3 Days Mount Meru Climb

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Best Local Tour Operator

Duration

3 Days

Destination

Mt. Meru

Pick-Up

Kilimanjaro Int. Airport

Price From

$ 1,100/ Person

Tour Overview

Mt. Meru which is Tanzania’s second highest mountain standing tall at 4,566m. It is located in Arusha National Park and offers some of the most spectacular scenery and wildlife diversity of any mountain in Tanzania. Mt. Meru is a challenging trek due to its steepness, but is a great way to acclimatize before attempting Mt. Kilimanjaro. Climbers are accompanied by an armed ranger due to the abundance of wildlife on the lower slopes. Mt. Meru also has some historical significance to it whereby some have suggested that it was the resting place of Noah’s Ark when it came to rest after the biblical flood receded. Mt. Meru is a great trekking option for those who want to take on a climbing challenge and get the sense of being out in the wild, but are not quite ready to tackle Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Arusha/Moshi to Momela Gate, hike to Miriakampa Hut

Day one of 3 Days Mount Meru Climb, Starting from Momela Gate, the track passes through open grassland with cape buffalo and warthogs. With luck, you may also see giraffe and elephants. Continue 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 lots of birds and monkeys including the black and white colobus. By mid-afternoon, you will have your first close views of the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. Miriakampa Hut, situated in idyllic grassy glade, is reached in time to enjoy the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro.

Day 2: Hike Miriakampa Hut to Saddle Hut, afternoon hike up Little Meru

Day two of 3 Days Mount Meru Climb, The walk from Miriakampa Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a steep sustained climb all the way. Starting through beautiful and lush montane forest, the path continues beyond the halfway point of Elephant Back Ridge and carries on uphill through the giant heather and other moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut for lunch. In the afternoon, you can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft) for superb views. It takes about 1 hour to walk up and 30 minutes to walk down. The ascent is 1,056 m / 3,465 ft.

Day 3: Hike to Summit then down to trail head, return to Moshi/Arusha

Last day of 3 Days Mount Meru Climb, Summit day has an early start at around 12:00AM. There is a 1 hour steep climb to Rhino Point (3,800m / 12,467ft), then the path continues along a ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350m / 14,272ft). The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m) is an hour further on a steep path with magnificent views of Kilimanjaro. Depending on your speed, you can enjoy sunrise at Cobra Point or the summit. 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 the Rift Valley.

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 is 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.

There are two ways down from here. You can descend the route you came up or walk down the jeep road, which descends to the lower crater floor. You pass through the well-known Fig Tree Arch and can visit an impressive waterfall hidden in a ravine not far from the road. 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. We’ll have lunch on the way down. Momela Gate is reached by mid-day or afternoon.

Tour Includes

  • National Park gate fees
  • Transport from Arusha/Moshi to trail head and return
  • Hut fees
  • Services in Arusha/Moshi before/after the trek (accommodations, meals, airport transfers)
  • Certified, experienced, English-speaking guides
  • National Park ranger (required by Arusha National Park)
  • Porters’ salaries
  • All government taxes
  • All mentioned activities
  • All national Meals on the Mountain
  • Flying Doctors insurance (AMREF) during the safari for emergence evacuations
  • Oximeter Available on Request

Tour Excludes

  • International or Local Flights
  • Hiking Gears
  • Optional Activities
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
  • Travel Insurance

ACCOMMODATION TYPE

Mountain Huts

Accommodation on Mount Meru offers climbers a welcome respite amidst the rugged beauty of Tanzania’s second-highest peak. With Tanzania Pure Nature And Travel, climbers can expect comfortable and well-equipped mountain huts strategically located along the ascent route. These mountain huts provide basic yet cozy accommodation, featuring bunk beds with mattresses, blankets, and pillows.

Each hut is equipped with shared restroom facilities, providing climbers with essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Nestled amidst the picturesque surroundings of Mount Meru, these mountain huts offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, allowing climbers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the wilderness. After a day of exhilarating trekking, settling into the warmth and comfort of the mountain huts becomes a cherished part of the Mount Meru experience, offering climbers a peaceful retreat to recharge and rejuvenate before continuing their ascent to the summit.

Mostly Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to climb Mount Meru?

The ascent of Mount Meru typically takes 3 to 4 days, depending on the chosen route and climber’s pace. Tanzania Pure Nature And Travel offers various itineraries, including shorter and longer options to accommodate different preferences and fitness levels.

What if I am slower than the other trekkers?

No worries about that – this is a common concern. It is much better for your body if you proceed slowly and guides will permanently remind you about this (“pole-pole” – which means “slowly slowly”). By walking slowly, your body will much better acclimatize to high altitude. There is plenty of time allocated each day for the treks, even for those who like to go very slowly.

What are the accommodation options on Mount Meru?

Accommodation on Mount Meru consists of mountain huts strategically located along the ascent route. These huts provide basic amenities such as bunk beds with mattresses, blankets, and shared restroom facilities. Tanzania Pure Nature And Travel ensures climbers have comfortable lodging during their expedition.

Is climbing Mount Meru difficult?

Mount Meru is considered a challenging trek, particularly during the final ascent to the summit. The route involves steep sections, rocky terrain, and high altitude, requiring climbers to be in good physical condition and adequately prepared for the climb.

What is the best time to climb Mount Meru?

The best time to climb Mount Meru is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to October and from December to February. These months offer favorable weather conditions with clear skies and minimal rainfall, making for a more enjoyable climbing experience.

What should I pack for climbing Mount Meru?

Essential items to pack for climbing Mount Meru include sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a sleeping bag, personal hygiene products, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle. Tanzania Pure Nature And Travel provides a detailed packing list to ensure climbers are adequately prepared for their expedition.

How do I get to Mount Meru?

Most climbers access Mount Meru by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Arusha, the nearest major city. From Arusha, it’s a short drive to Arusha National Park, where Mount Meru is situated. Tanzania Pure Nature And Travel can arrange transportation from Arusha to the park entrance.

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