Take on the exhilarating challenge of climbing Mount Meru in just 4 days via the scenic Momela Route, a rewarding alternative or warm-up trek before tackling Mount Kilimanjaro. Located in Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak, offering stunning views, diverse landscapes, and rich wildlife sightings.
This 4-Day Mt. Meru Climb via Momela Route is ideal for adventure travelers looking to explore lesser-known trekking routes in Tanzania. From lush forests to alpine desert and volcanic ridges, each day brings new challenges and spectacular scenery.
Scenic hike through Arusha National Park, with opportunities to spot giraffes, zebras, and monkeys
Diverse eco-zones: rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert
Stunning sunrise summit views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the crater
Fewer crowds compared to Kilimanjaro
Guided by armed rangers and professional mountain crew
Perfect acclimatization hike for Kilimanjaro
✅ Quieter, more peaceful trekking alternative
✅ Incredible wildlife experiences during the hike
✅ Gradual altitude gain helps with acclimatization
✅ Fully guided by expert climbing teams and park rangers
✅ Affordable, shorter option for mountain trekking in Tanzania
✅ Ideal pre-Kilimanjaro climb or standalone adventure
Mt. Meru is located in the heart of Arusha National Park and it is 50 miles west of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is a massive volcano reaching 14,980 feet (4,565 meters). This trek serves as an ideal warm up for Mt. Kilimanjaro due to its altitude acclimatization and hiking distances. This trek is also geared towards hikers that prefer less crowds and a challenging ascent
Duration: 5-7 hours of hiking
After an early morning breakfast in Arusha (1400m), you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then begin your ascent in Arusha National Park. The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving to Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.
Duration: 3-5 hours of hiking
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has views of Mt. Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Mt. Meru (3820m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt. Get to sleep by 1900!
Duration: 10-12 hours of hiking
Your guide will wake you at 00:30 for tea and biscuits. You will then begin your summit attempt at 1:30am. The trail starts off on a steep grade to Rhino Point (3800m) to Cobra Point (4350m). The last hour of the hike you will scamble on a rocky ridge between the crater and inner cliffs of Meru. You will reach the summit of Meru (4565m) at sunrise with spectacular views of Mt. Meru Ash Tray and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy your views then descend to Saddle Hut for a short break. You will then continue descending to Miriakamba Hut (2500m) for dinner and overnight.
Duration: 2-3 hours of hiking
After a long rest and breakfast, we will begin our final descent to Momella gate. We will hike through forest and meadows where it is likely to spot wildlife. At the base of Mt. Meru, you will be greeted by our driver who will take you back to Arusha.
Important to Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Maximum Number of people per car is 6.
This tour accepts children who are 2 years and older.
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged with extra cost.
Rates Per Person
$952 per person when climb alone
$850 per person From group of 2 to 4 People
$700 per person from group of 5 people and above
An immersive trekking experience in a wildlife-filled national park
Offers dramatic landscapes including crater walls, ridges, and alpine zones
Less commercialized and more serene than Kilimanjaro
Excellent for fitness, altitude adjustment, or short mountain adventures
The best trekking seasons are during the dry months: June to October and December to February, when trails are less muddy and visibility is clear for summit views.
Is Mount Meru harder than Kilimanjaro?
Mt. Meru is shorter and often considered less challenging, though the summit day is steep and demanding.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No, it’s a high-altitude trek that doesn’t require ropes or climbing gear.
Can this climb prepare me for Kilimanjaro?
Yes, it’s one of the best acclimatization treks before attempting Kilimanjaro.
Are park rangers mandatory?
Yes, all hikers are escorted by armed park rangers due to wildlife along the trail.
🎯 Ready to summit Tanzania’s hidden mountain gem?
Book your 4-Day Mt. Meru Climbing Adventure via Momela Route today and enjoy a truly wild and rewarding trekking experience. Perfect for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and those preparing for Kilimanjaro.
📩 Inquire now to reserve your trek dates!
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with many adventures being offered all over the country. For optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is your best bet! Read more on when to visit Tanzania
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