11 Days of the combined trekking tour of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru
From $. 4,200 USD* / 24/7 service / 13 days
*Price p.p. incl. transfers, accommodation, food, drinks, guides, tents and park fees. Excl. International flight (based on six persons)
The combined trekking tour of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru
Kilimanjaro is home to unique flora and fauna. The lower slopes are covered with lush rainforests inhabited by monkeys, elephants, and diverse bird species. As trekkers ascend, they encounter the fascinating moorland zone with its iconic giant heathers and lobelias. The alpine desert zone near the summit features hardy plant species adapted to the harsh conditions.
Mount Meru is a stunning peak that often serves as a training ground for climbers aspiring to scale Kilimanjaro. The mountain is known for its dramatic landscapes, including lush forests, rocky ridges, and the impressive Meru Crater. With its distinctive volcanic cone shape, Mount Meru offers a different climbing experience compared to Kilimanjaro.
The combined trek of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru is more than just a physical challenge; it is an immersive adventure filled with stunning natural beauty, cultural insights, and unforgettable memories. Climbing these iconic peaks represents personal achievement, a connection with nature, and a deep appreciation for Tanzania’s stunning landscapes.
The combined trekking tour of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru is an incredible adventure for trekking enthusiasts looking to experience the majesty of Tanzania’s highest peaks. Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is the tallest mountain in Africa, while Mount Meru, with an elevation of 4,566 meters (15,275 feet), is the second highest in Tanzania. Both mountains are located in stunning national parks, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural experiences.
This journey is not just about reaching the summits; it is an exploration of Tanzania’s natural beauty, its unique wildlife, and the vibrant culture of the local communities. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect when undertaking this exciting trekking adventure.
Whether it’s the thrill of reaching Uhuru Peak’s summit at Kilimanjaro, the enchanting views from Mount Meru, or the rich cultural encounters along the way, this journey caters to the passionate adventurer, nature lover, and cultural explorer alike.
Day 1: Arrival At Kilimanjaro International Airport
After clearing customs and immigration, you will be greeted by your safari guide. Transfer to your accommodation in Arusha to check in and freshen up. We have suggested bellow a comfortable accommodations based on your budget from 3 stars, 4stars or 5stars.
If you arrive in morning time, you will have rest at your hotel and after lunch, take a compliment short tour of Arusha town. Visit the local market for an authentic experience, and if time permits, visit the Arusha Declaration Museum to learn about Tanzania’s history. Experience the local culture by interacting with the friendly locals.
Evening enjoy a welcome dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant to try local dishes like NyamaChoma(grilled meat) or/and Ugali(cornmeal).
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 2: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts
- Elevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart Arusha for Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife – giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo – is high. We climb steadily through the rain forest until the reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade.
Day 3: Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts
- Elevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
- Habitat: Heath
We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization.
Day 4: Saddle Huts to Summit
- Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Summit to Miriakamba Huts
- Elevation: 14,977 ft to 8,250 ft
- Distance: 13 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Heath
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our climb to the summit. The trail is steep to Rhino Point and then Cobra Point. The path continues along the ridge of ash and rock to the summit – Socialist Peak. Here we enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and the sunrise before returning to Miriakamba Huts.
Day 5: Miriakamba Huts To Momella Gate
- Elevation: 11,712 ft to 4,921 ft
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
On our last day, we descend quickly through the tropical rainforest to Momella Gate. At the base of the mountain, our vehicle will meet us and drive us back to the hotel.
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 6: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
- Time: 5-7 hours
- Altitude: Start at 1,600 m (5,249 ft), ascend to 2,980 m (9,777 ft)
The trek begins at Machame Gate, where climbers register and go through a briefing. The trail initially passes through lush rainforests filled with unique vegetation and wildlife. Hikers can expect to see various bird species, monkeys, and vibrant plants. The ascent to Machame Camp offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 7: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: Acclimatization, ascend to 3,850 m (12,631 ft)
The third day involves a shorter hike as acclimatization is crucial. The path leads through moorland, with spectacular views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak. Upon arrival at Shira Camp, trekkers can relax and enjoy the stunning sunset.
Day 8: Shira Camp to Lava Tower, then to Barranco Camp
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Time: 6-8 hours
- Altitude: Ascend to Lava Tower at 4,600 m (15,091 ft) and descend to 3,960 m (12,992 ft)
On this day, trekkers tackle the Lava Tower, an impressive rock formation that serves as a great acclimatization point. After reaching the tower, the descent to Barranco Camp takes hikers through the Barranco Wall, a challenging yet rewarding segment offering expansive views of the landscape.
Day 9: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: Ascend to 4,030 m (13,220 ft)
The fourth day involves climbing the Barranco Wall, where trekkers navigate steep sections using fixed ropes. This part of the trek provides an exhilarating experience and offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys. After a careful descent, climbers make their way to Karanga Camp, the last water source before the summit.
Day 10: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Distance: 7 km (4 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: Ascend to 4,640 m (15,223 ft)
This day is relatively short, providing an opportunity for climbers to rest. As you ascend to Barafu Camp, the climate changes and the scenery become more barren. Barafu serves as the base camp for the summit attempt, and it’s critical to rest well before the long and challenging day ahead.
