MOUNT MERU CLIMBING
Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania, a young, historically active but primarily dormant volcano, is almost 45 miles (72 kilometers) from the western part of Mount Kilimanjaro on the edge of the Great African Rift Valley. At 4566 meters (14,980 feet), it is often used as an acclimatizing mountain hiking prelude to a Kilimanjaro climbing challenge with Uhuru Trails by KilimanjaroTravels.com. It was once much higher but exploded outwards more than five hundred thousand years ago to leave a horse-shoe shaped crater wall of amazingly steep cliffs and a central ash cone where minor eruptions have occurred. The last was just over a hundred years ago. You may climb the ash cone only with special permission. Some people consider Mount Meru even more beautiful than Kilimanjaro in the midst its flora, fauna and the Momella Lakes close to its foot. Certainly, it is less frequented and contains a wider range of wildlife. As the centerpiece of Arusha National Park, the ash cone and crater rim of Mount Meru are within the protected area, but there are small farms and Maasai herdsmen graze their flocks on the lower forested slopes and surrounding savannah. For the indigenous people of Arusha (the Warusha) and Meru (Wameru), Mount Meru is the home of the rain god, with its life-giving mists, rivers, waterfalls and rich, ash-fertile soil. Today, there is the danger of over-farming as agri-business encourages land-clearing for the large-scale production of tomatoes. Local tourist initiatives offer hope for sustainable management of this fantastic mountain environment for the benefit of its people and its prolific bird and mammal populations.
As a stand-alone East African adventure destination, Mount Meru offers a worthwhile and satisfying trekking challenge (view climb itinerary) with its own certificate of achievement for those who reach one of the two summits. Admittedly, it is less grueling than Kilimanjaro, a shorter climb with less danger of severe altitude sickness, more suitable for hill walkers and hikers who want to savor a wilderness atmosphere on their Tanzanian highlands vacation and for whom the beauty of Meru with its spectacular views and fascinating wildlife is more satisfying than the better-known tourist magnet. The high, narrow crater rim can be dangerous in certain conditions of high winds or ice and is not suitable for sufferers from vertigo, but you can still acclimatize in preparation for climbing Kilimanjaro by enjoying a less demanding trekking tour of Mount Meru, appreciating the peace and beauty without attempting the main summit. The views of Kilimanjaro at dawn are as beautiful from Rhino Point (3800 meters) as from Socialist Peak (4566 meters), a few hours further on. With few visitors to disturb the wildlife, the mountain is alive with birds and animals. On the surrounding savannah, you will see zebra and buffalo, the latter wandering, surprisingly, up to around 4000 meters.
You will not see lions on or around Mount Meru or even while on a game driving terrestrial tour of Arusha National Park, but the sight of a running Maasai giraffe, like a long-necked horse against the skyline, is eerily commonplace. There are also elusive but also rare cheetah and leopard, so you are generally not advised to wander alone. You will certainly see handsome black and white caped Colobus monkeys and short-furred Sykes monkeys resting on tree branches. Because of the prevalence of potentially dangerous wildlife, you will be accompanied by an armed park ranger. The best times to climb Mount Meru are from June through February, with the best views from December to March. You will not need any special equipment except stout boots, walking poles, and wet weather gear, especially in November, with warmer clothing at higher altitudes, but the climb is demanding and you need to be healthy and fit. We do not recommend climbing it during the long rains of April and May, though it is possible. Mount Meru is not just visited as a prelude to a Kilimanjaro climb, but serves as a focus for a Tanzanian tour of Arusha Park, with trips to Momella Lakes for canoeing and bird watching, or game drives to the less frequented Ngurdoto Crater: a miniature version of Ngorongoro Crater. From Buffalo Point on the crater wall, you can view animals undisturbed by man.
Mount Meru Climb Packages
3 DAYS MOUNT MERU CLIMB
Non Summit Leisure Trek
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusion/Exclusion
- Price
- Gallery
- Book
Route
Tour Features
Standard tour
This standard tour uses camps and mountain huts.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 4 people per vehicle.
Suitable for single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 4 people to run.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others — Only on Request
Minimum PAX for private tour
Minimun 2 people needed to operate private tour.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & mountain climbing
Getting around: pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle.
A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost. Accommodation & Meals
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost.
| DAY | ACCOMMODATION | Meals |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mariakamba Hut Budget mountain hut in or near Mt Meru |
All Meals Included | Day 2 | Saddle Hut Budget mountain hut in or near Mt Meru |
All Meals Included | Day 3 | End of tour ( No accommodation ) |
Breakfast & Lunch Included |
Arrival
- A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
- Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1: Moshi to Momella gate to Miriakamba hut.
