Mount Meru is often overshadowed by its mighty neighbor, Kilimanjaro, but it remains one of Tanzania’s most rewarding trekking adventures. Rising dramatically above Arusha, this dormant volcano stands at 4,566 meters and offers an exciting, challenging, and scenic climb. Meru’s unique landscape was shaped by a massive ancient eruption, which created a vast, horseshoe-shaped crater rim with sheer cliffs and a spectacular amphitheater-like valley below.
From its summit, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro—arguably the best vantage point to admire Africa’s tallest peak from just 80 km away. With abundant wildlife, lush forests, and a more secluded trail, Mount Meru is perfect for acclimatization, nature lovers, and trekkers seeking a quieter mountain experience.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later in the evening, your experienced mountain guide will meet you for a detailed trek briefing and a full equipment check to ensure you have everything required for the climb. Enjoy dinner and relax at your hotel before the adventure begins.
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: ~4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, depart your hotel and drive to Momella Gate in Arusha National Park—passing scenic views of Moshi and Arusha en route. Upon arrival, you will complete park registration before beginning your trek, accompanied by an armed ranger for safety.
The trail leads you through lush rainforest where wildlife is commonly seen. Expect sightings of giraffes, warthogs, buffaloes, bushbucks, and a variety of bird species. Upon reaching Miriakamba Hut (2500m), enjoy dinner and spend the night.
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: ~3.5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, begin your ascent toward Saddle Hut. The trail climbs steeply along the saddle ridge, offering impressive views of the Meru Crater, ash cone, and Little Meru. The forest along this section is rich with wildlife, unique plants, and vibrant flowers.
Upon arrival at Saddle Hut, enjoy a hot lunch and take time to rest. In the afternoon, you will take a short acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3820m) before returning to the hut for dinner and overnight.
Distance: 18 km
Hiking Time: ~10 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert / Rocky Ridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your summit attempt begins just after midnight. After a warm drink and light snack, you will start your final ascent up a steep and challenging trail leading through gravel and rocky ridges.
Pass key landmarks such as Rhino Point (3800m) and Cobra Point (4350m) before reaching the summit of Mount Meru (4566m). Enjoy unforgettable sunrise views and spectacular panoramas, including Mount Kilimanjaro towering above the clouds.
After taking photos and celebrating your achievement, descend back to Saddle Hut for a hot lunch, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut for dinner and overnight.
Hiking Time: ~5 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Today’s trail descends through lush tropical forest where wildlife may once again be spotted along the way. After reaching Momella Gate, you will sign out and receive your trekking certificate.
A private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Moshi for a warm shower, rest, and celebration.
Later in the evening or the following day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. If you wish to extend your trip, we can arrange cultural tours or unforgettable wildlife safaris to Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, or other top destinations in Tanzania.
✅ Hotel in Moshi; Bed and Breakfast
✅ Private transport to / from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel in Moshi
✅ Qualified guides with mountain crew
✅ National Park fees
✅ 18% VAT on tour fees and services
✅ All huts accommodations
✅ Huts fees
✅ Transport
✅ Rescue fees
✅ All needs on the mountain (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
✅ Guides and porters’ accommodations and their entry fees on the mountain
✅ Pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit
✅ Emergency oxygen
✅ Treated water throughout the trek
✅ Fair wages to guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park authority
❌ International flights
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
❌ Private portable toilet (available for $120 per group)
❌ Laundry services