4 Days Meru Trek

Route Overview

The 4 Days Mount Meru Trek is the perfect acclimatization climb and adventure for those preparing for Kilimanjaro or seeking a shorter, yet equally rewarding, mountain experience. Located in Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,566 meters and offers a stunning climb through varied ecosystems. The journey begins in lush rainforest alive with wildlife such as giraffes, buffalo, and colobus monkeys before opening into heath and alpine zones with sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Although shorter in duration, the trek is challenging, with steep ascents and a dramatic ridgeline approach to the summit.

As the climb progresses, trekkers stay in simple but well-maintained huts with dormitory-style accommodations and dining facilities. Along the way, you’ll pass through giant heathers, volcanic rock formations, and high-altitude deserts before tackling the pre-dawn summit push. The ascent to Socialist Peak (4,566m) via Rhino Point and Cobra Point is steep and exposed, but the reward is an unforgettable sunrise over Kilimanjaro and the vast plains below. With its rich wildlife, diverse landscapes, and dramatic crater views, the 4 Days Mount Meru Trek is ideal for adventurers looking for both a standalone challenge and excellent preparation for higher peaks.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)

  • Hiking time: 4–6 hours

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Weather: Warm and humid in the rainforest; afternoon showers possible.

  • Acclimatization: First altitude gain—walk slowly and hydrate often.

Your adventure begins at Momella Gate in Arusha National Park, where registration and a safety briefing take place. With an armed ranger escort (due to wildlife), the trek begins through lush rainforest and open savannah, where giraffes, buffalo, and monkeys are often seen. The trail ascends gradually, offering sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro before reaching Miriakamba Hut, your first overnight stay inside the forest zone.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)

  • Hiking time: 4–5 hours

  • Distance: 8 km

  • Weather: Cooler with clear skies; cold evenings.

  • Acclimatization: Moderate altitude gain—take steady steps and rest often.

Today’s trek leaves the dense forest behind and climbs steeply through montane heath, passing giant heathers and rocky ridges. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Meru’s horseshoe-shaped crater and the towering Ash Cone. By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Saddle Hut, located between Little Meru and the main peak. For acclimatization, you may take a short hike to Little Meru (3,820m), which rewards you with breathtaking sunset views.

Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570m) to Socialist Peak (4,566m), then down to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)

  • Hiking time: 10–12 hours total

  • Distance: ~19 km (ascent + descent)

  • Weather: Freezing cold before dawn (-5°C to -15°C); clear skies at sunrise; warmer during descent.

  • Acclimatization: Summit push—move slowly, breathe deeply, and conserve energy.

Summit day begins around midnight with a steep climb via Rhino Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m). The trail is demanding, with narrow ridges and rocky scrambles, but the reward is incredible: a dramatic sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and the sweeping plains below. From Socialist Peak (4,566m), enjoy panoramic views of Meru’s crater and beyond. After celebrating, descend carefully back to Saddle Hut for a short break, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut for your final night.

Day 4: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Momella Gate (1,500m)

  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours

  • Distance: 7 km

  • Weather: Warmer and humid; light rain possible in the rainforest.

  • Acclimatization: No longer needed, but knees and joints are tested on descent.

The final day is a gentle descent through montane forest alive with wildlife, including colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and a variety of birds. By late morning, you’ll reach Momella Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your trekking certificate. From here, transfer back to your hotel for a hot shower, rest, and celebration of your successful Mount Meru climb.

Price

Number of PeoplePrice Per Person
1 Person$2150 USD
2–4 People$1900 USD
5–9 People$1800 USD
10+ People$1750 USD

Price Includes

2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi or Arusha (one before and one after the trek)
Private airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Certified mountain guide and full support crew including armed park ranger, porters, and cook
All Arusha National Park fees, hut fees, and rescue charges
18% VAT on all applicable services as per Tanzanian law
Accommodation in mountain huts (Miriakamba Hut & Saddle Hut) during the trek
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) freshly prepared by the cook
Fair wages and park-registered contracts for guides, porters, and cooking staff
Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter to monitor acclimatization
First aid kit and basic medical support available throughout the trek
Filtered and treated drinking water provided daily
Emergency evacuation procedures where necessary, coordinated with park rangers

Price Excludes

❌ International and domestic flight tickets
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Travel and medical insurance
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and cook (optional but appreciated)
❌ Personal hiking gear (clothing, boots, backpacks, etc.)
❌ Laundry services at the hotel (available at extra cost)

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