Mount Meru route 4 Days

Arusha Tanzania

From

Duration

4 days

Tour Type

Explore Tours

Fifty miles (80 km) west of Mount Kilimanjaro lies is an often overlooked, but spectacular volcano called Mount Meru.

At 14,980 feet high, Mount Meru serves as a great standalone hike or a warm up to Mount Kilimanjaro. It is ideal for altitude acclimatization and you may elect to climb Kilimanjaro with a lower number of days after climbing Meru.

Many people who climb both mountains have a preference for the humble Mount Meru. Located in the center of Arusha National Park, Meru’s lower slopes have an abundance of 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. The crowds that can plague Kilimanjaro are non-existent here, allowing for a solitary, peaceful trek. Accommodations are in wood huts.

Although about 4,000 feet lower than Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is still a very tall mountain. Do not underestimate Mount Meru. Altitude acclimatization is still the key to a successful summit here.

Tour Highlights:

  • Departure and Return Place: Moshi Town to Marangu Route and then back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map)
  • Departure Time: Please be ready by 8:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
  • Return Time: Approximately 10:30 AM on the last day.
  • Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hats, cold-weather jackets, gloves, pants, and spare clothing.
  • Accommodation: Two nights of accommodations based on bed and breakfast at a 3-star hotel (upgrades on request).
  • Customizations: Can be customized upon request to meet travelers’s needs
  • Extensions: Trip Extensions are available on request.
  • Trip Availability: All year round.

Included/Exclude

  • Ground transfers with pick up and drop of at Kilimanjaro airport and the base hotel in Moshi
  • Park entrance fees,
  • Camping/Hut fees
  • Rescue fees,
  • Emergency Oxygen at not extra charge
  • Medical / First aid Kit.
  • Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, to measure clients oxygen saturation and pulse rate.
  • 24 Hours standby radio Communication
  • 3 litres of Mineral water on the first day per client
  • Hot meals (except first day) served in the mess tent.
  • 4 season sleeping tents
  • 2 inches mattress 1 per client
  • Professional Mountain Guide, Park Fees and Salaries
  • Porters,
  • First and last night accommodation
  • Flying Doctor membership cover
  • Forest fees for clients and crews
  • Personal gears
  • climbing equipment
  • sleeping bags
  • drinks
  • tipping and all other expenses of personal nature.

Tour Plan

We depart Moshi or Arusha for Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife – giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo – is high. Our hike on the Southern Route takes us through the rain forest to Maio Waterfalls and Fig Tree Arch until we reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade.

Elevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: 14 km | 9 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization.

Elevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Distance: 6 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Heath

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our climb to the summit. The trail is steep to Rhino Point and then Cobra Point. The path continues along the ridge of ash and rock to the summit – Socialist Peak. Here we enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and the sunrise before returning to Miriakamba Huts.

Saddle Huts to Summit
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Summit to Miriakamba Huts
Elevation: 14,977 ft to 8,250 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
.
Distance: 6 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
.
Distance: 12 km | 7 miles
Habitat: Heath

On our last day, we descend quickly through the tropical rainforest to Momella Gate. At the base of the mountain, our vehicle will meet us and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

Elevation: 11,712 ft to 4,921 ft
Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
Distance: 7 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

Map

Mount Meru routes 4 Days​

Accommodations

Two Nights Hotel Accommodations
   One before and after the Kilimanjaro hiking adventure. Our recommended options include:
  1. Keys Hotel: Comfortable and contemporary stay.
  2. Ameg Lodge: Tranquil retreat amidst picturesque landscapes.
  3. Lindrin Lodge: Charming and rustic ambience.
  4. Parkview Inn: Convenient location with well-appointed rooms.
  5. Chanya Lodge: Exceptional service and warm hospitality.

Price per person

Number of People Cost Per Person
1 person $ 2,350
2 people $2,050
3 people $2,000
4 people $1,980
5 people $1,960
6 people $1,940
7 people $1,920
8 people $1,900
9 people $1,880
10 people + $1,860

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Tour Information

Max Guests

25

Min Age

13+

Tour Location

Languages Support

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