Mount Meru Tanzania landscape
Tanzania Combo

6-Day Tanzania Combo: Mount Meru & Safari

3 Days Climbing Mount Meru (4,566m) + 3 Days Safari in Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater. The ultimate adventure combo in Tanzania.

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Mount Meru - Tarangire - Ngorongoro

6-Day Tanzania Combo: Mount Meru & Safari

Tanzania Combo Package 6 Days / 5 Nights Arusha / Arusha 2-12 guests 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser

Why This Combo?

This is the ultimate Tanzania adventure combo — climb Africa's 5th highest peak, Mount Meru (4,566m), then descend into the wild for an unforgettable safari through Tarangire National Park and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Two epic experiences, one seamless itinerary.

6 Days
Duration
Tanzania
Destination
Arusha
Starting Point
Mount Meru + Safari
Safari Type
Moderate to Demanding
Difficulty
Full Board
Meals

Why This Combo?

Twin Adventure

Climb Africa's 5th highest peak then explore the wild — two epic experiences in one seamless itinerary.

Mount Meru Summit

4,566m with breathtaking sunrise views over Kilimanjaro — an unforgettable alpine experience.

Tarangire Wildlife

Famous for massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees — a photographer's dream.

Ngorongoro Crater

Descend into Africa's Eden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife.

Expert Crew

Certified mountain guides and professional safari drivers ensure your safety and enjoyment.

Unbeatable Value

Premium combo experience at the best price — mountain adventure plus world-class safari.

Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

Each day is carefully crafted to maximise your mountain and safari experience while ensuring comfort and safety. Below you will find a complete breakdown of every day.

Day 1

Arrive Arusha — Drive to Momella Gate — Hike to Mariakamba Hut (2,500m)

Full Day Drive: 1 hr Hike: 4-5 hrs Accommodation: Mariakamba Hut Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Arusha National Park. After registration at Momella Gate (1,500m), begin your trek through lush montane forest. The trail winds upward with glimpses of buffalo, giraffe, and colobus monkeys. Arrive at Mariakamba Hut (2,500m) for dinner and overnight.

Morning: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport. Meet your professional mountain guide and driver. Transfer to Arusha National Park (approximately 1 hour). The drive passes through Arusha town and the lush foothills of Mount Meru. At the park headquarters, your guide completes registration while you enjoy the views of Mount Meru's dramatic crater.
Afternoon: Begin your trek from Momella Gate (1,500m) into the montane rainforest. The trail climbs steadily through towering fig trees, ancient podocarpus, and dense undergrowth. Watch for colobus monkeys leaping through the canopy, and if you're lucky, forest buffalo or elephant in the distance. The 4-5 hour hike brings you to Mariakamba Hut (2,500m) situated in a clearing with views back over the Momella Lakes.
Evening: Settle into Mariakamba Hut. Enjoy a hearty dinner prepared by your mountain cook. Your guide will brief you on the next day's trek to Saddle Hut. Early bedtime recommended.
Arrival Montane Forest Mariakamba Hut
Day 2

Mariakamba Hut (2,500m) — Saddle Hut (3,570m)

Full Day Hike: 5-7 hrs Accommodation: Saddle Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, the trail climbs out of the forest zone into giant heather and moorland. The landscape transforms dramatically — open rolling hills with giant lobelias and groundsel plants. On a clear day, you'll see Kilimanjaro floating on the horizon. Arrive at Saddle Hut (3,570m) by mid-afternoon for acclimatisation and an early dinner.

Morning: Early breakfast at Mariakamba Hut. Depart by 7:00 AM as the trail climbs steadily out of the forest zone. The transition is dramatic — trees give way to giant heather (Erica arborea) up to 5 metres tall, draped in old man's beard lichen. The morning sun illuminates the eastern slopes of Meru's crater. Look back for stunning views of the Momella Lakes and the plains below.
Afternoon: The trail enters the moorland zone with giant lobelias and senecio plants dotting the landscape. This is one of the most beautiful sections of the trek. On clear days, Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) dominates the eastern horizon — a spectacular photo opportunity. Arrive at Saddle Hut (3,570m) by early afternoon. Rest and hydrate for the remainder of the day.
Evening: Early dinner at Saddle Hut followed by a comprehensive briefing for summit day. Your guide will check your gear, provide summit equipment (headlamp, gaiters), and review the safety procedures. Lights out by 7:00 PM — summit day starts at midnight.
Moorland Trek Giant Heather Acclimatisation
Day 3

Summit Day! Saddle Hut — Rhino Point — Socialist Peak (4,566m) — Descend

Full Day Summit: 8-12 hrs Accommodation: Mariakamba Hut or Momella Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The big day! Wake at midnight for tea and snacks before beginning the summit ascent. The trail climbs steep scree to Rhino Point (3,800m), then continues along the crater rim to Cobra Camp and finally Socialist Peak (4,566m). Witness an unforgettable sunrise over Kilimanjaro from the summit. After photos and celebration, descend all the way to Mariakamba Hut or Momella Gate.

