Mount Meru // Hiking with Giraffes

Across the valley from Mount Kilimanjaro there is another, smaller mountain, called Mount Meru. Online reviewers, AKA the most reliable people in the world, were claiming that Meru was more challenging, beautiful, and biologically diverse than Kilimanjaro. It was also reported by onliners that Meru was a good warm up if you were considering climbing to the roof of Africa. I figured that if I was going to fly for 21 hours to Tanzania it might be worth it to spend more than 6 days in Africa. So a tacked on Mount Meru to my itinerary and added another 3 days to my trip. For me the hardest part about climbing these mountains wasn’t their height or elevation gain it was all the rules surrounding the climb. On paper Meru is a 2 day max kind of climb. I emailed 3 different guide operators (guides are required on both mountains) and asked if I could climb the peak in two days. Not possible! was the response from all three. I had read a 10 year old online review that said it was possible to climb the mountain in 2 days with the use of bribes but it seems that option has disappeared. All the outfitters who responded to my request claimed that 4 days was recommended but 3 days was possible. Seeing that climbing the mountain required a guide, cook, 3 porters and 1 armed ranger. I wasn’t surprised they would want to drag it out. You tip by the day. I also discovered that Kilimanjaro had similar rules. I was more than a little discouraged by the rules and required unwanted entourage and I considered cancelling my ticket. But after talking with a few friends who had visited Tanzania I decided to stick with the plan. It’s not often that you get to climb a big peak and possibly see giraffes and elephants on your way up.

[@bull_Tattoo]

Danny noticing that his body feels okay at the summit because he actually took a slow pace for once is hilarious

[@silasmarner7586]

Isn't it ironic? It's like rrraaaayyyeeeeayyyn on your wedding day.. etc. but yes true!

[@_ckr]

He's usually puking in about 50% of his normal sufferfests.

[@ale10903videos]

Its really amusing how from all videos/adventures you have this is one was the one you seem to suffer the most and it wasn’t due to the physical challenge but rather being forced to go at tourist pace, it was a good laugh, really enjoyed it, exited to see the Kilimanjaro adventure

[@housecanrun9198]

danny obviously needed to bride these guides like hes pablo escobar

[@domesticterrorist483]

A pleasure as always to watch Danny suffer jet lag, sleep depreviation and slow going frustration. Can't wait for the Kilimanjaro vid.

[@mendez31971]

Danny for me , the greatest part of the video was watching you be a gentleman and being respectful to people who do things differently, we all know your power , ability and we all know you just wanted to be you , you gave power with positive vibes , well done Danny , great video, one of your best

[@user-np1vy7oo2h]

Yes, outstanding people must surrender to the average in today's Bolshevik Western world.

[@SR-ti6jj]

Bro complained the whole video? What are you talking about?

[@mball831]

@@SR-ti6jj I didn't see him complain to anyone in person, though obviously we only see what's filmed.

[@dkalir]

When a Non-Mediocre, Non-amateur finally meets - and is forced to hike with - some real mediocre amateurs… Awesome! Loved the description of the climb on the model - very instructive!!!

[@deivclayton]

Way to build anticipation for the Kilimanjaro video. It was so funny to watch Danny struggle to slow down with a tourist paced adventure.

[@sigean100]

I can understand your frustration with all of the rules and regulations etc. but that being said, this is one of the coolest MA videos ever. Beautiful sunrise on Meru and all of the wildlife. Can’t wait until the next one.

[@koalakyle19]

Well put

[@davidryan4454]

All the wild animals, free to roam, except caged tiger Danny !

[@TheVirtualSherpa]

Fun fact: 18 year old me while climbing Kili on the final summit push had to call out our guide on the slow shuffling and pole pole. We were LITERALLY moving so slowly in scree that we were not moving forward. I hated to do it but it was FAR overdue.

[@PhatPat6069]

Dang you've hiked Kilimanjaro? What haven't you done haha. Love seeing one of my favorite hiking KZbinr comment on my other favorite KZbinrs videos!

[@wassabeeee]

Didn't expect to see you here - love your content, you're a huge inspiration!

[@alaskan_bergwanderer]

Danny complaining about a mere mortal's pace is seriously cracking me up. I get it though. I'm nowhere NEAR the class of climber Danny and his homies are, but I do feel that angst when I hike with folks who move at a much slower pace that even I do. As others have said, this is probably the coolest, or at the very least the most unique, Mediocre Amateur video to date. REALLY looking forward to the Kilimanjaro recap!

