MOUNT MERU MAP
3 & 4 DAYS MOUNT MERU ITINERARY
Mt. Meru is located in the heart of Arusha National Park and it is 50 miles west of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is a massive volcano reaching 14,980 feet (4,565 meters). This trek serves as an ideal warm up for Mt. Kilimanjaro due to its altitude acclimatization and hiking distances. This trek is also geared towards hikers that prefer less crowds and a challenging ascent.
Because Mount Meru is located in Arusha National Park, hikers must climb with an armed ranger due to the wide range of wildlife living on the mountain. On the lower slopes of the mountain, hikers are more likely to see elephants, giraffes, and buffalo! As hikers continue their ascents, the trail follows the north rim of the volcano’s crater along a dramatic ridge line. Throughout the climb, hikers sleep in designated huts along the trail. Hikers reach the summit as the sun is rising and they will have spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and of the Mt. Meru Crater.
Because Mount Meru is located in Arusha National Park, hikers must climb with an armed ranger due to the wide range of wildlife living on the mountain. On the lower slopes of the mountain, hikers are more likely to see elephants, giraffes, and buffalo! As hikers continue their ascents, the trail follows the north rim of the volcano’s crater along a dramatic ridge line. Throughout the climb, hikers sleep in designated huts along the trail. Hikers reach the summit as the sun is rising and they will have spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and of the Mt. Meru Crater.
4 DAY MOUNT MERU ITINERARY
4 DAYS, 3 NIGHTS MERU ROUTE
- Four day’s option offers an extra day for acclimatization (highly recommended).
- 3 day option is also available.
- No camping required.
- Hut accommodation available at all camps.
Day 1: to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)
Depart from your hotel in the morning for Momella Gate of Arusha National Park (1,500 m.). After park entrance formalities, we begin our hike, guided by a park ranger. The track passes open grassland, providing an opportunity to see buffalo, warthogs and other grazers. The trail continues as a steady climb through montane forest. We take lunch near a giant Fig Tree arch. After lunch, the route continues through less dense forest, where there are an abundance of birds and black and white Colobus monkeys. By mid-afternoon, we can see towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. We reach Miriakamba Hut(2,514 m.), situated in an idyllic grassy glade, in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. (4-6 hour walking).
Dinner and Overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) to Saddle Hut (3,570 m)
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. We slowly ascend through lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. From here we enjoy excellent views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. The path continues through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where lunch is will be provided. The afternoon is free to relax and to enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset. (3-5 hours walking).
Dinner and Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570 m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)
We start early at around 2 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.), continuing along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m) at sunrise. The views are stunning: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift Valley if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) is an hour further on a good but steep path. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light, on 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. We enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours walking). Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering from vertigo. In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point.
Dinner and Overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) - hotel in Moshi
We take the direct route down 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. We should reach Momella Gate by late morning (2-3 hours walking). Once you reach the end of the climb you will be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight at Hotel in Moshi.
END OF TREK.
Pick up from Kilimanjaro International Airport (airport code: JRO) and transfer to your hotel for overnight, dinner and other formalities.
Early pick up from the hotel and en-route to Mt Meru. Approximately 2hrs ride.
Day 1: Momella Gate – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration: 5 - 7 hours of hiking
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 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 at Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2500m) – Saddle Hut (3500m)
Duration: 3 - 5 hours of hiking
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. We slowly ascend through lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. From here we enjoy excellent views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. The path continues through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where lunch is will be provided. The afternoon is free to relax and to enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset. (3-5 hours walking).
Dinner and Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Day 3 : Saddle Hut (3500m) – Summit (4566m) – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration : 12 – 14hours of hiking
We start early to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.), continuing along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m) at sunrise. The views are stunning: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift Valley if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) is an hour further on a good but steep path. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light, on 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. We enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours walking). Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering from vertigo. In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point. We take the direct route down 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. We should reach Momella Gate by late morning (2-3 hours walking). Once you reach the end of the climb you will be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight at Hotel in Moshi.
Early pick up from the hotel and en-route to Mt Meru. Approximately 2hrs ride.