Day 11: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp
- Distance: 14 km (8 miles)
- Time: 12-14 hours
- Altitude: Summit at 5,895 m (19,341 ft) and descend to 3,100 m (10,171 ft)
Summit day begins with a midnight wake-up call. Climbers start their trek in the dark to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. This is the ultimate reward of the climb, with spectacular views from the roof of Africa. The descent back to Mweka Camp can be exhausting, but the sense of achievement fuels each step.
Day 12: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Altitude: Descend to 1,640 m (5,379 ft)
The final day involves a descent through the rainforest back to Mweka Gate, where climbers sign out. Here, it’s time to celebrate the successful summit attempt and receive certificates. Many trekkers choose to spend a night in Moshi or Arusha to unwind after their journey.
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 13: Departure:
Late morning breakfast, them you will have city tour and have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in local craft shops.
Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or proceed with safari tour or flight to Zanzibar.
| What Included on the Package | What Excluded on the Package |
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Kilimanjaro Mountain Packing List
Communal equipment (tents, food, utensils, etc.) is provided. You are responsible for bringing the required, recommended and optional personal gear and equipment listed below. The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack. Be selective in what you take with you. Our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs. (15 kgs) of your personal belongings.
Clothing:
- 4-5 Pairs of underwear
- Top and bottom base layer – Icebreaker (Women) or SmartWool (Men)
- 3-4 Short sleeve and 1-2 long sleeve trekking shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of hiking trousers
- 1 Fleece jacket – Helly Hansen (Men) or The North Face (Women)
- 1 Insulated winter jacket – Arc’Teryx Atom (Men) or North Face Nuptse (Women)
- 1 Insulated trekking trousers
- 1 Hardshell jacket – North Face Resolve Resolve (Men) and North Face Venture 2 (Women)
- Lightweight raingear
Headgear:
- Sun hat, ideally with a neck cover
- Warm beanie or fleece headband
- Bandana or neck gaiter
- Headlamp – PETZL Tikka
- Sunglasses
Hands and Walking:
- Lightweight inner gloves – New Balance Lightweight Gloves
- Warm outer gloves/mitts – Gore-Tex Gloves (Men) or Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (Women)
- Adjustable trekking poles – Black Diamond Alpine
Footwear:
- Mid-weight hiking boots – Salomon Quest (Women) or KEEN Targhee (Men)
- Camp trainers (Men) / Trekking sandals (Women)
- 4-5 Pairs of trekking socks – SmartWool or Bridgedale
- 1 Pair of warm/thick trekking socks
- Bags and Daypack (click for details)
- 80-90L Waterproof duffle bag – North Face Base Camp
- 20-30L Daypack – Osprey Talon 22
- Daypack raincover
- Travel bag organisers (optional)
Sleeping Accessories:
- 4-Season sleeping bag – Marmot Trestles or Hyke & Byke Unisex
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
General Accessories:
- Large volume water bottle or hydration bladder – Platypus Hydration Bladder for backpack
- Water Purification Tablets
- Baby wipes
- Sweat-resistant suncream
- Blister plasters
- Insect repellant
- General medications (Paracetamol, Imodium)
- Pee bottle (optional)
Technology:
- Camera
- GoPro (optional)
- Solar Backpack Charger (optional)
- Spare batteries and camera memory card
- Kindle with backlight (optional)
Other Bits and Bobs
- Energy bars
- Energy drink supplement
- Ziplock bags for important possessions (passport, money, phone, etc.)
- Trekking towel
- Toiletries, including one roll of toilet paper
- Passport, visa, insurance, yellow fever card (if applicable)
- Small lock for your duffle bag.
Important Information’s to know:
- Children under 10 years are not allowed to Summit Kilimanjaro.
- The duration of transfers/walking are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions and customers fitness.
- A Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory when enters Tanzania.
- Visas are available on arrival. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Preparation for the Climb
Physical Preparation
Getting in shape for the Kilimanjaro climb is crucial. Engage in a well-rounded fitness program, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking practice. Aim for at least three to six months of preparation:
- Cardio Training: Engage in activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. Gradually increase your duration and intensity.
- Strength Training: Focus on building strength in your legs, back, and core to ease the physical demands of the trek. Squats, lunges, and leg presses are beneficial.
- Hiking Practice: Go on regular hikes, both on flat and inclined terrains, to prepare your body for the conditions you will encounter on Kilimanjaro.
Mental Preparation
Climbing Kilimanjaro can be as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Preparing mentally involves:
- Researching the Climb: Understand the route, what to expect in terms of altitude sickness, and the physical demands.
- Setting Realistic Goals: Know your limits and be prepared for the possibility of needing to descend if necessary.
- Practicing Mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mental resilience, such as meditation or yoga, to prepare for the mental aspect of high-altitude trekking.
Our Customers Speak For Us!
Spotted in Serengeti Safaris has been helping travelers from around the world to make their travel Matter as they journey with a sense of purpose, knowing their travel will help have a positive impact on the planet, people, and wildlife.
We are honored to have been awarded multiple Travelers’ Choice Awards for being among the best tour operators in Tanzania. These accolades demonstrate our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences for our guests and we are proud to be acknowledged as a leading tour company in the region. We look forward to taking you on one of our award-winning adventures.
