Mount Meru is one of the most beautiful volcanoes in Africa. The hike to the summit of Mount Meru leads you through the regions that are highly populated by wildlife including giraffes, zebras, buffaloes and monkeys. The slopes of this dormant volcano offer mesmerizing endless beautiful sceneries and rich wildlife.

This volcano was “born” around 500,000 years ago, and it’s very first eruption predominantly exploded its eastern side, creating its, peculiar appearance. In addition to that, Mt Meru has one of the deepest craters – over 1,500 meters!

Why Climb Mount Meru?

There are several reasons to include Mount Meru into your Tanzania adventures list. Unfortunately, this volcano is often outshadowed by its neighbour Kilimanjaro thus making it a secondary hiking destination or a warm-up exercise. The majority of hikers, however, ignore it altogether.

We at Martial Eagle adventures confidently believe that Mt Meru hiking is a great adventure by itself because of the following reasons:

a) Spectacular Views

Mount Meru features incredibly fascinating scenic views. The trek to Socialist Peak (4566 m/14,980f), pass through several climatic zones, offering diverse landscapes and unmatched scenes for wildlife viewing & photography.

b) Prosperous Wildlife

Settled within Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is one of the few mountains of the world still densely inhabited by the wildlife, which freely roam on its slopes. The hikers are likely to experience multiple encounters with different animals, including buffaloes, antelopes, monkeys, giraffes and, with some luck in your pocket, even elephants.

c) It is Less Congested

Mount Meru is not yet popular among hikers. During the high season, on the popular routes of Kilimanjaro (Marangu and Machame) there is a chance of high congestion of hikers in the same hiking route causing walking traffic jams, something that you will never experience on the trails of Meru. For those who are seeking reclusive, tranquil hiking in the wild, Meru is a great choice.

d) Affordability

In contrast to other hiking adventures, Mt Meru climb is quite an affordable activity. Because no tents are necessary (overnight stays on Mt Meru are in huts), the number of crew is small, reducing the travel costs. Therefore, for those with shrinking budgets, Meru can become a good and affordable alternative.

• Altitude:1,387 m to 2,514 m
• Climbing Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: 10 km
• Environment: montane forest

This is the first day of your hike where in the morning you will be picked from your hotel and drive to Arusha National Park, and then straight to the trailhead. The ride takes approximately less than 3 hours. At Momella Gate the guides will arrange the entry permit formalities, and you will start trekking to Miriakamba Huts. Wild animals (warthogs, zebras, monkeys, antelopes and, sometimes, elephants) are likely to be seen on the way. Hot lunch will be served upon arrival to Miriakamba Huts. There you may rest or explore the surroundings.

• Altitude: 2,514 m to 3,570 m
• Climbing Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 8 km
• Environment: Moorland and heath

In this second day of your trek after the breakfast, you will continue trekking to Saddle Huts. The rainforest zone will end soon, giving place to heath and moorland with large trees. Upon reaching the saddle huts, those who are willing and energetic enough may reach the Little Meru Peak, further boosting your acclimatization transition.

Our team will serve hot lunch and dinner in the camp.

• Altitude: 3,570 m to 4,565 m up
• Down 4,565 m to 2,514 m
• Climbing Time: 8-12 hours
• Distance: 19 km
• Environment: Alpine, Heath, Moorland

In this day you will wake up at and we will start trekking to the Socialist Peak. The hikers should be prepared for a tough and demanding hike – the journey to Rhino Point and Cobra points are particularly steep. Be careful! We will reach Socialist Peak (4,565 m/14,977 m) by sunrise, where you’ll have true visual excitement of thrilling panoramic sceneries around and mesmerizing sunrise.  After the summit time, we will descend back to Miriakamba Huts for a hot lunch, dinner and overnight stay.

• Altitude: 2,514 m to 1,387 m
• Climbing Time: 2-4 hours
• Distance: 7 km
• Environment:: Montane Forest

After a morning breakfast we will hike down to Momella Gate. Our car will be waiting there for your party for transfer to the hotel.