[@raphaelkinney]

That shadow projection at 15:14 is so massive! Reminds my of when I went searching for the worlds longest shadow projection and it looks and awful lot like Mount Teide's projection. Great adventure.

[@kevinw1129]

Absolutely hilarious experiencing Danny being made to 'plod' up a mountain!

[@mountainssea9642]

“I’m here at the hut, working on a plate of popcorn…” 😂😂

[@gygantor360]

Danny this was funny watching your patience being tested, especially after you talking about this trip on News AF

[@benc.8103]

Pretty awesome. I keep thinking how much Christof would have enjoyed the tea and popcorn.

[@pagewhite8177]

Wow Danny, that sunrise behind Kilimanjaro was breathtaking! I know this wasn’t your usual death-defying climbing adventure but what an experience! Thank you so much for filming it for us.

[@johnpaul041]

Awesome. We did Kili maybe 15 years ago, and while I wasn’t remotely the mountain athlete you are, I felt the same discomfort at being waited on through the experience. I was used to being self-sufficient in the mountains. I didn’t mind the pace, however. I was with my wife, who is a hiker but not a climber, and it allowed us to really take in such a beautiful and unique place. Glad we did it, especially before the glaciers are completely gone. But wouldn’t do it again. The week of safari we did after was the real highlight of the trip. Haven’t been back since, but will.

[@ChrisMcQueen]

I climbed Kili a few years ago... watching you be patient on this is bringing back so many memories. Good on you for enjoying it even with "poli poli" as the mantra.

[@scottwebster3237]

Your videos always are sweet to watch, always something new, and crack me up. Keep up the goods Danny

[@runningmn999]

Huge fan of your videos! I lived in Africa for many years and am familiar with the dynamic you experienced. You weathered it well. Always makes me grateful for America. Thanks for sharing the experience!

[@chrisc9869]

Absolutely, breathtaking views and funny video!

[@tjfirhfjejUTH24]

some of the best production value on any of your videos. super cool, thx

[@kevin3434343434]

Smiled the whole way through! Thanks!

[@gpapciak]

Hamna shida kaka! Another trip down memory lane and great commentary as always! I lived in Arusha from 2013-18 and was lucky enough to climb Meru three times. Also took my 8 year old son as high as Saddle Hut. I personally preferred it to the long slog of Kili. Beautiful forests, as well as surreal landscapes on summit day. The porter and guide requirements can be annoying and take some getting used to, but positive in terms of impact on local economy. Africa is not a great place for independent mountaineering - it's more hiking than climbing while learning about a different culture, seeing amazing animals and more. Finishing with a trip to Zanzibar a good idea also! As a resident, we had some tricks to lessen these issues, like organizing directly with climbing ranger, no tour company, minimum number of porters, carrying as much as we preferred, etc. Bummer that your guide was overdoing it on the control side. They're used to dealing with pretty inexperienced climbers/hikers so not prepared for "mediocre amateurs" 🙂 Looking forward to the Kili video!

[@moonriseproductions]

I always get whiplash when I hear people from this area actually use Hakuna Matata in regular conversation! What a wonderful phrase. I'm glad you had a nice experience on this hike, never stop!

[@MrSandyPants128]

Thanks for the inspo! Love MedAm! Danny you da man!

[@myoutdoorhaven8826]

Bigger climbs indeed! awesome guys

[@mikechristiansen824]

I studied abroad in Arusha, so it's fun to see some familiar sights for once. Kind of surprised you didn't make the trip out to do Ol Doinyo Lengai, though it might be erupting. Think you'd have an easier time being allowed to run up that one. Can't wait to see the tipping ceremony in the next video.

[@Shanemo007]

another fantastic video Danny

[@gabeasher187]

Oh wow. Incredible location.

[@josharreola1786]

That sunrise 🌄 behind kilimanjaro is A+!!! Good patience Danny!

[@naujesojzevachsopmac6377]

Have a good trip , exuberant place

[@inflivia]

The coiled tension throughout these Tanzania videos is quality content.

[@coloneljan]

Love the juicebox at the end!

[@jakekaiser1399]

Love this element of travel and feel that visceral "going slower than desired pain" all to much

[@madmanswhispers]

10/10 thumbnail, they keep getting better and better.

[@IdRatherBeHiking]

Just WOW that shot after sunrise looking at the volcano...

[@litedisciple]

You're a good man Danny.

