Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing Adventure
OVERVIEW
This 12-day adventure takes you deep into the Himalayas, combining the thrill of climbing both Mera Peak and Island Peak. Starting in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, you’ll fly to Lukla and begin your trek through lush valleys and traditional Sherpa villages. Along the way, you’ll explore the bustling market of Namche Bazaar, visit ancient monasteries, and enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other towering giants of the Himalayas. The itinerary is designed with acclimatization days to help you adjust to the high altitudes, ensuring you’re prepared for the summit attempts.
The highlight of the journey is the technical climb of Mera Peak, followed by Island Peak, both of which offer incredible panoramic vistas from their summits. Led by experienced Sherpa guides, you’ll tackle the challenges of high-altitude trekking while experiencing the rich culture and warmth of the local people. After successfully submitting, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu, where you’ll reflect on your achievement and enjoy a final farewell dinner. This trip is ideal for adventurers seeking to conquer iconic Himalayan peaks and experience the raw beauty of Nepal’s mountains.
Detailed Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Sherpa Expedition and Trekking representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, the bustling tourist hub of Kathmandu. In the evening, join a welcome dinner where you’ll meet your fellow climbers and receive a detailed briefing about the upcoming Mera Peak trek. This is a great opportunity to get to know your team and prepare mentally for the adventure ahead.
Start your day with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu and Everest regions. From Lukla, the trek begins as you head east, entering dense forests beneath the Kalo Himal Ridge. Following the trail, you’ll arrive at Phakding, a small village along the Dudh Kosi River, where you’ll spend the night. The day is a perfect introduction to the trek as you adjust to the elevation.
After leaving Phakding, the trail ascends gradually toward Namche Bazaar. You’ll cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Kosi River, passing through charming villages like Monjo. Reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, where your trekking permits will be checked. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Namche Bazaar, the vibrant hub of the Khumbu region, famous for its markets, restaurants, and beautiful mountain views.
Acclimatization is crucial at this altitude, so today you’ll explore Namche Bazaar and its surroundings. You can visit nearby Khumjung and Khunde villages, which offer magnificent views of Mt. Everest and other peaks. Take this opportunity to relax, absorb the culture, and prepare for the next phase of the trek. The bustling atmosphere of Namche makes it a perfect place to rest and acclimatize.
Leaving Namche, the trail heads through dense forests and offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and Everest. The path takes you through peaceful rhododendron forests before reaching Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. This spiritual site is a highlight of the trek, where you can attend a prayer ceremony and enjoy the tranquil surroundings with stunning views of the Himalayas.
From Tengboche, the trail descends through forests of juniper and rhododendron before crossing the Imja Khola. The path then ascends to Pangboche and continues toward Dingboche, a beautiful village surrounded by impressive peaks like Ama Dablam. Dingboche is a perfect place for an overnight stay, offering clear views and an ideal setting for further acclimatization as you prepare for higher altitudes.
Today’s trek leads you to Chhukung, a small settlement at the foot of Chhukung Ri. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse and Nuptse, as you move deeper into the Imja Valley. This is an important day for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. Spend the night in Chhukung, where the atmosphere is peaceful and remote.
Today, hike to the summit of Chhukung Ri, a challenging climb that rewards you with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and Makalu. After spending time at the summit, return to Chhukung for the night. This climb is a critical part of your acclimatization process, preparing you for the upcoming ascent of Mera Peak. The day also allows for gear checks and final preparations.
After leaving Chhukung, trek toward Island Peak Base Camp. The trail ascends gradually and involves crossing the glacial moraine. The scenery becomes more rugged and dramatic as you approach the base camp, with towering peaks all around. Once at the camp, your Sherpa team will make final checks on your climbing gear and provide essential tips for the summit attempt the next day.
This is the most exciting day as you summit Island Peak. Starting early, you’ll climb the glacier and tackle some technical sections with ropes and ice axes. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other peaks. After descending, take a helicopter ride back to Lukla, where you’ll relax after the thrilling adventure and reflect on your achievement.
