4 Days Mount Meru Climb
Description
Mt Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania - fifth highest in Africa at 4,565m. It is located inside of Arusha National Park, a one hour drive from Moshi. Similar to Mt Kilimanjaro, this is not a technical climb so no special climbing gear or techniques are needed. The climb is most commonly done as a four days itinerary, although a three day option is possible but not recommended unless you are quite fit. The added day is on the descent, so the longer itinerary does not add to acclimatization, but breaks up a long and grueling summit day. The climb is steeper than Mt Kilimanjaro. Many people use this as an acclimatization trek before attempting Mt Kilimanjaro but it is a wonderful and beautiful climb in its own right. The number of people climbing the mountain is far, far less than Mt Kilimanjaro.
At the lower altitudes, encountering animals is quite possible so an armed park ranger is required to accompany all climbers. Since the number of rangers is limited, they often combine groups together to accompany one ranger. These groups will be from various tour operators and each will be expected to have their own guide, cook, porters, etc. We do not have any control over how or if the park groups people.
Route Choices
It is an easy choice since there is only one route. Overnights are in simple dormitory style huts with solar powered lighting. Camping is not an option on Mt Meru.
Itinerary
Day 1 Momela Gate to Miriakamba 1500m to 2514m
Today after driving one hour from Moshi town to Momela gate and meet with the ranger to accompany the group then start walking passing in some open grassland with a great chance to see buffalo and warthog. The trail let us passing through less dense forest where there is an abundance of birds and monkeys including black and white colobus. Approximately 5 to 6 hours walking. Today we will overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 2 Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut 2514m to 3570m
The walking today is short, but a considerably steep and sustained climb all the way. Starting through attractive open and lush montane forest through Elephant Ridge and giants heather and moorland vegetation to Saddle Hut. Arrive at approximately 2pm. Acclimatization to Little Meru.
Return for dinner. Sleep for approximately 5 hours.
Day 3 Saddle Hut to Socialist Peak to Miriakamba Hut, 3570m to 4566m to 2514m
Wake up at 1am to start to the summit. Watch sunrise between Cobra and Socialist Peak. Summit approximately 7am. Return to Saddle Hut for a meal and packing. Depending on timing, possible 1 hour of sleep. Now we make our way to Miriakamba Hut for overnight.
Day 4 Miriakamba Hut to Momela Gate, 2514m to 1500m
Start at Miriakamba through the forest route where there is a waterfall for a short visit. Walk through the open plain
Price Includes
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides
- All Park / Rescue fees
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
- Bottled drinking water
Price Excludes
- Tip for the guide
- Flights costs/fares
- Travel insurance
- Extra Personal items
- Soda and Alcoholic beverages
- Extra activities
- Personal expenses (drinks, Internet, visa, etc.)
Rates
| 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax | 6 Pax + |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1500 | $1141 | $976 | $950 | $925 | $914 |
Important Note/s
The summit stage contains a few simple but unsecured climbing passages. A good head for heights and sure footedness are absolutely necessary. In adverse weather conditions (heavy rain, icy rocks and paths or thick fog) the park ranger can call off the climb to the summit. We do not advice climbs in the rain season (April and May).
