Experience two of Tanzania’s iconic mountain adventures on this 12-day Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru trekking tour. Begin with a 4-day Mount Meru trek via the scenic Momella Route, including a summit of Socialist Peak at 4,566m, followed by a 7-day Mount Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho Route to Uhuru Peak at 5,895m. With time to rest and acclimatize between the two climbs, this itinerary combines breathtaking mountain scenery, wildlife encounters in Arusha National Park and an unforgettable summit experience in Tanzania.
Climbing Mount Meru before Kilimanjaro offers a scientifically sound acclimatization progression. Trekkers reach moderate altitude first, allowing physiological adaptation before ascending to extreme altitude on Kilimanjaro. This dual-peak strategy significantly improves summit success and overall safety.
This itinerary is ideal for trekkers seeking maximum summit preparation, photographers wanting extended mountain time, and climbers pursuing two of Tanzania’s highest peaks within one structured expedition.
Incredible Africa Adventures operates professionally guided Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro climbs with experienced mountain teams, structured itineraries, and responsible trekking practices. This 12-day dual ascent can be customized based on route preference and comfort level. Contact us to begin planning your Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro expedition.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly welcomed by our Incredible Africa Adventures team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. This day is reserved for rest and preparation before your mountain adventure begins.
In the evening, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed pre-climb briefing and equipment check. This session ensures you are fully prepared for your Mount Meru climb and the upcoming Kilimanjaro expedition via the Machame Route. Any missing gear can be rented locally. Overnight in Moshi.
Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours | Habitat: Montane Forest & Open Grassland
After breakfast, you drive to Momella Gate in Arusha National Park, the starting point of your Mount Meru climb via the Momella Route. After registration with TANAPA, your trek begins. The first section feels like a walking safari. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you may encounter giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife along the trail. The path passes the Ngarenanyuki River and a scenic waterfall before ascending through lush forest. Arrive at Miriakamba Hut (2,500m) in the afternoon. Enjoy a hot meal prepared by your mountain chef and relax as you take in the peaceful mountain atmosphere. Overnight at the hut.
Hiking Time: 3–5 Hours | Habitat: Heather & Moorland
After breakfast, ascend steadily along a scenic ridge toward Saddle Hut. Vegetation transitions from dense forest to open moorland, revealing expansive views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. Upon arrival at Saddle Hut (3,570m), you may take an optional acclimatization hike to Little Mount Meru (3,820m). This short climb enhances altitude adaptation — an important advantage for your upcoming Kilimanjaro Machame Route ascent. Dinner is served early to allow proper rest before your midnight summit attempt. Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Hiking Time: 10–12 Hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert & Rocky Ridge
Around 00:30, you wake for tea and light snacks before beginning your summit attempt at approximately 01:30. The trail climbs steeply to Rhino Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m). The final stretch follows a dramatic narrow ridge between the inner crater and outer cliffs. As dawn approaches, you reach Socialist Peak (4,566m) at sunrise. From the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the Ash Cone and Mount Kilimanjaro rising above the clouds. After celebrating, descend to Saddle Hut for a short rest before continuing to Miriakamba Hut for dinner and overnight.
Hiking Time: 2–3 Hours | Habitat: Forest & Grassland
After breakfast, descend through the scenic forests of Arusha National Park. Wildlife sightings remain possible along the trail. At Momella Gate, receive your summit certificate before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi. The afternoon is reserved for rest and recovery — preparing your body for the next challenge: the 7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route. Overnight in Moshi.
After a successfully Mount Meru summit, you will spend this day at your hotel to relax and stroll around or you can walk around in this small town of Moshi with view of the mountain Kilimanjaro is as good as it reveals. We will gather in the late afternoon for a Kilimanjaro climb briefing, but if you would like to continue with the climb after the Meru trip in this day we can customize it to fit your schedule.
The day begins with a long drive to Londrossi Park Gate (2100 m) for registration. Pass through village communities to the trailhead to start hiking on the route along a narrow forest path to reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite (2800m).
Leaving the forest, the trail gets steeper as it enters the moorland zone towards the valley. A gentle grade walk takes you across the high altitude Shira Caldera past Shira Cave (views of Arrow glacier) at 3500m and then gently downwards to Shira Hut 1 located near a stream on the Shira Plateau.
Walking now on high moorland, the landscape changes the entire character of the trek. Traverse the southwest side of Kilimanjaro, passing underneath the Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach to reach Barranco camp (3900m). The day has been spent at altitude (up to 4600m), but you will have followed the mountaineering code of ‘walk high, sleep low’ to avoid altitude sickness by aiding your bodies in acclimatization.
Start the day by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. Then exit steeply, up what has been termed the Breakfast Wall, which divides you from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It is a climb over rocks, although not technical. Passing underneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, head towards the Karanga Valley (4000m) for overnight.
The day is characterized by a short hike on terrain formed by scree. Walk through arid land towards Barafu Camp (4600m) where you have the entire afternoon to rest before ascending towards the summit.
We avoid walking too long in the heat of the sun today by starting around midnight, walking steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. You will be climbing scree for 5 to 6 hours but you gain incredible height over a short distance. The views are spectacular. You should be on the crater rim at Stella Point (5750 m) as the first rays of the sun emerge. Spectacular ice cliffs within the crater surround you and the views to Mawenzi peak and beyond are breathtaking. Another hour’s walk takes you to your goal, the summit of Uhuru (5896 m), the highest point; Uhuru means freedom in Swahili.
After a quick celebration and photos at the top, you will begin the descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on scree slope back to Barafu Camp for breakfast and a short rest before finally heading down to Millennium Camp (3000m) for a well-earned rest. On the descent, you will have fabulous views of the plains and Mawenzi peak.
A gentle trek takes you down through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate (1640m), where park formalities will be completed, you will be met by our vehicles, and receive your certificate of ascent courtesy of the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority. Thereafter, drive back to Moshi where you can treat yourself to a well-earned shower and a cold beer or two.
The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight schedule you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Wildlife Safari tour, Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi for a seamless start and finish.
Comfortable Accommodation: Two nights in Moshi—one night before your climb and one night after—designed for rest and relaxation.
Transportation: Reliable transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, ensuring timely access to the trail.
All Necessary Fees: Coverage of Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees for your peace of mind.
High-Quality Gear:
>Four-Season Mountain Tents: Durable and weatherproof tents to keep you safe and comfortable in all conditions.
>Sleeping Mats: Extra comfort and insulation for restful nights on the mountain.
Professional Support Team: Knowledgeable and experienced mountain guides, a skilled cook, and hardworking porters to support your journey.
Daily Hot Meals: Nutritious, freshly prepared hot meals served three times daily to keep you energized.(We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or requests.)
Clean Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of treated and filtered water to keep you hydrated throughout your climb.
Hot Water for Washing: Daily provision of hot water for washing, ensuring you stay refreshed during your adventure.
Ethical Treatment of Crew: We prioritize the fair treatment and proper payment of our guides, cooks, and porters, ensuring a motivated and supportive team.
Enhanced Safety Measures:
>Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter to monitor your health and oxygen levels during the climb.
>A fully equipped emergency first-aid kit for any unexpected situations.
Private Toilet Facilities: Enjoy a portable flush toilet with its own privacy tent for added convenience on the mountain.
Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the climb are not covered.
Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.
Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.
