Mount Meru

Mount Meru, standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and a hidden gem for trekkers. Located in Arusha National Park, this dormant stratovolcano offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro. The trek to the summit is an exciting adventure through dense rainforests, open heathlands, and rugged alpine terrain, culminating in an exhilarating ridge walk to Socialist Peak. Unlike Kilimanjaro, Meru is less crowded, making it a perfect choice for those seeking solitude and an immersive wilderness experience. The mountain is home to giraffes, buffalos, colobus monkeys, and even elephants, offering a unique combination of trekking and wildlife encounters.

Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) – Miriakamba Hut (2,500m)

  • Distance: 10 km | Time: 5–7 hours | Elevation gain: 1,000m

  • The trek starts from Momella Gate with a scenic walk through Arusha National Park. Expect to see wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes as you hike through lush forest trails. The path gradually ascends, offering beautiful views of waterfalls and the surrounding savannah. You’ll reach Miriakamba Hut in the late afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,500m) – Saddle Hut (3,570m)

  • Distance: 6 km | Time: 3–5 hours | Elevation gain: 1,070m

  • The second day involves a steeper ascent through montane forests and open moorland. As you gain altitude, the views become more dramatic, with glimpses of Kilimanjaro on clear days. A short detour to Little Meru (3,820m) in the afternoon is optional but highly recommended for acclimatization. Overnight stay at Saddle Hut, preparing for the midnight summit push.

Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570m) – Socialist Peak (4,566m) – Miriakamba Hut (2,500m)

  • Distance: 18 km | Time: 10–12 hours | Elevation gain: 996m | Descent: 2,066m

  • The summit ascent begins at around 1:00 AM. The route follows a dramatic ridgeline with steep drops on both sides, leading to Socialist Peak just before sunrise. The breathtaking panoramic view from the top includes Mount Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift Valley, and the Ash Cone within Meru’s crater. After celebrating the summit, descend back to Saddle Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut.

Day 4: Miriakamba Hut (2,500m) – Momella Gate (1,500m)

  • Distance: 10 km | Time: 4–5 hours | Descent: 1,000m

  • The final day is a leisurely descent through the rainforest, retracing your steps to Momella Gate. Along the way, enjoy more wildlife sightings and the serene beauty of Arusha National Park. At the gate, you receive a trekking certificate before transferring back to Arusha or Moshi.

1,500

What`s Included

  • Hotel accommodation in Moshi (2 nights)
  • Full-board meals during the trek
  • Airport transfers
  • Transfers to/from Marangu Gate
  • Kilimanjaro National Park fees
  • Hut accommodation
  • Experienced mountain guide(s)
  • Porters and cook
  • Portable toilet
  • Dining tent and camping equipment
  • Safety equipment (first aid kit, oxygen cylinder, pulse oximeter)
  • Summit certificate
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What`s Excluded

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, hiking boots, clothing)
  • Tips for the crew (guides, porters, cooks)
  • Snacks and beverages
  • Laundry services
  • Optional add-ons (extra nights, safaris, Zanzibar trips)
  • Medical services and evacuation costs beyond park fees

6 Days Marangu Route

8 Days Lemosho Route

7 Days Machame Route