Mount Meru 3-Day Kilimanjaro Itinerary: Day-by-Day Guide
Date Published
Day 1: Moshi to Miriakamba Huts (2514m)
Start: Moshi
End: Miriakamba Huts (2514m)
Distance: Approximately 13.6km
Elevation Gain: 906m
In the morning, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Moshi and driven to Arusha National Park, about one hour away. After registering at Momela Gate, an armed park ranger will join you for the trek.
Mount Meru has one main ascent and descent route, with two trail options only between Momela Gate and Miriakamba Hut. We recommend taking the longer route to allow more time for acclimatization.
Today's hike takes you through forest and onto the crater floor before ascending to Miriakamba Hut. Enjoy a packed lunch on the trail and a hot dinner prepared by your mountain chef at the hut.
Day 2: Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts (3569m)
Start: Miriakamba Huts (2514m)
End: Saddle Huts (3569m)
Distance: Approximately 6km
Elevation Gain: 1057m
Today's shorter hike takes about 3-4 hours, climbing through grasslands with the possibility of spotting elephants or zebras. You will reach the Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Ridge) for lunch with fantastic views over the crater. The scenery transitions to alpine desert as you ascend to Saddle Huts. Spend the afternoon enjoying the views and taking an acclimatization trip to Little Meru (3820m). Dinner will be prepared for you, and you will rest up for the summit climb.
Day 3: Saddle Huts to Socialist Peak (4566m) and Descent to Momela
Summit Start: Saddle Huts (3569m)
Summit End: Socialist Peak (4566m)
Distance to Summit: Approximately 5.5km
Hiking Time to Summit: 5-6 hours ascent, 2-3 hours descent
Descent Start: Socialist Peak (4566m)
Descent End: Momela Gate
Distance from Saddle Huts to Momela Gate: Approximately 7km
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
At midnight, your guide will wake you for tea and snacks before starting the ascent. The climb begins steeply, transitioning from bushy vegetation to rocky ridge as you reach Rhino Point. The trail then drops and rises steeply over bare rock and scree to reach Socialist Peak. Enjoy the sunrise with views of Kilimanjaro, the crater, and Arusha town. Descend back to Saddle Huts fora well-deserved hot lunch. Afterward, continue descending via the shorter route, passing the Tululusia waterfalls. Upon reaching Momela Gate, collect your certificate before returning to your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi for a relaxing hot shower and overnight stay.