4-Day Mount Meru Trek

You are driven from Arusha to Momela Gate (1,500 m/4,921 ft) in Arusha National Park, where the trek begins. There are two ways up to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m/8,203 ft).

The northern route is shorter and steeper: a relatively gentle 3–4-hour ascent with grand views of Kilimanjaro and the Momella Lakes, and a wealth of wildlife including buffalo, Maasai giraffe and common waterbuck. An early start leaves time to explore the Meru crater, and trekkers can also climb the Meru ash cone (3,667 m/12,031 ft). Distance: 5.5 km (3.4 miles). Time: 3–4 hours. Habitat: montane forest.

The southern route takes around five hours and is a wonderful choice for birders and insect lovers, with a high chance of seeing forest mammals along the way. It passes the Maio waterfalls and the famous fig-tree arch, among other sights. Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles). Time: 4–5 hours. Habitat: montane forest. Dinner and overnight at Miriakamba Hut.

The trail continues upwards for 3.5–4 hours, a little steeper than yesterday. You begin in forest rich in wild flowers, shrubs and tree species, with a good chance of seeing colobus monkeys and other animals, and enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro, the Meru crater and cliff, the ash cone and the Momella Lakes.

In the afternoon you can hike up Little Meru (3,820 m/12,533 ft), about an hour each way and 3.6 km (2.2 miles) there and back from the hut. Dinner and overnight at Saddle Hut (3,500 m/11,483 ft).

Distance: 7.5 km (4.7 miles). Walking time: around 3.5–4 hours. Habitat: moorland.

You rise around midnight, have a light early breakfast at about 00:30 and set off at 01:00 for the 4,566 m summit. The climb takes about 4–6 hours, and the top is the best place on the mountain to take in the surroundings – above all the sunrise over Kilimanjaro. Ascent – elevation gain: 1,066 m (3,497 ft). Distance: 8 km (5 miles). Habitat: alpine desert.

After the summit you hike back down past Saddle Hut to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m) for a meal and the night. Descent – distance: 15.5 km (9.3 miles). Habitat: alpine desert to montane forest.

After breakfast you walk down through the forest from Miriakamba Hut to Momela Gate (1,500 m/4,922 ft). Rushing down after the summit is tiring and not advisable – take your time to enjoy the serene beauty of the forest and the game sightings along the way.

At the gate you are picked up by one of our team and transferred to Arusha for lunch, then on by road to Kilimanjaro International Airport in time for your onward international flight home (transfer timing depends on your flight schedule). If you would rather rest before flying, an extra night in Arusha can be added on request. This marks the end of our services – kwaheri, and safe travels.

Distance: 5.5 km (3.4 miles). Walking time: around 2.5–3 hours. Habitat: montane forest.