The 4-day Mount Meru trekking itinerary is a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of Tanzania’s second-highest peak, Mount Meru (4,562 meters), and its stunning landscapes. The trek is shorter than Kilimanjaro, but it’s still a challenging and rewarding hike. Mount Meru offers incredible views of Kilimanjaro, diverse ecosystems, and a chance to see wildlife, especially in the early stages of the hike.
Here’s a typical itinerary for the 4-day Mount Meru trek:
Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
- Distance: 10 km
- Time: 5-6 hours
- Terrain: Forest and Montane
- The trek begins at Momella Gate, where you’ll pass through the forest, which is rich in wildlife. Expect to see animals like buffalo, giraffes, and various types of monkeys along the way. The trail takes you to the Miriakamba Hut, located at 2,514 meters. This first day’s hike is relatively moderate, allowing you to acclimatize and enjoy the beauty of the forest.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
- Distance: 7 km
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Terrain: Moorland
- On the second day, you’ll ascend to Saddle Hut, which sits at 3,570 meters. The hike takes you through the moorland zone, where the landscape opens up, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Along the way, you’ll notice changes in vegetation as you climb higher. Saddle Hut is strategically located for acclimatization, and it’s a great place to rest before the summit attempt.
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570m) to Summit (4,562m) and Return to Saddle Hut
- Distance: 12 km (round trip)
- Time: 10-12 hours
- Terrain: Alpine Desert
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters
- The summit day is the most challenging. You’ll begin the hike early in the morning (around 2-3 AM) to reach the summit of Mount Meru at 4,562 meters before sunrise. The trail ascends through rocky paths and steep sections, but the reward is worth the effort. At the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. After spending some time at the top, you will descend back to Saddle Hut for the night.
Day 4: Saddle Hut (3,570m) to Momella Gate (1,500m)
- Distance: 12 km
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Terrain: Forest and Montane
- On the final day, you’ll descend back through the moorland and forest zones to Momella Gate. The descent is much easier than the ascent, and you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy the sights of the lush forest one last time. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion for your Mount Meru trek.
Summary of the 4-Day Mount Meru Trek Itinerary:
- Day 1: Momella Gate → Miriakamba Hut
- Day 2: Miriakamba Hut → Saddle Hut
- Day 3: Saddle Hut → Summit → Saddle Hut
- Day 4: Saddle Hut → Momella Gate
Key Highlights of the Mount Meru Trek:
- Wildlife Viewing: The lower sections of the trek pass through Arusha National Park, offering opportunities to see wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and monkeys.
- Scenic Views: As you ascend, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the surrounding valleys, and the forested slopes.
- Acclimatization: Mount Meru is often used by climbers to acclimatize before attempting Kilimanjaro, as it offers a similar altitude challenge but in a shorter time frame.
- Diverse Ecosystems: The trek takes you through a variety of ecosystems, from lush forests to alpine desert terrain near the summit.
Tips for Mount Meru Trekking:
- Acclimatization: Even though the trek is shorter than Kilimanjaro, it’s still crucial to pace yourself and drink plenty of water to help your body adjust to the altitude.
- Weather: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack accordingly with layers for both warm and cold conditions.
- Fitness: While Mount Meru is considered less physically demanding than Kilimanjaro, it’s still a challenging hike, especially summit day, so ensure you’re in good physical condition.
