10 Days Tanzania Budget Safari & Mount Meru Trekking

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10 Days Tanzania Budget Safari & Mount Meru Trekking

Embark on a remarkable 10 Days Tanzania Budget Safari & Mount Meru Trekking, combining the thrills of a budget safari through Tanzania’s iconic national parks – Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater – with an exhilarating trek to the summit of Mount Meru. This unique adventure seamlessly blends wildlife encounters with the challenge of scaling one of Tanzania’s prominent peaks.

Introduction:

Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater stand as the epitome of Tanzanian wildlife conservation. Coupled with the awe-inspiring Mount Meru trek, this 10-day itinerary promises a budget-friendly yet enriching experience. Comfortable lodge accommodation in Arusha, the night before and after the safari, ensures a relaxing prelude and conclusion to your Tanzanian escapade. During the Mount Meru hike, accommodation shifts to rustic mountain huts along the captivating hiking trails.

Mount Meru Trekking:

Embark on an ascent to the summit of Mount Meru, standing proudly at 4,562 meters above Tanzania’s highlands. The trek unveils spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Navigate through diverse terrains, from game lands and rain forests to open bush, overcoming challenging rocky terrains near the summit. Mount Meru becomes an ideal complement to Tanzania’s Northern safari circuit, adding a touch of adventure to the renowned wildlife experience.

Detailed Itinerary for the 10 Days Tanzania Budget Safari & Mount Meru Trekking:

Day 1: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha:

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to Arusha City. Enjoy a leisurely day to recover, relax by the pool, or explore the town.

Day 2: Safari to Lake Manyara National Park:

Embark on a drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a full day of game drives. Witness the abundance of birdlife along the lakeshore, and keep an eye out for elusive tree-climbing lions. Retreat to a special tented camp for an authentic safari experience.

Day 3: Serengeti National Park:

Travel towards Serengeti National Park with a stop at Olduvai Gorge for a glimpse into archaeological discoveries. In the Serengeti, revel in the expansive plains, acacia tree stands, and the possibility of encountering the Great Migration. Spend the night in a special tented camp.

Day 4: Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti:

Dive into another full day game drives in the Serengeti, immersing yourself in the diverse ecosystems and captivating wildlife. Seek out iconic species, from elephants and giraffes to lions and cheetahs, all while savoring the breathtaking scenery. Return to the special tented camp for the night.

Day 5: Safari to Ngorongoro Crater:

Embark on an early morning game drive in the Serengeti before heading to the unique Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a haven for diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. Stay just outside the conservation area for the night.

Day 6: Cultural Tour/Maasai Village Tour:

Explore Mto wa-Mbu Village for a cultural experience and visit a Maasai boma. Return to your hotel in Arusha for Mount Meru climbing preparations.

Day 7: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 M):

Commence the Mount Meru trek from Momella Gate (1,500 m) in the late morning. Traverse open grassland, encountering buffaloes and warthogs, before ascending through montane forest. Enjoy lunch near the Fig Tree Arch, followed by a journey through a less dense forest, home to abundant birds and fascinating black and white colobus monkeys. As the day progresses, catch glimpses of towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. Reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) in a picturesque grassy glade, basking in the afternoon sun with stunning views of the plains towards Kilimanjaro. (5-6 hours walking)

Day 8: Saddle Hut (3,570 M):

Embark on a short yet steep climb from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru. Traverse Elephant Ridge, offering excellent views of the summit ridge and the crater floor. Rest and spot elephants while enjoying lunch at Saddle Hut (3,570 m). The afternoon allows for relaxation and panoramic views, with the option for the more energetic to ascend to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for a breathtaking sunset. (3-6 hours walking)

Day 9: To Summit (Socialist Peak 4556m) and Down to Miriakamba:

Commence an early ascent around 2 a.m. to Rhino Point (3,800 m) and continue along an undulating ridge to Cobra Point (4,350 m) by sunrise. Revel in stunning views of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone, Kilimanjaro, and the Rift Valley if weather permits. Reach the summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m) after an additional hour on a superb yet often steep path. Descend to Rhino Point, experiencing one of Africa’s most dramatic walks along a narrow ridge between the crater’s outer wall and sheer cliffs. Rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before descending to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m). (10-12 hours walking) Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those with vertigo.

Day 10: Descend to Momella Gate:

Embark on the direct route down towards Momella, crossing open grassland and mixed forest with wildlife sightings. Enjoy excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of the National Park. Reach Momella Gate by late morning and transfer back to Safari Lodge in Arusha, concluding this extraordinary 10-day adventure. (2-3 hours walking)

Inclusions:

Full board accommodation in en-suite tented camps and lodges during the safari
Private guide and 4 x 4 safari jeep for game viewing
All airport transfers
All park fees and crater fees
Mount Meru climbing includes hotel lodging, transportation to/from the trailhead, meals, rescue fees, experienced local guides, and more.