This 4 Days Mount Meru trek is a marvelous opportunity to climb the second highest mountain in Tanzania which is located in Arusha. This four-day climb can be used for acclimatization purposes before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or as a stand-alone trek; Standing at a towering 4,568m, Mount Meru is the fifth-highest point in Africa and the second-highest mountain in the whole of Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro.
Mount Meru is located right within Arusha National Park just near Arusha town giving tourists trekking this Mountain the ultimate chance to marvel at the attractions and wildlife located within Arusha National Park.
After arrival at the Kilimanjaro International or similar Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel or lodge in Moshi or Arusha for an overnight bed and breakfast.
Your 4-day Mount Meru climb will be led by an armed ranger because Mount Meru is home to a variety of wildlife including herds of buffaloes, zebras, and black and white colobus monkeys as it is located within the Arusha National Park. The Momela and Ngurdoto Lakes are also home to a large population of different bird species and as you trek to the peak mountain along the slopes of Meru you will commonly see birds like Pelicans and Flamingoes.
Why climb Mount Meru
Why climb Mount Meru- Watch African wildlife while trekking from the surrounding Arusha National Park
- Trek through the African montane forest
- Enjoy lesser traffic of climbers and crowds than Kilimanjaro
- Superb birdlife and game drives within Arusha National Park
Read also, our top 6 reasons why you should climb Mount Meru
How long does it take to trek Mount Meru?
It would take you between 3 to 4 days to climb Mount Meru and back and you will not require special skills or equipment. You will need to be in great shape however and ready for high altitudes. With proper acclimatization and mental preparedness, you are good to go and climb Mount Meru.
How much does this 4-day Mt Meru trek cost?
The price of this trek on Mount Meru for 4 days depends on the number of people in your group. For a single person, the price begins from $1,165 to as low as $700 for a group of 10 people and more.
| 1PAX | 2PAX | 3PAX | 4PAX | 5PAX | 6 pax |
| $1,530 | $1,140 | $1,035 | $995 | Request | 980 |
Spectacular views of Kilimanjaro from Meru
From the peak of Mount Meru, you can catch a great glimpse of Mount Kilimanjaro. Since Mount Meru is located within Arusha National Park, this means you have a greater chance of spotting wild animals surrounding the mountain, within the park, and on the forested base of the mountain. Mount Meru also offers stunning views of craters and volcanic cones within the mountain itself.
You can view Mount Kilimanjaro peaks from Mount Meru and it is even more beautiful from Meru’s summit at sunrise.
The ultimate wildlife experience around Mt Meru
At the densely forested slopes of Mount Meru, you can spot wildlife like giraffes, buffaloes, zebras and other animals easier since the mountain stands within the Arusha National Park. There is the presence of giant lobelias high up the mountain on the heath and moorland zone and everlasting flowers close to the summit of Mount Meru. Apart from trekking, other activities like canoeing in the Momella Lake, bird watching, game watching, and walking safaris can be done on and around Mount Meru
Where will you stay on Mount Meru for four days?
Unlike most of Kilimanjaro’s routes apart from the Marangu Route, on Mount Meru, you will sleep in huts that are dormitory styled similar to the huts on Kilimanjaro’s Marangu Route. There are only two accommodation points along the Momella route on Mount Meru and they are Miriakamba huts which is your first accommodation point before heading to Saddle Huts where you will make your approach to the summit of Mount Meru, the Socialist Peak.
Which route will I use to reach the Socialist Peak on Mt Meru’s summit?
Mount Meru has only one route, the Momella Route which leads to the summit of this beautiful Mountain in Arusha, Northern Tanzania and it would take you about 3-4 days for reach the summit and back along the Momella Route. We highly recommend the 4-day itinerary as opposed to the 3-day Meru trekking itinerary as it will give you ample time to acclimatize properly.
How to plan your 4-day Mount Meru Trek
Planning a 4-day Mount Meru trek requires meticulous preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your adventure:
1. Choose the right time:
- Dry season (June-October): Ideal conditions with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and less chance of rain.
- Wet season (November-May): Lush greenery but also muddy trails, potential for downpours, and colder nights.
2. Pick your trek operator:
- Research reputable companies with experienced guides and good safety records like Tranquil Kilimanjaro.
- Read reviews and compare itineraries, prices, and included services (meals, accommodation, equipment).
3. Get physically fit:
- Train regularly for endurance and strength, focusing on uphill walking and stair climbing.
- Gradually increase your training intensity and duration closer to the trek date.
4. Acclimatization is key:
- Arrive in Arusha a few days before the trek to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
- Consider a shorter climb beforehand, like Little Meru or Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai, to further acclimatize.
5. Pack smart:
- Layers of breathable clothing for different weather conditions.
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Rain gear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and trekking poles.
- Headlamp, first-aid kit, personal medication, and hydration pack.
- Sleeping bag, warm socks, and comfortable clothes for evenings at the huts.
6. Essential documents and permits:
- A valid passport and Tanzanian visa.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
- Climbing permit obtained from TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority).
