11-Days The Big Two Quest: Meru & Kilimanjaro

Overview

Take on the ultimate Tanzanian mountain challenge with this thrilling 11-day package that includes climbing both Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. This journey is designed for adventurous hikers, starting with the lesser-known but spectacular Mount Meru, followed by the famous Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route. With the right acclimatization from Meru, you’ll be well-prepared for Kilimanjaro’s summit.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive in Arusha, where you will be met by our team and transferred to your lodge. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax, meet your trekking guides, and receive a briefing on your upcoming twin mountain adventure.

Mount Meru Trek: Days 2-5

Day 2: Arusha to Miriakamba Hut (Elevation: 1,400m to 2,514m)
The adventure begins with a drive to Arusha National Park, followed by a hike through lush rainforest where you may spot giraffes, buffalo, and monkeys. After several hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Miriakamba Hut, your first camp on Mount Meru.

Day 3: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut (Elevation: 2,514m to 3,570m)
Climbing through a mix of forests and heather zones, today’s hike will take you to Saddle Hut. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views and wildlife sightings. You have the option of hiking to Little Meru in the afternoon to aid with acclimatization and enjoy panoramic views of the region.

Day 4: Saddle Hut to Summit (4,566m), then Descent to Miriakamba Hut
Start your summit push early in the morning, reaching the peak of Mount Meru in time for a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, descend back to Miriakamba Hut for a well-deserved rest.

Day 5: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate, then Return to Arusha
On the final day of your Mount Meru trek, you will descend through the forest back to Momella Gate, where you will be met by your driver and transferred back to Arusha. Relax and prepare for the next part of your adventure: Mount Kilimanjaro.

Mount Kilimanjaro Trek: Days 6-11

Day 6: Kilimanjaro – Machame Gate to Machame Camp (Elevation: 1,640m to 2,835m)
After a day of rest in Arusha, your Kilimanjaro trek begins with a drive to Machame Gate. The first day’s trek takes you through lush rainforest to Machame Camp, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 7: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (Elevation: 2,835m to 3,750m)
Today, the trail ascends steeply out of the rainforest into the moorland zone. You’ll arrive at Shira Camp by late afternoon, with stunning views of Mount Meru and the surrounding plains.

Day 8: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (Elevation: 3,750m to 3,900m)
After an acclimatization trek up to the Lava Tower (4,600m), you’ll descend to Barranco Camp. This day is crucial for acclimatization as it allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude while experiencing the stunning mountain scenery.

Day 9: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (Elevation: 3,900m to 3,995m)
Your trek continues with the exciting ascent of the Barranco Wall, a challenging but non-technical climb. After reaching the top, enjoy a relatively easy hike to Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest for the night.

Day 10: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m)
Today, the trail ascends further as you reach Barafu Camp, the final stop before your summit push. Arriving in the early afternoon, you will rest and prepare for the midnight departure to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 11: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then Descent to Mweka Camp (Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m, then down to 3,068m)
Around midnight, you will begin your final ascent to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak. After several hours of trekking, you’ll reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters. Take in the awe-inspiring views and celebrate your achievement before descending to Mweka Camp for a much-deserved rest.

Note:

The itinerary is designed for optimal acclimatization, with the Mount Meru trek serving as an ideal preparation for Kilimanjaro. Adjustments may be made based on weather conditions or logistical factors to ensure safety and the best possible experience.