Overview
4 Days Unforgettable Mount Meru Climbing Itinerary is an often overlooked, but spectacular volcano located in the centre of Arusha National Park. At 14,980 feet high, Meru serves as a great warm-up to Mount Kilimanjaro or a complete standalone hike in it of itself. The crowds that can plague Kilimanjaro are non-existent here, allowing for a solitary, peaceful trek. Accommodations are in wood huts.
On the lower slopes of the mountain and inside the park, there is a good chance of spotting animals. An armed ranger will accompany your party on the first stage to protect against any wildlife threats. The trail follows the north rim of the crater, along a dramatic ridgeline. Once at the summit, the views of Mount Kilimanjaro and down into Meru crater are unforgettable.
While climbing Mount Meru is a less intense climb than that of Mount Kilimanjaro, it would be foolish to underestimate the mountain.
Along the way you can expect to pass a number of beautiful waterfalls and see a variety of wildlife.
The three day trek is a challenging one, and Meru’s height is enough that altitude sickness can come into play. Arusha’s sometimes fickle weather can also hinder climbing with heavy rain.
As the mountain lies within the boundaries of Arusha National Park, you’ll not only be accompanied by a guide and porters, but also an armed ranger.
Day 1 : Arrival in Tanzania - Transfer from Airport to Arusha
You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to Arusha town. You will meet our Mt. Meru trekking expert who will brief you on your upcoming Mount Meru trekking, then rest until the next day morning.
Day 2 : Day 1 - Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts
Elevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Rain Forest We depart Moshi or Arusha for Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife – giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo – is high. We climb steadily through the rain forest until the reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade.
Day 3 : Day 2 - Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts
Elevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft Distance: 8 km Hiking Time: 3-5 hours Habitat: Heath We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization.
Day 4 : Day 3 - Saddle Huts to Summit back to Miriakamba Huts
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft Distance: 16 km Hiking Time: 9 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our climb to the summit. The trail is steep to Rhino Point and then Cobra Point. The path continues along the ridge of ash and rock to the summit – Socialist Peak. Here we enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and the sunrise before returning to Miriakamba Huts
Day 5 : Day 4 - Miriakamba Huts to Momella Gate
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 4,921 ft Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 2-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest On our last day, we descend quickly through the tropical rainforest to Momella Gate. At the base of the mountain, our vehicle will meet us and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha or Moshi
