4 days, 3 nights
Min 4-Max 8
18+
Arusha/Moshi
Mount Meru is the fifth highest peak in Africa and the second highest in Tanzania at 4,566 meters (14,990 feet). Its peaks and eastern slopes lie protected within the Arusha National Park, home to 400 different species of birds, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, monkeys, warthogs, black and white Columbus monkeys and antelope. Meru offers unparalleled views of its famous neighbor and the endless savannah, and in our opinion it’s a far more rewarding hiking destination than ‘Kili’ itself.
The hike up to the summit of Mount Meru takes you through tropical rainforest, parkland, heathland and moorland. Passing first through wooded savannah where buffalos and giraffes are frequently encountered, the ascent of Meru leads into forests aflame with red-hot pokers and dripping with Spanish moss, before reaching the alpine desert. Overnight stay is in cozy mountain huts.
Please read our country specific Essential Information/FAQ page for further details before booking.
Individual arrival to Kilimanjaro Airport (KIA) and transfer to overnight in Arusha.
In the early evening there will be a preparatory meeting for the trekking tour with the mountain guide.
After breakfast, we drive from Arusha to Momella-Gate in Arusha National Park. After a short registration at the Gate, we will begin our hike escorted by an armed ranger, simply because we can see along the way wild animals including zebras, giraffes, monkeys, antelope, and often elephants.
The path leads through a fascinating landscape of savannah and mountain forest and in about 4-5 hours we reach the mountain hut for the night. When the weather is good, the hut offers a wonderful view of Kilimanjaro, which is directly opposite.
We spend the night in well-maintained mountain huts, usually with several people in one room.
Elevation gain (m): 1,000 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
The walk from Miriakamba-Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. After a hot lunch at Saddle Hut, we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset.
Dinner and overnight night at Saddle Hut.
Elevation gain (m): 1050 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Forest and Moorland.
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise. There is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridgeline between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater.
We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Meriakamba Hut. From here we take a short and fast descent way through open grassland and mixed forest, with the possibility of seeing wildlife before reaching Momella Gate in the afternoon. The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to bring us to our hotel in Moshi.
Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for people with vertigo or fear of heights. A head for heights and surefootedness are a must. In icy conditions or strong winds it may even be impossible to pass Rhino Point and continue the climb beyond. The sunrise is just as spectacular from here as it is from Socialist Peak.
Elevation gain (m): 1,000 m (descent 3070 m)
Distance: 5 km up (13 + 10 km down)
Hiking Time: 12 – 14 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Moorland and Montane forest.
The trekking tour ends in Moshi, which perfectly combines with our marathon + safari program.
Individual travel dates can be arranged upon request.
Please read our tour specific Essential Information/FAQ page for further details before booking.
Please note that the itinerary is subject to minor changes due to circumstances beyond our control. This is Africa, but whatever happens, we'll always do our best to ensure you have an amazing experience!
Remember, you can extend your adventure by joining our Marathon + Safari tour at the end of your hiking holiday.
* All images used in the gallery are taken from promotional sites.