Climb Mount Meru in Tanzania
Climb Mount Meru the which rise up 4566meters above the sky is a thrilling experience. This conical shaped volcano is located within Arusha National park a distance of about 50 km from Arusha town and 70 km west of Mount Kilimanjaro. Although Climbing mount Meru is more challenging than its counterpart Kilimanjaro but the scenery and its solitude environment are quite amazing. For that reason a variety of animals can been seen during the climb.
The fertile slopes of Mount Meru hold up a forest which hosts diverse wildlife such as primates and leopards. In addition to that there are variety of large mammals mostly grazers and browsers and about 400 bird species in the surrounding savannah.
At the beginning of climb the slope is gentle but as you ascend higher the slope become steeper in some points. The route crosses several streams which flow down to the lowlands. A range of climates will be encountered during the climb from grass lands, tropical rainforest alpine meadows, moorlands and desert upland to snow and ice. Heading to the summit there is a narrow barren ridge with striking views of the Ash cone lying several hundred feet below in the crater.
Climbing Mount Meru fitness and experience
The Mount Meru Climb engages some long days of walking through gentle slopes and over rough trail. This climb involve some long days of trekking on moderate slopes over rough paths. In order to enjoy the climb and successful reach the summit personal fitness and good health is required.
The exercise for climbing mount meru should include general cardiovascular fitness and leg, core and back strength. You are also advice to exercise walking for 5 hours in a day and more on a rough terrain with a light luggage like rucksack. If in position you may also swim, cycling, running for not less than minutes.
Mount Meru Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mount Meru Located?
Mount Meru is located at latitude 3.250S and Longitude 36.750E within Arusha National Park about 50 kilometers from Arusha town the tourist hub of Tanzania.
How high is Mount Meru in Tanzania?
The conical volcano of Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania and the fourth in Africa with the height of 4,565 m (14977 ft) above sea level.
Is Mount Meru an active Volcano?
From geological data Mount Meru isn’t an active volcano instead it is a dormant stratovolcano which experienced it last eruption in 1910.
How do I get to Mount Meru?
Travelers from around the world can get to Mount meru by flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport then transfer to Arusha and to this beautiful mountain by road.
How hard is it to climb Mount Meru?
The highest point on the trek: Mount Meru peak is 4,566 meters above sea-level. Difficulty: It’s moderately hard for an average hiker but spread out over four days it is well within most people’s reach. The altitude is just low enough not to trouble most hikers.
How long does it take to Climb Mount Meru?
4 days is enough to climb mount Meru for the entire trip.
Are there two Mount Meru?
There are two Mount Meru peaks, the main Mount Meru summit and the Little Meru. When climbing mount Meru you can trek from Saddle Hut to little Meru and back to the hut. When complete the climb you will be offered two certificates for both peaks.
Does it snow on Mount Meru?
Snow on Mount Meru occurs during winter mainly June – July and sometimes after a heavy rain which last for just few hours.
Climb Mount Meru 4 days Program
Climb Mount Meru the second tallest mountain in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro with the height of 4, 568 meters above sea level. The Mount Meru is located within Arusha National Park and it is the dormant volcanic mountain. During climbing Mount Meru Climbers’ have to walk across the Arusha National Park where they can see different wildlife and birds that inhabit the area. The trek is quite sheer, the route to the summit passes over streams, through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. The Meru summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge, which provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater. Weather permitting, Kilimanjaro can be seen in the West. There are two huts available to climbers on the mountain and firewood is supplied.
The best time to climb Meru Mountain is between October and February but one can climb in June to September although it will be colder season.
Mount Meru climbing itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Momella Gate of Arusha National Park (1,500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)
Departs from your hotel in Arusha to Arusha national park for Mount Meru Climb. Register at the park headquaters (Momella gate) and after that proceed with the trek guided by the park ranger. The track passes open grassland, providing an opportunity to see buffalo, warthogs and other grazers. The trail continues as a steady climb through montane forest. We take lunch near a giant Fig Tree arch. After lunch, the route continues through less dense forest, where there are an abundance of birds and black and white colobus monkeys.
By mid-afternoon, we can see towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. We reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m.), situated in an idyllic grassy glade, in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. (4-6 hours walking). Overnight at Miriakamba Hut. All meals included.
Day 2: Climb Mount Meru: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) to Saddle Hut (3,570 m)
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. We slowly ascend through lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. From here we enjoy excellent views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. The path continues through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where lunch is will be provided. The afternoon is free to relax and to enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru Mountain (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset. (3-5 hours walking). Overnight at Saddle Hut with all meals included.
Day 3: Climb Mount Meru: Saddle Hut (3,570 m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)
We start early at around 2 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.), continuing along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m) at sunrise. The views are stunning: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift Valley if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) is an hour further on a good but steep path. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light, on a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall, is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. We enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours walking).
Miriakamba Hut Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering from vertigo. In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point. Overnight at Miriakamba Hut with all meals included.
Day 4: Climbing Mount Meru: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) – hotel in Arusha
We take the direct route down through open grassland and mixed forest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. This trail has excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of the National Park. We should reach Momella Gate by late morning (2-3 hours walking). Once you reach the end of the climb you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight at an Arusha hotel on Bed and breakfast basis
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Cost Includes
Airport pick up and drop off services
BB accommodation in Moshi
Meru Mountain Climb Fees
Full board accommodation during the climb
Service for porters and guide
Meru Mountain Rescue fee
Cost Excludes
Airport departure tax
Any services of the personal nature