Day 1: Momella Gate – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration: 5 - 7 hours of hiking
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 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 at Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2500m) – Saddle Hut (3500m)
Duration: 3 - 5 hours of hiking
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. We slowly ascend through lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. From here we enjoy excellent views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. The path continues through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where lunch is will be provided. The afternoon is free to relax and to enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset. (3-5 hours walking).
Dinner and Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Day 3 : Saddle Hut (3500m) – Summit (4566m) – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration : 12 – 14hours of hiking
We start early to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.), continuing along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m) at sunrise. The views are stunning: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift Valley if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) is an hour further on a good but steep path. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light, on 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. We enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours walking). Note: The ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering from vertigo. In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point. We take the direct route down 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. We should reach Momella Gate by late morning (2-3 hours walking). Once you reach the end of the climb you will be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight at Hotel in Moshi.
Below is information detailing the logistics of your climb.
Meru Climb
Exuberant Kilimanjaro Safaris will meet you at your place of accommodation to drive you to Arusha National Park. There is a luggage weight limit of 15 kilograms (33 pounds) of personal gear per climber. Please leave items you do not need for the climb back at your place of accommodation. Please use luggage locks with any baggage you store at a hotel.
You will meet most of your mountain staff upon arrival at the gate. When you arrive at the gate, there will be a slight delay as we have to weigh bags and register your climb with the national park officials. Please use the restroom here as this is the last toilet before the first hut.
You will hike with a day pack while a porter will carry your gear pack. For information on what to carry in your day pack, please refer to the Mt Meru Packing List. It is imperative that you have rain gear with you at all times on Meru. The temperature drops dramatically when it rains so it is important to keep your body as dry as possible. Also, pack your sleeping bag in a large plastic bag. We pack your gear inside a larger waterproof bag, but recommend that you take the extra precaution of packing items in plastic bags. Please pack all gear that the porter will carry inside a large duffel bag or backpack. Please do not use roller luggage or hard suitcases. As your bag is placed in a larger duffel provided by us, it is not necessary to purchase an expedition pack if you do not already have one. A soft-sided duffel is sufficient.
Staff: Your staff will consist of a mountain guide, cook, and porters. Please note that some porters also act as waiters, water carriers, and toilet cleaners. There are three to four crew members for every climber. Your guides will introduce your crew during the first day. We will give you a list of your crew so that you have their names. This will assist you in planning tips for your staff.
Head Guide: The primary responsibility of the head guide is to ensure that you are safe and healthy during your trek. He will check your progress each day and will ask questions about how you feel and if you are experiencing altitude sickness. The guide will brief you about the following day each night over dinner. If you have any questions or concerns, please tell the guide immediately so he may assist you.
Huts: Accommodation on Mount Meru is in huts. The huts are generally well-maintained by the national park staff and there are toilets available. Our staff will provide washing water when you arrive at the campsite so you can clean up immediately after the hike. It is also useful to have wet wipes so that you can clean up on the trail and in your tent.
Drinking Water: We use a water filter to purify your drinking water. Drinking water is available in the mornings and evenings at the huts. Water is not available while hiking. We recommend carrying at least two liters of water per person each day.
Hiking: We recommend taking as long as possible to hike between huts to help with acclimatization. Your guide will help you set a good hiking speed.
Summiting Meru
Please pack three liters of water each for the final ascent to Socialist Peak. Many hikers experience dehydration so it is important to have enough water. If a hiker is having problems carrying their daypack, a guide will assist in carrying the pack for them–so don’t be afraid to pack lots of water. Please turn your water bottles upside down and leave a little empty space in each bottle. Please also put the bottle inside a sock or other insulating material so that your water does not freeze.
Strong winds are often experienced on Meru’s summit so you need wind and waterproof outer layers. We recommend wearing at least three top layers and two bottom layers for the Meru summit.
Please note that Exuberant Kilimanjaro Safaris follows a turnaround policy for summiting Meru. If you are not at the summit by latest 9:30am, you will have to turn around. The time may be earlier and the decision will be made by the head guide.
Please bring your own energy snacks (gel, gu) for the final ascent as these items are not available in Tanzania. We recommend bringing two Power Bars per person for each day of hiking and four gel/gu shots per person for the summit ascent. If you have poor circulation, please bring hand/foot warmers for your gloves and shoes.
