Frequently Asked Questions
Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak, standing at 4,566 meters. It’s located within Arusha National Park and offers a challenging yet rewarding climb through diverse landscapes and unique wildlife. If you’re looking for an authentic trekking experience with fewer crowds than Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is the perfect choice.
The climb to Mount Meru is considered challenging, but not as tough as Kilimanjaro. It involves steep ascents and rugged terrain, especially during the summit push. However, it’s achievable for fit beginners or those with some trekking experience. The key is good physical preparation, and your guide will be there to support you every step of the way.
Most trekkers take 3 to 4 days to summit Mount Meru. The climb is spread over several days to help with acclimatization and to enjoy the changing landscapes along the way. You’ll stay in huts along the route, and the final push to the summit takes place at night to catch the sunrise from the peak.
While the trek is physically demanding, it’s suitable for beginners who are in good shape and have some hiking experience. If you’re committed to training and preparing, you’ll be able to tackle Mount Meru. The gradual ascent and experienced guides will help ensure your safety and success.
Mount Meru is located within Arusha National Park, home to a wide range of wildlife. As you hike, you might spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various species of monkeys. Birds like eagles and hornbills also soar above the landscape. An armed ranger accompanies you for safety as wild animals can be present along the trail.
The ideal time to climb Mount Meru is during Tanzania’s dry season, which lasts from June to October and December to February. These months offer the best weather conditions for trekking, with clearer skies and lower chances of rain.
You’ll need sturdy hiking boots, warm layers (temperatures drop near the summit), a good-quality backpack, a headlamp for the early summit push, trekking poles, and plenty of water. A good sleeping bag is also essential for the colder nights at higher altitudes.
The cost of climbing Mount Meru varies depending on the length of the trek, and inclusions (e.g., guide, porters, meals, park fees, pre and post climb accommodation,etc). Let us know which Meru trek package you wish to take and we will send to you a complete customized quote for the trek.
Absolutely! Many climbers choose to combine their trek with a safari in nearby national parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater. You can also explore the vibrant city of Arusha before or after your climb, making it a well-rounded adventure.
Yes, hiring a guide is mandatory for all climbers. Mount Meru is located within Arusha National Park, and for safety reasons, an armed ranger must accompany all trekkers due to the presence of wildlife. Professional guides also ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience by helping with navigation, acclimatization, and logistics.
Mount Meru is a challenging trek, so preparation is key. You should engage in regular cardio workouts, strength training, and hiking practice to build endurance and leg strength. Since you’ll be trekking at high altitude, practicing hikes at increasing elevations (if possible) will help your body adjust. Mental preparation is equally important—having the determination to push through fatigue will make a difference on summit day.
Yes, and it’s highly recommended! Many climbers use Mount Meru as a warm-up before tackling Kilimanjaro because it helps with acclimatization. The trek up Meru allows your body to adjust to high altitude, significantly increasing your chances of a successful Kilimanjaro summit. If you plan to do both, it’s best to climb Meru first, then head straight to Kilimanjaro with minimal downtime in between.
Unlike Kilimanjaro, where trekkers camp in tents, Mount Meru offers designated huts for accommodation along the route. These huts provide basic but comfortable shelter, eliminating the need to carry heavy camping gear.