[@sunyoked]

I hiked this back in 2019 and it was truly amazing journey! The night summit and sunrise was definitely a top 5 moment of my life. This was definitely a challenging climb.

[@Mom2KitKat]

The popcorn! Hilarious!!

[@shoes123uk8]

Looks stunning 😀

[@gardenhose590]

I got in trouble at work I was laughing so hard. I could feel your pain. Probably like my wife feels mine when we hike with the kids. Cool one Danny!!

[@harrisonaero]

Nice edit and a good tease for the roof of Africa.

[@Mars_Life_and_Beings]

Zimbabwe, wow, what a treat. Thanks for the inspiration. I have been debating whether I really hate skiing. Your videos help reverse this trend.

[@lcbrme138]

Wow thanks for the video!

[@ItaiGanor]

amazing as always! gotta love the monkey's wake-up hut call! that sunset wow amazing :D

[@MurrayPeeps]

Man that sunrise was amazing 🤯🤯🤯

[@leothecat9609]

Crazy cool peak, that shadow!

[@jedlink136]

Your abject anguish with the bureaucracy is thoroughly fun to watch...

[@RachelWhelton]

Classic Danny Stoic Humor - I love it! I feel this was payback for all those times I had to cover my eyes while you filmed yourself barfing on trail. Cheers and best wishes for the next one! 😆

[@sjldfilms5126]

Danny, this was Epic!! Plus you found tons of animals, without Matt!! 😂. What an amazing experience for you!!

[@jorinde1792]

This was by far the most hilarious MA video I’ve ever seen.

[@intheknow3128]

I see Danny you looked like you were in extreme agony (i.e I mean impatient), but take in the sites and enjoy.. Which I think you accomplished. Can't wait for the next video...

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Danny not getting a chance to vomit, shows he took it slow and enjoyed the effort. Or maybe didn’t as Danny loves to embrace the suck throughout the pain cave experience. But all said and done what a great adventure, loving the content. 🤙🏽

[@waningcrescent4777]

You guys are my inspiration!!! Doing Rainier unguided for the first time this July!! (Meaning it’s the first time I do it without guides, not doing it for the first time ever unguided) lol

[@timothyheinz5693]

I like the moment when your decending Meru and the guide calls out for you to stop "so he can point out the ash cone" and totally not cause he was suffering following an expert level mountaineer.

[@FC-uo6dh]

I loved your comments on this one! I was actually quite surprised you settled for Kilimanjaro given the climbing conditions are well known and there is no possibility of climbing/hiking independently. Pole pole all the way up! I'd love to see you climb Toubkal in the Atlas mountains, in case you missed it (not technical but it might be a good adventure).

[@jtcollins2112]

Really great video!

[@clayrundquist5098]

While you are crawling up the mountian, you could always read The Snows of Kilimanjaro by Ernest Hemmingway. It has to be something for a guy that runs through The Grand Canyon.

[@akusantafe]

Super documentary of the Meru portion of the trip!

[@SetForAdventures]

Epic climb amazing film 🙌⛰️👍🤠 ATB Simon

[@Ramneek22]

My favorite channel. This was a funny one 😂

[@michaelb1761]

When the notification popped up, I thought you made an attempt on Meru in the Himalayas with a special appearance by Jimmy Chin. Africa makes more since even for a non-mediocre amateur.

[@erictriplett33]

I was thinking the same thing -- I was like "Mediocre Amateur is climbing Meru now? They're not not mediocre anymore!!"

[@farbeyonddriven8173]

Whatta guest appearance JC would be

[@rugged9769]

JC only hangs out with Pros like Cody, not a mediocre amateur like Danny

[@farbeyonddriven8173]

@@rugged9769 I get ya but it would be a fun dynamic for sure. JC’s the man

[@rickyism1576]

Africa is definitely on the bucket list. I want to visit Namibia.

[@Longnok]

My Wife and I were laughing so hard at your "pain", but impressed by your diplomatic patience. Looks like a very doable "alpine" start from the TH and back to the car before sunset kind of day, if that were even an option. 🙂 But, I guess that is their system over there and I am sure they are in need of the tourism revenue, along with the work opportunities for the locals...

[@Inventor22x]

Hakuna Matata, pole pole, Milo, 5+ porters carrying things... I climbed Kilimanjaro 15 years ago and everything was exactly as you described back then too haha

[@teleroel]

Nice shadow of Meru around 14:50 and then walking towards it on the way down!

[@Dangerstophe]

So epic!!!

[@DylanReynolds]

That summit sunrise!

