Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Transfer to Momella Gate and Hike to Miriakamba Hut
- Elevation: 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) to 2,514 meters (8,250 feet)
- Trekking Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Distance: 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
Activities:
- Arrival in Arusha: Pick-up from your hotel or airport in Arusha.
- Drive to Momella Gate: Depart for Arusha National Park (1-hour drive).
- Park Entry and Briefing: At Momella Gate, meet your guide and receive a briefing about the trek.
- Begin Trek: Start your hike to Miriakamba Hut, passing through lush tropical forests. Expect to see wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and various monkey species along the way.
- The path gradually ascends through montane forests, allowing for an easier pace compared to the direct route to Saddle Hut.
- Arrive at Miriakamba Hut (2,514 meters), your accommodation for the night. Here, enjoy a warm meal and rest in the peaceful surroundings.
- Dinner and Overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
- Elevation: 2,514 meters (8,250 feet) to 3,570 meters (11,712 feet)
- Trekking Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles)
Activities:
- Breakfast at Miriakamba Hut: Enjoy a hearty breakfast.
- Begin Trek to Saddle Hut: Ascend towards Saddle Hut, located at an elevation of 3,570 meters. You’ll pass through beautiful alpine meadows and giant heathers. The landscape becomes more barren, with fewer trees and more rocky terrain.
- Acclimatization: The steady ascent allows your body to acclimatize to the higher elevation.
- Arrive at Saddle Hut: Once at Saddle Hut, relax and take in the stunning panoramic views of Mount Meru’s summit and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
- Dinner and Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Saddle Hut
- Elevation: 3,570 meters (11,712 feet)
- Trekking Time: 1 to 2 hours (Optional short trek)
- Distance: 3-5 kilometers (2-3 miles)
Activities:
- Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Saddle Hut.
- Short Trek for Acclimatization: Today is a rest day, but we recommend taking a short acclimatization hike around Saddle Hut. A short trek to explore the surrounding areas helps your body adjust to the altitude.
- Optional Trek: Take a short walk to Little Meru (3,800 meters) for better acclimatization. This can help prepare you for the summit climb the next day.
- Relax and Rest: The rest of the day is for relaxation. Enjoy the views, take photos, or read a book in this tranquil setting.
- Dinner and Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Summit Attempt – Saddle Hut to Summit and Return to Miriakamba Hut
- Elevation: 3,570 meters (11,712 feet) to 4,562 meters (14,968 feet) – Summit
- Trekking Time: 6 to 8 hours (Round Trip)
- Distance: 10-12 kilometers (6.2-7.5 miles)
Activities:
- Early Morning Wake-Up: Rise early at around 2:30 AM.
- Start Summit Trek: Begin your trek to the summit at 3:00 AM. You will ascend through rocky terrain and barren landscapes, reaching the summit of Mount Meru (4,562 meters) by sunrise.
- Summit Views: Enjoy the spectacular views of the Meru Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro. The summit of Mount Meru offers one of the most stunning panoramas of East Africa.
- Return to Saddle Hut: After taking in the breathtaking views, begin your descent back to Saddle Hut.
- Lunch and Rest: Once back at Saddle Hut, enjoy lunch and relax for a while before continuing the descent.
- Descend to Miriakamba Hut: Continue your descent all the way down to Miriakamba Hut for a restful evening.
- Dinner and Overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate and Drive to Arusha
- Elevation: 2,514 meters (8,250 feet) to 1,500 meters (4,921 feet)
- Trekking Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Distance: 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
Activities:
- Breakfast at Miriakamba Hut: Enjoy your final breakfast at Miriakamba Hut.
- Descent to Momella Gate: Begin the descent back to Momella Gate through the lush tropical forest. The forest is teeming with wildlife, such as buffaloes, giraffes, and various monkey species.
- Arrive at Momella Gate: After a final stretch of hiking, you will reach Momella Gate, where you will be picked up and driven back to Arusha.
- End of the Trek: Arrive back in Arusha in the afternoon, with time to relax or explore before your onward journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Pricing Includes:
- All park fees and permits.
- Professional and certified mountain guide, assistant guides, and porters.
- Full board accommodation (mountain huts and campsites).
- All meals as per the itinerary.
- Mineral water during the trek.
- Transport to and from Arusha National Park.
- Professional first aid kits and emergency evacuation support.
Pricing Excludes:
- International flights.
- Personal trekking gear (such as boots, jackets, etc.).
- Travel insurance (recommended).
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Optional activities.
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks).
What to Bring:
- Trekking boots with good grip.
- Warm clothing (it can get cold, especially near the summit).
- Lightweight trekking clothes for daytime.
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses).
- Camera to capture stunning views.
- Personal toiletries and a first-aid kit.
Additional Information:
- Best Time to Trek: The best time for Mount Meru trekking is during the dry seasons: from June to October and January to February.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging, best suited for trekkers who are in good physical condition.
- Acclimatization: This 5-day itinerary gives you more time to acclimatize and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Book Your Mount Meru Trek Today!
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Contact GPS Safaris today to book your 5-day Mount Meru trekking experience. Our experienced guides will ensure your safety and enjoyment as you conquer Tanzania’s beautiful second-highest peak!
