Mount Meru Hike

Mount Meru is located in the heart of Arusha National Park and it is 50 miles west of Mount 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 both Mount Kilimanjaro and of the Mount Meru Crater.

Treking Meru-4 Days ( Recommended)

The first day takes hikers through the misty rain forest where the famous arched fig tree is located. During this stretch, colobus monkeys and the occasional buffalo are often seen. Depending on the weather, visitors might be lucky to see the Momella lakes and Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. The night will be spent at the Miriakamba Hut.

On day two the heather moorland zone that is home to moss covered trees is entered. Hikers also have the option to summit little Meru at 3,820 m. The night will be spent at the Saddle Hut.

The summit attempt usually starts around midnight, ensuring hikers have plenty of time to reach the summit by sunrise. As is to be expected, this is the most difficult part of the climb as the path after Rhino point is quite narrow and steep. This part includes some climbing stages and hikers are advised to tread carefully.

From Socialist Peak at 4,566 m hikers should be able to enjoy the beautiful views from the peak as well as see the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance as the sun rises. From the peak hikers will descend via Miriakamba Hut down to the gate.