3 Days Mount Meru Trekking | Short Hike in Arusha, Tanzania

Duration: 3 Days | Price: From $910 USD | Difficulty: Challenging

Trip Overview 

Set out on an exciting 3-day Mount Meru trekking journey through the beautiful landscapes of Arusha National Park. Your adventure begins with a stay in Arusha, followed by a full briefing from professional mountain guides. Starting at Momela Gate, the trail takes you across wildlife habitats, misty forests, and volcanic ridges before reaching the summit of Socialist Peak at 4,566 m.

An armed ranger joins the trek for protection, and wildlife sightings are common, including giraffes, monkeys, buffaloes, and zebras. Along the route, you’ll pass iconic landmarks such as the Ash Cone and Meru Crater before standing at the peak with a sunrise view of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.

After the descent, you will be transferred back to Arusha for a comfortable rest or to continue on optional extensions like safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, or a Zanzibar escape.

Itinerary – Day by Day

Day 1: Arusha to Miriakamba Hut

  • Altitude: 1,387 m to 2,514 m

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

After breakfast, transfer to Momela Gate for registration and team introduction (guides, rangers, and porters). Begin your trek through montane forest where monkeys, giraffes, and other wildlife are often seen.

Arrive at Miriakamba Hut in the afternoon for dinner and overnight rest.

Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut (Full board)


Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut (with optional Little Meru hike)

  • Altitude: 2,514 m to 3,570 m

  • Distance: 8 km

  • Hiking Time: 3–5 hours

Today’s trek climbs more steeply, transitioning into moorland terrain. Enjoy striking views of Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. Arrive at Saddle Hut for a hot lunch and short relaxation.

In the evening, you may take an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) for sweeping sunset views.

Accommodation: Saddle Hut (Full board)


Day 3: Summit Attempt – Socialist Peak and Descent

  • Altitude: 3,570 m to 4,566 m (summit)

  • Distance: 5 km ascent / 13 km descent

  • Hiking Time: 12–14 hours

The summit push begins just after midnight. The route climbs via Rhino Point (3,800 m) and Cobra Point (4,350 m), leading to the peak of Socialist Peak in time for sunrise. The sight of Kilimanjaro glowing above the clouds is unforgettable.

After a celebration at the summit, descend to Saddle Hut for brunch, then continue down to Momela Gate. A vehicle will be waiting for transfer back to Arusha or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or airport transfer


Optional Extensions

  • Mount Kilimanjaro expeditions

  • Wildlife safaris in Ngorongoro, Serengeti, or Tarangire

  • Zanzibar beach and cultural holidays

  • Local day trips around Arusha and Moshi

Price Includes &  Excludes

IncludedNot Included
2 nights Hotel (before & after trek) – full boardInternational & domestic flights
Transfers from/to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)Tips for guides, porters & cooks (recommendation: $10–15 per day)
All park entry fees and Mount Meru trekking permitsTravel insurance (strongly recommended)
Professional English-speaking mountain guideAlcoholic & soft drinks
Armed park ranger escort during the trekMountain gear rental (available on request)
Services of porters and cookExtra hotel nights in Arusha/Moshi (before or after the trek)
All meals during the trekOptional excursions (Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, safaris, etc.)
Accommodation in mountain huts (Miriakamba & Saddle Huts)Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
Clean, purified drinking water throughout the hike 
First aid kit and emergency evacuation support 
Pre-trek briefing and gear check 

 

book this Kilimanjaro Climb

Kilimanjaro Booking Request

Made to measure

We are Experience & Vacation Designers

Our team of highly experienced travel designers will guide you from beginning to end as you embark on a tailor-made journey of distinction, enjoying truly exclusive and authentic cultural experiences.

We can fulfill your bucket-list dreams, let get in touch.

Booking is simple! Get in touch with our team to discuss your travel preferences, desired dates, and any special requests. We’ll customize a luxury safari itinerary just for you.

Discover unforgettable Tanzania safari tours with Joyful Safaris And Tours

Our Best Tanzania Safari Tours & Packages

Choose from our extensive range of holiday options to create the holiday that’s right for you. Let us take the guesswork out of planning your next trip.

We have many other holiday tour packages

Need Travel Related Tips & Information

Get expert travel tips and essential information for a seamless adventure.