Morning: Wake at midnight for tea, biscuits, and light snacks. Depart Saddle Hut by 1:00 AM headlamps on, following your guide in single file. The trail climbs steeply through rocky terrain and volcanic scree. Reach Rhino Point (3,800m) after 2-3 hours — a dramatic ridge on the crater rim. Continue along the crater edge to Cobra Camp (4,350m) as the sky begins to lighten. The final push to Socialist Peak (4,566m) rewards you with a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro.
Afternoon: Celebrate at the summit with photos, then begin the long descent. Return via Saddle Hut for a rest and hot lunch. Continue descending through the moorland and giant heather zones back to Mariakamba Hut (2,500m). The descent takes 4-6 hours depending on conditions.
Evening: Arrive at Mariakamba Hut or continue to Momella Gate depending on energy levels. A well-earned dinner and celebration with your crew. Summit certificates are presented by your head guide.
Summit Day Socialist Peak 4,566m Sunrise over Kilimanjaro Descend
Day 4

Drive to Tarangire National Park — Afternoon Game Drive

Full Day Drive: 2-3 hrs Game Drive: 3-4 hrs Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a well-deserved sleep-in, transfer from Arusha to Tarangire National Park. Known for its massive elephant herds (the largest in Tanzania) and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers a classic African safari experience. Enjoy an afternoon game drive as the golden light illuminates the landscape. Overnight at a Tarangire safari lodge or tented camp.

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and rest after your mountain adventure. Check out from your Arusha hotel and depart for Tarangire National Park (approximately 2-3 hours drive). The journey passes through Maasai villages and rolling savannah. Your safari driver-guide provides commentary on the ecosystems and wildlife you will encounter.
Afternoon: Lunch at your lodge. Enter Tarangire National Park (2,850 sq km) for an afternoon game drive (3-4 hours). Tarangire is famous for having the highest concentration of elephants in Tanzania — herds of up to 300 individuals are common. The park is also known for its ancient baobab trees, some over 1,000 years old. Wildlife includes lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and over 550 bird species.
Evening: Return to your Tarangire safari lodge or tented camp. Enjoy dinner under the stars with views of the baobab-dotted landscape. Many lodges offer sundowner drinks overlooking a waterhole where wildlife comes to drink at dusk.
Elephant Herds Baobab Trees Game Drive Safari Lodge
Day 5

Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Tour — Descend 600m into the Crater

Full Day Drive: 1.5 hrs Crater Game Drive: 5-6 hrs Accommodation: Ngorongoro/Lake Manyara Area Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend 600 metres into the Ngorongoro Crater — the world's largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. The crater floor is a natural sanctuary for over 25,000 animals including the Big Five. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Hippo Pool and a full day of game viewing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Morning: Early breakfast at your Tarangire lodge. Depart for Ngorongoro Conservation Area (approximately 1.5 hours drive). Ascend the crater rim through lush highland forests. At the entrance gate, your guide completes registration before descending the steep 600m descent into the crater. The floor of the Ngorongoro Crater (260 sq km) opens up before you — a natural amphitheatre teeming with wildlife. Morning game drive across the crater floor searching for lions, black rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and more.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool — watch hippos wallowing and yawning just metres away. Continue the game drive to other areas of the crater floor including Lake Magadi, a shallow soda lake frequented by flamingos. The crater is home to approximately 25,000 large mammals including the densest predator population in Africa. Keep your camera ready for lions on the hunt, hyenas patrolling, and cheetahs scanning the plains.
Evening: Ascend the crater wall in the late afternoon. Transfer to your lodge on the crater rim or near Lake Manyara for dinner and overnight. Many lodges offer stunning sunset views over the crater.
Ngorongoro Crater Big Five UNESCO Heritage Hippo Pool
Day 6

Morning Game Drive — Return to Arusha — Departure

Full Day Drive: 3 hrs Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After a final breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Manyara area or a return visit to Tarangire depending on your itinerary. Spot tree-climbing lions, elephants, and vast flocks of flamingos. After lunch, transfer back to Arusha for your airport drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight. End of tour.

