Mount Meru Trekking

4 Days

Overview

  Mount Meru, a dormant volcano reaching 14,980 feet (4,566 meters), lies in Tanzania's Arusha National Park, west of Kilimanjaro. This lesser-known peak offers a challenging 3- to 4-day trek with stunning wildlife encounters and, on clear days, views of its giant neighbor, Kilimanjaro. While the fifth-highest in Africa (depending on definition), Meru is Tanzania's second-highest mountain and a fantastic option for those seeking a scenic climb with fewer crowds.

The itinerary spans five days, including three days dedicated to the mountain expedition.

Day 1 :
Day of Arrival.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO), our driver from Maranje Adventure will be awaiting you just outside the Customs Control area, holding a sign with your name on it. Once your luggage is loaded into our van, he will drive you to your hotel in Moshi. Once you've settled in, your guide will conduct a pre-climb briefing to address all your inquiries and provide essential information. An equipment check will also be carried out to ensure you have all the necessary gear for a comfortable and safe climb. Should you require any equipment, you can rent any/all items locally at a reasonable price, ensuring good quality. Please note, if your arrival is at night, the briefing and equipment check may be scheduled for early the following morning instead.
Day 2 :
Arusha - Momella Gate - Mariakamba Hut
The journey kicks off with a one-hour drive from Moshi to Momella Gate, the starting point of the Mount Meru trek. Upon reaching Momella Gate, you'll undergo the necessary registration and permit procedures before commencing the hike. The trail winds through a scenic path in the dense montane forest, where you may encounter black and white colobus monkeys and diverse bird species. After trekking approximately 10 kilometers over 4 to 5 hours, you'll arrive at Miriakamba Hut, positioned at an elevation of 2,516 meters. Here, relish a satisfying dinner and spend the night at the hut.
Day 3 :
Miriakamba Hut To Saddle Hut
Following a restful night's sleep and a satisfying breakfast at Mariakamba Hut, you'll continue your journey towards Saddle Hut. The trail gradually ascends, meandering through heather and moorland landscapes, offering captivating vistas of Mount Meru's crater and the surrounding terrain. Spanning a distance of 4 kilometers, this leg of the hike typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete. Upon reaching Saddle Hut, situated at an elevation of 3,566 meters, you'll settle in for the evening, indulging in a nourishing dinner and gearing up for the summit push scheduled for the next day.
Day 4 :
From Meru Summit To Saddle Hut To Momella Gate And Back To Arusha
The day begins early as you set out for the summit from Saddle Hut. As you ascend, the path steepens, and you'll rely on headlamps to navigate the darkness. If weather permits, you'll reach Rhino Point, a prominent viewpoint on the crater rim, around sunrise, where you can pause to witness the stunning sunrise. Continuing along a narrow ridge from Rhino Point, you'll eventually reach the summit of Mount Meru, known as Socialist Peak, at an altitude ranging from approximately 4,562 meters to 4,566 meters. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains. After soaking in the breathtaking vistas, you'll descend back to Saddle Hut for a well-deserved rest and brunch. The descent then continues, leading you back to Momella Gate. Once you've completed the necessary paperwork and received your summit certificates, you'll be driven back to Arusha, marking the conclusion of your exhilarating Mount Meru trekking adventure.
Day 5 :
Derpature
Our driver will be at your disposal to transport you to Kilimanjaro Airport at any time for your return flight home.

Include

  • Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro (JRO) Airport
  • Transportation from the hotel to the park gate
  • Park fees and taxes
  • High-quality 4-season mountain tents
  • Provision of a dining tent
  • Sleeping mattresses
  • Meals provided throughout your mountain journey
  • Purified drinking water available during the trek
  • Emergency oxygen cylinders for safety
  • An English-speaking guide (with options for other languages upon request)
  • A mountain chef and all necessary cooking and eating utensils

Exclude

  • Tips for climb staff
  • Single supplement fee (if applicable)
  • Private toilet with privacy tent (available at an additional cost)
  • Flights and tourist visa expenses
  • Mandatory medical insurance (required for all participants)

Mount Meru

This Mount Meru trek program offers a more leisurely approach to climbing, ideal for those who view it as a passion rather than a competitive endeavor. It’s highly recommended for anyone seeking to conquer Meru. Following the descent, there’s an additional overnight stay at the base camp for healing.

