Mount Meru is climbed from Momella gate in Arusha National Park, sleeping in mountain huts (Miriakamba and Saddle) rather than tents. The four-day version adds an acclimatisation afternoon and a gentler summit-day schedule than the rushed three-day trip, which matters if you are climbing Kilimanjaro soon afterwards. An armed park ranger accompanies every group because of the buffalo and elephant in the lower forest.
Summit day starts around 2 a.m. from Saddle Hut for the exposed ridge walk to Socialist Peak (4,566 m) at sunrise, with Kilimanjaro rising above the clouds to the east, then the long descent back to the gate.
Meet your ranger at Momella gate and trek through the forest — often with giraffe, buffalo and warthog on the trail — to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m).
A steeper climb through the giant-heather zone to Saddle Hut (3,570 m). Afternoon acclimatisation walk up Little Meru (3,801 m) for the views.
A 2 a.m. start along the crater rim to Rhino Point and on to Socialist Peak (4,566 m) for sunrise. Return to Saddle Hut for breakfast, then descend to Miriakamba.
The final forest descent to the gate, with a chance of more wildlife, and the drive back to Arusha.