Mt Meru Hike

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our team will meet you and transfer you to your lodge or hotel in Arusha. Enjoy dinner, relax, and prepare for your upcoming Mount Meru trek through Arusha National Park.

The Mt Meru climb officially begins at Momella Gate (1,500m) with a scenic trek through open grasslands and dense montane forest. Keep your eyes out for buffalo, warthogs, and colobus monkeys as you ascend past the iconic Fig Tree Arch. After 4–6 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)—a serene, grassy site with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the crater cliffs.

Today is a shorter but steeper ascent through montane forest and moorland. Stop to admire panoramic views from Elephant Ridge, with possible elephant sightings and views across the crater. Reach Saddle Hut (3,570m) in time for lunch, and for those feeling strong, there’s the option to summit Little Meru (3,820m) in the afternoon for a stunning pre-sunset view.

Start your Mount Meru summit hike around 2:00 AM under the stars. Ascend steeply to Rhino Point (3,800m) and along a narrow, rugged ridge to Cobra Point (4,350m). From here, it’s a final push to Socialist Peak (4,566m), with jaw-dropping views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Ash Cone, and the Rift Valley. Descend carefully back to Saddle Hut for a hot meal and well-earned rest.

Descend through moorland, grassland, and forest with continued chances of seeing wildlife like giraffe or monkeys. The trail offers beautiful views back toward the Mount Meru crater and surrounding plains. Arrive at Momella Gate by late afternoon, where your driver will transfer you back to Arusha.

Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering from vertigo. In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point. Sunrise from here is equally as spectacular as from Cobra Pt.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home—or continue the adventure with a customized Tanzania safari. Your Mount Meru hike comes to an end, but the memories (and the photos) will last a lifetime.