5 Days 4 Nights
From
$950
/pp
Overview
Tanzania's Hidden Gem — A Volcanic Adventure in the Shadow of Kilimanjaro
Rising 4,566 metres from the plains of Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is East Africa's fifth-highest peak and one of Tanzania's best-kept secrets. This trek takes you through lush montane forest alive with colobus monkeys and giraffe, up through moorland scattered with giant lobelias, and onto a dramatic knife-edge ridge with sweeping views across the Momella Lakes and, on a clear day, Kilimanjaro itself.
Less crowded and more technically varied than its famous neighbour, Meru is a rewarding climb in its own right — and the perfect acclimatisation trek for those preparing to tackle Kilimanjaro. Ash cone crossings, a dramatic caldera, and an unforgettable summit sunrise make this a trek for travellers who want raw wilderness without the crowds.
Wildlife encounters in Arusha National Park
Kilimanjaro views
Dramatic ridge walking
Ideal acclimatisation trekNote: Mount Meru can also be climbed in 3 days for trekkers with a tighter schedule - contact us to find out more.
Why not pair this itinerary can be paired with Kilimanjaro or Safari or Cultural Experience. Contact us for a tailor made experience.
Included
- 🚐 Airport Transfers: Pickup from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to your hotel in Arusha (day before the trek)
- 🏨 Hotel Accommodation: One night in Arusha before your trek and one night after your descent
- 🎒 Baggage: Our dedicated porters will carry up to 10 kg of your personal gear
- 🍽️ Meals: All meals during your Meru trek are fully included in the package price
- 🚰 Drinking water
- 🚙 Park Transport: Round-trip transfers to and from Arusha National Park
- 🎟️ Park Entry Fees: All required permits and entrance fees
- 🚶 All itinerary activities
- 🧑🤝🧑 24/7 on-ground support: Experienced mountain guides, dedicated porters, and a skilled chef
- 🏕️ Sleeping Huts: Beds and sleeping bags are provided
- 🚑 Emergency Support: Mountain rescue via ambulance if needed
Not Included
- ✈️ International flights
- 🛡️✈️ Travel Insurance
- 🛂 Tanzania entry visa
- 🏨 Extra hotel nights beyond those listed
- 🚐 Airport transfers if arriving more than 2 days before or leaving more than 2 days after the trek
- 🧺 Laundry services
- 🍺 Alcoholic beverages
- 💰 Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and chef (customary and appreciated)
- 🚁 Helicopter rescue services
- Any additional items not explicitly listed
Tour Details
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will be greeted by your Meru guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Once settled, your guide will conduct a detailed briefing and gear check to ensure you are fully prepared. Spend the evening at leisure, resting from your journey and preparing for the adventure ahead.
Meals Included: Dinner
Miriakamba Hut Elevation: 2,514m / 8,248ft
Distance: 10km / 6miles
Duration: ~4 - 5 hours
After breakfast, your adventure begins with a scenic transfer to Momella Gate, the official starting point of the trek.
Trek with an armed ranger through open grassland and forest, spotting giraffe, buffalo, and colobus monkeys along the way. Arrive at Miriakamba Hut for your first overnight stop. Here, you will settle in, enjoy a warm meal, and rest up for the journey ahead.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Saddle Hut Elevation: 3,570m / 11,699ft
Distance: 4km / 2.5miles
Duration: ~4 hours
A shorter but steeper day, climbing through changing vegetation zones toward Saddle Hut (3,570m). An optional side trip to Little Meru (3,801m) in the afternoon offers excellent acclimatisation and sunset views over the crater.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mount Meru Peak Elevation: 4,566m / 14,979ft
Ascent Time: ~ 8 - 9 hours
Depart around midnight for the summit push, following the dramatic ash cone ridge to Rongai Point and on to the summit (4,566m) for sunrise, with views over the crater and, weather permitting, Kilimanjaro.
Afterwards, descend all the way back to Miriakamba Hut to rest.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A final descent through the forest zone back to Momella Gate, with a good chance of further wildlife sightings before transfer back to Arusha.
Your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha, where a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and well-earned relaxation awaits.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
FAQ
🎒 Baggage & Packing
How much baggage can porters carry for me? Our dedicated porters will carry up to 10 kg of your personal gear, ensuring your trek is more comfortable and manageable.
What type of bag should I bring? For ease of transport, we recommend using a soft duffel bag rather than a hard suitcase.
Can you help me with packing? Absolutely! We provide a comprehensive kit list and expert guidance on essential items for a successful climb. Gear rental options are also available if you prefer not to purchase everything yourself.
Can I leave belongings not needed on the trek? Yes. Any items not required for the climb can be safely stored at the hotel until your return.
🍽️ Meals & Nutrition
Are meals included in the trek package? Yes. All meals are fully included in the package price, freshly prepared by our experienced mountain chefs to keep you energized throughout the journey.
What kind of food is served on the mountain? Expect hearty breakfasts, nutritious lunches, and warm dinners designed to fuel your climb. Meals are varied and balanced to meet the demands of trekking at altitude.
Can I bring my own snacks? Definitely. While we provide all main meals, you are welcome to bring extra snacks or personal favorites such as energy bars, nuts, or sweets for an added boost between meals.
High Season (June-October, December-March)
| Package | 1 person | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $950 | ||
| Classic | $1,150 | ||
| Premier | Upon Request |