Mount Meru Climbing

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 it for four days for acclimatization. Most alpines use Meru for acclimatization before the Kilimanjaro climb. The mountain has less snow formed at the volcano eruption. 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 just a little wildlife to mention.

Day 1: Momela Gate (1500m) – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)

Pick up from your hotel and pass through open grassland with cape buffalo and herds of warthogs. With luck, you might also see giraffes and elephants. Continue a steady climb through the mountain forest and enjoy your lunch at the famous “Fig Tree”. Continue through less dense forests where there are lots of birds and monkeys (including the black and white colobus.) By mid-afternoon, you will see the first views of the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. Miriakampa Hut, situated in an idyllic grassy glade, is reached in time to enjoy the afternoon sun and the views of the plains.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2500m) – Saddle Hut (3500m)

After breakfast, begin the walk from Miriakampa to the saddle below Little Meru, which is a steep, sustained climb. Starting through the lush mountain forest, the path continues beyond the halfway point of Elephant Back Ridge and carries on uphill to Saddle Hut where you will lunch. In the afternoon, make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3800m) for superb views. Walk back down the Saddle Hut for the evening.

Day 3: Saddle Hut (3500m) – Summit (4566m) – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)

Summit day has an early start around 12:00 AM. There is an hour steep climb to Rhino Point (3800m) then the path continues along a ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4350m) The summit of Socialist Peak (4566m) is an hour more on a steep path with magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Depending on your speed, you can enjoy the sunrise at Cobra Point or the Summit. The route back to Rhino Point in the sharp morning light along a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Brunch and a brief rest are taken at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut.

NOTE: For an easier climb, you can start the trek at 05:00 A.M., hike for about 1 hour, and enjoy sunrise at Rhino Point before going back to Saddle Hut for breakfast and then descending.

NOTE: In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point.

Day 4: Saddle Hut (2500m) – Momela Gate (1500m)

Two descent options exist. You can either descend the same way you ascended, or you can walk down the jeep road, which descends to the lower crater floor. This route passes through the well-known Fig Tree Arch and there, you can visit an impressive waterfall hidden in a ravine not far from the road. The descent is quick, passing through grassland and mixed forests, with a good chance of seeing wildlife. The trail has excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of the National Park. Momela gate is reached by late morning.