4 Days 3 Nights Mount Meru Climbing itinerary will start from Arusha National Park’s Gate and continues as a steady climb through montane forest.

Typically Mount Meru Climb takes four days, but it can be done in 3 days to complete a trek to the top as even on this lower peak, acclimatization is the key to success. All trekking groups take the same route up the mountain, which begins at Momella Gate.

Hikers will stay in a series of huts on their way to the top, with basic but comfortable accommodations located at two different campsites prior to the going to the summit, which is located at a place called Socialist Peak.

Mount Meru Climbing offers two advantages to travelers. First, it allows trekkers a chance to experience what it is like to climb Kilimanjaro on a smaller scale, providing a grand adventure for those who don’t have a lot of time in their schedule or don’t want to deal with the higher altitude found on Kilimanjaro.

Day 1: Arusha National Park Gate 

Follow the park formalities, and begin your guided hike. You will trek through open grassland, providing opportunity to see the grazing animals like buffalo, warthogs etc. The trail continues as a steady climb through montane forest. Lunch at the Fig Tree Arch, then proceed through less dense forest, where there is an abundance of birds and Colobus monkeys. By mid-afternoon you will see the towering cliffs and Ash Cone of the Mountain. Enjoying the last of the afternoon sun, you will reach Miriakamba Hut situated in an idyllic grassy glade – experience lovely views over the surrounding plains toward Kilimanjaro, a 5 hours walk.

Day 2: Walking from Miriakamba Hut (2,515M) 

The 4 hours walk from Miriakamba Hut (2,515m) to the Saddle Hut (3,570m) below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. Slowly ascend through lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. From here enjoy excellent views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. The path continues through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut, where lunch will be provided. The afternoon is free to relax and to enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset.

Day 3: Walking for the steep climb to Rhino Point

Early at approximately 02h00 start for the steep climb to Rhino Point (3,800m), continuing along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350m) at sunrise. The views are stunning – the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift Valley if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566m) is an hour further on a good but steep path. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light, on a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall, is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut (3,570m) before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m), 11 hours walk.

Day 4: Walking through open Grassland

Take the direct route from Miriakamba Hut down through open grassland and mixed forest, with good opportunities to see wildlife. This trail has excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of Arusha National Park. Reach Momella Gate by late morning, after the 3 hours walk. Here you have completed the climb, then you will be transferred to your hotel in Arusha for some relaxation, then follow the rest of your travel plans.