3 Days Mount Meru Itinerary

Mount Meru is a captivating feature of Arusha National Park, attracting numerous visitors. The complete ascent of this majestic mountain typically takes at least three days to accomplish. Along the route, climbers will be immersed in a range of natural environments, allowing them to experience the diverse flora and fauna that grace the landscape. The combination of nature and culture encountered during the climb creates a truly unique experience. It is highly recommended to allocate four days for the ascent, providing ample time for acclimatization. Many alpinists utilize Mount Meru as a preliminary climb before embarking on the renowned Kilimanjaro expedition. Unlike Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru displays less snow accumulation resulting from volcanic eruptions. As you make your way through Arusha National Park, it is essential to be accompanied by armed rangers, ensuring your safety. During this time, you will have the opportunity to revel in a walking safari, observing groups of African buffalo, zebras, and enchanting black and white colobus monkeys.

ARRIVAL DAY

On the arrival day, you will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town/Arusha town; you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented on this day.

DAY 1: Moshi/Arusha – Miriakamba Hut

Duration: 5-7 hours of hiking

After an early morning breakfast at your hotel in Moshi/Arusha, you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then begin your ascent in Arusha National Park. The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving to Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.

DAY 2: Miriakamba Hut – Saddle Hut

Duration: 3-5 hours of hiking

After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has views of Mt. Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Mt. Meru (3820m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt. Get to sleep by 1900!

DAY 3: Saddle Hut – Summit Attempt – Arusha/Moshi

Duration: 12-14 hours of hiking

Your guide will wake you at 00:30 for tea and biscuits. You will then begin your summit attempt at 1:30am. The trail starts off on a steep grade to Rhino Point (3800m) to Cobra Point (4350m). The last hour of the hike you will scramble on a rocky ridge between the crater and inner cliffs of Meru. You will reach the summit of Meru (4565m) at sunrise with spectacular views of Mt. Meru Ash Tray and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy your views then descend to Momella Gate and return to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi

DEPARTURE DAY

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight back home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore nearby town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.

Kilimanjaro climb tour, Wildlife Safari tour, Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.

Group price