wildlife haven. After thrilling hours of exploration, your guide will drive you back to the hotel. Enjoy an overnight stay at Hotel Ilboru or a similar category establishment, reflecting on the day’s remarkable encounters (Breakfast | Lunch included).

Day 8

Transfer to Airport – Flight to Zanzibar – Drive to Matemwe on the North East Coast

Embark on an early morning journey to the airport for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, a designated transfer will be ready to drive you to your accommodation in Matemwe, where you’ll unwind for the next few nights. Matemwe offers an idyllic setting with chalk-white sandy beaches, crystal-clear azure blue sea, and a vibrant coral reef.

Zanzibar, situated in the Indian Ocean, comprises the main islands of Unguja (known as Zanzibar) and Pemba, along with numerous smaller islands. The island is a haven of natural beauty and cultural richness, featuring a warm and sunny climate throughout the year. Zanzibar’s captivating history, shaped by Arab sultans, Portuguese seafarers, slave traders, and European explorers, has left an indelible mark on its character. The friendly locals and delicious Swahili cuisine, with an abundance of seafood, further enhance the island’s charm.

Enjoy an overnight stay at the Magic Boutique Hotel, immersing yourself in the tranquility of Matemwe (Breakfast included).

Day 9

9-13: Beach Retreat – Enjoy Island Activities

Savor the next few days in pure relaxation on the pristine beaches of Matemwe. If you’re inclined to stay active, indulge in a variety of excursions available on the island. Explore the historic ‘Stone Town,’ wander through the Jozani Forest, discover the unique Prison Island, or immerse yourself in the aromatic spice plantations. For those seeking adventure, the island offers a plethora of activities such as hiking, bird watching, windsurfing, kite surfing, sea kayaking, and sailing.

Dive into the enchanting underwater world by exploring the fantastic coral reefs, perfect for both snorkeling and diving. At certain times of the year, you may be fortunate enough to encounter dolphins, green turtles, and even majestic whale sharks. The possibilities for island activities are abundant, ensuring a delightful and memorable experience during your stay.

Relish the evenings with an overnight stay at the Magic Boutique Hotel, where the tranquil atmosphere complements the beauty of Matemwe (Breakfast included).

Day 14

Transfer to Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ) – Departure

Enjoy some leisure time before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, a transfer will be arranged to take you back to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) for your international journey homeward (Breakfast included).

Please note that the program may be subject to changes due to special events, force majeure, or weather conditions.

Legends: B = Breakfast

This tour is also available for individual travelers at an additional cost or for your group on dates other than those listed.

Duration: 14 days

Costs:

  • €2,990 per person
  • Group size: Minimum 2 persons (all tour dates are guaranteed with a minimum group size of only two persons)
  • €440 for a single room supplement

What’s Included:

  • Transfer to and from the airport
  • All transfers within Tanzania
  • Accommodation with breakfast in Arusha and Zanzibar
  • Hotel overnight stays, including three meals during the safari tour
  • Transport in a 4 × 4 safari vehicle (guaranteed window seat)
  • Professional, English-speaking safari guide
  • Professional, English-speaking local mountain guide
  • Camping team (cook & porter)
  • Three meals and drinking water on the trekking tour
  • All national park fees

Not Included:

  • All international flights
  • Flight from Arusha to Zanzibar
  • Trips in Zanzibar
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks other than water
  • Visa fees (US $50)
  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
  • Personal travel insurance
14 Days Mt. Meru Trekking Safari & Zanzibar

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