Mount Meru is an often overlooked, but spectacular volcano located in the center of Arusha National Park. At 14,980 feet high, Meru serves as a great warm up to Mount Kilimanjaro or a complete standalone hike in it of itself. The crowds that can plague Kilimanjaro are non-existent here, allowing for a solitary, peaceful trek. Accommodations are in wood huts. On the lower slopes of the mountain and inside the park, there is a good chance of spotting animals. An armed ranger will accompany your party on the first stage to protect against any wildlife threats. The trail follows the north rim of the crater,
along a dramatic ridgeline. Once at the summit, the views of Mount Kilimanjaro and down into Meru crater are unforgettable.
Arrival day
Our adventure starts the Moment you land at Kilimanjaro international Airport, you will be met by our staff at the airport and transferred to Moshi/Arusha in the peaceful surrounds of our comfortable pre and post trek accommodation from where there are great views of the mountain. You can relax by the pool before your briefing with the Guides, who will provide the essential information for your trek to Mt Meru
Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts Elevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Rain Forest After an early morning breakfast in Arusha/Moshi, 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 Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.
Elevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft Distance: 8 km Hiking Time: 3-5 hours Habitat: Heath 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.
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft to 4,921 ft Distance: 26 km Hiking Time: 9 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert 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 Saddle Hut, get lunch and process to Momella Gate where you will be picked up by our vehicle and return to Moshi/Arusha.
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