This itinerary presents the ultimate method for ascending Mount Meru, providing three nights of comfort in cozy mountain huts on the volcano’s slopes. Your accommodation includes a night at Miriakamba Hut followed by another at Saddle Hut. During your trek from the park’s entrance to the initial camp, an armed ranger accompanies you, offering opportunities to spot wildlife. The highlight arrives on the third day with a sunrise summit, witnessing the breathtaking African landscape bathed in golden light. Following this triumphant ascent, you descend to the base camp for a third night on Mount Meru’s slopes before concluding your journey at the National Park Gate. Additionally, depending on available time, you’ll have two days for relaxation or brief excursions before and after the expedition.

4- Days Mount Meru itinerary

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our representative will warmly greet you, who will facilitate your transfer to the hotel. The hotel offers everything you need for a pleasant stay, including snug rooms, internet connectivity, hot showers, a refreshing swimming pool, and attentive staff. In the evening, you’ll participate in an orientation session led by our tour coordinators, ensuring you’re well-prepared to embark on the remarkable Meru climb. For private tour packages, shared airport transfers are provided for your group. Additional fees may apply for individual transfers beyond the group arrangement.

FROM MOMELLA GATE TO MIRIAKAMBA HUT

In the morning, your journey begins with a visit to Arusha National Park before heading straight to the trailhead, which typically takes around 2.5–3 hours.Upon reaching Momella Gate, your guides will handle the entry permit formalities, marking the commencement of your trek towards Miriakamba Hut. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for encounters with various wildlife species, including warthogs, zebras, monkeys, antelopes, and occasionally, elephants. Upon arrival at Miriakamba Hut, a satisfying hot lunch awaits. Take the opportunity to rest or venture out to explore the surrounding area.It’s important to note that this marks your first day at higher altitude, so it’s crucial to follow these guidelines:

1. Stay hydrated by consuming over 4 liters of bottled water daily, sipping little by little and frequently.
2. Consider using preventive measures for altitude sickness, such as high-altitude aid medicine, which many climbers take in the morning before beginning their ascent. Detailed information will be provided by our managers along with your travel itinerary. We strongly advise consulting your doctor beforehand to discuss any potential allergies or health concerns.

As night falls, you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the higher altitude. Reduced breathing patterns during sleep mean your body receives less oxygen compared to daytime, potentially leading to symptoms like headaches. Pay close attention to your body and inform your guide immediately if you start experiencing any signs of altitude sickness.

Trekking Details:
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 10 km

FROM MIRIAKAMBA HUT TO SADDLE HUT

Following breakfast, the group will commence their trek towards Saddle Hut. Exiting the rainforest zone, you’ll transition into the heath and moorland terrain adorned with expansive trees, offering picturesque panoramas along the trail. Upon arrival at Saddle Hut, those with the enthusiasm and energy may opt to ascend the Little Meru Peak, contributing further to your acclimatization process. Our dedicated team will ensure you’re well-fed with hot lunch and dinner served at the camp.

Trekking Details:
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 8 km

FROM SADDLE HUT TO MERU PEAK AND TO MIRIAKAMBA HUT

In the dead of night, the group will rouse from their slumber to embark on the challenging ascent to the Meru Peak. This part of the journey demands fortitude and resilience, particularly during the steep and precipitous sections leading to Rhino Point and Cobra Point. Exercise caution and tread carefully. As the group presses onward, Meru Peak (4,565 m/14,977 ft) awaits their arrival by the break of dawn, promising unparalleled visual delights. Witness breathtaking panoramic vistas unfolding around you, accompanied by the awe-inspiring spectacle of the sunrise.

Following this triumphant summit experience, the group will descend to Miriakamba Hut, where a hearty hot lunch awaits. Subsequently, dinner and overnight accommodations will be provided at the hut.

Trekking Details:
Trekking Time: 8–12 hours
Distance: 19 km

FROM MIRIAKAMBA HUT TO MOMELLA GATE

Morning, breakfast and hike down to Momella Gate. Our car will be waiting there for your party to transfer to the hotel (see description below). 

Trekking time: 2–4 hours

Distance:7 km

After the trek, enjoy some well-deserved rest at the hotel before preparing for your departure. Please be aware that hotel check-out is at 11:00 a.m. If your flight is scheduled for the evening and you require a late check-out, you have the option to extend your hotel stay for an additional fee. Following your relaxation time, our team will arrange your transfer to the airport, ensuring a smooth conclusion to your unforgettable Mount Meru adventure.

Trip info

  • Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)/Moshi or Arusha
  • 7 hours
  • miriakamba Hut
  • 4,562.13 m
  • Guided
  • Available

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