Mount Meru Trekking Adventure

Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak standing at 4,566 meters, is situated in Arusha National Park. Known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, it ranks among Tanzania’s most picturesque mountains. Although steep and challenging, trekking Mount Meru is an excellent way to acclimatize before attempting the mightier Mount Kilimanjaro. Trekkers are always accompanied by an armed ranger due to the abundance of wildlife on the lower slopes. The mountain also holds historical significance, with some believing it to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark after the biblical flood. For those seeking a thrilling climb and a wild experience without the challenge of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a fantastic choice.

Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be picked up and taken to a hotel in Arusha. Here, you’ll meet your mountain guide who will brief you on the upcoming trek and ensure all necessary equipment is ready. Any missing gear can be rented on this day or the next morning before heading out.

Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha, bed and breakfast included.

Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut

Departure from the hotel is at 8:00 AM, heading to Momella Gate, the trek’s starting point. The drive takes about an hour and a half. After registration, the trek begins with an armed ranger. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Momella Lakes, and encounter wildlife such as cape buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, and bushbucks. The day ends at Miriakamba Hut where you’ll spend the night.

Distance Covered: 6 km / 3.5 miles
Approx. Time Taken: 4 – 5 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut

Today’s trek follows a steep path along the ridge of the saddle, offering amazing views of the Meru Crater, ash cone, and Little Meru. Keep an eye out for wildlife and beautiful wildflowers, with common sightings including buffaloes and black-and-white colobus monkeys. The day ends at Saddle Hut. After some rest, you’ll set off on a one-hour acclimatization trek to Little Meru (3,810m) before returning to Saddle Hut.

Distance Covered: 6.5 km / 4 miles
Approx. Time Taken: 3 – 4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Saddle Hut to Socialist Peak and Back to Miriakamba Hut

You will wake up just after midnight for a light meal before beginning the final ascent to Socialist Peak, the summit of Mount Meru. The trail is steep, traversing gravel and rocky ridges. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Meru Crater and ash cone. Occasionally, you might spot klipspringers and mountain reedbucks. After the summit, you’ll descend back to Miriakamba Hut for the night.

Distance Covered: 19 km / 12 miles
Approx. Time Taken: 10 – 12 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Optional Day: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate

For those opting for a three-day trek, you’ll descend directly from the peak to Momella Gate. Otherwise, after breakfast, you’ll begin your final descent to Momella Gate via the southern route, passing through the mountain forest and the Fig Tree Arch. Upon arrival at Momella Gate, you will be picked up and transferred back to your hotel in Arusha.

Distance Covered: 14 km / 8.5 miles
Approx. Time Taken: 4 – 5 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner