Mount Meru Climbing

Safari summary

The 3-day Mount Meru climb is an ideal experience for those looking to acclimatize before attempting Mount Kilimanjaro or for adventurers seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb in its own right. Located within the stunning Arusha National Park, Mount Meru stands as Tanzania’s second-highest mountain at 4,568 meters and the fifth-highest peak in Africa. The climb offers trekkers the unique opportunity to hike through diverse landscapes and encounter abundant wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and monkeys, all under the protection of an armed ranger due to the area’s rich biodiversity.

This adventure begins with a drive from Arusha or Moshi to Momella Gate, where the journey on Mount Meru officially starts. The first day’s hike takes you through lush forests and up to Miriakampa Hut, where you'll have the chance to enjoy the afternoon sun and take in sweeping views of the surrounding plains, with Mount Kilimanjaro visible in the distance.

On the second day, the trail ascends through alpine moorland to Saddle Hut. Here, you'll embark on an acclimatization hike to Little Meru, offering a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the Ash Cone, as well as an unforgettable sunset. This acclimatization is crucial, as it helps prepare your body for the final summit push.

The summit attempt begins at midnight on the third day, with a climb under the stars towards the peak. The route takes you through Rhino Point and Cobra Point before reaching Socialist Peak, the summit of Mount Meru. As the sun rises, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the dramatic cliffs of the crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the crater floor, and Mount Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds.

After celebrating your achievement and taking in the panoramic views, you’ll descend back to Saddle Hut for a rest and lunch before continuing down to Momella Gate. The descent offers another chance to appreciate the mountain’s diverse ecosystems, from the alpine moorland to the montane forest. Once back at the gate, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi, or onward to your next destination.

This climb is not only a fantastic way to prepare for the challenges of Kilimanjaro but also a unique opportunity to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty and wildlife up close. The combination of diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and stunning summit views makes the Mount Meru climb a truly unforgettable journey.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Visas