Tanzania is a dream destination for both adventurous trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts, and few experiences combine these passions like hiking Mount Meru followed by an unforgettable safari. Rising to 4,566 meters inside Arusha National Park, Mount Meru offers stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems, and incredible wildlife encounters. Pairing a trek with a nearby safari allows you to experience the best of Tanzania’s mountains and savannahs in one trip.
This guide explains how to combine Mount Meru hiking with safari adventures, making the most of your Tanzanian journey.
Why Combine Hiking and Safari?
Combining a trek on Mount Meru with a safari offers several advantages:
- Diverse experiences: From volcanic ridges and alpine vegetation to wildlife-rich savannahs
- Efficient travel: Both activities can be done in the Arusha region, minimizing long transfers
- Photographic variety: Capture everything from forest canopies and mountain landscapes to lions, elephants, and giraffes
By carefully planning your itinerary, you can maximize adventure and relaxation in one trip.
Recommended Itinerary: Trek First, Safari Later
Day 1–3: Mount Meru Trek
- Start at Momella Gate, trekking through montane forests and grasslands
- Stop at Miriakamba Hut and Saddle Hut for rest and acclimatization
- Summit Socialist Peak for sunrise views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru Crater
- Trekking allows close encounters with forest wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and antelopes
Day 4–5: Safari in Arusha National Park or Nearby Reserves
- After descending Mount Meru, head on a game drive safari in Arusha National Park or neighboring reserves like Tarangire or Lake Manyara
- Spot lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and a variety of birds
- Combine guided walks and vehicle game drives for a full wildlife experience
This sequence allows you to trek while energized and then relax in the savannah, maximizing both adventure and comfort.
Tips for Combining Mount Meru Hiking and Safari
- Plan your pace carefully: Avoid overexertion before a safari, especially on high-altitude treks
- Pack versatile gear: Hiking shoes for the mountain, lightweight safari clothing, and binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Acclimatize properly: Spend at least one day resting or hiking at lower elevations before the summit
- Book with experienced guides: A professional trekking and safari guide ensures safety, wildlife spotting, and logistical ease
- Photography preparation: Bring cameras suitable for both landscapes and wildlife
Wildlife Highlights You Might See
On your combined adventure, expect to encounter a wide variety of wildlife:
- Mount Meru trek: Monkeys, giraffes, antelopes, and over 300 bird species
- Safari drives: Elephants, lions, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and colorful bird species
The contrast between mountain and savannah ecosystems offers a unique Tanzanian experience.
Choosing the Right Safari Park
Depending on your schedule, consider:
- Arusha National Park: Convenient, wildlife-rich, ideal for short safaris
- Lake Manyara National Park: Known for flamingos, hippos, and tree-climbing lions
- Tarangire National Park: High predator density and vast herds of elephants
All of these parks are accessible from Mount Meru and can be combined in 2–3 days.
Book Your Mount Meru Trek and Safari With Tanzania Hiking
Tanzania Hiking specializes in custom trekking and safari packages. Our guides craft itineraries that balance high-altitude trekking, wildlife viewing, and comfort, ensuring you experience the best of both worlds.
- Email: info@tanzaniahiking.com
- WhatsApp: +255 752 213 715 / +255 754 557 877
Request a Quote for Your Combined Adventure
Want to experience both Mount Meru hiking and an unforgettable Tanzanian safari?
Fill out the quote request form below, and our team will design a personalized itinerary that combines mountain adventure with wildlife exploration.
