Mount Meru Hiking Adventure

Conquer the majestic Mount Meru—enjoy breathtaking summit sunrises and serene flamingo-lined lakes, all without the crowds, even if it’s your first volcanic trekking experience!

Explore of Mount Meru landscape

Hike to the crater rim and the Meru peak

View of Mount Kilimanjaro

Wildlife interaction

Vegetation changes throughout the hike

Optional Arusha City Tour

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru stands tall at 4,568 meters as Tanzania’s second highest peak and the third highest in Africa. Nestled within Arusha National Park, this remarkable volcano offers not only a perfect acclimatization climb for Kilimanjaro but also an unforgettable hiking experience in its own right.

Trekking Mount Meru is an exhilarating adventure through diverse ecosystems, rich wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. Its slopes—shaped by a powerful eruption over 500,000 years ago that blew away the eastern flank—reveal one of Africa’s deepest craters, plunging over 1,500 meters. With panoramic views, sightings of giraffes, buffalos, and colobus monkeys, and fewer crowds on the trail, Mount Meru delivers a raw and rewarding trekking journey into Tanzania’s wild heart.

Introduction

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a representative from Take Me to Tanzania Adventures & Safaris will be ready to greet you with a warm welcome. Relax during your comfortable transfer to your hotel in Arusha, Tanzania’s safari hub. Along the way, enjoy views of the vibrant city life. Depending on your arrival time, a pre-hike briefing will be provided either the same day or early the next morning.

After an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Momela Gate (1,387 m) in Arusha National Park. Following registration, your trek begins under the escort of an armed park ranger. This scenic hike passes through lush montane forest with chances to encounter giraffes, monkeys, zebras, antelopes, and possibly elephants. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m), where you can relax and explore the peaceful surroundings.

  • Elevation Gain: 1,387 m to 2,514 m

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Time: 5–7 hours

  • Habitat: Montane Forest

Today’s hike is a steep ascent along a scenic ridge with breathtaking views of Meru Crater and the striking Ash Cone. Upon arrival at Saddle Hut (3,570 m), you’ll have lunch and time to rest. For those feeling energetic, an optional short hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) is available—ideal for acclimatization and added adventure.

  • Elevation Gain: 2,514 m to 3,570 m

  • Distance: 8 km

  • Time: 4–5 hours

  • Habitat: Moorland

Summit day begins at 1:30 a.m. as you ascend to Rhino Point (3,800 m), then to Cobra Point (4,350 m), before reaching Socialist Peak (4,566 m) at sunrise. From the summit, you’ll enjoy stunning views—often including Mount Kilimanjaro rising above the clouds. The final ridge is both narrow and dramatic, providing a truly unforgettable trek. After taking in the summit, descend back to Saddle Hut for brunch and rest, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut for your overnight stay.

  • Elevation Change: 3,570 m to 4,566 m, then down to 2,514 m

  • Distance: 8 km (summit) + descent

  • Time: 10–12 hours

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert, Moorland, Montane Forest

After breakfast, take a gentle descent through open grasslands and forested trails back to Momela Gate. Wildlife sightings are possible during this scenic descent. Your driver will be waiting at the gate for your return transfer to Arusha, concluding your Mount Meru adventure.

  • Elevation Loss: 2,514 m to 1,387 m

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Time: 3–4 hours

  • Habitat: Grassland and Rainforest

 

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