After an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, you’ll return to your hotel in Thamel. Use this day to explore Kathmandu’s markets, temples, and historical sites or simply relax after the trek. In the evening, attend a farewell dinner with your fellow trekkers to celebrate your successful climb and share stories of your adventure.
Your journey in Nepal concludes today. A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. As you leave, reflect on the incredible experiences and stunning views of the Himalayas. Nepal, with its rugged peaks and welcoming culture, will surely call you back for future adventures.
Package Includes and Excludes
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation.
- All game drives viewing in a custom built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide or other language as specified during the safari.
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari from our office in Moshi.
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Entry visa to Tanzania.
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone and postage
- Item of personal Nature
Travel Information
Destination Location
Lake Manyara National Park covers 330 sq km (127 sq mi), 70% of which is a lake. Along with its western boundaries is the Rift Valley’s western wall. The park is famous for its birdlife – almost 400 different species – and for its elephant population and tree-climbing lions, who have a large variety of tree species to choose from. The short game-viewing circuit through Manyara offers a microcosm of the Tanzanian safari experience.
One of nature’s true wonders and a photographer’s paradise, Ngorongoro is the largest intact crater in the world, covering 265 square kilometers (102 sq mi). The 2,000-foot deep crater is home to an abundance of wild game including elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, lions, leopards, hyenas, serval cats, jackals, pushbacks, elands, waterbucks, wildebeest, many antelope, and a large variety of birds. This is a sight that you will always remember!
Tarangire National Park covers 6,734 sq km (2,600 sq mi) and includes two large plains and a seasonal swamp in the south. This is a beautiful park filled with Baobabs and Acacias with a large variety of game such as zebras, elephants, giraffes, and waterbuck. All the animals enjoy the water coming from the Tarangire River. The animals are best viewed during the dry season, including elephant herds, elands, oryx, lesser kudo, rhino, leopards, lions, and cheetah. The birdlife is varied and plentiful. You can also see the very rare Roam Antelope in this park.
Is This Trip For You?
Zara Tours has been working successfully with visitors in the region since 1986 as a tour operator.
We were established in 1987 as an official Agent of ZaraTours organising Mount Meru, Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing and National wild parks safaris and have guided Safely, Reliably and Professionally many visitors anywhere from the plain of Serengeti to the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Our years of experience and knowledge as qualified climbing guides and safari tours operation in Tanzania, Assures you an experience you can remember a life time. Safety, efficiency and reliability have earned us the reputation for being one of the best-valued and most reliable operators in the region.
With 88 registered Kilimanjaro Guides and a fleet of 4x4 Land rovers, 4x4 mini buses and 4x4 Land cruisers (all equipped with viewing roofs) we are ready to take you on your safari adventure and on top of Kilimanjaro Mountain.
Our English-speaking guides will share the knowledge and stories of the incredible Tanzania Game reserves or joining you on your climb on the many routes to the top of magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Travel Companions
The maximum group size for this trip is 16. If you are interested in organizing a group with Zara we offer great incentives! Please inquire if you are interested.
Guide(s)
With 88 registered Kilimanjaro Guides and a fleet of 4x4 Land rovers, 4x4 mini buses and 4x4 Land cruisers (all equipped with viewing roofs) we are ready to take you on your safari adventure. Our English-speaking guides will share the knowledge and stories of the incredible Tanzania Game reserves
Safari Tips for guide and cook:
$15/day for driver/guide and $10/day for cook (basic camping) for the whole safari group.
Gifts: Guides and porters also appreciate your warm clothing, shoes, and packs. You may want to bring some older clothing items just for this purpose.
Celebration: You are also welcome to invite your guides back to the Springlands Hotel for drinks and/or dinner (on you) as a thank-you in addition to their tip.
Expectations
Tips should not be dependent on whether you summit or not, but rather whether they were professional and had your best interests in mind.
Transportation
With the exception of airfare, all Zara trips include all transportation costs and arrangements within the destination country. This does not include transfers to and from the aiport to the hotel or the equipment for all activities listed.
