3 Days Mt. Meru Trekking
Embark on a thrilling 3-day trekking adventure to the summit of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak. This trek offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a challenging yet rewarding climb. Starting from the lush rainforests of Arusha National Park, you’ll journey through various ecosystems, including heath and moorland, before reaching the dramatic volcanic craters. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes, making this trek a true wilderness experience. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-time adventurer, the 3-day Mount Meru trek promises an unforgettable journey through one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes.
Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m/4,921ft) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m/8,250ft)
Distance: 10km / 6.2 miles
Hiking time: 4 – 6 hours
Ascent: 1,014m / 3,329ft
Max. altitude: 2,514m / 8,250ft
Habitat: Rainforest
Accommodation: Hut
Meals included: Lunch / Dinner
Your adventure begins at the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park, where you’ll complete registration formalities before starting your trek through the lush rainforest. The trail is often muddy and slippery, but the dense vegetation and diverse wildlife, including colobus monkeys and buffaloes, make it a fascinating journey. You’ll reach Miriakamba Hut in the late afternoon, where you’ll set up camp and enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m/8,250ft) to Saddle Hut (3,570m/11,712ft)
Distance: 8km / 5 miles
Hiking time: 3 – 5 hours
Ascent: 1,056m / 3,462ft
Max. altitude: 3,570m / 11,712ft
Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Accommodation: Hut
Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the heath and moorland zone. The trail becomes steeper and more rocky as you ascend, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll reach Saddle Hut in the early afternoon, where you can rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude. In the afternoon, you have the option to hike Little Meru (3,820m/12,533ft) for acclimatization and panoramic views.
Overnight: Saddle Hut
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570m/11,712ft) to Socialist Peak (4,566m/14,980ft) to Momella Gate (1,500m/4,921ft)
Distance: 18km / 11.2 miles
Hiking time: 10 – 12 hours
Ascent: 996m / 3,268ft
Descent: 3,066m / 10,059ft
Max. altitude: 4,566m / 14,980ft
Habitat: Alpine Desert to Rainforest
Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Your summit attempt begins around midnight, with a challenging climb through the alpine desert to Socialist Peak, the highest point of Mount Meru. The ascent is steep and demanding, but the reward is an unforgettable sunrise over the vast African plains and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll begin your descent back to Saddle Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Momella Gate. The descent is long and tiring, but the lower altitude and lush rainforest provide a welcome change of scenery. Upon reaching Momella Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your guides and porters. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, where you can relax and celebrate your incredible achievement.
Professional Guides: Certified and experienced mountain guides who are knowledgeable about the terrain, wildlife, and safety protocols.
Porters and Cook: Porters to carry your gear and a cook to prepare meals, ensuring you have the energy needed for the trek.
Accommodation: Overnight stays in mountain huts along the route, providing shelter and a place to rest.
Meals: All meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on nutritious and energy-boosting foods.
Park Fees: All necessary park entry fees and permits for Arusha National Park and Mount Meru.
Rescue Fees: Fees for emergency rescue services, ensuring your safety in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Camping Equipment: High-quality camping equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
Transportation: Transfers to and from the trailhead, ensuring a smooth start and finish to your adventure.
Drinking Water: Safe and clean drinking water provided throughout the trek to keep you hydrated.
First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit carried by the guides to handle any minor injuries or health issues.
International Flights: Airfare to and from Tanzania is not included.
Visa Fees: Costs for obtaining a Tanzanian visa are not covered.
Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance is required but not included.
Personal Expenses: Items such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional drinks are not covered.
Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, porters, and cooks are not included and are at your discretion.
Personal Gear: Personal trekking gear such as hiking boots, clothing, and sleeping bags are not provided.
Additional Accommodation: Extra nights in hotels before or after the trek are not included.
Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses incurred during the trip are not covered.