Overview
Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters, is situated within Arusha National Park and boasts breathtaking landscapes along with rich wildlife diversity. Known for its steep and demanding ascent, it serves as an excellent acclimatization climb before tackling Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the abundant wildlife on its lower slopes, trekkers are always accompanied by an armed ranger. Mount Meru also holds historical and mythological significance, with some theories suggesting it may have been the resting place of Noah’s Ark after the biblical flood. Ideal for adventurers seeking a challenging yet rewarding trek, it offers an immersive wilderness experience for those not yet prepared for Kilimanjaro.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Momella Gate (1500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
You will depart the hotel at 0800hrs and head to the Momella gate which is the starting point of the trek. The drive to the gate is roughly an hour and a half. After the registration you will start your trek accompanied by an armed ranger. Along the route you will catch spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Momella lakes. You will encounter animals such as cape buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs and bushbucks, to name a few. Your trek will end up at Miriakamba Hut where you will be spending the night. Distance covered: 6km / 3.5mi. Time taken: 4 – 5 hours. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Day 2
Miriakamba Hut (2500m) to Saddle Hut (3500m)
Today’s trek takes you through the steep path along the ridge of the saddle. Amazing views of the Meru crater, the ash cone and little Meru can be seen along the way. While trekking through the forest keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and the attractive wild flowers. Common animals include buffaloes and the black and white Colobus monkey. Your trek will end up at Saddle hut where you will be spending the night. After resting at the camp you will set off on an hour acclimatization trek to little Meru (3810m) then head back down to Saddle hut. Distance covered: 6.5km / 4mi. Time taken: 3 – 4 hours. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Accommodation: Saddle Hut
Day 3
Saddle Hut (3500m) to Socialist Peak (4562m) to Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
You will wake up just after midnight for a light meal then start your final ascent to Socialist Peak at the top of big Meru. The trail to the summit is steep and you will be climbing through gravel and rocky ridges. While at the summit you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Meru crater and ash cone. Occasionally, animals such as Klipspringers and mountain reedbucks can be seen over the rocky terrain. After the summit, you will then descend to Miriakamba Hut where you will be spending the night. Distance covered: 19km / 12mi. Time taken: 10 – 12 hours. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Day 4
Miriakamba Hut (2500m) to Momella Gate (1500m)
After breakfast you will begin your final descent to Momella gate. You will be using the southern route to descend. During your descent you will pass through the montane forest where you will pass the amazing Fig Tree Arch. Upon arrival at the Momella gate, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel back in Moshi/Arusha town. Distance covered: 14km / 8.5mi. Time taken: 4 – 5 hours. Meals: Breakfast.
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- 2 nights hotel accommodation before and after your climb on bed & breakfast basis
- Transfers to and from the mountain
- National Park entry, huts and climbing fees
- Rescue fees
- A fully supported climb (average ratio of support staff to climbers is 4:1)
- All meals and drinking water on the mountain
- Access to first aid kit and emergency oxygen
- A certificate documenting your summit ascent
Excluded
- Flights ( International)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips for safari guide
- Personal expenses in nature such as money for souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees etc.
- Visa fees ( 100 USD for American and 50 USD for non-American)
- Immunization documents ( yellow fever recommended for visa processing on arrivals)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and /or park fees
