Mount Meru Trekking Overview
Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 m / 14,980 ft, offers a thrilling trekking experience through Arusha National Park. This itinerary blends adventure, acclimatization, and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for trekkers preparing for Kilimanjaro or seeking a standalone challenge.
Mount Meru’s trail begins at Momella Gate and ascends through lush rainforest, moorlands, and alpine desert before reaching Socialist Peak. The route is less crowded than Kilimanjaro and includes mandatory ranger escort due to wildlife presence.
- Start Point: Momella Gate (1,500 m / 4,921 ft)
- End Point: Socialist Peak (4,566 m / 14,980 ft)
- Total Distance: ~45 km / 28 mi (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Accommodation: Mountain huts (Miriakamba & Saddle)
Expert Suggestions
Wildlife Alert:
Expect sightings of giraffes, buffaloes, monkeys, and antelope in lower zones.
🧤 Gear Tip: Bring layers for cold summit night and waterproofs for forest humidity.
🧪 Acclimatization: The 4-day trek includes a hike to Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft) for altitude adjustment.
🥾 Footwear: Use sturdy trekking boots with ankle support for rocky summit terrain.
🧃 Hydration: Carry 2–3 liters of water daily; refill at camps with boiled or filtered water
Saidi Makwende
Kilimanjaro Mountain Guide
is a Kilimanjaro Mountain Guide with a 90% summit success rate, and a seasoned videographer/photographer specializing in cultural, travel, and adventure content with strong skills in camera work, drone operation, and editing.
Mount Meru Trekking Schedule
4-Day Trek/4-Day Tour
Day 1: Hotel Pickup → Momella Gate → Miriakamba Hut
Elevation: 1,500 m → 2,514 m / 4,921 ft → 8,248 ft
Distance: ~10 km / 6.2 mi
Highlights:
- Hotel pickup and transfer to Arusha National Park
- Registration and ranger briefing at Momella Gate
- Forest hike with wildlife sightings
- Strangling Fig Tree Arch
- Overnight at Miriakamba Hut
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut → Saddle Hut + Little Meru
Elevation: 2,514 m → 3,570 m / 8,248 ft → 11,713 ft
Distance: ~6.1 km + 2 km / 3.8 mi + 1.2 mi
Highlights:
- Steep forest trail to alpine zone
- Optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft)
- Views of Meru Crater and Ash Cone
- Overnight at Saddle Hut
Day 3: Saddle Hut → Socialist Peak → Miriakamba Hut
Elevation: 3,570 m → 4,566 m → 2,514 m / 11,713 ft → 14,980 ft → 8,248 ft
Distance: ~18 km / 11.2 mi round trip
Highlights:
- Midnight summit push via Rhino Point and Cobra Point
- Sunrise over Kilimanjaro
- Return to Miriakamba Hut for overnight
Day 4: Saddle Hut → Socialist Peak → Miriakamba Hut
Distance: 18 km / 11.2 mi (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 996 m / 3,268 ft
Summit Altitude: 4,566 m / 14,980 ft
Highlights:
- Midnight summit push via Rhino Point and Cobra Point
- Sunrise over Kilimanjaro
- Return to Miriakamba Hut for overnight
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut → Momella Gate → Hotel/Departure
Elevation: 2,514 m → 1,500 m / 8,248 ft → 4,921 ft
Distance: ~5 km / 3.1 mi
Highlights:
- Forest descent via Tulusia Waterfall
- Walking safari with ranger escort
- Wildlife sightings (zebra, buffalo, giraffe)
- Transfer back to hotel for rest or onward departure
Important Note
If your travel plans require you to check out later than 10:00 AM, there is the convenience late check-out option for an additional fee, especially helpful for those with evening flights.
Mt. Meru Trekking FAQs
How difficult is Mount Meru?
Moderately challenging. The summit night is steep and rocky, but no technical climbing is required.
Do I need a guide?
Yes. All trekkers must be accompanied by a certified guide and an armed ranger due to wildlife in Arusha National Park.
What is the best time to trek?
Dry seasons: June–October and December–February offer the best conditions.
What gear is provided?
- Mountain huts accommodation
- Meals and drinking water
- Oxygen cylinders and medical kits
- GPS tracking and daily health checks
- Transfers and hotel stays before/after trek
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. The itinerary includes acclimatization hikes and daily health checks. Drink plenty of water and ascend slowly.
Mt Meru Trekking Pricing Terms
Price Includes the following:
– National park fees and hut accommodation
– Professional guide, cook, and porters
– Meals and drinking water during trek
– Pre- and post-trek hotel nights (B&B)
– Airport transfers
– Rescue fees and emergency evacuation (AMREF)
– Oxygen cylinder (complimentary)
– VAT and crew permits
Price Excludes the following:
– International flights and visa fees
– Travel insurance (required)
– Tips for crew (industry standard: ~20%)
– Personal gear rental (e.g. sleeping bags, poles)
– Extra lodge nights if descending early
– Snacks, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages
