Mt. Meru is located to the east of Arusha town, about 20 kilometers drive from Arusha. Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania. The mountain stands at an altitude of 4566 meters above sea level inside the Arusha National Park.
Meru has one route to the top and can be attempted for three days but we highly recommend doing it for four days for acclimatization. A lot of climbers use Meru for acclimatization before the Kilimanjaro climb. The mountain has less snow formed by the volcano eruption.
During the Mount Meru hike (unlike the Mt. Kilimanjaro hike) you have to be escorted by an armed ranger(s) as you pass through the Arusha National Park. It is at this time when you will enjoy the walking safari as you pass the groups of African buffaloes, Zebras, Black andwhite colobus monkeys, just little wildlife to mention. The Momela and Ngurdoto Lakes are rich in birdlife as you trek to the mountain; birds like Pelicans and Flamingo are closely seen.
Day 1: Momella Gate -Marikamba Huts : 13.8KM/ 8.6 MI | 4-6 hours
Elevation:1597m/5240ft to 2503m/8212ft
Altitude gained: 906m
After registering at the Momela gate, you will start your hike through the rainforest. Along the way, you may see elephants, giraffes, buffalos, warthogs, monkeys and other animals. You will stay overnight at Miriakamba huts.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2500m) To Saddle Hut (3500m):6.1KM/ 3.8MI | 3-5 HRS
Elevation: 2503m/8212ft to 3560m/11,680ft
Altitude gained: 1057m
Today you trek through the steep path along the ridge of the saddle. This is a short but steep climb. You will have a spectacular view of the second highest peak of Mt. Meru, little Meru, and of Arusha National Park. You will stay the night at Saddle huts.
Day 3: Saddle Hut- Summit : 5.5KM/ 3.4MI | 10-12 hours
Altitude gained: 1006m
Descent to 3560m/11680ft
Altitude lost: 1006m
Today is summit day! The day will start with a steep climb to the Rhino point and you will continue to the Cobra Point. Soon after that you will reach the highest peak of Mt Meru, the Socialist Peak (4566m). After arriving at the Socialist Peak, you will have time to celebrate completing the summit and you will have time to take in the amazing views. After the summit, you will make your way back down to Miriakamba huts.
Day 4:Saddle Hut – Momella Gate : 6.5KM/4MI | 2-3 hours
Elevation:3560m/11,680ft to 1597m/5240ft
Altitude lost:1963m
Today you will descend back to the Momela gate. It is a relaxed descent and you will have time to enjoy the beautiful views of Arusha National Park.
TOUR INCLUDES
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Transportation to & from the Mt. Meru gate
Park entry fees
Accommodation fees for on the mountain
Rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
Accommodation on the mountain in huts
Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
3 meals daily while on the mountain
Drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Government taxes
Portable oxygen tanks & ox meter
Emergency first-aid kit
TOUR EXCLUDES
Accommodation before and after your mountain trek
Travel insurance
Flights
Laundry Service
Personal items and toiletries
Tips for guides, porters and cook (see our tipping guidelines for more information)
