Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, rises to 4,566 meters within Arusha National Park. The mountain has a single main route to the summit, which is usually completed over a 3-day trek. Many climbers use Mount Meru as an acclimatization climb before attempting Mount Kilimanjaro. Unlike Kilimanjaro, all treks on Meru require an armed ranger escort. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a walking safari, with opportunities to see wildlife such as African buffalo and zebras.
In the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or the airport and transferred to Arusha National Park, heading directly to the trailhead. The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as giraffes, buffalo, and various antelope along the way.
Upon arrival at Momella Gate, your guides will handle the entry permit formalities. From there, the trek to Miriakamba Huts begins, accompanied by an armed park ranger. As you hike through the open grasslands, keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail. After about two hours, you’ll reach Maio Falls—a picturesque spot perfect for a rest and picnic. The trek continues past the famous “fig tree arch” before arriving at Miriakamba Huts in time for afternoon tea and snacks.
Trek Details:
Distance: 10 km (Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts)
Elevation Gain: 1,387 m at Momella Gate → 2,514 m at Miriakamba Huts
Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours
Habitat: Grassland and rainforest
After breakfast, you’ll begin your trek along a steep trail lined with wooden steps. The higher altitude brings cooler temperatures, making the walk feel refreshing and slightly easier than the previous day. Mist often hangs in the rainforest, adding a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere among the lush vegetation.
After about two hours of uphill hiking, you’ll reach the viewpoint known as Mgongo wa Tembo (“Elephant’s Back”) at 3,200 meters—a perfect spot to pause, rest, and enjoy the scenery. From here, the landscape gradually transitions from dense rainforest to open heather and moorland. By around midday, you’ll arrive at Saddle Huts, where a warm meal will be waiting. You’ll rest early in preparation for your midnight wake-up call.
Trek Details:
Distance: 8 km (Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts)
Elevation Gain: 2,514 m → 3,570 m
Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
Habitat: Moorland and heath
You’ll wake at midnight to begin the challenging climb to Socialist Peak, so be ready for a demanding and tiring ascent. Guided by headlamps, you’ll follow the trail through bushland up to Rhino Point at 3,821 meters. The sections between Rhino Point and Cobra Point are particularly steep, so careful footing is essential.
After approximately 4–5 hours of uphill trekking, you’ll reach Socialist Peak, where you can enjoy the sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and take in the stunning view of Mount Meru’s crater, complete with its steep walls and central ash cone. The descent follows the same route back to Saddle Huts, where you can rest and refresh with hot soup and tea. From there, the trek continues down to Miriakamba Hut for your overnight stay.
Trek Details:
Distance: 6 km (Saddle Huts to Socialist Peak), 19 km (total descent to Miriakamba Hut)
Elevation Change: Saddle Huts (3,570 m) → Socialist Peak (4,565 m) → Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)
Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
Habitat: Bushland, moorland, and heath
After breakfast, you’ll begin your descent from Miriakamba Huts back to Momella Gate. An early start provides the best chance to observe wildlife, as many animals are most active in the morning.
Upon arrival at Momella Gate, the African Wanderlust Adventures team will be ready to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Trek Details:
Distance: Miriakamba Huts (2,514 m) → Momella Gate (1,387 m)
Hiking Time: Around 6 hours
Habitat: Grassland and rainforest
Main Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: None (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast & lunch included (dinner not included), drinking water provided (other drinks not included)
