Tanzania · Trekking

3-Day Mount Meru Climbing Expedition with Sunrise Summit Views

3 Days Round trip from Mt Meru Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Climb Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest peak
02 Trek through lush montane forest with birdlife and colobus monkeys
03 Take in panoramic crater and moorland views near Saddle Hut
04 Summit at sunrise with views toward Mount Kilimanjaro, weather permitting
05 Trek with the support of experienced guides and porters

Embark on a thrilling 3-day trek to conquer Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest peak. Hike through lush montane forest alive with birdlife and colobus monkeys, then climb higher into heath and moorland landscapes with crater views and striking alpine vegetation. Summit in the early hours for sunrise vistas over the surrounding landscape and, weather permitting, Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Descend back to Arusha with the satisfaction of completing one of Tanzania's most scenic mountain adventures.

The hike begins through lush montane forest, where you may spot various bird species and wildlife such as colobus monkeys.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arusha to Miriakamba Hut through Montane Forest

Your journey begins early in the morning from Arusha with a scenic drive of about 1-1.5 hours to Momella Gate, the starting point for the Mount Meru trek.
Upon arrival, complete the park registration formalities and meet your experienced guide and porters, who will accompany you throughout the trek.
The hike begins through lush montane forest, where you may spot various bird species and wildlife such as colobus monkeys.
The trail gradually ascends, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscapes and Mount Meru itself.
After approximately 4-5 hours of hiking, arrive at Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m/8,250 ft), your accommodation for the night.
Enjoy dinner prepared by your support team and settle in for a restful evening amid the tranquility of the forest.

Day 02

Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut via Heath and Moorland

After an early breakfast, set out on the next leg of your journey.
The trail leads further into the heath and moorland zone, characterized by giant lobelias and heather plants. This part of the trek offers stunning panoramic views of the Meru crater and the distant plains below.
As you ascend, the landscape changes, becoming more sparse and rugged.
By midday, arrive at Saddle Hut (3,570 m/11,712 ft), strategically located between the inner and outer Meru crater walls.
Take the afternoon to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude.
For those feeling energetic, a short hike to Little Meru (3,820 m/12,533 ft) is recommended to aid acclimatization and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Kilimanjaro if weather permits.
Dinner and your overnight stay are at Saddle Hut, where you will prepare for the summit push the following day.

Day 03

Summit Day to Mount Meru Peak and Return to Arusha

The summit attempt begins in the early hours of the morning, typically around midnight.
After a light snack and hot drink, begin the steep ascent under the guidance of your experienced guide. The trail climbs steadily through rocky terrain, passing Rhino Point (3,821 m/12,533 ft) and Cobra Point (4,350 m/14,272 ft), and offering breathtaking views of the sunrise over Mount Meru and the surrounding landscape.
As you approach the summit (4,566 m/14,980 ft), the path leads to the ash cone, the remnant of Meru's volcanic activity.
Reach the summit in time to witness spectacular vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance, weather permitting, and savor the sense of achievement.
After spending some time at the summit, begin the descent back to Saddle Hut for a hearty brunch.
From Saddle Hut, continue descending through the moorland and forest zones, arriving back at Momella Gate by late afternoon.
Sign out from the park, bid farewell to your trekking team, and transfer back to Arusha, where you can reflect on your adventure and celebrate your Mount Meru summit success.

Where this trip takes you

montane forest, Miriakamba Hut, Saddle Hut, views toward Mount Kilimanjaro

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Mt Meru 3 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Lunch
Breakfast
Dinner
All fees and taxes
Transport, ranger/guide, porters, park fees, hut fees, rescue fees, cook, meals, tea, and coffee
Entry/Admission - Mount Meru