Overview of the 6-Day Mount Meru Climbing Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling 6-day adventure to summit Tanzania’s second-highest peak, Mount Meru, with Bakia Africa Safaris. Nestled within Arusha National Park, Mount Meru rises to a formidable 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), offering an exhilarating climb with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes. This trek is not just a physical challenge but a journey through diverse ecosystems—from dense forests teeming with wildlife to alpine deserts and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Unlike the crowded routes of Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a quieter, more intimate experience with nature, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking both solitude and adventure.

The best time to climb Mount Meru is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from December to February, when the weather is clear, and the trails are more accessible. The climb itself is a perfect acclimatization trek for those planning to conquer Kilimanjaro, as it allows your body to adjust to high altitudes gradually. The success rate for this route is impressively high, with most trekkers reaching the summit due to the gradual ascent and ample time for acclimatization. This itinerary is carefully crafted to provide a balanced mix of challenge and comfort, with experienced guides ensuring your safety and enjoyment every step of the way. As you ascend, you’ll traverse lush rainforests, encounter unique wildlife, and finally, stand atop Socialist Peak, gazing out at the sunrise over Kilimanjaro—a moment that will remain etched in your memory forever.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport and Transfer to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a representative from Bakia Africa Safaris. After a short briefing about your upcoming adventure, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, where you can rest and prepare for the climb ahead. Arusha, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, is the perfect starting point for your expedition. The town offers a pleasant climate and is surrounded by lush landscapes that set the tone for the natural beauty you’ll encounter on your trek. In the evening, you’ll have the option to explore Arusha town, visit the local markets, or simply relax at your hotel.

• Accommodation Suggestions:
  • Budget: Meru House Inn
  • Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
  • Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge
• Meal Plan: Dinner at the accommodation in Arusha.
• Extra Activities: Optional Arusha town tour, visit to the Maasai Market, or a cultural dinner experience.

Day 2: Arusha (1,400m/4,600ft) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m/8,250ft)

Your adventure begins with an early morning transfer to the Momella Gate of Arusha National Park, where you’ll meet your guide and porters. The trek starts with a gradual ascent through the lush montane forest, home to a variety of wildlife including buffalo, giraffes, and colobus monkeys. The trail offers stunning views of Mount Meru’s rugged slopes and the surrounding landscapes. As you ascend, the air becomes cooler and the vegetation changes, giving you a glimpse of the different ecosystems that make Mount Meru such a unique climbing experience.

• Altitude: From 1,400m to 2,514m
• Hiking Distance: 10km / 6.2 miles
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat/Environment: Montane Forest
• Major Activities: Trekking, wildlife spotting, arrival at Miriakamba Hut.
• Accommodations: Camping at Miriakamba Hut
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch en route, Dinner at Miriakamba Hut.
• Extra Activities: Guided nature walk around the hut, sunset viewing over Arusha.

Day 3: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m/8,250ft) to Saddle Hut (3,570m/11,710ft)

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll continue your ascent towards Saddle Hut. The trail becomes steeper as you climb through the forest, eventually giving way to heath and moorland zones. Along the way, you’ll pass by the famous “Elephant Ridge,” offering spectacular views of the Meru Crater and the summit above. The air grows thinner as you gain altitude, and the landscape becomes more rugged. Upon reaching Saddle Hut, you’ll have the afternoon to rest and acclimatize. For those feeling adventurous, a short hike to Little Meru (3,820m/12,533ft) is possible, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding area.

• Altitude: From 2,514m to 3,570m
• Hiking Distance: 8km / 5 miles
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat/Environment: Heath and Moorland
• Major Activities: Trekking, acclimatization hike to Little Meru, arrival at Saddle Hut.
• Accommodations: Camping at Saddle Hut
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at Miriakamba Hut, Lunch en route, Dinner at Saddle Hut.
• Extra Activities: Acclimatization hike to Little Meru, stargazing.

Day 4: Saddle Hut (3,570m/11,710ft) to Socialist Peak (4,566m/14,980ft) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m/8,250ft)

Summit Day! You’ll begin your final ascent to Socialist Peak just after midnight. The trail is steep and challenging, passing through rocky terrain and narrow ridges. As you climb, the temperature drops, and you’ll need to summon all your energy for the final push to the summit. Reaching the peak at sunrise is a truly magical experience, with the first light of day illuminating the vast landscapes below and Mount Kilimanjaro standing tall in the distance. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll begin the descent back to Saddle Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut.

• Altitude: From 3,570m to 4,566m (summit), descending to 2,514m
• Hiking Distance: 20km / 12.4 miles (total)
• Hiking Time: 10-12 hours (total)
• Habitat/Environment: Alpine Desert to Heath and Moorland
• Major Activities: Summit attempt, descent to Miriakamba Hut.
• Accommodations: Camping at Miriakamba Hut
• Meal Plan: Midnight snack at Saddle Hut, Breakfast at Saddle Hut after descent, Lunch en route, Dinner at Miriakamba Hut.
• Extra Activities: Rest and recovery, reflection on the summit experience.

Day 5: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m/8,250ft) to Momella Gate (1,400m/4,600ft) to Arusha

On your final day of trekking, you’ll descend through the montane forest, retracing your steps back to Momella Gate. The descent is much faster, and you’ll have a chance to take in the scenery one last time. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your climbing certificate and be transferred back to Arusha for a well-deserved rest. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the town, or enjoy a celebratory dinner at your hotel.

• Altitude: From 2,514m to 1,400m
• Hiking Distance: 10km / 6.2 miles
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat/Environment: Montane Forest
• Major Activities: Descent, certificate ceremony, transfer to Arusha.
• Accommodation Suggestions:
  • Budget: Meru House Inn
  • Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
  • Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at Miriakamba Hut, Lunch en route, Dinner at the accommodation in Arusha.
• Extra Activities: Relaxation, optional Arusha town exploration.

Day 6: Departure from Arusha

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final exploration of Arusha or a visit to a local market to pick up souvenirs. You’ll then be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, bringing your incredible Mount Meru adventure to a close.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the hotel.
• Extra Activities: Optional visit to Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, souvenir shopping.

Our pricing is based on per-person sharing, unless specified otherwise. Kindly consider the provided rates as indicative and subject to change:

All rates are contingent upon availability and are susceptible to alterations without prior notification. Additional charges for single accommodations may be applicable. Feel free to request a personalized quote or engage with our Tanzania Safari Experts to obtain the latest and most accurate rates.

Inclusions:

• Park fees and camping fees.
• A Professional English / Spanish / French / German / Italian – speaking mountain guide
• Porters and A Mountain Chef
• Accommodation before and after the climb in Arusha.
• All meals as outlined in the itinerary.
• Drinking water during the trek.
• Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
• First aid kit and emergency oxygen.

Exclusions:

• International flights.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal hiking gear (can be rented upon request).
• Tips for guides, porters, and cooks.
• Alcoholic and soft drinks.
• Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.).
• Extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

This meticulously crafted itinerary by Bakia Africa Safaris ensures that you not only achieve the summit of Mount Meru but also experience the beauty and diversity of Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife. Each day of the trek is designed to gradually acclimatize you, ensuring a safe and successful ascent. With options for budget, midrange, and luxury accommodations, this journey can be tailored to meet your comfort preferences, making it a perfect adventure for both novice and experienced trekkers.