Money
The local currency is Tanzanian shillings. U.S. dollars, Euros, and credit cards may be accepted by larger stores and hotels, but the exchange rate is better with shillings. ATM's are only available in larger towns like Moshi and Arusha. Yahoo Currency Converter
Safari Packing List Notes
- You can leave extra luggage in a locked storage room at the Springlands Hotel for no charge.
- You can leave valuables in a safe deposit box at the Springlands Hotel for $1/day.
Footwear
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes, preferrably waterproof. They will get dirty.
- Tennis shoes or sandals for lounging in the evening
- Comfortable, breathable socks
Clothing
- Shorts, mid-thigh or longer
- Lightweight, breathable pants
- Short-sleeved shirts, cool and breathable
- Long-sleeved shirt or sweater for evenings
- Rain racket and pants or rain poncho
Baggage
- Day pack, for you to carry
- Large duffel bag or backpack
Sleeping, for camping safaris
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad and repair kit
- Tents are supplied by Zara at no charge
- Foam sleeping pads are provided by Zara at no charge
Other
- Water bottles, and water purification tablets or purifier
- Bottled water is also available for purchase on safari
- Sun hat with brim
- Sunglasses
- Bandana (for dust, etc.)
- Money ($400 or more in cash and/or travellers cheques, including some small U.S., Euro, or Tanzanian bills)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Camera, film/disks, mini-tripod
- Video camera, tapes
- Maps, guidebooks
- Batteries
- Binoculars
- Notebook, pencil, and pen
- Pocket knife
- Electricity adapter
- Energy bars, hard candy, snacks, and comfort foods
- Playing cards, games, books, frisbee, football, kite
- Chocolate or pens for village children, momentos for guides and other travellers
- Umbrella, particularly useful in the rainy season, can be purchased in the market for around $2
- Plastic bags and zip-lock bags for waterproofing
- Sewing kit
- Salt, pepper, spices for bland food
- Business cards
- Alarm clock
- Calculator (for currency conversion)
- Swim suit for hotel swimming pool
Toiletries
- Toilet paper (and baggie to carry used paper while walking)
- Small towel
Soap - Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Handi-wipes (moist towelettes for cleaning)
- Hand sanitizer
- Lotion
- Glasses, contacts, solution
- Comb, mirror
Documents
- Passport
- Yellow fever certificate
- Tanzania Visa
- Medical insurance
- Address book
- Vaccination records
- Airline tickets
- Cash, travellers cheques, credit cards
- Maps, guidebooks
- Make copies of passport, TZ visa, airline tickets/schedule, travellers cheques numbers.
Leave a copy with someone at home and put a copy in a separate place in your luggage.
First Aid
- Ibuprofin, Aceteminophen, or Aspirin
- Throat losenges
- Bandaids
- Moleskin
- Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Disinfectant, Antiseptic cream
- Bandages and tape
- Diahrea medicine
- Antihistemines
- Ace bandage
- Melatonin (1-3mg) or other sleep aid
- Malaria pills (talk to your doctor)
- Antibiotics (talk to your doctor)
- Prescription drugs (talk to your doctor)
- Diamox (talk to your doctor)
Gifts for Guides, Locals
- Shoes
- Any warm clothing
- T-shirts
- Hats
- Nerf football, frisbees
- Candy
- Pens
Packing for your flight to Africa
- U-shaped neck pillow (blow-up)
- Books/magazines
- Toiletries
- Snacks
- Water
- Walkman and music
- Eye shades, ear plugs
- Melatonin or other sleep aid
- Critical items (in case baggage is delayed)
Springlands Hotel
Pembo Road
Moshi
Tanzania, United Republic of
The following locations are available:
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| Category: | Safari | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Destination: | Tanzania | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Theme: | Culture and Sightseeing | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skill Level: | Intermediate | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adventure Matrix: |
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Cancellation of a booking or failure to join a tour will result in a retention of funds by ZaraTours Inc. as follows: Upon receipt of written cancellation by any member of the tour indicated on this reservation 30 days or longer prior to departure, 20% of the reservation of the canceling party will be retained by ZaraTours and the balance of the package price refunded. If a cancellation is received at least 14 days and up to 29 days prior to departure, 50% of the package price will be retained by ZaraTours Inc.
