3 DAYS MT. MERU CLIMB
TREKKING MT. MERU WITH MOUNTAIN SPIRIT AFRICA SAFARIS
POPULAR ROUTES
4 DAYS MT. MERU
3 DAYS MT. MERU
7 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE
ITINERARY
Overview
This 3-day route is designed for those with limited time but a strong spirit for adventure. The journey begins either in Arusha or Moshi, with a drive to Momella Gate where the trek officially starts. You’ll pass through lush montane forest inhabited by giraffes, buffaloes, monkeys, and a variety of bird species, making this trek a rare blend of hiking and safari.Though shorter than Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru’s steep ascents and ridge trails make it a physically rewarding challenge. It’s also considered an ideal acclimatization climb before attempting Kilimanjaro, helping prepare your body for higher altitudes.
Led by experienced guides and accompanied by armed park rangers for safety, this guided expedition guarantees a memorable summit experience with stunning views of Kilimanjaro from the top. If you’re looking for a short yet impactful mountain trek in Tanzania, Mount Meru is your ultimate choice.
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, followed by a scenic 1.5–2.5 hour drive (depending on location) to Momella Gate, the trailhead inside Arusha National Park. After registration, you’ll meet your professional mountain crew, including your armed ranger escort who ensures safety through the wildlife zone.
The trek begins through lush montane forest filled with giraffes, buffaloes, monkeys, zebras, and countless birds. The trail gradually ascends via forest trails and open glades, offering views of waterfalls and ancient fig trees arching over the path.
Expect a peaceful pace as your body begins acclimatizing. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Miriakamba Hut, situated in a clearing with beautiful views of the Meru Crater and the Maasai plains below.
-Distance: ~10 km
-Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
-Start Elevation: 1,500 m (4,921 ft)
-End Elevation: 2,514 m (8,248 ft)
-Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
-Meals: Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, the trek continues through the upper montane forest and into the moorland zone, rich with giant heather, moss-covered trees, and volcanic rock formations. This leg includes steep switchbacks that climb the Elephant Ridge, with breathtaking views of Mount Meru’s inner crater wall.
By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Saddle Hut, located in a sheltered saddle between Little Meru and the summit cone. After a hot lunch and rest, an optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) is highly recommended. The round trip takes 1–2 hours and rewards you with amazing sunset views over the eastern slopes.
-Distance: ~8 km
-Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
-Start Elevation: 2,514 m (8,248 ft)
-End Elevation: 3,570 m (11,712 ft)
-Overnight: Saddle Hut
-Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
You’ll wake at around midnight for tea and a light snack before starting your pre-dawn summit attempt. The trail is steep and challenging, passing Rhino Point and Cobra Point before reaching Socialist Peak (4,566 m) at sunrise. Enjoy awe-inspiring views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Ash Cone, and the Momella Lakes below.
Descend back to Saddle Hut for a hot brunch, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut and finally Momella Gate, where your vehicle will be waiting. Transfer back to Arusha or Moshi in the late afternoon. End of trek.
-Hiking Distance: 5 km ascent + 15 km descent
-Hiking Time: 12–14 hours total
-Elevation Gain: +996 meters | Elevation Loss: –3,066 meters
-Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
-Bed and Breakfast, Airport pick up and drop off, Transport to the mountain and back to your hotel after trek.
-Professional, experienced, mountain guides.
-Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees.
-All meals while on the Mountain (Breakfast lunch and dinner).
-Tanzania Visa.
-International and domestic flights.
-Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting).
-Travel insurance.
-Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
-Meals not listed in the itinerary.
-Liquors, beers and bottled beverages.
-Tip for the crew