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- Arusha
- 3 Days
- Trekking: Moderate
3 Days Mt Meru Trek
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Description
Mount Meru is a dormant stratovolcano located inside Arusha National Park, about 70 km (43 miles) west of Mount Kilimanjaro. The mountain features a distinctive horseshoe-shaped crater, formed after a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Its terrain consists of lush rainforests, steep ridges, rocky slopes, and an exposed crater rim, offering diverse landscapes throughout the climb.
Include /Exclude
- Hotel accommodation before and after your climb
- Airport transfers
- Transfers to and from the mountain
- National Park entry, camping, climbing and rescue fees
- A fully supported climb (average ratio of support staff to climbers is 4:1)
- All meals and drinking water on the mountain
- A clean and private portable toilet
- High quality dining tent and sleeping tents with comfortable foam mattress
- Access to emergency oxygen and first aid kit
- A certificate documenting your summit ascent
- International flights and visas
- Tips for your guide and crew
- Travel insurance (you must be insured for trekking up to 6000m)
- Your personal trekking gear
- Personal Snacks
- Meals and drinks not on the mountain
- Tips for the mountain crew
Trek Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival and Pre-Trek Orientation
Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, our dedicated team will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha (if you have opted for airport transfers). We highly recommend arriving at least one day before your trek to allow time for rest and final preparations.
In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing at your hotel, where our expert guides will review your gear, discuss the climb itinerary, and arrange any necessary equipment rentals to ensure you’re fully prepared for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,070m (6,791 ft)
Habitat: Rainforest & Moorland
What to Expect:
Trekkers start their journey at Momella Gate, where they complete park registration and meet their armed ranger escort. The trail begins with a gentle walk through open savannah, offering opportunities to see buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and warthogs.
As the trek continues, climbers enter dense rainforest, where they may spot colobus monkeys and exotic bird species. The trail becomes steeper as it transitions into the moorland zone, with stunning views of Mount Meru’s crater walls.
Upon arrival at Saddle Hut, trekkers enjoy a hot meal and take an optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m), offering breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Dinner and early rest prepare climbers for the midnight summit attempt.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,500m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
Hiking Time: 10-12 hours
Elevation Gain: 996m (3,270 ft)
Elevation Loss: 2,066m (6,778 ft)
Habitat: Alpine Desert & Rocky Summit
What to Expect:
The summit push begins at midnight, as climbers ascend the steep crater ridge, navigating rocky terrain with dramatic cliffs on either side. This is the most challenging part of the trek, requiring determination and stamina. After 5-6 hours of climbing, trekkers reach Socialist Peak (4,566m) just in time to witness a stunning sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and the Meru Crater.
After taking in the breathtaking views, climbers begin the descent back to Saddle Hut for breakfast before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut for a well-deserved rest
Day 3: Miriakamba Hut – Momella Gate – Arusha
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
Elevation Loss: 1,000m (3,280 ft)
What to Expect:
Trekkers descend through the montane rainforest, enjoying final wildlife encounters with colobus monkeys, duikers, and diverse bird species. Upon arrival at Momella Gate, climbers receive their Mount Meru trekking certificates before being transferred back to Arusha or Moshi, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.
Why Choose Mt Meru Trekking
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Less crowded than Kilimanjaro – Enjoy a peaceful trek with fewer climbers.
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Perfect for acclimatization – Ideal as a warm-up climb before Kilimanjaro.
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Shorter & More Affordable – A challenging high-altitude trek in just 3 days.
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Breathtaking summit views – Get panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Meru Crater.