Mt. Meru 3 and 4 Day Treks

Mount Meru

3 & 4 Day Treks

Mt. Meru is a spectacular dormant volcano that offers one of the most beautiful treks in East Africa. Reaching it summit at 14,980 feet above sea level is a challenging and rewarding experience. Along the way, trekkers pass through afromontane forests into a high altitude alpine desert with stunning views of the dormant volcano.

Located only 50 miles from Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is often overlooked, climbed mostly by Kilimanjaro trekkers as a pre-Kili acclimatization trip. Many people that climb both Meru and Kilimanjaro have a humble preference for Mt. Meru, as it presents a slightly more technical and physically difficult trek.

There is only one official route that is trekked to the summit of Mt. Meru. It can be hiked in 3 or 4 days. Trekkers that hike the route in 4 days have significantly higher success rates of reaching Socialist Peak, the summit of Mt. Meru.

Mt. Meru 4 Day Trek Itinerary

Day 1 : Welcome to Arusha

Accommodation: Ilboru Lodge*

On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed to Tanzania by a member of the E-Trip Africa team and then you will be chauffeured to your Arusha hotel. After dinner you will have a full briefing with your lead guide.

Day 2 : The Montane Forest

Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut

After an early breakfast we will take a short game drive to Arusha National Park. At the Momella gate we will enter the park and begin our trek. Due to the large quantities of wild animals along the first part of the trek, we will be accompanied by an armed ranger. The day takes us through the savanna and into the montane forest. Trekkers often spot buffalo, zebra, giraffe, monkeys, antelope, and often elephants along the route.

Day 3 : The Alpine Desert

Accommodation: Saddle Hut

The morning starts still in the forest, which slowly gives way to giant heather and groundsel as we zig-zag up the steep slopes. As we hike along the ridge we have our first views of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone.We reach the Saddle hut for lunch and in the afternoon will take a hike to the summit of Little Meru (12,532 ft), before returning to the Saddle hut for the dinner.

Day 4 : The Summit

Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut

At around 2 am we set off for our summit attempt. After the spectacular but very difficult ridge walk, our hard work is rewarded at dawn with a beautiful sunrise enjoyed from Socialist Peak (14,980 ft). Kilimanjaro can normally be seen in the distance. However, the fascinating Meru Crater and its cliffs that make up the inner wall will probably capture most of your attention. We return to The Saddle Hut for a brunch before continuing our descent.

Day 5 : Final Descent

After a restful night we finish the short remaining descent. Taking our time along the descent from Mt. Meru, we can full enjoy the forest surrounding and the wildlife within. Relaxed and filled with accomplishment, you will meet your vehicle which will bring you back to Arusha for a much needed hot shower in your day room. A driver is available for transfers to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport, or you may connect with other itineraries.

Mt. Meru 3 Day Trek Itinerary

Day 1, 2, & 3 are same as the above Itinerary. Day 4 starts with an optional summit attempt, followed by the full descent to the Momella Gate. For those choosing to summit, this last day of our trek covers a grueling 17 miles. Your vehicle will then bring you back to your Arusha hotel for a much needed hot shower and dinner. The following morning a vehicle is available to transfer you to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport, or you may connect with other itineraries.

This 3 day Mt. Meru trek is only suggested for highly experienced trekkers. It is extremely demanding and suggested only for those who are regular participants in high endurance activities. Please carefully consider your abilities prior to booking this trek. If you need any assistance please contact us.

Included

Accommodations

1 night Ilboru Lodge*^
2 nights Miriakamba Hut
1 night Saddle Hut

*upgrades are available

^the 3 day trek has 2 nights at this accommodation.

Transportation

Arrival Transfer from JRO
All Transfers during the Tour
Departure Transfer to JRO

Activities

Mt. Meru Trek
Optional Little Meru Hike

Other

All Meals During Itinerary
Bottled Drinking Water
English Speaking Guide
Porters and Cook
Stay Connected Program
National Park Fees
Trekking Permit Fees
Park Rescue Fees
Taxes

Not Included

International Flights
Visa Expenses
Travel Insurance
Medical Insurance
Tips & Gratuities
Airport Tax
Drinks at Hotels
Laundry Services
Excursions not in the itinerary
Activities not listed above