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
Included | Not Included |
---|---|
2 nights Hotel (before & after trek) – full board | International & 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 permits | Travel insurance (strongly recommended) |
Professional English-speaking mountain guide | Alcoholic & soft drinks |
Armed park ranger escort during the trek | Mountain gear rental (available on request) |
Services of porters and cook | Extra hotel nights in Arusha/Moshi (before or after the trek) |
All meals during the trek | Optional 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 |
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Our guides are highly experienced, knowledgeable about wildlife and culture, and passionate about delivering the best safari experience. They are also trained in safety and hospitality to ensure an unforgettable adventure.
The best time depends on what you want to experience Tanzania. The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, while the green season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
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