Description
Mt. Meru which is Tanzania’s second highest mountain standing tall at 4,566m. It is located in Arusha National Park and offers some of the most spectacular scenery and wildlife diversity of any mountain in Tanzania. Mt. Meru is a challenging trek due to its steepness, but is a great way to acclimatize before attempting Mt. Kilimanjaro. Climbers are accompanied by an armed ranger due to the abundance of wildlife on the lower slopes. Mt. Meru also has some historical significance to it whereby some have suggested that it was the resting place of Noah’s Ark when it came to rest after the biblical flood receded. Mt. Meru is a great trekking option for those who want to take on a climbing challenge and get the sense of being out in the wild, but are not quite ready to tackle Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Highlights
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro Int. Airport
- Hike Mt. Meru, located in Tanzania, East Africa
- Hiking to New Heights: Conquer Mount Meru's Majestic Trails
Tour Itinerary
You will depart the hotel at 0800hrs and head to the Momella gate which is the starting point of the trek. The drive to the gate is roughly an hour and a half. After the registration you will start your trek accompanied by an armed ranger. Along the route you will catch spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Momella lakes. You will encounter animals such as cape buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs and bushbucks, to name a few. Your trek will end up at Miriakamba Hut where you will be spending the night.
- Distance covered: 6km / 3.5mi
- time taken: 4 – 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today’s trek takes you through the steep path along the ridge of the saddle. Amazing views of the Meru crater, the ash cone and little Meru can be seen along the way. While trekking through the forest keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and the attractive wild flowers. Common animals include buffaloes and the black and white Colobus monkey. Your trek will end up at Saddle hut where you will be spending the night. After resting at the camp you will set off on an hour acclimatization trek to little Meru (3810m) then head back down to Saddle hut.
- Distance covered: 6.5km / 4mi
- time taken: 3 – 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridge line between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater.
We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Meriakamba Hut and lastly in Momela gate.
The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to Moshi at your accommodation.
- Time taken: 13-14 hours
- Distance covered: 28km
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
Itinerary Map
Price Information
This price is per person, based on 2 people sharing. While this price reflects the suggested itinerary (including accommodation and excursions), this private trip is 100% tailor-made, and after you make your inquiry, a specialist can help you select the options best suited to your tastes and budget.
Departure Information
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- 2 nights hotel accommodation before and after you’re a climb on bed & breakfast basis
- Transfers to and from the mountain
- National Park entry, huts and climbing fees
- Rescue fees
- A fully supported climb (average ratio of support staff to climbers is 4:1)
- All meals and drinking water on the mountain
- Access to first aid kit and emergency oxygen
- A certificate documenting your summit ascent
- NB: Depending on the availability, hotels of the same standard can be substituted
Excludes
- Tanzania Visa
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel (available as an optional addon)
- Transfers (available as an optional addon)
- Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Liquors, beers, and bottled beverages
- Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
Meet Our Safari Expert
Our team of Safari specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure. Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made trip.
To More Inquiry
+255 719 177 553
See What Our Clients, Have to Say
We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and Nyamera Treks & Safaris is rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.
Best Time to Travel
The optimal time to hike Mount Meru in Tanzania’s Arusha National Park is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February. These months offer stable weather conditions with minimal rainfall, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, providing ideal hiking conditions and excellent visibility of the surrounding landscape. While hiking is possible year-round, the shoulder months of March, April, and November may have occasional rain showers and reduced visibility. Hiking during the rainy season from late March to May is generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and hazardous conditions. Ultimately, choosing the best time to hike Mount Meru depends on personal preferences and priorities, balancing weather conditions, crowd levels, and overall trail experience.
Accommodation Style
Accommodation options for Mount Meru treks typically include staying in lodges or campsites within Arusha National Park. The park offers a few lodging options, including the Miriakamba Hut and the Saddle Hut, which are basic mountain huts along the route. These huts provide simple accommodation with bunk beds and shared facilities. Alternatively, some tour operators may offer luxury tented camps or lodges outside the park, providing more comfortable and upscale accommodation options with amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, dining facilities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s essential to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons, to ensure availability and secure a comfortable place to rest during the trek.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to hike Mount Meru is during the dry seasons, typically from June to October and December to February, when the weather is stable with minimal rainfall, clear skies, and moderate temperatures.
The ascent of Mount Meru usually takes around 3 to 4 days, depending on the chosen route and hiking pace. This includes acclimatization days and overnight stays at designated huts or campsites along the trail.
While it’s possible to hike Mount Meru independently, hiring a certified guide is highly recommended for safety reasons and to navigate the trail effectively. Experienced guides are familiar with the terrain, and weather conditions, and can provide valuable assistance throughout the trek.
Mount Meru is considered to be a moderately challenging trek, with altitudes reaching up to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) at the summit. While it is shorter in duration compared to climbing Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru’s ascent involves steep and rugged terrain, requiring a reasonable level of fitness and acclimatization.
Essential items to pack for a Mount Meru trek include sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for varying weather conditions, a warm sleeping bag, waterproof jacket and pants, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), water purification tablets, snacks, and a first aid kit. It’s also essential to carry sufficient water and stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Yes, Mount Meru is home to diverse wildlife, including colobus monkeys, antelopes, and various bird species. Trekkers may encounter wildlife along the trail, particularly in the lower rainforest sections of the mountain. It’s essential to respect wildlife and follow guidelines provided by guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Planning an adventure to Tanzania?
Get in touch with us today and we will help build your experience of a lifetime to Tanzania.
Other tours you may be interested in
You are free to customize our itinerary options to fit your own interests. While these carefully chosen ideas will serve as a springboard, remember that your journey will be tailored specifically to you.
