3 days Mount Meru Climb

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Tour Overview

The 3 days Mount Meru trek is a short and challenging adventure that offers a great introduction to high-altitude trekking in Tanzania. As the country’s second-highest peak, Mount Meru stands at 4,566 meters and provides stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. This route takes you through diverse landscapes—from lush montane forests and moorlands to dramatic volcanic cliffs. Unlike Kilimanjaro’s Marangu Route, Mount Meru treks are less crowded and offer an authentic wilderness experience with overnight stays in mountain huts. Due to the fast-paced itinerary, proper fitness and prior acclimatization are recommended to increase summit success. Though less popular than Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a rewarding climb for trekkers seeking a shorter yet scenic and adventurous mountain journey.

Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi or Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a representative from Lucky Moon Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha—both charming towns and popular bases for trekking. In the evening, you’ll meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and final gear check before your Mount Meru adventure begins.

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut

Elevation: 1,500 m to 2,514 m (4,921 ft to 8,250 ft)
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

After breakfast, we drive to Arusha National Park for registration at Momella Gate, where your Mount Meru trek officially begins. The trail winds through open grasslands and lush rainforest, with possible sightings of giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, and Colobus monkeys. Accompanied by an armed park ranger for safety, you’ll ascend gradually to Miriakamba Hut for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut

Elevation: 2,514 m to 3,570 m (8,250 ft to 11,712 ft)
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours

Today’s route is a steady climb through montane forest and heather zones, offering scenic views of Mount Meru’s crater and distant glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll arrive at Saddle Hut by early afternoon. After a rest and meal, take an optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) for spectacular sunset views before turning in early for summit day.

Day 3: Summit Day – Socialist Peak & Descent to Momella Gate

Elevation: 3,570 m to 4,566 m (11,712 ft to 14,980 ft), then descend to 1,500 m (4,921 ft)
Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Hiking Time: 10–12 hours

You’ll begin the final ascent around midnight, hiking by headlamp under the stars. The route climbs steeply past Rhino Point (3,800 m) and Cobra Point (4,350 m), reaching Socialist Peak (4,566 m) by sunrise. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the crater rim, and the Ash Cone below. After a brief celebration, descend to Saddle Hut for rest, then continue down to Momella Gate, where your driver will be waiting to return you to Moshi or Arusha.

Departure or Optional Extension

After a well-deserved rest in Moshi or Arusha, we’ll arrange your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for your onward journey. Not ready to leave yet? Let us help you plan a Tanzania safari or a Zanzibar beach getaway to complete your unforgettable adventure.

Items included:

Two nights’ accommodation at Springlands Hotel in Moshi (double or triple occupancy) – one night before the climb (with breakfast) and one night after the climb (with dinner and breakfast)
Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Services of qualified mountain guides and a full support crew (porters, cook, and waiter)
All National Park entry fees, including:
- Park conservation fees
- Hut or camping fees
- Rescue fees (mandatory)
Use of camping equipment including:
- Quality tents, foam sleeping pads, and cooking equipment
- Full set of cutlery and crockery (eating utensils)
Pulse oximeter monitoring and a first aid kit for safety
Salaries and park entry fees for all crew members (guides, porters, cook, and waiter)
Boiled drinking water provided daily on the mountain
All meals during the trek – breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day
Accommodation and park fees for guides and support crew on the mountain

Items not included:

Single room supplement at Springlands Hotel (available at an additional cost)
Tips for mountain crew (guides, porters, cook, and waiter – tipping guidelines available upon request)
Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
Personal mountain gear such as sleeping bags (available for rent – see our gear rental price list)
Additional gear rental not included in the package
Car supplement of USD $145 per vehicle for clients using the Lemosho, Rongai, or Shira Routes
Personal expenses, including laundry, phone calls, and souvenirs
Emergency oxygen (available upon request at extra cost)
Extra nights at the hotel beyond the two nights included in the package
Optional excursions and activities, such as waterfall hikes or cultural village tours
Visa fees and travel insurance (mandatory for all climbers)
International and domestic flights