Mount Meru is a volcano towering at 4566 m/14,980 ft over the vast African savannahs and rainforests. It ranks as one of the highest peaks in Africa and Tanzania's second-highest, just behind the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, which lies only 40km away. While Kilimanjaro often steals the spotlight, Mt Meru is an impressive mountain with its own unique charm.
Climbing Mount Meru is an epic adventure that combines hiking with exploration of African nature and wildlife. Situated within a national park, it is home to a variety of rare animals and plants. The slopes of Meru are covered in lush tropical forests that give way to heather and high-altitude flora as you trek higher.
And, of course, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding savannahs, beautiful lakes, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon reaching the summit, travelers will marvel at the awe-striking sight of sunrise over Africa – a truly memorable moment that will stay with you forever.
An expedition to Mount Meru does not require any special skills and can be considered a moderately difficult trek. Additionally, if you're considering climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, trekking to the Meru summit first is an excellent way to prepare and acclimatize to the high altitude, which will be of great help on the “Roof of Africa”.
Located to the east of Arusha town, about 20 kilometers drive from Arusha; Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania. The mountain stands at an altitude of 4566 meters above sea level inside the Arusha National Park.
Meru has one route to the top and can be attempted for three days but we highly recommend doing for four days for acclimatization. Most alpines uses Meru for acclimatization before the Kilimanjaro climb. The mountain has less snow formed at the volcano eruption.
Unlike Kilimanjaro when you are climbing the Mount Meru you have to be escorted by an armed ranger(s) as you pass through the Arusha National Park. It is at this time when you will enjoy the walking safari as you pass the groups of African buffaloes, Zebras, Black andwhite colobus monkey just little wildlife to mention.The Momela and Ngurdoto Lakes are rich in birdlife as you trek to the mountain; birds like Pelicans and Flamingo are closely seen.
DAY 1:MOMELA GATE -MIRIAKAMBA HUTS : 13.8KM/ 8.6 M
Elevation:1597m/5240ft to 2503m/8212ft
Altitude gained: 906m
After breakfast depart Moshi about 8:30 a.m drive to Momella gate. Make payment and start the climb with picnic lunch to the first hut called Miriakamba hut. Dinner and overnight – Miriakamba hut (3 ½ hrs).
DAY 2: MIRIAKAMBA HUTS – SADDLE HUTS: 6.1KM/ 3.8MI | 2.5 HRS
Elevation: 2503m/8212ft to 3560m/11,680ft
Altitude gained: 1057m
After breakfast we proceed with a climb to second hut called Saddle. This is too steep part compared to the first part (2 ½). During the afternoon, client can decide to attempt climbing little Meru peak and back. Dinner and overnight – Saddle hut.
DAY 3: SADDLE HUT- SUMMIT : 5.5KM/ 3.4MI :DESCEND TO SADDLE HUT
Elevation: 3560m/11,680ft to 4566m/14980ft
Altitude gained: 1006m
Descent to 3560m/11680ft
Altitude lost: 1006m
Wake up at middle-night and have a cup of tea before starting attempt big Meru peak. Proceed to summit crossing rocky path and back to Saddle hut for full breakfast. The day will be spent resting. Lunch, dinner and overnight at Saddle hut.
DAY 4: SADDLE HUT – MOMELLA GATE : 6.5KM/4MI
Elevation:3560m/11,680ft to 1597m/5240ft
Altitude lost:1963m
Leave Saddle hut and descend down to Momella gate via first hut (Miriakamba) where you will be transferred to Arusha/Moshi.Overnight Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel 4 stars B&B. before being transferred to your journey home, safari or relaxing trip to Zanzibar.
Mount Meru has two peaks: the main one is named Socialist Peak, and the lower one is simply called Little Meru. The main summit is of course the goal of the expedition, and the Little Meru is a bonus for active travelers.
On the second day of the ascent, there's a half-day remaining after reaching the upper camp, Saddle Hut. Those interested can, accompanied by a guide, hike through the saddle to the summit of Little Meru. The route there is relatively straightforward, and on a clear day, the views are breathtaking. Little Meru offers a direct view of Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing climbers to admire its "big brother" from the peak.
The height of Little Meru is 3,820 meters (12,533 feet) above sea level. We recommend summiting it for two reasons. Apart from the stunning landscapes, you'll also gain additional acclimatization before the early morning start to the main summit. It's a "golden rule" of mountain expeditions: climb high, sleep low.Visiting the summit of Little Meru is possible on both 3-day and 4-day programs.
Hike volcanic craters, track elusive leopards, and witness the breathtaking drama of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Immerse yourself in ancient cultures, where vibrant traditions paint a living history onto the canvas of time. Each day brings new discoveries, each sunset a chance to breathe in the magic of this untamed land.
Book your David and Goliath safari today and embark on a journey that will stay with you long after the dust settles. Remember, the greatest adventures are not always about conquering giants, but about becoming one yourself.Farewell, fellow adventurers May your memories be as vast as the savanna, and your spirit as wild as the wind. Go forth, and conquer your own Goliaths! And who knows, you might just find yourself singing the song of David on your way back.