Introduction to Mount Meru
Mount Meru is a dormant volcano located in Tanzania, standing at a height of 4,566 meters. It is the fifth highest mountain in Africa and the second highest in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also the centerpiece of Arusha National Park and is a popular trekking destination for those looking for a challenging climb and stunning views.
Trekking Routes
There are two main routes to climb Mount Meru: the Momella Route and the Machame Route. The Momella Route is the more popular of the two and is often referred to as the ‘tourist route’. The Machame Route, on the other hand, is more challenging and less frequently used. Both routes offer beautiful scenery, including views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Duration of Trek
The trek to the summit of Mount Meru typically takes 3-4 days, depending on the route and the fitness level of the climbers. It is recommended that climbers allow for an extra day for acclimatization before attempting the final ascent to the summit.
Accommodation
There are several campsites along the routes to the summit of Mount Meru, with the Miriakamba and Saddle Huts being the most commonly used. The campsites offer basic facilities, such as toilets and running water. It is also possible to stay in the Arusha National Park lodges before and after the climb.
Best Time to Climb
The best time to climb Mount Meru is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and from December to February. The weather is typically clear during these months, making for better views and safer climbing conditions.
Reasons to Climb Mount Meru
1. Acclimatization for Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Meru is the most proven way to gain acclimatization for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Spending time at high altitudes helps your body adapt and increases your chances of success on Kilimanjaro.
2. Stunning Views
The climb up Mount Meru offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. From lush forests to rocky terrain and stunning views of Kilimanjaro, the scenery is truly unforgettable.
3. Unique Wildlife
Arusha National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including buffalos, giraffes, baboons, and even leopards. While climbing Mount Meru, you will have the opportunity to witness these animals in their natural habitats.
4. Physical Challenge
Climbing Mount Meru is a physical challenge that requires endurance, strength, and determination. It is a great opportunity to push yourself and test your limits.
5. Cultural Experience
The climb up Mount Meru takes you through different villages where you can experience the local culture and interact with the local people. This provides a unique opportunity to learn about the local customs, traditions, and way of life.
Ranger Escort Regulations
The rules of Arusha National Park state that when climbing Mount Meru, all groups must be accompanied by an armed ranger. The distribution of rangers to climbing groups is managed by the administration of Arusha National Park. During busy periods, the park may assign only one ranger to several groups doing the climb simultaneously. The ranger must keep pace with the slowest climber. Although we will try to arrange a private ranger for your group, we cannot guarantee it at this time. Please be prepared for the possibility of the described arrangements. These regulations apply only to Meru climbs, not Kilimanjaro.
Excellent Preparation for Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Meru is the most proven way to gain acclimatization for your Kilimanjaro adventure. As we explained in our article about the importance of high altitude acclimatization, it is critical for Kilimanjaro success that your body adapts to the heights, not your physical strength and stamina. The longer you stay at high altitudes, the better your body adapts. Hiking Meru before Kilimanjaro is, therefore, an excellent acclimatization boost, hugely increasing your Uhuru chances. In addition, Mt Meru trekking provides insights into what it takes to be a member of a true mountain expedition. As a minor version of Kilimanjaro, it offers a glimpse into the “main mount” challenge, showing you what the future adventure will be like.
3-Days VS. 4-Days hike – HOW TO CHOOSE?
If your schedule permits and you haven’t acclimatized on other mountains previously (which means you’ve climbed anything above 4,000m/13,123f and didn’t experience altitude sickness), we suggest selecting a longer option. Spending more time on Mount Meru will help your body adjust to the altitude more efficiently, reducing stress and making the whole experience more comfortable.
Itinerary Options
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. The hotel is equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including cozy rooms, Internet access, hot water, a swimming pool, and a helpful staff. In the evening, an orientation session with our tour coordinators will ensure that you are fully prepared to begin your spectacular Meru climb.
