4-Day Mount Meru Climb in Arusha National Park via Momella Route

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Trek through lush rainforest to Miriakamba Hut with wildlife-spotting opportunities in Arusha National Park
• 02 Climb through heather and moorland to Saddle Hut with panoramic views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro
• 03 Take an acclimatization hike to Little Meru at 3,820 meters
• 04 Reach Socialist Peak for a breathtaking sunrise above Kilimanjaro and views into Mount Meru crater

Embark on a thrilling 4-day ascent of Mount Meru, standing proudly at 4,566 meters in Tanzania's Arusha National Park. Visible from Kilimanjaro on clear days, it is Africa's fifth-highest peak. Climbing via the Momella route, you will trek through lush rainforest, heather, and moorland, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, and make a rewarding summit bid at sunrise.

Climbing via the Momella route, you will trek through lush rainforest, heather, and moorland, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, and make a rewarding summit bid at sunrise.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Arusha National Park

Languages English, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arusha to Momella Gate and Trek to Miriakamba Hut

• After an early breakfast, drive to Arusha National Park and reach Momella Gate (1,500 m). Begin the four-day Mount Meru climb through the lush rainforest, accompanied by an experienced guide, an armed ranger, and porters.
• Capture stunning images and videos along the way, showcasing the beauty of Mount Meru and the mesmerizing landscapes of Arusha National Park.
• Experience the thrill of climbing Mount Meru, explore the wonders of Arusha National Park, and reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) by mid-afternoon.

2

Day 02

Climb from Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut

• Start the day early to embark on the steep climb towards Saddle Hut (3,570 m). Enjoy the clouds often hanging in the rainforest and draping the lush vegetation in a moody atmosphere.
• Arrive at 'Mgongo wa Tembo' (Elephant Back) after approximately 2 hours, at an elevation of 3,200 m.
• Arrive at Saddle Hut and take in panoramic views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, immersing yourself in an awe-inspiring Tanzania climbing adventure.
• In the afternoon, embark on an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 meters). Dinner and overnight at Saddle Hut.

3

Day 03

Midnight Ascent to Socialist Peak and Descent to Miriakamba Hut

• Wake up around midnight to begin the final ascent towards the summit of Mount Meru (4,562 m). Capture the breathtaking sunrise from the summit and celebrate your achievement.
• After 4-5 hours, reach the summit and see the Tanzanian flag. From the summit, enjoy the sun rising above Kilimanjaro and the fantastic view of Mount Meru crater with its steep sides and the "Ash Cone" in the middle.
• Descend to Saddle Hut for a rest and a nourishing meal before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut. Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Miriakamba Hut.

4

Day 04

Descend from Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate

• On the fourth day of the Mount Meru climb tour, start your day with a delightful breakfast at Miriakamba Hut.
• Following breakfast, embark on a 2-3 hour descent along the 'Northern Route' back to Momella Gate. The descent may be shorter than the ascent, but it still offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and black-and-white Colobus monkeys.
• Upon reaching Momella Gate, it will be time to bid farewell to your climb crew.
• From there, you will be driven back to your hotel in either Arusha or Moshi, where you can reflect on the incredible experience of conquering this Tanzania hiking challenge. This marks the conclusion of a rewarding and enjoyable 4-day Mount Meru climb tour with all-inclusive accommodation.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Certified, experienced, English-speaking Mt Meru guides
• National Park gate fees
• Hut fees
• Transport from Arusha/Moshi to the trailhead and العودة
• Crew wages
• National Park ranger (required by Arusha National Park)
• Lunch box for day 1, all hot meals, and water on the mountain

What's Not Included

• Flights
• Medical / travel insurance
• Tipping the crew
• Visa cost is $50, except for Canadian and USA passport holders, for whom it is $100
• A portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is extra ($150 per toilet + toilet tent)
• Items of a personal nature
• Laundry services

What to bring

• Clothing:
  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating layers
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Hiking pants
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Hiking socks
  • Comfortable hiking boots
• Gear and equipment:
  • Backpack (30-40 liters)
  • Sleeping bag suitable for cold weather
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
• Miscellaneous items:
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Cash for tipping guides and porters
• Important documents:
  • Passport
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Emergency contact information

Know before you go

• Itinerary details: Customers should carefully review the detailed itinerary provided for the 4-day Mount Meru climb. They should be aware of the daily schedule, hiking distances, elevation gains, accommodation arrangements, meal plans, and any additional activities included in the package.
• Physical fitness requirements: It is essential for customers to understand the physical fitness requirements for climbing Mount Meru. The climb can be challenging, so participants should be prepared for long hours of hiking, steep ascents, and high altitudes. Customers should assess their own fitness levels and consult their healthcare provider if needed.
• Packing list and gear requirements: Customers should familiarize themselves with the packing list provided. They should ensure they have all the necessary gear and equipment for the climb, including proper hiking boots, clothing layers for varying weather conditions, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and personal items.
• Safety measures and emergency protocols: Customers should inquire about the safety measures and emergency protocols in place during the Mount Meru climb. They should know how the tour operator handles emergencies, such as altitude sickness or injuries, and what communication devices or support systems are available on the mountain.
• Environmental conservation practices: It is important for customers to be aware of our commitment to environmental conservation practices during the Mount Meru climb.
• Payment terms and cancellation policies: Customers should carefully review the payment terms and cancellation policies outlined. They should understand the deposit requirements, final payment deadlines, refund policies in case of cancellations or changes, and any additional fees that may apply.
• Travel insurance requirements: Customers should check if travel insurance is mandatory when booking a 4-day Mount Meru climb. Travel insurance can provide coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation services, and other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the climb.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Arusha, Tanzania

Tour start

Arusha

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.