Trekking · Arusha National Park
Tanzania's Spectacular Second Summit
Often overlooked in the shadow of Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru (4,566 m) is a spectacular, challenging climb — perfect as pre-Kilimanjaro acclimatization or as a standalone adventure in Arusha National Park. The trek traverses rainforest, heath and alpine desert zones, with wildlife encounters including giraffes, colobus monkeys and zebras along the lower slopes.
You’ll summit at Socialist Peak for a breathtaking sunrise with distant views of Kilimanjaro, accompanied throughout by an armed park ranger.
- Second-highest peak in Tanzania at 4,566 metres
- Ideal pre-Kilimanjaro acclimatization option
- Multiple habitat zones with rich biodiversity
- Armed ranger accompaniment through the national park
- Far less crowded than nearby Kilimanjaro
4,566 m
Socialist Peak
4 Days
3 Nights on the Mountain
46 km
Total Trekking Distance
Huts
Miriakamba & Saddle
Day by Day
Your Itinerary
Day 1
Arusha – Momella Gate – Miriakamba Huts
Your climb begins with breakfast and a briefing in Arusha before the transfer to Momella Gate. After registration, trekking commences through open grasslands where giraffe, zebra and buffalo are often sighted. The trail then climbs into dense rainforest rich with exotic flora and birdlife before reaching Miriakamba Huts, set in a scenic clearing with views of Meru’s dramatic cliffs.
- ⛰️ 4,921 → 8,250 ft
- 📏 10 km
- 🕒 4–6 hours
- 🌿 Rainforest
Day 2
Miriakamba Huts – Saddle Huts
A morning ascent into the heath zone through montane forest, crossing wooden bridges with striking views into the Meru Crater. The vegetation transitions to giant heathers and alpine grasses as the altitude increases. After reaching Saddle Huts, an optional acclimatization hike takes you up Little Meru (3,820 m) for sunset.
- ⛰️ 8,250 → 11,712 ft
- 📏 8 km
- 🕒 3–5 hours
- 🌾 Heath
Day 3 · Summit Night
Saddle Huts – Socialist Peak – Miriakamba Huts
A midnight departure for the challenging summit push. The trail ascends steeply past Rhino Point and Cobra Point beneath the stars. After 4–6 hours you’ll reach Socialist Peak (4,566 m) just in time for a breathtaking sunrise — with Kilimanjaro glowing on the horizon. The descent returns via the same trail to Saddle Huts, then continues down to Miriakamba Huts. A long, hugely rewarding day.
- ⛰️ 11,712 → 14,977 → 8,250 ft
- 📏 18 km
- 🕒 8–12 hours
- 🏔️ Alpine Desert → Heath
Day 4
Miriakamba Huts – Momella Gate – Arusha
A relaxed breakfast before the final descent through rainforest trails, with excellent chances of birds and wildlife along the way. At Momella Gate you’ll receive your summit certificate before the transfer back to Arusha — or onward toward your Kilimanjaro climb.
- ⛰️ 8,250 → 4,921 ft
- 📏 10 km
- 🕒 2–4 hours
- 🌿 Rainforest
Cost
What Your Trek Covers
What’s Included
- Private minivan ground transfers to/from Momella Gate
- All meals and hut accommodation during the climb
- Complete park fees — entry, hut, ranger, rescue & 18% VAT
- Professional mountain guide, cook and porter support
- Armed park ranger escort
- 3 litres bottled mineral water on Day 1
- Boiled & treated drinking water for the remaining trek
Not Included
- International flights
- Pre- and post-climb accommodation & meals
- Transfers not specified in the itinerary
- Travel, medical & luggage insurance
- Tips for mountain crew, ranger and driver
- Personal items and expenses
Get Your Tailored Quote
Rates vary with group size and season. Tell us your dates and party size and we’ll send a detailed, no-obligation quote within 24 hours — usually much faster on WhatsApp.
Map
Where You'll Be Climbing
Warm Up on Meru
Add Meru before your Kilimanjaro climb — or enjoy it as a spectacular stand-alone trek.