Trekking Mount Meru in Tanzania
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 dense forested Arusha National Park also known as Little Serengeti due to its similarity.
Meru has one route to the top and can be attempted for three days but we highly recommend doing it for four days for acclimatization. Most alpines-sts use Meru for acclimatization before the Kilimanjaro climb. Meru mountain has less snow formation occasionally as compared to her brother Kili, this is mainly due to its volcanic reactions.
Unlike Kilimanjaro when you are climbing 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 and white colobus monkeys, and the rare Red forest Duiker.
The Momela and Ngurdoto Lakes are rich in birdlife that you will observe as you trek to the mountain; birds like Pelicans and Flamingo are closely seen, despite its other over 400 bird species identified in the park.
Climbing Mount Meru – Duration; 3 Days / 2 Nights
Day 1: MOMELLA GATES TO MIRIAKAMBA;
After breakfast depart Moshi about 8:30 a.m drive to Momella gate(1500 m asl). After official clearances commence the climb to the first hut called Miriakamba hut. Dinner and overnight – Miriakamba hut (2,750 m asl/3 ½ hrs).
Day 2: MIRIAKAMBA TO SADDLE;
After breakfast, we proceed with the climb to the second hut called Saddle. This is a steeper section compared to the first part (2 ½). During the afternoon, interested clients can decide to attempt climbing the little Meru peak and back. Dinner and overnight – Saddle hut(3,750 m asl/5-6 hrs).
Day 3: SADDLE TO SUMMIT;
Wake up at middle-night and have a cup of tea before proceeding with your attempt to the Big Meru peak (4,566 m asl/5-6 hrs). Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Little Meru(3801 m asl), the Ash cone, The Momella lakes, The Meru wall, the Ngorongoro Highlands, and the Arusha City can be observed from this height.
Proceed to summit crossing rocky path and back to Saddle hut for full breakfast. Then short rest and leave Saddle hut and descend down to Momella gate via first hut (Miriakamba). On the way back you pass through the park’s Momella Lakes for a game viewing before proceeding back to Moshi/Arusha.
Price:
| Number of Travelers in Group Discount | Cost Per Traveler in the US($) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | 1,000 |
| 2 People | 800 |
| 3 People | 780 |
| 4 People | 750 |
| 5 People | 740 |
| 6 People | 730 |
| 7 People | 720 |
| 8 People | 710 |
| 9 People | 705 |
| 10 People and above | 700 |
The Trip Cost Includes
- National Park entrance, hut, and rescue fees
- Professional wilderness first responder trained guide and porters carrying a max 20kgs
- Expedition medical kit
- Porters and Guides
- Rescue fees
- Food
- Purified Water
- Comprehensive vital sign monitoring
- Personal Summit Certificate signed by the National Park for successful trekkers
The Trip Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Excess baggage charges
- Costs of visas
- Immunizations
- Personal expenses such as beverages (other than those included with meals, as listed in each itinerary)
- Room service
- Souvenirs
- Laundry
- Communication charges
- Medical or extra evacuation fees
- Staff gratuities
- Personal trekking equipment
- Additional transportation
- Meals incurred by a client unable to continue a planned itinerary due to illness, medical conditions, or airline schedule changes
- Accommodations before and after the climb
- Airport transfers