6 Days Meru Climb

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Embark on a 6-day adventure climbing Mount Meru, Tanzania's stunning second-highest peak (4,566m). Experience diverse landscapes, scenic forests, and wildlife as you ascend, accompanied by our expert guides. Trek through montane forests, volcanic ridges, and the crater rim with comfortable accommodations along the way.

Tour Highlights

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Arrival in Arusha
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, meet your guide holding a sign, and transfer to a comfortable hotel in Arusha. Use the afternoon to rest, enjoy the lively town atmosphere and go through a trekking briefing, equipment check and final packing before heading into the wild tomorrow.

  • Altitude: 1,400 m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Hiking time: N/A
  • Vegetation: City / cultivated land
Start Trek
Day 2: Momela gate to Miriakamba Hut

We will drive from Lodge to Ngongongare Gate and get the first gate pass to Momella Gate where we will meet our porters, cook and the armed Park ranger to accompany us, After registering ourselves at Momella Gate, the climb then starts out in the grasslands of the lower slopes where we will encounter giraffes, buffalos and warthogs and then lush forest inhabited by bushbucks, red duikers, blue / Skye's monkeys, black & white colobus monkeys and some variety of birds to Miriakamba Huts. If the weather is clear we will be able to see Mt. Meru summit from Miriakamba Hut where we will overnight.

  • Altitude: 2,515 m
  • Hiking time: 5–6 hours
  • Vegetation: Montane forest
  • Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Hike to Saddle Hut
Day 3: Miriakamba to Saddle Hut

Our destination today is Saddle Huts and along the way we will stop at Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Ridge) viewpoint for lunch. After getting to our camp and resting we will hike to the summit of Little Meru 3820m, which has spectacular views of Mt. Meru's summit, and the sheer cliffs of the crater wall. As the sun sets behind us we can watch the glaciers on Mt. Kilimanjaro turn different hues of orange and red… spectacular! 3 - 4 hours walk from Miriakamba to Saddle hut.

  • Altitude: 2515m -3560 m
  • Hiking time: 4–5 hours
  • Vegetation: Forest, volcanic terrain, moorland
  • Accommodation: Saddle Hut
Summit Preparation
Day 4: Saddle hut to Mount Meru Summit & Descent to Miriakamba Hut

We start out in early at 12.00 am in order to see the sunrise from behind Mt. Kilimanjaro. Along the way will pass Rhino point 2870m, then like narrow ridge of the crater to summit itself. If the weather is clear, we see the active volcano of Mt. Oldonyo Lengai to the west and below us the town of Arusha and the plains of the Maasai steppe. From the summit we return to Miriakamba Huts for overnight after stopping for lunch and a while rest at Saddle Huts. 5 - 6 hours walking from Saddle Huts to the summit, 3 hours back to Saddle Hut from the summit, and 3 hours more continuing to Miriakamba Huts.

  • Altitude: 3560m-4,562 m / Descent to 2,515 m
  • Hiking time: 5–6 hours
  • Vegetation: Alpine desert, volcanic ridges
  • Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Descent
Day 5: Miriakamba hut to Momela gate & Transfer

After a hearty breakfast We will descend back through mountain rainforest to Momella Gate where we will meet the car and also get our Picnic lunch, certificate and then back to the Lodge in Arusha. From Miriakamba to Momella Gate will take us about 3-hours. On The way down you will be able to see Lake Momella with its nice scenery.

  • Altitude: 1,400-1,600 m
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours descent
  • Vegetation: Montane forest → cultivated land
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha (or onward travel)
Departure
Day 6: Departure from Tanzania

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast, check out of your hotel, and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. If you have time, take a short city tour, pick up souvenirs, or simply unwind and reflect on your Trek – an unforgettable experience awaits.

  • Altitude: ~1,400 m
  • Hiking time: N/A
  • Vegetation: Cultivated land / city
  • Accommodation: N/A (departure)
Request this Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Most travellers require a tourist visa, obtainable on arrival or online via e‑Visa. Check latest entry requirements.
What is the best season to climb Mount Meru?
The dry seasons (January–March & June–October) provide clearer skies, better trail conditions and more stable weather.
How fit should I be for the trek?+
Moderate fitness is sufficient. The climb is not technically extreme but requires stamina for long hours and steep sections.
What equipment do I need?+
Essentials include trekking boots, warm layers, waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, trekking poles, and a daypack. Sleeping bags may be provided but check with your operator.
Is there porter / support crew?+
Yes — Most climbs include a guide, an armed ranger (for wildlife safety) and porters to carry your main gear.
Is the climb safe and what about altitude sickness?+
The climb is generally safe with experienced guides. However altitude sickness is a concern — acclimatisation, hydration and pacing matter.
How many days does it take and can the itinerary be shorter?+
Typical itineraries are 3–4 days, but we recommend a 6‑day version for better acclimatisation, comfort and enjoyment. Shorter options exist but increase fatigue and risk.
Can I climb Mount Meru without a guide?+
No — climbing requires permits and an armed park ranger. Guide and operator are mandatory.
What is the terrain and vegetation along the route?+
You pass through multiple vegetation zones: montane forest, moorland, alpine desert and volcanic slopes. Wildlife sightings are excellent in lower forest zones.