If you are too sick to continue or you are having health problems during the final ascent, please inform our guides immediately so they can assist you. If a climber has to descend before reaching the summit, an assistant guide will accompany them back to a lower camp (or lower if necessary). We are in phone contact with our guides during the climb and can arrange a rescue if necessary.
Final Climb Day: We will bring a lunchbox for you when we pick you up at the gate. You will arrive in Moshi at approximately 2pm on your final day.
Meru Climb
Exuberant Kilimanjaro Safaris will meet you at your place of accommodation to drive you to Arusha National Park. There is a luggage weight limit of 15 kilograms (33 pounds) of personal gear per climber. Please leave items you do not need for the climb back at your place of accommodation. Please use luggage locks with any baggage you store at a hotel.
You will meet most of your mountain staff upon arrival at the gate. When you arrive at the gate, there will be a slight delay as we have to weigh bags and register your climb with the national park officials. Please use the restroom here as this is the last toilet before the first hut.
You will hike with a day pack while a porter will carry your gear pack. For information on what to carry in your day pack, please refer to the Mt Meru Packing List. It is imperative that you have rain gear with you at all times on Meru. The temperature drops dramatically when it rains so it is important to keep your body as dry as possible. Also, pack your sleeping bag in a large plastic bag. We pack your gear inside a larger waterproof bag, but recommend that you take the extra precaution of packing items in plastic bags. Please pack all gear that the porter will carry inside a large duffel bag or backpack. Please do not use roller luggage or hard suitcases. As your bag is placed in a larger duffel provided by us, it is not necessary to purchase an expedition pack if you do not already have one. A soft-sided duffel is sufficient.
Staff: Your staff will consist of a mountain guide, cook, and porters. Please note that some porters also act as waiters, water carriers, and toilet cleaners. There are three to four crew members for every climber. Your guides will introduce your crew during the first day. We will give you a list of your crew so that you have their names. This will assist you in planning tips for your staff.
Head Guide: The primary responsibility of the head guide is to ensure that you are safe and healthy during your trek. He will check your progress each day and will ask questions about how you feel and if you are experiencing altitude sickness. The guide will brief you about the following day each night over dinner. If you have any questions or concerns, please tell the guide immediately so he may assist you.
Huts: Accommodation on Mount Meru is in huts. The huts are generally well-maintained by the national park staff and there are toilets available. Our staff will provide washing water when you arrive at the campsite so you can clean up immediately after the hike. It is also useful to have wet wipes so that you can clean up on the trail and in your tent.
Drinking Water: We use a water filter to purify your drinking water. Drinking water is available in the mornings and evenings at the huts. Water is not available while hiking. We recommend carrying at least two liters of water per person each day.
Hiking: We recommend taking as long as possible to hike between huts to help with acclimatization. Your guide will help you set a good hiking speed.
Summiting Meru
Please pack three liters of water each for the final ascent to Socialist Peak. Many hikers experience dehydration so it is important to have enough water. If a hiker is having problems carrying their daypack, a guide will assist in carrying the pack for them–so don’t be afraid to pack lots of water. Please turn your water bottles upside down and leave a little empty space in each bottle. Please also put the bottle inside a sock or other insulating material so that your water does not freeze.
Strong winds are often experienced on Meru’s summit so you need wind and waterproof outer layers. We recommend wearing at least three top layers and two bottom layers for the Meru summit.
Please note that Exuberant Kilimanjaro Safaris follows a turnaround policy for summiting Meru. If you are not at the summit by latest 9:30am, you will have to turn around. The time may be earlier and the decision will be made by the head guide.
Please bring your own energy snacks (gel, gu) for the final ascent as these items are not available in Tanzania. We recommend bringing two Power Bars per person for each day of hiking and four gel/gu shots per person for the summit ascent. If you have poor circulation, please bring hand/foot warmers for your gloves and shoes.
If you are too sick to continue or you are having health problems during the final ascent, please inform our guides immediately so they can assist you. If a climber has to descend before reaching the summit, an assistant guide will accompany them back to a lower camp (or lower if necessary). We are in phone contact with our guides during the climb and can arrange a rescue if necessary.
Final Climb Day: We will bring a lunchbox for you when we pick you up at the gate. You will arrive in Moshi at approximately 2pm on your final day.