Mount Meru Climbing

safari Duration

Tour Type

Mount Meru Trekking

Group Departure / Private Departures Are Available

At 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and the fifth-highest in Africa. A dormant stratovolcano within Arusha National Park, it lies just 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a uniquely secluded and scenic experience. Unlike the well-trodden paths of Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru’s trail is quieter and teeming with wildlife, offering climbers a chance to trek alongside diverse fauna in their natural habitat.

Climbing Mount Meru with Kiliclimb Africa Safaris provides adventurers with a challenging yet achievable trek. While typically completed in four days, the climb can also be done over three days for those with tighter schedules, taking climbers up through striking landscapes, from verdant forests to alpine meadows, finally reaching the summit at Socialist Peak. Here, climbers are greeted by spectacular views of Kilimanjaro on a clear day—a mesmerizing end to an exhilarating ascent.

Key Features of the Mount Meru Climb

  1. Second Tallest Mountain in Tanzania: Standing proudly at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet).
  2. Unmatched Wildlife Encounters: Spot giraffes, buffalos, colobus monkeys, and more on your first day.
  3. Excellent Acclimatization Opportunity: Perfect warm-up climb for Kilimanjaro.
  4. Momela Route (3-4 Days): Ascend and descend along the Momela Route, which includes diverse flora, fauna, and spectacular panoramas.
  5. Dormitory-Style Huts: Stay in basic but comfortable huts on the mountainside.

Why Climb Mount Meru?

While Mount Kilimanjaro takes much of the spotlight, Meru offers a rewarding adventure in a less-traveled wilderness. Climbing Meru is ideal for trekkers seeking a warm-up for Kilimanjaro, an experience that helps with acclimatization and boosts chances of a successful summit on Kilimanjaro. As you trek through lush forests, you may spot wild animals, particularly on the first day, adding a unique safari feel to the climb.

Cost of Mount Meru Climb

  • 3-Day Climb: USD 950 per person

  • 4-Day Climb: USD 1,050 per person

 

Climbs are available year-round, but we recommend avoiding the rainy seasons. The best times for a Mount Meru trek are January to early March and June to October.

Safety and Preparation with us

Your safety is paramount to us. Our experienced guides will be with you every step, trained to recognize and manage altitude sickness and other mountain conditions. To prepare:

Before Your Climb: Start training 2 months prior with hikes, long walks, and deep breathing exercises. Bring some comfort food for summit night energy.

On the Climb: Hydrate, eat well, ascend slowly, and communicate with your guide, especially if experiencing altitude symptoms.

The Mount Meru trek, with Kiliclimb Africa Safaris, offers a blend of natural beauty, quiet trails, and unforgettable views, making it an exceptional choice for a standalone adventure or an acclimatization climb before Kilimanjaro. Get ready to immerse yourself in nature, challenge yourself, and savor every step up this magnificent peak.

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha - Momela Gate - Mariakamba Hut

  • Drive: 1 hour from Arusha to Momela Gate 
  • Hike Distance: 10 km (4-5 hours, 1,000 meters ascent) 
  • Overnight Altitude: 2,516 meters

Start the trek at Momela Gate, crossing the scenic Ngare Nanyuki River and trekking through lush forests teeming with wildlife. Arrive at Mariakamba Hut for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Mariakamba Hut - Saddle Hut

  • Hike Distance: 4 km (2-3 hours, 1,050 meters ascent) 
  • -Overnight Altitude: 3,566 meters

Continue through forest glades and into the alpine meadows, reaching Saddle Hut. An optional side trek to Little Meru (3,794 meters) offers extra acclimatization. Dinner and overnight at Saddle Hut.

Day 3: Saddle Hut - Meru Summit - Momela Gate

  • Hike Distance: 5 km ascent, 19 km descent 
  • Climb Time: 4-5 hours to summit, 6-8 hours descent 
  • Summit Altitude: 4,566 meters

Begin the summit push early, reaching Rhino Point before a thrilling ascent to Socialist Peak. Watch the sunrise over Kilimanjaro, then descend to Momela Gate, where you’ll be transferred back to Arusha.

Day 1: MT MERU / MIRIAKAMBA

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