Ultimate Guide to the 3-Day Mount Meru Climb

The 3-day Mount Meru climb is a fantastic trekking adventure in Tanzania, offering stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a rewarding summit experience. Often overshadowed by its bigger neighbor, Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a hidden gem for hikers seeking a shorter yet equally thrilling trek. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about the 3-day Mount Meru climb, including itinerary details, costs, difficulty level, and the best time to go.

Why Choose a 3-Day Mount Meru Climb?

The 3-day Mount Meru climb is an excellent option for several reasons. It is a shorter and less strenuous trek compared to Kilimanjaro, making it perfect for those with limited time or seeking a less demanding climb. The scenery is stunning, with lush forests, open moorlands, and dramatic ridges leading to the summit.

One of the highlights of this trek is the opportunity for wildlife encounters. Since the route passes through Arusha National Park, hikers may see giraffes, buffaloes, and even leopards. Additionally, Mount Meru is significantly less crowded than Kilimanjaro, offering a more peaceful and immersive trekking experience.

Best Time for a Mount Meru Trek

The best months for a 3-day Mount Meru climb are during the dry seasons, which occur between June–October and December–February. These months offer the best visibility and weather conditions. It is advisable to avoid the rainy seasons of March–May and November, as trails can become slippery and challenging.

3-Day Mount Meru Climb Itinerary

Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut

The trek begins at Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. Hikers pass through lush rainforests, enjoying beautiful landscapes and spotting wildlife along the way. The hike is moderate, taking around 4–6 hours to complete. The day ends at Miriakamba Hut, located at an altitude of 2,514m (8,250 ft), where trekkers rest for the night.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut

On the second day, hikers ascend from 2,514m (8,250 ft) to 3,570m (11,713 ft), covering a distance of 6 km (3.7 miles) in about 3–5 hours. The trail becomes steeper, but the breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile. The journey leads to Saddle Hut, where trekkers can take an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m) to prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 3: Summit Attempt & Descent to Momella Gate

The final day begins around midnight with a challenging ascent to the summit. Hikers pass Rhinoceros Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m) before reaching Mount Meru’s summit (4,566m) at sunrise. The views from the top are breathtaking. After enjoying the moment, trekkers descend back to Momella Gate, covering a total distance of 19 km (12 miles) over 10–14 hours.

Included/Exclude

Professional English-speaking mountain guide and porters.
All park fees, permits, and rescue levies.
Meals: Nutritious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Accommodation: Comfortable hut stays with sleeping mats.
Safety gear: First-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and pulse oximeters.

Additional Services
Insurance
Food & Drinks
Tickets

Cost of a 3-Day Mount Meru Climb

The cost of trekking Mount Meru varies ranges between $650 – $1,000 per person. Prices depend on factors such as guide and porter fees, park permits, accommodation in huts, meals, and transportation. Booking with a reputable trekking company ensures a safe and well-organized trip.

Difficulty Level & Physical Preparation

The 3-day Mount Meru trek is considered moderate to challenging. While it is shorter than Kilimanjaro, the steep ascent and high altitude require a good level of fitness. To prepare for the climb, it is recommended to engage in cardio workouts, hiking, and strength training in the weeks leading up to the trek.