3 Days Mount Meru Trekking

Overview

3 Days Mount Meru Trekking is the perfect choice for acclimatization before tackling Kilimanjaro. Not only is it the third-highest peak in Africa, but it is also the second-highest peak in Tanzania, standing proudly at 4,568m. Located in a stunning part of Tanzania, this trek offers a unique opportunity to spot wildlife and take in breathtaking scenery. The ascent is quite steep, featuring a variety of landscapes—streams, parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone, and moorland. Finally, the summit is reached by navigating a narrow, barren ridge, offering stunning views of the Ash Cone several thousand feet below in the crater.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Miriakamba Hut (Full Board)

The adventure begins with a drive from the Hotel in Arusha to Momela Gate. After a quick registration process, the trek officially kicks off with a fully armed ranger escorting the group. As you make your way through the diverse terrain, there is an excellent chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, antelope, and more. By evening, you’ll enjoy dinner and rest for the night at Miriakamba Hut.

Route: Momela Gate to Miriakamba Hut (2,500m)
Duration: 5-7 hours of walking

Day 2: Saddle Hut (Full Board)

The journey continues the next morning from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru. Although this day is relatively short, the climb is steep. The route slowly ascends along a ridge, providing spectacular views of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. After enjoying a hot lunch at Saddle Hut, there’s an optional short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for a stunning sunset view. Later, dinner and an overnight stay await you at Saddle Hut.

Route: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut (3,500m)
Duration: 3-5 hours of walking

Day 3: Saddle Hut to the Summit and Return to Momella Gate (Full Board)

On the final day, an early start—around 1:30 a.m.—prepares you for the most challenging part of the trek. The ascent begins steeply towards Rhino Point (3,800m) and continues onward to Cobra Point (4,350m). The goal is to reach the summit (4,566m) just in time to witness the sunrise, with the remarkable sight of Kilimanjaro Peak rising above the clouds. The final stretch follows a spectacularly narrow ridgeline, sandwiched between sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater. After a short break and brunch back at Saddle Hut, you’ll continue the descent back to Momella Gate, where a transfer vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Arusha for a well-deserved overnight hotel stay.

Route: Saddle Hut to the Summit to Momella Gate
Duration: 12-14 hours of walking

Inclusions

2 Nights accommodation in Arusha
Three meals a day while on the mountain
Professional mountain guides
All park fees
Rescue fees
All meals during the trek
Arrival and departure transfers
Guides, porters, cook salaries, and park fees
Pulse oximeters for monitoring
Walking poles
First-aid supplies
Emergency evacuation by the Flying Doctor Society of Africa

Exclusions

Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival
Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, telephone, beverages)
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Optional tours (e.g., short safari after your climb)
Tips and personal items
International and internal flights
Travel insurance

What to Bring for 3 Days Mount Meru Trekking

To ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience, consider packing the following essentials:

Comfortable clothes suitable for various weather conditions
A warm sweater, as the nights can get chilly at high altitudes
Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes
Towels for personal use
A small pillow for added comfort
Essential toiletries, including toilet paper

Price: 900 USD Per Person

This 3 Days Mount Meru Trekking itinerary offers not only a rewarding but also a challenging experience for hikers. It provides breathtaking landscapes along the way and multiple opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife that calls this region home.