Morning: Final breakfast at the lodge. Morning game drive in the Lake Manyara area or a short return visit to Tarangire National Park. Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely morning at your lodge soaking in the last views of the African savannah.
Afternoon: Lunch en route or at a local restaurant. Transfer back to Arusha (approximately 3 hours drive). Stop for souvenir shopping in Arusha if time permits — the cultural heritage centre and Maasai craft markets offer beautiful handmade items.
Evening: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport for your departure flight. End of tour. We recommend booking flights departing after 6:00 PM to allow ample time for the drive.
Lake Manyara Tree-Climbing Lions Airport Drop-off

Included / Excluded

Included
  • All Park Permits & Fees
  • Accommodation (Huts & Lodges)
  • Professional Guides & Driver
  • Ground Transport
Excluded
  • Visa
  • Insurance
  • Personal Spending
  • Tips
Transport
  • Travel With 4x4 Safari Vehicle

Destinations

Mount Meru Arusha National Park

Mount Meru

Tanzania's second-highest peak (4,566m) located in Arusha National Park. A stunning volcanic cone offering spectacular trekking through five distinct vegetation zones, with breathtaking sunrise views over Kilimanjaro.

4,566m Summit Arusha National Park 5 Vegetation Zones
Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park

Famous for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The Tarangire River draws wildlife from across the ecosystem, making it one of Tanzania's premier game-viewing destinations.

Elephant Herds Baobab Trees 550+ Bird Species
Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera. The crater floor is home to over 25,000 animals including the Big Five, making it one of Africa's most unique wildlife destinations.

UNESCO Heritage Big Five 25,000+ Animals

Photo Gallery

Location

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is Mount Meru compared to Kilimanjaro?

Mount Meru is a technical climb requiring some scrambling, making it more challenging than Kilimanjaro in sections. However, it's shorter (3-4 days vs 7-9 days). Good fitness is essential.

What is the best time for this Tanzania combo?

The dry seasons from June to October and December to March offer the best conditions for both climbing and safari. June-August is peak season with clear skies and excellent wildlife viewing.

What physical fitness is required?

You should be in good physical condition with regular cardio exercise. The summit day involves 8-12 hours of hiking at altitude. Previous hiking experience is recommended.

What should I pack for the mountain and safari?

Pack warm layers for the mountain (temperatures drop below freezing at summit), waterproof jacket, hiking boots, gaiters, headlamp, sleeping bag rated to -10C, sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.

How do I prevent altitude sickness on Mount Meru?

We follow a slow 'pole pole' (slowly slowly) pace with proper acclimatisation. Our guides monitor your health constantly. Diamox is available on request. Stay hydrated and inform your guide of any symptoms immediately.

Is there an age restriction for this combo?

Mount Meru climbing has a minimum age of 12 years. There is no upper age limit, but a medical certificate from your doctor is required for climbers over 60.

What type of safari vehicle is used?

We use custom 4x4 Safari Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing, window seats for every guest, and charging ports.

What accommodation is included?

Mountain huts on Mount Meru (basic but clean with mattresses), and safari lodges or tented camps with en-suite bathrooms during the safari portion. Upgrades available.

Are meals included throughout?

Yes, full board meals are included. On the mountain you get hearty hot meals prepared by our camp cook. Safari lodges serve a mix of international and local cuisine.

What park fees are included?

All park entry fees, conservation fees, and camping/hut fees for Mount Meru are included. Safari park fees for Tarangire and Ngorongoro are also covered.

Are airport transfers included?

Yes, airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport are included in the package.

What is the group size?

Our groups range from 2 to 12 climbers on the mountain, and 2 to 8 guests on safari. Private departures are available.

Can I add a day trip to Zanzibar?

Yes, we can arrange an extension to Zanzibar for beach relaxation after your combo. Flights from Arusha to Zanzibar take about 1 hour.

What wildlife will I see on safari?

In Tarangire you'll see massive elephant herds, baobab trees, lions, leopards, and zebras. In Ngorongoro you'll see the Big Five, wildebeest, hippos, and flamingos.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering mountain rescue, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal belongings is mandatory.

Ready for the Ultimate Tanzania Combo?

Book your 6-day adventure climbing Mount Meru and exploring Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater.