Mount Meru is situated within the Arusha National Park (an area of about 137 sq. km) and is 45 kilometers from Arusha. It has a wide range of habitats, from alkaline crater lakes and swamps to mountain forests and alpine deserts. Mt Meru is the fourth highest mountain in Africa and can be climbed in three or four days. Accommodation is in huts. Wild animals are plentiful and include buffalo, elephants, giraffes, hippos, zebras, leopards, waterbucks, hyenas, duikers, baboons, and almost 400 species of birds. The mountain is most well known for the beautiful black and white colobus monkeys which swing from branches in the tall rainforest trees and the shy duikers. On this climb, in addition to your trekking team, you will also have an armed ranger to ensure your safety. We recommend you do this climb to help you acclimatize for your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure. After descending, you will spend only one night in either Arusha or Moshi before starting your second climb. Any longer than this and the benefits of acclimatization will be lost. The Arusha National Park also makes an ideal day game drive or pleasant few hours walk.
DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Arusha City |
DEPARTURE TIME | Please arrive at least a day before the Safari. |
INCLUDED |
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Day 1: Moshi to Momella gate – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration: 5-7 hours of hiking After an early morning breakfast in Moshi (900m), you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then begin your ascent in Arusha National Park. The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving to Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2500m) – Saddle Hut (3500m)
Duration: 3-5 hours of hiking After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has views of Mt. Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Mt. Meru (3820m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt. Get to sleep by 1900! Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3500m) – Summit Attempt (4566m) – Moshi
Duration: 12-14 hours of hiking Your guide will wake you at 00:30 for tea and biscuits. You will then begin your summit attempt at 1:30am. The trail starts off on a steep grade to Rhino Point (3800m) to Cobra Point (4350m). The last hour of the hike you will scamble on a rocky ridge between the crater and inner cliffs of Meru. You will reach the summit of Meru (4565m) at sunrise with spectacular views of Mt. Meru Ash Tray and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy your views then descend to Momella Gate and return to town Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included