Accomodation: Kibo Palace Hotel
Day 2: From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
Early in the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. Here, the porters will pack and organize your belongings for the hike, while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). The first day of hiking involves walking through the park and provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants. To ensure your safety, an armed ranger hired through the National Park will accompany our team for the duration of the hike. You will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Your first night will be spent at Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), where your chef will prepare a hot dinner and warm water for you.
As this will be your first day at high altitude, it is strongly recommended that you follow the instructions below:
- Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine
- Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently)
- ELEVATION
1,500 m to 2,500 m - HIKING TIME
4-5 hours - DISTANCE
10 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Meadows and rainforest
Day 3 From Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has amazing views of Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Meru (3,820 m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt.
- ELEVATION
2,500 m to 3,550 m - HIKING TIME
3-4 hours - DISTANCE
5 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Moorland and heath
Day 4 From Saddle Hut to Meru Peak and descent to Momella Gate
The trek to the summit of Mount Meru involves a steep climb, passing through various altitudes and landscapes, and encountering diverse wildlife. The climb to the summit starts around midnight, with a path that leads to Rhino Point and continues along a ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point. From there, it’s an hour further to the summit, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After the summit, the descent is taken back to the starting point with a stop for brunch and rest. The trek ends with congratulations from the group and a transfer to Moshi or Arusha town.
- ELEVATION 3,550 m to 4,562 m
4,562 m to 1,500 m - HIKING TIME
12-14 hours - DISTANCE
16 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Alpine, heath, moorland
Day 5 Departure
Rest in the Kibo palace Hotel and transfer to the airport.
Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. The hotel is equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including cozy rooms, Internet access, hot water, a swimming pool, and a helpful staff. In the evening, an orientation session with our tour coordinators will ensure that you are fully prepared to begin your spectacular Meru climb.
Accommodation: Kibo Palace Hotel
Day 2: From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
Early in the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. Here, the porters will pack and organize your belongings for the hike, while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). The first day of hiking involves walking through the park and provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants. To ensure your safety, an armed ranger hired through the National Park will accompany our team for the duration of the hike. You will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Your first night will be spent at Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), where your chef will prepare a hot dinner and warm water for you.
As this will be your first day at high altitude, it is strongly recommended that you follow the instructions below:
- Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine
- Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently)
- ELEVATION
1,500 m to 2,500 m - HIKING TIME
4-5 hours - DISTANCE
10 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Meadows and rainforest
Day 3 From Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has amazing views of Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Meru (3,820 m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt.
- ELEVATION
2,500 m to 3,550 m - HIKING TIME
3-4 hours - DISTANCE
5 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Moorland and heath
Day 4 From Saddle Hut to Meru Peak and descent to Momella Gate
Midnight wake-up and the group starts trekking to the Meru Peak. The hikers should be prepared for a tough and strenuous hike – the legs to Rhino Point and Cobra points are especially precipitous. Be careful!
The group will reach Meru Peak (4,565 m/14,977 m) by sunrise, where you’ll have true visual euphoria – thrilling panoramic sceneries around and mesmerizing sunrise
After the summit time, the group will descend to Miriakamba Huts for a hot lunch, dinner and overnight stay.
- ELEVATION 3,570 m to 4,565 m
4,565 m to 2,514 m - HIKING TIME
8-12 hours - DISTANCE
19 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Alpine, heath, moorland
Day 5 From Saddle Hut to Meru Peak and descent to Momella Gate
Morning, breakfast and hike down to Momella Gate. Our car will be waiting there for your party for transfer to the hotel (see description below).
- ELEVATION 2,514 m to 1,387 m
- HIKING TIME
2-4 hours - DISTANCE
7 km - DIFFICULTY
Medium - HABITAT
Rainforest
Day 6 Departure
Rest in the Kibo Palace Hotel and transfer to the airport.
Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.
We are currently affiliated with TripAdvisor, TourRadar, TouristLink and TrustPilot.