Highlights
- Sunrise views of Kilimanjaro from Mount Meru’s summit
- Walk among giraffes, buffaloes, and zebras in Arusha NP
- Trek through rainforest, waterfalls, and alpine landscapes
Description
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers an unforgettable trekking experience and stands proudly at 4,566 meters. This spectacular trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to alpine desert, offering wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and panoramic summit views that include Kilimanjaro on the horizon. Whether you’re preparing for a Kilimanjaro climb or seeking a unique adventure of its own, Mount Meru delivers a rewarding challenge.
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts
Your journey begins with a transfer from Moshi or Arusha to Momella Gate in Arusha National Park, where you complete registration formalities. An armed park ranger will accompany you throughout the trek, as the chance of encountering wildlife like giraffes, zebras, elephants, and buffalo is high. The trail starts across open grasslands and continues through lush rainforest, passing scenic spots such as Maio Waterfalls and the Fig Tree Arch. After 4–6 hours of hiking (14 km), you arrive at Miriakamba Huts, located in a peaceful forest clearing.
Elevation gain: 1,500 meters (4,921 ft to 8,250 ft)
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Meals: Lunch and dinner included
Day 2: Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts
Today’s hike is shorter but steeper, taking 3–5 hours to cover 6 km. You ascend through montane forest into the heath zone, with giant heather and moorland vegetation surrounding the trail. As you climb higher, incredible views of the Meru Crater and the Ash Cone open up. Once at Saddle Huts (elevation 11,712 ft), you have the option to hike to the summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for fantastic views and acclimatization.
Accommodation: Saddle Hut
Meals: Lunch and dinner included
Day 3: Summit Attempt and Return to Arusha
Your summit day begins around midnight with a steep ascent to Rhino Point and then to Cobra Point. The trail winds along a narrow ridge leading to Socialist Peak, the highest point of Mount Meru at 4,566 meters (14,977 ft). As dawn breaks, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance and a spectacular sunrise over the crater rim. After a short rest, descend back to Miriakamba Huts for brunch, then continue on to Momella Gate for your transfer back to Arusha.
Hiking time: 8–12 hours total (18 km combined)
Accommodation: None (End of tour)
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
This epic climb is ideal for nature lovers, adventurers, and those looking to test their stamina while being surrounded by unforgettable beauty and rare wildlife.
Includes
Porterage
Rescue fee
Park fees
All activities
All accommodation
A professional driver/guide
All transportation
All Taxes/VAT
Meals
Drinks
Excludes
Climbing gear
International flights
From/to home)
Roundtrip airport transfer
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
Personal items
Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals
As specified in the day-by-day section)
Important Information
- Before booking, please note that this trek requires a good level of physical fitness due to steep and long hiking days, especially on summit day. An armed ranger is required for the trek due to the presence of wildlife in Arusha National Park. All park fees and permits are included, but meals on Day 2 and drinks throughout the trip are not. Accommodation is in basic mountain huts with shared facilities. Weather can be unpredictable at higher altitudes—pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, and proper hiking boots. Altitude sickness can affect anyone; proper acclimatization and hydration are important.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
