3 Day Mount Meru Climbing – Zoo Adventures

3-Day Mount Meru Climb

Tour Duration

3 Day

Tour Type

Private

Tour Starts / Ends

Moshi/ Arusha

Group Size

Unlimited

3-Day Mount Meru Overview

Mount Meru offers an exceptional trek whether you’re preparing for Kilimanjaro or seeking a breathtaking climb in its own right. This scenic route winds through rich wildlife habitats, with sweeping views and an unforgettable sunrise from the summit, where Kilimanjaro forms the majestic backdrop.

Although it’s shorter than Kilimanjaro, Meru is no easy feat. Reaching the summit nearly 15,000 feetrequires high-altitude endurance and some rock scrambling in the dark. Summit day alone involves up to 10 hours of hiking. For a less demanding alternative, hikers can ascend to Rhino Point to catch the sunrise over Kilimanjaro before descending.

Located in Arusha National Park, all Meru treks must be accompanied by an armed ranger, assigned by the park authority. You’ll also have your own mountain guide responsible for your crew and overall safety. The park ranger has authority over route selection, group pacing, and other key decisions.

Please note that Arusha National Park may group multiple hikers with one ranger, so fully private treks cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, the park mandates the use of its own assigned porters, who will be allocated at the trailhead during registration.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Arusha/Moshi to Momela Gate, hike to Miriakampa Hut

Your adventure begins at Momela Gate, where the trail winds through open grasslands often frequented by cape buffalo and warthogs—and with a bit of luck, you might spot giraffes or elephants as well. The hike gradually ascends into lush montane forest, offering cooler temperatures and increased shade.

Enjoy a scenic lunch break beneath the iconic Fig Tree Arch, a natural landmark along the trail. Afterward, the path leads through a less dense forest alive with birdsong and primates, including the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys.

As you climb higher, the dramatic cliffs of Mount Meru and its impressive Ash Cone come into view. By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at Miriakamba Hut, nestled in a peaceful grassy clearing. Here, you can unwind and take in panoramic views across the plains toward Mount Kilimanjaro, as the sun begins to set.

Day 2: Hike Miriakampa Hut to Saddle Hut, afternoon hike up Little Meru

Today’s trek is a steep and steady ascent as you climb from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru. The trail begins in the lush montane forest, eventually giving way to open moorland dotted with giant heather and alpine plants.

You’ll pass the notable Elephant Back Ridge, a key halfway point along the route, before continuing the climb to reach Saddle Hut, where you’ll stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, there’s an optional short hike to the summit of Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft). The climb takes about 1 hour up and 30 minutes down, and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This side hike also helps with acclimatization ahead of tomorrow’s summit push.

Today’s total ascent is approximately 1,056 meters (3,465 feet).

Day 3: Hike to Summit then down to trail head, return to Moshi/Arusha

Your summit attempt begins around midnight (12:00 AM), with a steep, one-hour climb to Rhino Point (3,800m / 12,467ft). From there, the trail follows a dramatic ridge of ash and volcanic rock to Cobra Point (4,350m / 14,272ft). As you push toward the final goal—Socialist Peak (4,566m / 14,980ft)—expect a challenging ascent rewarded by unforgettable views, including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Ash Cone, and the dramatic cliffs of Mount Meru’s crater rim.

If your pace allows, you can catch sunrise either at Cobra Point or at the summit itself—a breathtaking moment above the clouds.

After summiting, you’ll descend along the same narrow ridge back to Rhino Point, where the morning light reveals stunning landscapes, offering one of Africa’s most exhilarating walks. Upon reaching Saddle Hut, enjoy a hearty brunch and take a brief rest.

The descent continues to Miriakamba Hut, then onward to Momela Gate, passing through open grasslands and forest with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. You may also pass under the iconic Fig Tree Arch, and optionally detour to a hidden waterfall nestled in a nearby ravine.

Depending on conditions and your route choice, you may either return via the main trail or descend along the jeep road, reaching Momela Gate by midday or afternoon.