Mount Meru

The Mount Meru trek offers a compelling alternative to its more famous neighbour, Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek to the 5th highest mountain in Africa provides not only a challenging ascent but also a chance to explore the rich biodiversity and scenic beauty of Arusha National Park.

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The Mount Meru trek is a captivating adventure that offers a compelling alternative to its more famous neighbour, Mount Kilimanjaro. Located within Arusha National Park in Tanzania, Mount Meru is an impressive stratovolcano and the country’s second-highest peak. The trek typically takes about 4 to 5 days, providing a diverse and immersive experience through various ecological zones. The journey begins in lush rainforests, home to diverse flora and fauna, including colobus monkeys and colourful bird species. As the trail ascends, it leads through heath and moorland landscapes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains and Mount Kilimanjaro. The final push to the summit takes trekkers across rocky terrain to Socialist Peak (4566m), where they are rewarded with stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand meters below in the crater. The Mount Meru trek provides not only a challenging ascent but also a chance to explore the rich biodiversity and scenic beauty of Arusha National Park, making it a rewarding and often less crowded trekking experience. (This climb can be used for acclimatization before you attempt Mount Kilimanjaro)

Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be met by staff from Active Kilitop and Safaris and transported to your accommodation.

Day 1: Momella Gate (1500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2514m)

  • After breakfast you’ll be transported to the Momella Gate of Arusha National Park.
  • After park registration your trek will begin under the guidance of a park ranger and Active Kilitop and Safaris’ mountain crew.
  • Your trek to Miriakamba Hut will pass open grassland providing an opportunity to spot buffalo, warthogs and other grazers. You will steadily gain altitude as you climb through montane forest.
  • Lunch will be taken near a giant fig tree arch, before your climb will proceed through less dense forest with an abundance of birds and colobus monkeys.
  • By mid-afternoon you’ll be able to see the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone.
  • You’ll soon arrive at your overnight hut, Miriakamba, located in an idyllic grassy glade where you’ll have ample time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro, before dinner.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2514m) to Saddle Hut (3570m)

  • The day’s trek will take you to the saddle below Little Meru. It is a short climb, but steep.
  • You’ll continue your trek at a leisurely pace towards the halfway point of Elephant Ridge from where you can enjoy fantastic views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor.
  • The trek will then continue through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut where lunch will be provided.
  • You’ll have a free afternoon to relax and enjoy the breath-taking views. You can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3820m) for superb views just before sunset.
  • Dinner will be provided at the overnight hut, Saddle Hut.

Day 3: Saddle Hut (3570m) to Socialist Peak (4566m) to Miriakamba Hut (2514m)

  • You’ll begin your summit hike early at around 2am, and will climb steeply to Rhino Point (3800m).
  • Your trek will continue along an undulating ridge of ash and rock towards Cobra Point (4350m).
  • Depending on your speed, you can enjoy sunrise at Cobra Point or the Summit. At sunrise you will have a view of the cliffs of the crater rim and the Ash Cone rising from the crater floor.
  • A further one hour trek on a good, but steep, path will bring you to the summit, Socialist Peak (4566m).
  • After spending some time on the summit you will descend through a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall. This is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa.
  • You will enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before descending further to Miriakamba Hut, your overnight stop.

Day 4: Miriakamba Hut (2514m) to Momella Gate (1500m)

  • The final day of your Mount Meru trek takes you directly down through open grassland and mixed forest with a good chance of seeing wildlife. The trail has great views back towards the crater and over the plains of the national park.
  • Depending on your pace, you should reach Momella Gate by late morning, from where you’ll be transported back to your accommodation.

Trek Dates