If a cancellation is received less than 14 days prior to departure, 100% of the total package price will be retained by ZaraTours Inc. and all outstanding payment will become payable immediately. Should the canceling party be able to find a replacement for themselves no less than 14 days prior to departure and the replacement completes this booking form individually, no retention of funds will take place.
However, should no replacement be found by 14 days prior to departure, a 100% cancellation penalty will apply to the canceling party. ZaraTours Inc. and its agents reserve the right to terminate, at their discretion and with immediate effect, the participation of any person on the tour.
Payment:
- A 20% deposit is due at time of reservation.
- Final payment is due 60 days prior to arrival.
- We accept Visa, AMEX, and Mastercard.
- You can also wire transfer your money directly to our bank.
- Please review our Cancellation Policy.
Price Increases:
- Price increases are permitted when an itinerary is changed at the request of customer(s)
- Prices will remain quoted unless otherwise add-ons and or other changes are requested and availed by customer(s) and such requests are provided by Zara Tours Inc.
Forms and Other Documents Required by all Passengers:
- VISA (as detailed below)
- All passengers must sign the waiver form and return to us.
- Your passport must be valid for six months.
- Entry to another country may be refused even if the required information and or travel documents are complete
VISA:
- Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Dar es Salaam International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar International Airport and the border posts of Namanga, Tunduma, Taveta and Holili.
- All Canadian Citizen who hold Canadian Passports are required to pay US$50.00 for the purpose of obtaining an ordinary VISA.
- All United States Passport holders are required to pay US$100.00 for the purpose of obtaining an ordinary VISA.
- All Passport holders with EU Citizenship are required to pay US$50.00 or €50.00 for the purpose of obtaining an ordinary VISA.
- For additional information on obtaining a VISA to Tanzania please go to https://reveccs.com/resources/
Living Standards:
- Living Standards and practices at the destination and the standards and conditions with respect to the provision of utilities, services and accommodation may differ from those found universally.
Insurance:
- In order to obtain travel Insurance coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage loss and or other travel insurance related matters, kindly follow the link to reach World Nomads, who provide such insurance coverage services
Cancellation Policy:
- Zara Tours Cancellation policy applies to the package offered, upon payment of deposit and confirmation of reservation.
Cancellation of booking or failure to join a tour will result in retention of funds by Zara Tours as described below:
- Upon receipt of written cancellation by any member of the tour indicated on this reservation 30 days or longer prior to departure, 20% of the reservation of the cancelling party will be retained by Zara Tours and the balance of the package price refunded.
- If a cancellation is received at least 14 days and up to 29 days prior to departure, 50% of the package price will be retained by Zara Tours.
- If a cancellation is received less than 14 days prior to departure, 100% of the total package price will be retained by Zara Tours and all outstanding payment will become payable immediately.
- Should the cancelling party be able to find a replacement for themselves no less than 14 days prior to departure and the replacement completes this booking form individually, no retention of funds will take place. However, should no replacement be found by 14 days prior to departure, a 100% cancellation penalty will apply to the cancelling party.
- Zara Tours and its agents reserve the right to terminate, at the discretion and with immediate effect, the participation of any person on the tour.
Refund Processing Fee:
- While processing a refund, a 3% credit card fee is charged to the client's Visa, AMEX, or MasterCard.
- When a refund is processed using a Bank Wire payment, bank charges apply.
Disclaimer of Liability:
Kindly check the details of your trip. Please contact us directly for any questions you may have at zara@zaratours.com or at 1-866-550-4447.
Thank you for choosing Zara Tours and you are most welcome again to adventure with us!
TICO Registration No. 50020519
Package Includes and Excludes
- All Meals
- All ground and plane transportation
- All accommodation
- Full trek guide and staffs
- All trek pack and equipment
- Alcohol or Beverage
- Camera and other non trek accessories
Let's Plan your Trip
Our sample itineraries are fully adjustable and can be tailored to perfectly suit your unique preferences and interests.
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