13-Day Tanzania Expedition: Meru Climb & Great Migration Safari | Ngotea Distinctive Safaris

13 - Day Tanzania Expedition: Meru Climb & Great Migration Safari

This 13-day journey combines high-altitude trekking and world-class wildlife safaris across Northern Tanzania. From summiting Mount Meru to exploring Tarangire, Lake Natron, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti, each destination offers unique landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

  • 🏔 Trek Mount Meru (4,566m) – A scenic, crowd-free alternative to Kilimanjaro with stunning views and wildlife on the trail.
  • 🐘 Tarangire National Park – Famous for its ancient baobabs and large elephant herds.
  • 🌋 Explore Lake Natron – Visit the surreal soda lake, flamingos, and hike to the stunning Ngare Sero Waterfalls.
  • 🚴‍♂️ Cultural Experience in Mto wa Mbu – Enjoy a guided cultural tour and optional biking through local villages and farms.
  • 🦁 Ngorongoro Crater Safari – A UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the Big Five.
  • 🐾 Serengeti Game Drives – Explore both Central and Northern Serengeti with chances to witness the Great Migration (seasonal).
  • ✈️ Fly from Kogatende to Dar es Salaam – Save time with a scenic bush flight on your final day.

Overview | Map

Overview

This 13-day adventure offers the perfect blend of mountain trekking, wildlife exploration, and cultural discovery in Northern Tanzania. Begin with a thrilling 4-day ascent of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, renowned for its panoramic views and diverse wildlife. After your descent, transition into a classic Northern Circuit safari—visiting the iconic parks of Tarangire, Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti.

Along the way, immerse yourself in the Maasai culture, hike to hidden waterfalls, witness the spectacular Great Migration (seasonal), and enjoy a variety of landscapes—from volcanic highlands and soda lakes to endless savannahs teeming with wildlife.

Designed for active travelers seeking both physical challenge and immersive safari experiences, this itinerary combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments in the wild.

Itinerary

Destination: Arusha
Accommodation: Mount Meru Game Lodge
Meals: Dinner

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your Ngotea guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to Mount Meru Game Lodge in Arusha. Settle into the serene environment of the lodge, surrounded by nature and wildlife, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Destination: Mount Meru (Arusha National Park)
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Arusha National Park to begin your Mount Meru climb. Starting at Momella Gate (1,500m), your trek leads through a rich montane forest, offering chances to spot giraffes, monkeys, and buffalos. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) for your overnight stay.

Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: Saddle Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trek ascends through lush forest and open heathland with views of the Meru Crater and towering cliffs. After approximately 3–4 hours, you’ll arrive at Saddle Hut (3,570m). In the afternoon, you can take a short acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m) before dinner and an early rest.

Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start the final ascent around 2:00 AM under starlight. The trail leads up Rhino Point and along a ridge to Socialist Peak (4,566m). Watch the sunrise over Kilimanjaro and the crater below — a breathtaking moment. Descend back to Saddle Hut for breakfast, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut for the night.

Destination: Arusha
Accommodation: Mount Meru Game Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, complete your descent to Momella Gate. Upon signing out, your guide will drive you back to Arusha for a well-deserved hot shower and a relaxing evening at the lodge.

Destination: Tarangire National Park
Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Arusha after breakfast and head to Tarangire National Park. Enjoy a full-day game drive in this scenic park known for its massive baobabs and large herds of elephants. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, leopards, and migratory birds. Arrive at your lodge in time for sunset views over the Tarangire River.

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Destination: Lake Natron
Accommodation: Lake Natron Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, journey northeast through remote, rugged landscapes. The drive offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. Arrive at Lake Natron in the afternoon. Explore the lakeshore and view thousands of flamingos in this surreal volcanic setting.

Destination: Lake Natron
Accommodation: Lake Natron Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you’ll visit the Ngare Sero Waterfalls. Trek through narrow canyons and cool off in natural pools beneath the falls. In the afternoon, relax at camp or take an optional walk to view Soda Lake’s birdlife and dramatic scenery.

Destination: Mto wa Mbu
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Leave Lake Natron and drive to the vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu. Here, enjoy a guided cultural tour and optional biking through banana plantations, rice fields, and local markets. Later, continue to your lodge in Karatu near the Ngorongoro Highlands for dinner and rest.

Destination: Ngorongoro Crater → Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater early in the morning for a game drive in this wildlife-rich caldera. Spot black rhinos, lions, elephants, and more. After lunch, exit the crater and drive to Serengeti National Park. Arrive in the Central Serengeti for an evening game drive en route to camp.

Destination: Northern Serengeti
Accommodation: Mara Under Canvas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, enjoy a game drive as you head north through the Serengeti. Along the way, watch for predators and migrating herds. Reach the Mara region in time for an afternoon game drive along the Mara River, where you may see hippos, crocodiles, and perhaps a wildebeest crossing.

Destination: Northern Serengeti
Accommodation: Mara Under Canvas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the day exploring the northern plains of Serengeti. This region is prime for witnessing the Great Migration (seasonal), with opportunities to see thrilling river crossings and predator-prey interactions. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush and return to camp for your final safari evening.

Destination: Kogatende Airstrip → Dar es Salaam
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kogatende Airstrip for your scheduled flight to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, connect with your international flight or continue with your onward travel plans.

Asante Sana – Thank You for Traveling with Ngotea Distinctive Safaris!

From $5950
/ Adult
From $3368
/ Child
  • Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
  • All park fees and government taxes
  • Accommodation in lodges and tented camps as listed
  • All meals as specified
  • Bottled water during game drives
  • Cultural visit and lunch in Mto wa Mbu
  • All mentioned Activities
  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks and beverages not listed
  • All Optional Activities
13-Day Tanzania Expedition: Meru Climb & Great Migration Safari

✨ Optional Extension: Zanzibar Beach Holiday Available