The Meru Mountain is the 9th highest peak in Africa and the second highest mountain in Tanzania at 4,566m. The Mount Meru can be climbed for short day from 3 to 4 days.
The Mount Meru located within Arusha National Park, and usually the Climber can start the trip from Arusha, in the Northern Tanzania. This major location provides Mount Meru climbers the chance to spot some wildlife that naturally inhabits the area.
The ascend is fairly steep, the route to the summit passes over watercourse, through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. The summit is made by a narrow, barren ridge, which gives spectacular views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater.
Day 1: Arusha (1400m) – Meriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration: 5-7 hours of hiking
After an early morning breakfast in Arusha (1400m), you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then begin your ascent in Arusha National Park. The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving to Meriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.
Day 2: Meriakamba Hut (2500m) – Saddle Hut (3500m)
Duration: 3-5 hours of hiking
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 views of Mt. Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Mt. Meru (3820m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt. Get to sleep by 1900.
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3500m) – Summit Attempt (4566m) – Arusha (1400m)
Duration: 12-14 hours of hiking
Your guide will wake you at 00:30 for tea and biscuits. You will then begin your summit attempt at 1:30am. The trail starts off on a steep grade to Rhino Point (3800m) to Cobra Point (4350m). The last hour of the hike you will scramble on a rocky ridge between the crater and inner cliffs of Meru. You will reach the summit of Meru (4565m) at sunrise with spectacular views of Mt. Meru Ash Tray and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy your views then descend to Momella Gate and return to Arusha.
What is included in the tour
• Professional, experienced, mountain guides.
• All Park fees and Rescue fees.
• All meals while on the Mountain.
• Arrival and Departure transfers.
• Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees.
• Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food:
• Clean, purified drinking water:
• Sleeping Mattress and pillows.
What is NOT included in the tour
• Tanzania Visa: $50 per person just upon arrival.
• Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.).
• Optional Tours (short safari, Zanzibar beaches, after your climb etc).
• Tipping and any items of personal nature.
