Day 1: Arrival day
Day 2–5: To be spent on the mountain
Day 6: Departure day
About Mount Meru Trek:
Mount Meru, standing at 4,566 m, is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and is located within Arusha National Park. The mountain combines challenging steep climbs with beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, lush forests, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Because of the wildlife found along the lower slopes, trekkers are accompanied by an armed ranger for safety. Its demanding terrain also makes Meru a valuable acclimatization trek for those preparing for Mount Kilimanjaro, while offering a rewarding alternative for hikers who want a serious mountain experience without committing to Kilimanjaro.
The 4 Days Mount Meru Trek provides a well-paced journey through Tanzania’s scenic landscapes, featuring rainforest trails, wildlife encounters, volcanic ridges, crater views, and spectacular mountain scenery. The additional day allows more time for acclimatization, making the climb more comfortable and enjoyable. The trek culminates at Socialist Peak, where trekkers can experience an unforgettable sunrise and panoramic views, making Mount Meru an excellent adventure before or after a Kilimanjaro climb.
| Group Size | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $1,400 |
| 2 Persons | $1,350 |
| 5 Persons | $1,300 |
| 10 Persons | $1,150 |
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing about the upcoming trek, followed by an equipment check to ensure you have all the essential gear. Any missing equipment can be rented before the climb.
In the evening, you will enjoy dinner and relax at the hotel as you prepare for your Mount Meru adventure. Overnight at your hotel in Moshi.
After breakfast, you will leave your hotel at around 0800hrs and drive to Momella Gate, the starting point of your Mount Meru adventure. The journey takes approximately one and a half hours. Once registration and park formalities are completed, you will begin hiking under the guidance of an armed ranger. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes with views of the Momella Lakes and, on clear days, distant views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, and bushbucks may be spotted along the way. You will continue through the scenic surroundings until reaching Miriakamba Hut, where you will have dinner and spend the night.
Distance covered: 6km / 3.5mi | Approx. time taken: 4 – 5 hours
TToday you will continue climbing through the forest along a steadily rising trail toward Saddle Hut. As you gain elevation, the vegetation begins to change and the views become more impressive, with opportunities to see Meru Crater, the Ash Cone, and Little Meru. Keep an eye out for wildlife and colorful mountain vegetation along the trail, including possible sightings of buffaloes and black-and-white colobus monkeys. After arriving at Saddle Hut, you will have some time to rest before taking a short acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3810m). You will then return to Saddle Hut for dinner and overnight.
Distance covered: 6.5km / 4mi | Approx. time taken: 3 – 4 hours
You will wake up shortly after midnight and have a light meal before beginning the final ascent toward Socialist Peak, the highest point of Mount Meru. The climb is steep and follows rocky terrain, gravel sections, and narrow ridges as you make your way toward the summit. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Meru Crater, Ash Cone, and the surrounding landscapes. Depending on conditions, you may also spot mountain wildlife such as klipspringers and mountain reedbucks. After spending some time at the summit, you will begin the long descent back to Miriakamba Hut for dinner and overnight rest.
Distance covered: 19km / 12mi | Approx. time taken: 10 – 12 hours
After breakfast, you will begin the final section of your Mount Meru trek, descending toward Momella Gate via the southern route. The trail passes through beautiful montane forest, offering a final opportunity to enjoy the natural scenery of Arusha National Park. Along the way, you will pass the impressive Fig Tree Arch, a natural landmark created by the surrounding vegetation. Once you arrive at Momella Gate, you will complete the necessary park formalities before being picked up and transferred back to your hotel in Moshi.
Distance covered: 14km / 8.5mi | Approx. time taken: 4 – 5 hours
After completing your Mount Meru adventure, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, according to your travel arrangements.
If you wish to extend your stay in Tanzania, we can arrange a cultural experience, a relaxing Zanzibar beach getaway, or an exciting wildlife safari. You can explore iconic destinations such as Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.
Novella Safaris has been running Tanzanian journeys. Our licensed guides, modern 4×4 Land Cruisers, and 24/7 in-country support make us the trusted choice for over 4,800 travellers to date. Group size is capped so every guest gets personal attention.
All in-destination transport is included: airport pickup, park drives in custom 4×4 vehicles, inter-park transfers. International and domestic flights are not included.
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. USD is widely accepted at parks, lodges and shops. ATMs are available in Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar and major hubs. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AMEX and bank wire.
Clothing: Layered, muted colours; light hiking pants, breathable shirts, warm fleece and waterproof shell.
Footwear: Broken-in walking shoes, sandals, warm socks.
Essentials: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, insect repellent, small day pack, binoculars, camera with spare batteries, headlamp.
Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), visa, travel insurance, printed itinerary copies.
First-aid: Personal medication, ibuprofen, malaria prophylaxis, plasters, oral rehydration salts.
Departure: Novella Safaris office, Moshi, Tanzania.
Pickup available from: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Arusha Airport (ARK), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
Tipping is customary and appreciated. Guideline: USD 15 per day for driver-guides, USD 10 per day for cooks, USD 5 per day for camp staff. Tips are paid at the end of the trip.
Send us an enquiry — a Tanzania-based trip designer will reply within 24 hours with a tailored proposal, no obligation.
Deposit: 20% at reservation to confirm your booking.
Balance: Due 60 days before departure.
Accepted methods: Visa · Mastercard · AMEX · bank wire.
Documents required: Signed booking form, passport with 6+ months validity, valid visa, travel insurance.
30+ days before departure: 20% of the total trip cost retained.
14–29 days before departure: 50% retained.
Less than 14 days: 100% retained.
If you find a replacement 14+ days before departure, no cancellation fee applies.