3 Days Mount Meru Climb: The Fast Track to the Summit (4,566m)
Tackle Mount Meru, the majestic second-highest peak in Tanzania, with our challenging and rewarding 3-Day Climbing Tour. This route is designed for fit hikers who wish to summit quickly while enjoying the incredible views and unique wildlife of Arusha National Park. You will trek through diverse ecological zones, stay in designated mountain huts, and aim for the peak (Socialist Peak, 4,566m) on the third morning, often used as crucial acclimatization before a full Kilimanjaro expedition.
Detailed 3-Day Mount Meru Itinerary
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Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Drive to Momella Gate, register, and start trekking through the park with an armed ranger. The trail is relatively gentle, crossing open plains with frequent sightings of buffalo and giraffe before reaching the forest. (Approx. 5-7 hours hiking)
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Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
A steep but rewarding day. The trail offers spectacular views of the Meru crater and the famous Ash Cone. You’ll reach Saddle Hut by midday, allowing time for lunch and an optional acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m) in the afternoon. (Approx. 3-5 hours hiking)
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Day 3: Summit Day & Descent: Saddle Hut (3,570m) to Socialist Peak (4,566m) to Momella Gate (1,500m)
Start ascent around 1:00 AM, trekking past Rhino Point. The final scramble to Socialist Peak is challenging but offers a breathtaking sunrise and views of Kilimanjaro. Descend back to Saddle Hut for breakfast, then continue the long descent straight down to Momella Gate for transfer back to Arusha/Moshi. (Approx. 12-16 hours hiking total)
What's Included in Your Climbing Package
Park Fees & Accommodation
Full Mountain Crew (Guide, Cook, Porters)
3 Meals per Day & Drinking Water
Inclusions: All National Park entrance and climbing fees, fully catered meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), purified water, professional mountain guide and assistant guides, armed park ranger, porter support, mountain rescue fees, and round-trip transportation.
The challenge of the summit combined with the stunning views of the Ash Cone and Kilimanjaro made this the highlight of my Tanzanian trip.
Sarah K. (Recent Summit Climber)
Essential Gear and Health Notes
This climb requires proper equipment, including thermal layers, waterproof outer shell, proper hiking boots, a headlamp for the summit night, and a 4-season sleeping bag. Due to the rapid ascent, altitude sickness is a risk; climbers should be physically fit and consider speaking to a doctor about preventative medication.

Mount Meru Day Hike – Momella Gate
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