Mount Meru Description
Mount Meru, located within Arusha National Park in northern Tanzania, is the country’s second-highest peak at 4,562 meters (14,968 feet). It is a dormant stratovolcano known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and challenging trekking experience. The climb offers breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift Valley, and the surrounding savannahs. The trek passes through lush forests, open grasslands, and volcanic craters teeming with wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, elephants, and colobus monkeys.
Unlike Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is less crowded, providing a tranquil and immersive wilderness experience, making it ideal for climbers looking for a quieter adventure or acclimatization before attempting Kilimanjaro.
Sample 4-Day Mount Meru Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Momella Gate – Miriakamba Hut
- Hiking Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,387m (4,550 ft) to 2,514m (8,250 ft)
- Start your journey at Momella Gate with a game walk through the park, accompanied by an armed ranger. You’ll trek through lush montane forests filled with wildlife and reach Miriakamba Hut for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
- Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 2,514m (8,250 ft) to 3,570m (11,745 ft)
- Trek through forested slopes and moorlands, enjoying panoramic views of the Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. You’ll arrive at Saddle Hut for lunch. After resting, take an optional short hike to Little Meru (3,820m/12,533 ft) for acclimatization.
Day 3: Saddle Hut – Summit – Miriakamba Hut
- Hiking Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,570m (11,745 ft) to 4,562m (14,968 ft) and back to 2,514m (8,250 ft)
- Start your summit trek around midnight to reach Socialist Peak by sunrise. The steep trail passes over rocky ridges and provides incredible views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Saddle Hut for a rest, then continue to Miriakamba Hut for the night.
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate
- Hiking Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Elevation Loss: 2,514m (8,250 ft) to 1,387m (4,550 ft)
- A leisurely descent through the forest leads back to Momella Gate, where you’ll receive your certificate of achievement. Transfer back to Arusha, marking the end of your adventure.
Inclusions:
- Professional guide, porters, and cook
- Park fees and armed ranger escort
- Accommodations in huts
- Meals and drinking water during the trek