Overview
Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain (4,566m) and offers an excellent warm-up for Kilimanjaro. This trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including savannah, dense forest, and alpine desert, while offering incredible views of Kilimanjaro and abundant wildlife sightings.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Transfer to Arusha for briefing and overnight stay. Overnight at Arusha Planet Lodge.
Day 2: Momella Gate (1,500m) – Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Early morning drive to Arusha National Park. Register at Momella Gate and begin trek accompanied by an armed ranger. Hike through open grassland with possible sightings of buffalo, giraffe, and warthogs. Trek through montane forest to Miriakamba Hut. Distance: 10km / 4-6 hours trekking. Overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 3: Miriakamba Hut – Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Steeper climb through lush forest to the ridge below Little Meru Peak. Lunch at Saddle Hut. Afternoon acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m). Distance: 8km / 4-5 hours trekking. Rest and early dinner in preparation for summit push. Midnight wake-up for summit attempt.
Day 4: Saddle Hut – Socialist Peak (4,566m) – Miriakamba Hut.
Midnight wake-up for summit attempt. Steep ascent to Rhino Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m). Reach Socialist Peak for sunrise views over Kilimanjaro and Arusha National Park. Descend back to Saddle Hut for brunch and continue down to Miriakamba Hut.
Day 5: Miriakamba Hut – Momella Gate – Arusha
Breakfast at Miriakamba Hut, final descend through scenic trails back to Momella Gate. Receive summit certificates. Transfer back to a hotel (Arusha Planet Lodge) for overnight.
Day 6: Departure Day
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) or continue your adventure with a safari or Zanzibar extension.