After you are picked up at your hotel, driven to Arusha National Park and are properly checked in for the climb at the park gate ( Momella gate ). You can see Buffalo, Warthog, and Elephants, etc. and then continue as a steady climb through montane forest. You can have your lunch at the famous “Fig tree”. After lunch the trek continues through less dense forest, where there are a lot of birds and monkeys including the black and white Colobus. By mid afternoon, there are the first closer views of the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. MIRIAKAMBA HUT (2,514 m.), situated in idyllic grassy glade, is reached in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. It takes about 4 to 6 hours walking. Dinner and over nigh at Miriakamba hut.
- Elevation: 1200m to 1500m to 2514m
- Distance covered: 10 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Montane forest
Main Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: Mariakamba Hut- Budget mountain hut located in or near Mt Meru
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2: Miriakamba hut to Saddle hut.
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. The walk from MIRIAKAMBA HUT to the saddle below Little MERU is a short day but a steep sustained climbing all the way. Starting through attractive, open and lush montane forest, the path continues beyond the halfway point of Elephant ridge and carries on uphill through the giant heather and other moorland vegetation to reach SADDLE HUT {3,570 m} and lunch. The afternoon is free to rest and enjoy the views. The ridge is now very obvious and it can be seen curving away and up to the summit, although it is still a long way. There are good views down into the crater, with the ash cone rising in the center. The path is a little exposed as it traverses the rocky ridge, with fine views across into Kenya and the Maasai Hills. After lunch and little rest, start the short climb to the nearby summit of LITTLE MERU {3,820 m} for superb views just before sunset. It takes about 2 – 3 hours walking. The ascent is 1,056 m.
- Elevation: 2514m to 3570m
- Distance covered: 5 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Forest to Mooland and heather
Main Destination: Mount Meru.
Accommodation: Saddle Hut- Budget mountain hut located in or near Mt Meru Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
- Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
- Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
- A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 3: Saddle Hut — Rhino Point — Momella Gate.
Today you will have an early start at around 04:30 hrs. to climb steeply to RHINO POINT {3,800 m} at around sunrise. The views are stunning, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds, and the Rift Valley if the weather is clear. After sunrise viewing descend back to Saddle camp for late morning breakfast before a fast descent through open grassland and mixed forest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. This trail has excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of the National Park. Momella Gate is reached by late afternoon. It takes about 2 to 3 hours walking. Pick up and transferred to Hotel for deserved nice shower.
Main Destination: Arusha.
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)Meals & Drinks:
End of tour
INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:
- Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Pre & Post Trek accommodation at the standard hotel in Moshi
- Park fees, camp fee, rescue fees
- Transfers to/from the mountain gates.
- Expert guides, cook, assistant guides, and porters.
- Three meals a day during the climb.
- Bottled water on the first day of the climb boiled and filtered on the mountain.
- Entry fees, Camping fees, rescue fees and crew fees.
- Mountains 4 Season sleeping tents double occupancy.
- Sleeping mattress, foam, 1.5 inches thick.
- Mess tent, table, chairs and lanterns.
- Oxygen tank in case of emergency.
- Portable flush toilet with a toilet tent.
- Crew salaries (Guides, cook and porters).
EXCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:
- Airfare.
- Single supplement tent or hotel rooms and extra hotel nights in Moshi
- Beverages and food at hotel.
- Personal trekking gear.
- Laundry Services.
- A doctor for the group.
- Emergency evacuation helicopter services
- Tips for porters, guides, cook and assistant guides.
Tipping Recommendation:
- Head Guide $20 to $25 per day from the group.
- Assistants Guide $15 to 20 per day from the group
- Cook $15 to 20 per day from the group.
- Tent crew, Kitchen porter and Toilet porter $10 to $12 per day from the group.
- Normal porter $6 to 10 per day
Note: You are responsible for bringing the required, recommended and optional personal gear and equipment listed below. Be very selective in what you take with you, our porters are limited to carry 15kg of your personal belongings. Communal equipment such as tents, food utensils et cetera is provided.
Required and recommended items.
