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MOUNT MERU OVERVIEW
Mount Meru (4,566 m) is an active stratovolcano and forms the centrepiece of Arusha National Park in Tanzania. The mountain is often referred to as Mt Kilimanjaro’s ‘little brother’. Although the mountain is not as high as Kilimanjaro, it is just as challenging. Known for its huge cliffs, beautiful green surroundings and abundant wildlife, Mount Meru is the sixth highest mountain in Africa and the second highest in Tanzania!
Trekking Mount Meru requires more technical climbing skills than the routes on Kilimanjaro. What Mount Meru ‘lacks’ in height, it makes up for in difficulty. Therefore, it is important to have some climbing experience.
Trekking Meru can be done in 3 days or 4 days.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Meriakamba Hut
We drive from Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha to Momela Gate. After a short registration at the gate, our walk will begin with full armed ranger escorting us. The ranger with us is for our safety as we may encounter wild animals on the way including zebras, giraffe, monkeys, antelope, and often elephants, buffalo, along the route.
Dinner and overnight night at Miriakamba Hut.
Elevation(m): (1,387 m to (1,500 m)
Elevation(ft): (4,921 ft to 3,000 ft )
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Day 2: Saddle Hut
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone.
After the lunch at Saddle Hut we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset.
Dinner and overnight night at Saddle Hut.
Elevation(m): 2,514 m to 3,570 m
Elevation(ft): 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Day 3: Summit Day
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb up to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and then continue on to Cobra Point (4350m). If we reach the summit (4,566 m) in time for sunrise, there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds.
The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridge line between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater. We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Meriakamba Hut.
Elevation(m): 3,570 m to 4,565m to 2,514m
Elevation(ft): 14,977ft to 11,712 ft to 8,250ft
Distance: 5 km up 13 km down
Hiking Time: 10 – 12 hours
Day 4: Meriakamba Hut to Momella Gate to Arusha
We take a short and fast descent way through open grassland and mixed forest, with possibility of seeing wildlife before reaching Momella Gate in the late morning.
The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to pick you and drive you back to your Lodge.
Elevation(m): 2,514 m to 1,500 m to 1,387 m
Elevation(ft): 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft to 4,921ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 2-4 hours
INCLUDED
- Accommodation according to the itinerary
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Professional, English-speaking safari cook
- Overnight stays in safari tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc.)
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Mineral water
- All mentioned activities
- All national park fees
EXCLUDED
- Sleeping bag
- Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
