4 Days Mount Meru Trekking

Overview

This scenic 4 days Mount Meru Trekking is the Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters, offers a rewarding adventure through diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Beginning in Arusha National Park, the trail winds through lush forests home to giraffes, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys, then rises through heath and moorland zones along dramatic ridgelines. On summit day, trekkers ascend early to reach Socialist Peak for a breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. This trek is perfect for acclimatization or for those seeking a quieter, scenic alternative to Kilimanjaro.

Day 1: Arusha/Moshi – Miriakamba Hut
Your trek begins in the late morning at Momella Gate (1,500m), passing through open grasslands where you may spot buffalo, warthogs, and elephants. The trail ascends steadily through lush montane forest with a lunch stop beneath the iconic Fig Tree. Continuing through lighter forest, you’ll likely see colobus monkeys and a variety of birdlife. By mid-afternoon, dramatic views of the Meru cliffs and Ash Cone appear before reaching Miriakamba Hut (2,514m), beautifully set in a grassy clearing with views toward Mount Kilimanjaro.
Hiking time: 4–6 hours | Ascent: 1,014m

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut – Saddle Hut + Little Meru Hike
Today’s trail climbs steeply through montane forest, past Elephant Ridge, and into heather and moorland zones. After arriving at Saddle Hut (3,570m), enjoy lunch and rest. In the afternoon, take an optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m) for sunset views of the crater, Ash Cone, and Maasai Hills. The summit ridge becomes clearly visible from here.
Hiking time: 3–5 hours | Ascent: 1,056m
Note: Water is sourced from a stream near the hut.

Day 3: Summit Attempt – Return to Miriakamba Hut
Start the summit push around 2:00 AM, ascending steeply to Rhino Point (3,800m) and along a dramatic crater ridge to Cobra Point (4,350m). Reach Socialist Peak (4,566m) around sunrise for panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the crater, and beyond. Descend carefully along the crater rim and return to Saddle Hut for rest and lunch before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut.
Hiking time: 10–12 hours | Ascent: 996m | Descent: 2,052m

Day 4: Miriakamba Hut – Momella Gate – Arusha/Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the forest and open grasslands, enjoying final wildlife sightings along the way. Arrive at Momella Gate by late morning, where your vehicle will be waiting for the return transfer to Arusha or Moshi.
Hiking time: 2–4 hours | Descent: 1,014m