Route Overview
Mount Meru (4,566 m) rises sharply within Arusha National Park, offering the perfect acclimatization climb or a rewarding standalone challenge. This five-day version provides excellent altitude adjustment, diverse wildlife, sweeping forest trails, volcanic ash cones, and dramatic summit ridge views across to Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Day 1 — Arrival in Arusha & Pre-Climb Briefing
Upon arrival in Arusha, you will be transferred to your hotel. Meet your mountain guide for an equipment check, gear preparation, and a detailed briefing about the Mount Meru trek. Enjoy dinner and rest before the climb.
- Pick-up from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport
- Trek briefing & gear check
- Explore Arusha town (optional)
Day 2 — Momella Gate → Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m)
Begin with registration at Momella Gate. The trek passes through forests and grasslands with possible sightings of giraffes, buffalos, warthogs, and colobus monkeys. A park ranger accompanies the group for safety. The trail climbs steadily to Miriakamba Hut with beautiful views of Meru's horseshoe-shaped crater.
- Wildlife sightings in Arusha National Park
- Views of Meru Crater & Ash Cone
- Evening briefing at Miriakamba Hut
Day 3 — Miriakamba Hut → Saddle Hut (3,500 m)
A steep climb through montane forest leads to Saddle Hut. This day is shorter to allow for acclimatization. After lunch, take an optional hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) for incredible sunset views of the crater floor and Kilimanjaro on the horizon.
- Steady forest climb to higher altitude
- Optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru
- Early dinner before summit night
Day 4 — Summit Attempt: Saddle Hut → Socialist Peak (4,566 m) → Miriakamba Hut
Begin the summit attempt around 2:00 AM. The route climbs steeply along the crater rim, passing Rhino Point and Cobra Point. Reach Socialist Peak at sunrise to enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the immense crater. Descend to Saddle Hut for a short break, then continue to Miriakamba Hut for a well-earned rest.
- Sunrise summit on Socialist Peak
- Climb along the dramatic crater ridge
- Descend through alpine desert & forest
Day 5 — Miriakamba Hut → Momella Gate → Transfer to Arusha
A relaxing descent through forest and open plains brings you back to Momella Gate. After signing out, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Arusha where you can celebrate the successful summit.
- Final descent through Meru’s lower slopes
- Certificate ceremony at Momella Gate
- Drop-off at Arusha hotel
Included
- Park & camping fees (Arusha National Park)
- Ranger escort (mandatory for Meru)
- Professional mountain guides, porters & cook
- Full board meals during the trek
- Accommodation in mountain huts
- Emergency oxygen & first aid kit
- Transport to/from Momella Gate
Not Included
- Hotel before/after the trek
- Personal gear (sleeping bag, boots, poles)
- Tips for staff
- Travel insurance
- Personal items & extra drinks