- 1 x walking poles
- 1 x sleeping bag
- 1 x duffle bag
- 1 x waterproof jacket, breathable with hood
- 1 x insulated jacket, synthetic or down
- 1 x sleeping pad/mattress
- 1 x soft jacket, fleece or soft-shell
- 2 x long sleeve shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
- 1 x short sleeve shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
- 1 x waterproof pants, breathable (side-zipper recommended)
- 2 x hiking pants (convertible to short recommended)
- 1 x fleece pants
- 1 x short (optional)
- 1 x long underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
- 3 x underwear, briefs moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
- 2 x sport bra (women) head wear
- 1 x brimmed hat, for sun protection
- 1 x knit hat for warmth
- 1 x balaclava, for face coverage (optional)
- 1 x Bandana (optional) hand wear
- 1 x gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)
- 1 x gloves liners, synthetic, worn under gloves for added warmth (optional)
- 1 x hiking boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces
- 1 x Gym shoes to wear at camp (optional)
- 3 x socks, thick, wool or synthetic
- 3 x socks liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (option)
- 1 x gaiters, waterproof (option)
- 1 x sun glasses or goggles
- 1 x backpack cover, waterproof (optional)
- 1 x poncho, during rain season (optional)
- 1 x water bottle (Nalgene, 32oz (recommended)
- 1 x water bladder, camelback type (recommended)
- 1 x towel, light weight, quick-dry (optional)
- 1 x pee bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (recommended)
- 1 x sleeping bag liner, for added warmth (optional)
- 1 x head lamp
- 1 x daypack, for you to carry your personal gear.
Rent your climbing equipment.
Climbing equipment can be rented on your arrival and payable in USD – cash only.
| Item | Price per item per trip |
| 1 x walking poles | $20.00 |
| 1 x sleeping bag | $50.00 |
| 1 x duffle bag | $20.00 |
| 1 x waterproof jacket, breathable with hood | $20.00 |
| 1 x insulated jacket, synthetic or down | $20.00 |
| 1 x sleeping pad/mattress | $20.00 |
| 1 x soft jacket, fleece or soft-shell | $20.00 |
| 2 x long sleeve shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric | $10.00 |
| 1 x short sleeve shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric | $10.00 |
| 1 x waterproof pants, breathable (side-zipper recommended) | $15.00 |
| 2 x hiking pants (convertible to short recommended) | $20.00 |
| 1 x fleece pants | $20.00 |
| 1 x short (optional) | $20.00 |
| 1 x long underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended) | $20.00 |
| 3 x underwear, briefs moisture-wicking fabric recommended) | $20.00 |
| 2 x sport bra (women) head wear | $5.00 |
| 1 x brimmed hat, for sun protection | $10.00 |
| 1 x knit hat for warmth | $10.00 |
| 1 x balaclava, for face coverage (optional) | $10.00 |
| 1 x Bandana (optional) hand wear | $10.00 |
| 1 x gloves, warm (waterproof recommended) | $10.00 |
| 1 x gloves liners, synthetic, worn under gloves for added warmth (optional) | $10.00 |
| 1 x hiking boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces | $40.00 |
| 1 x Gym shoes to wear at camp (optional) | $40.00 |
| 3 x socks, thick, wool or synthetic | N/A |
| 3 x socks liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (option) | N/A |
| 1 x gaiters, waterproof (option) | $10.00 |
| 1 x sun glasses or goggles | $20.00 |
| 1 x backpack cover, waterproof (optional) | $20.00 |
| 1 x poncho, during rain season (optional) | $20.00 |
| 1 x water bottle (Nalgene, 32oz (recommended) | N/A |
| 1 x water bladder, camelback type (recommended) | N/A |
| 1 x towel, light weight, quick-dry (optional) | N/A |
| 1 x pee bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (recommended) | $20.00 |
| 1 x sleeping bag liner, for added warmth (optional) | $30.00 |
| 1 x head lamp | $20.00 |
| 1 x daypack, for you to carry your personal gear | $30.00 |
Important to Know
- Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
- A private tour is available on request, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
- This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
- This tour accepts children who are 5 years and above.
Prices are based on per person per trip in USD
| Start dates | Jan 1, 2020 - Dec 31, 2020 | Jan 1, 2021 - Dec 31, 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 PAX | 1258 USD | 1258 USD | 2 PAX | 1005 USD | 1005 USD | 3 PAX | 887 USD | 887 USD | 4 PAX | 829 USD | 829 USD | 5 PAX | 821 USD | 821 USD | 6 PAX | 804 USD | 804 USD |
4 DAYS MOUNT MERU CLIMB
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusion/Exclusion
- Price
- Gallery
- Book
Route
Tour Features
Standard tour
This standard tour uses camps and mountain huts.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 4 people per vehicle.
