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- Arusha
- 4 Days
- Trekking: Moderate
4 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 Miriakamba Hut (2,500m)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,000m (3,280 ft)
Habitat: Rainforest
What to Expect:
Trekkers begin their adventure at Momella Gate, where they complete park registration and meet their armed ranger guide. The trail starts with a gentle walk through open grasslands, offering chances to see buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and warthogs. As the trail ascends, hikers pass through lush rainforests, home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and diverse bird species. After a scenic 4-6 hour trek, climbers arrive at Miriakamba Hut, where they enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,500m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,070m (3,510 ft)
Habitat: Montane Forest & Moorland
What to Expect:
After an early breakfast, trekkers leave Miriakamba Hut and begin a steep ascent through thick montane forest. The route features spectacular viewpoints overlooking Meru Crater and Ash Cone. As the elevation increases, the vegetation shifts to heather and moorland, with giant lobelias and open ridges. Upon arrival at Saddle Hut, climbers take a short break before an optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m), providing breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains. Dinner and early rest prepare trekkers for the midnight summit attempt.
Day 3: Saddle Hut – Socialist Peak (4,566m) – Miriakamba Hut
Distance: 14 km (9 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 attempt begins at midnight, with climbers trekking along a narrow ridgeline with steep cliffs on either side. The ascent is demanding, with the final stretch being rocky and exposed, requiring steady pacing and endurance. After 5-6 hours of climbing, trekkers reach Socialist Peak (4,566m) just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and the Meru Crater.
After celebrating at the summit, trekkers descend back to Saddle Hut for breakfast, followed by a further descent to Miriakamba Hut, where they spend the night.
Day 4: 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:
On the final day, trekkers enjoy a relaxing descent through rainforest and open savannah. Along the way, there are opportunities to spot colobus monkeys, hornbills, and other wildlife. After reaching Momella Gate, climbers receive their Mount Meru trekking certificates. From here, they are 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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Incredible wildlife encounters – Trek through Arusha National Park with a ranger escort.
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Breathtaking summit views – Get panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Meru Crater.