[@basreiziger6689]

Loved this episode. The shots are amazing. The Almighty would make me feel embarrased were He to bless me with such views and adventure. Beside the fact that you are a accomplished storyteller, since all your videos always tell a story of about 15 to 20 minutes no matter what journey you undertake, this story was especially amusing with the spontanious irritations.

[@marki7275]

Fun. I have been there. Cool.

[@pablomarani3799]

Loved it. Maybe this time was patience over speed and adrenaline - but always with a great sense of humour. "Pole, pole". 13:40 amazing image. Cheers!

[@normiewoo787]

This is just brilliant. Exotic. Great storyline. I especially loved the trees. It seems you made some new friends, too. What's not to like about this video?

[@chrishall6364]

Really enjoyed the video, something a bit different! Wonder if we’re going to see Danny’s MA friends again in future videos.

[@nateapple46]

That sunrise tho!!

[@Gunnerking88]

🔥🔥🔥 I subbed ♥️

[@riaanvandermerwe7141]

Great, I've just returned form my trip to Kili. Enjoy 🏔

[@keylarodriguez7541]

Love this vid!! Tanzania is amazing. I started hiking doing summit of Kili best hike ever. You better get use to pole pole (slow walking) 😂

[@ZonDog]

They say patience is a virtue. But ive been waiting my whole life.😊

[@murphytravelsofficial]

I hope to one day see a tower of giraffes in the wild 😆. Awesome video!

[@dapete]

You are correct. "Tower" does sound more awesome to the "way" level

[@jerrydelyea5820]

Haha. I figured they would slow you down on Meru. As a sub. From The beginning I am happy to see your channel growing!! Popcorn in soup😂😂

[@christopherarocha92]

Tanzania 🇹🇿 woah

[@sethhansen4173]

I can see Danny sneaking out at night in a popcorn filled rage and summiting at night just so he can do it at his pace.

[@jeremyquiros5483]

I'm mostly looking forward to footage of the tip ceremony at the end of the trip. 😂

[@robopecha]

same xD

[@mikehylton4950]

I served a mission in Africa. “African time” is a legit thing. It’s even slower than “Mormon Standard Time.”

[@imbaguitar]

you saw an entire continent in 1 hour! congrats!

[@robmills7611]

Love that you're back and posting again but where have you're buddies been? Where is the rest of the fam? They haven't shunned you have they?😂

[@domesticterrorist483]

Danny has broken them all at this stage.

[@robmills7611]

@@domesticterrorist483 😭

[@douglasjacobson2025]

OMG. I can relate to the pace comments from my group trips. Pole pole! Classic line: more prison guard than guide

[@farazdurrani2550]

Allah o Akbar! First!

[@beeclimbing9954]

Oh Danny...I can feel your impatience and frustration 15,000 miles away LoL!!! For someone who plays in 3000+ meter mountains in his Utah backyard and is used to self-supported adventures in the 14ners, this was not the set-up for you my friend; 90% of the 'clients' on the Kili trips maybe hike a 1000m mountain 1-3 times a year, thus all the porters and the ridiculous timings. I'm glad you got to see so many of the animals and that shot of you in profile at sunrise with Kili in the background was gorgeous. If you want to be left up to your own volition, go to Patagonia!!!! The Tompkins Conversation group have opened up 5 new parks in Patagonian Chile and there is still very little infrastructure, so if you want to go where 'no man has gone before', THAT's your ticket!

[@philipwatkins-ow1is]

When this said Meru I thought you were climbing Meru in the movie of the same name. Good thing! I need you to live so I can watch your videos.

[@tkmjees]

Nice!

[@npcfigureathletedawnirish691]

Pretty sure Danny just went on a safari. He is hilarious AF!

[@isyabrillant4118]

Come to Ladhak Danny. Do some 6000m climbs. Its amazing out there. Im sure you'll enjoy it.

[@bobrocks47]

The shot at 13:31 is insane

[@DannyLovesPolska]

Just incredible. Wow. What a world

[@sjldfilms5126]

Danny’s slow ascent and decent into madness. You saw some great stuff! Not dure I’d like being that taken care of either. I’m the type to help and do stuff.

[@janmc9036]

Would love to see a workout video, What you do in a week:)

[@addsy6396]

Great video. I know it must have been frustrating but you can gain comfort from knowing that you helped put popcorn on the table for the guides and the guides families 😂

[@PhatPat6069]

Should have brought Christof on this one. Food, shelters, and a relaxing pace!