Suitable for single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 4 people to run.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others — Only on Request
Minimum PAX for private tour
Minimun 2 people needed to operate private tour.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Minimum age of 18 years
The minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: nature hikes/walks & mountain climbingGetting around: pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle.A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost. Accommodation & Meals
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost.
| DAY | ACCOMMODATION | Meals |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mariakamba Hut Budget mountain hut in or near Mt Meru |
All Meals Included | Day 2 | Saddle Hut Budget mountain hut in or near Mt Meru |
All Meals Included | Day 3 | Mariakamba Hut Budget mountain hut in or near Mt Meru |
All Meals Included | Day 4 | End of tour ( No accommodation ) |
Breakfast & Lunch Included |
Arrival
- A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
- Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1: Moshi to Momela gate to Miriakamba hut.
After you are picked up at your hotel, driven to Arusha National Park and are properly checked in for the climb at the park gate. We proceed with the trek through game-filled parkland up to Miriakamba Hut, at 2470m. Along the way there are many spectacular views; including Kilimanjaro from Miriakamba Hut. You will as well walk very close to different varieties of wildlife and some lovely glades. The trek on this day is not difficult because the terrain is a gentle slope. Dinner and over nigh at Miriakamba hut.
- Elevation: 1200m to 1500m to 2514m
- Distance covered: 10 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Montane forest
Main Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: Mariakamba Hut- Budget mountain hut located in or near Mt Meru
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2: Miriakamba hut to Saddle hut.
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. The path passes through fine forests and heather to the Saddle Hut (3570m) 3 hours walking it is a steep day as you will gain 1056m. After reaching to Saddle hut, an ascent to Little Meru is possible in the afternoon as not only a nice trek but a valuable altitude acclimitization. This day you will be having a very early dinner then half night sleep at Saddle hut.
- Elevation: 2514m to 3570m
- Distance covered: 5 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Forest to Mooland and heather
Main Destination: Mount Meru.
Accommodation: Saddle Hut- Budget mountain hut located in or near Mt Meru Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
- Elevation: 3570m to 4566m to 2514m
- Distance covered: 15 km
- Hiking time: 9-10 hours
- Habitat: Mooland and heath, barren rock and forrest
- Budget mountain hut located in or near Mt Meru. Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
- Elevation: 2514m to 1500m to 1200m
- Distance covered: 10 km
- Hiking time: 2 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
- Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
- A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 3: Saddle hut to Socialist peak to Miriakamba hut.
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 Saddle Hut for a short break and lunch. You will then continue descending to Miriakamba Hut (2500m) for dinner and overnight.
Main Destination: Mount Meru.
Accommodation: Mariakamba Hut
Day 4: Miriakamba hut to Momela gate to Moshi.
After breakfast you will begin your final descent to Momella gate. You will be using the southern route to descend. During your descent you will pass through the montane forest where you will pass the amazing Fig Tree Arch. Reaching back to the gate will be presented your certificate. Upon arrival at the Momella gate, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel back in Moshi town.
Main Destination: Arusha.
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)Meals & Drinks:
End of tour
INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:
- Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Pre & Post Trek accommodation at the standard hotel in Moshi
- Park fees, camp fee, rescue fees
- Transfers to/from the mountain gates.
- Expert guides, cook, assistant guides, and porters.
- Three meals a day during the climb.
- Bottled water on the first day of the climb boiled and filtered on the mountain.
- Entry fees, Camping fees, rescue fees and crew fees.
- Mountains 4 Season sleeping tents double occupancy.
- Sleeping mattress, foam, 1.5 inches thick.
- Mess tent, table, chairs and lanterns.
- Oxygen tank in case of emergency.
- Portable flush toilet with a toilet tent.
- Crew salaries (Guides, cook and porters).
EXCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:
- Airfare.
- Single supplement tent or hotel rooms and extra hotel nights in Moshi
- Beverages and food at hotel.
- Personal trekking gear.
- Laundry Services.
- A doctor for the group.
- Emergency evacuation helicopter services
- Tips for porters, guides, cook and assistant guides.
Tipping Recommendation:
- Head Guide $20 to $25 per day from the group.
- Assistants Guide $15 to 20 per day from the group
- Cook $15 to 20 per day from the group.
- Tent crew, Kitchen porter and Toilet porter $10 to $12 per day from the group.
- Normal porter $6 to 10 per day
Important to Know
- Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
- A private tour is available on request, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
- This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
- This tour accepts children who are 5 years and above.
Prices are based on per person per trip in USD
| Start dates | Jan 1, 2020 - Dec 31, 2020 | Jan 1, 2021 - Dec 31, 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 PAX | 1516 USD | 1516 USD | 2 PAX | 1207 USD | 1207 USD | 3 PAX | 1059 USD | 1059 USD | 4 PAX | 986 USD | 986 USD | 5 PAX | 973 USD | 973 USD | 6 PAX | 954 USD | 954 USD |
