Trekking Overview
The second-highest mountain in Tanzania, Mount Meru, is situated about 20 kilometers east of Arusha town. Within the boundaries of Arusha National Park, the peak is located at a height of 4566 meters above sea level.
There is just one path up Meru, which can be attempted in three days, but we strongly advise tackling it in four days to allow for acclimatization. Before climbing Kilimanjaro, the majority of alpine climbers use Meru to acclimatize. Less snow has accumulated on the peak since the volcano eruption. When climbing Mount Meru, unlike Kilimanjaro, you must be supervised by an armed ranger or rangers as you move through the Arusha National Park. You will appreciate the walking safari at this time as you pass herds of African buffalo, zebras, and black-and-white colobus monkeys, to name a few animals.
As you hike to the mountain, you can witness a variety of birds at the Momela and Ngurdoto Lakes, including pelicans and flamingos. You will be greeted at Kilimanjaro International Airport and driven to Gran Melia Arusha for overnight lodging. Your head guide will meet you there to give you a briefing, check your equipment, and make arrangements for you to rent any necessary gear.
Trekking Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Momela Gate -Miriakamba Huts : 13.8km/ 8.6 M
1597m/5240ft to 2503m/8212ft in elevation
Gained altitude: 906m
Drive to Momella gate after breakfast, leaving Moshi at around 8:30 a.m. After paying, begin the ascent to the first hut, Miriakamba hut, with a picnic lunch. Miriakamba Hut: Dinner and overnight (3 12 hours).
Day 2: Miriakamba Huts – Saddle Huts: 6.1km/ 3.8mi | 2.5 Hrs
elevation change of 1057m from 2503m/8212ft to 3560m/11,680ft
Following breakfast, we continue on a climb to the Saddle Lodge. Compared to the prior part (2 12), this section is too steep. The client has the option of attempting to climb Little Meru Peak and back in the afternoon. Saddle hut: dinner and overnight.
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
Before beginning an attempt on Big Meru Peak, get up in the middle of the night and make a cup of tea. Cross a difficult trail to get to the peak, then return to the saddle cabin for a hearty breakfast. I’ll be sleeping all day. Lunch, supper, and overnight at the saddle hut.
Day 4: Saddle Hut – Momella Gate: 6.5km/4mi
Elevation:3560m/11,680ft to 1597m/5240ft
Altitude lost:1963m
Leave the saddle hut and make your way through the first hut (Miriakamba) to Momella gate, where you will be transported to Arusha or Moshi.
Before being taken to your home, safari, or leisurely vacation to Zanzibar, spend the night at the Gran Melia Arusha.
Inclusions:
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Park fees and permits
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- Meals during the trek
Exclusions:
- Airfare.
- Personal trekking equipment.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.