MOUNT MERU
Climb Mount Meru:
Climb Mount Meru: Tanzania’s Second Highest Peak
At a height of 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), Mount Meru is a dormant stratovolcano located within Arusha National Park in Tanzania. Situated just 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of Mount Kilimanjaro, it is considered the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, and the fifth-highest in Africa, depending on how you define the peaks.
Although climbing Mount Meru is often seen as a great acclimatization trek before tackling Kilimanjaro, it also offers an incredible experience on its own— with fewer crowds, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery. On clear days, you can even see Mount Kilimanjaro from Meru’s summit, offering a perfect opportunity to prepare for the bigger climb.
Key Facts About Mount Meru
Height: 4,566 meters (14,980 feet)
Location: Arusha National Park, Tanzania
Wildlife: Spot abundant wildlife on the first day of the climb
Climb Duration: Typically 4 days, but can be completed in 3 days
Route: Ascent and descent via the Momela Route
Accommodation: Dormitory-style huts along the route
Why Climb Mount Meru?
Acclimatization for Kilimanjaro
Mount Meru is a fantastic choice for climbers looking to acclimatize before attempting Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek offers a gradual ascent and gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, increasing your chances of summit success on Kilimanjaro.
Wildlife and Scenic Beauty
Unlike Kilimanjaro, which has busy routes, Mount Meru offers a more serene experience, with the opportunity to see wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and zebras during the first day’s hike through Arusha National Park. The climb itself takes you through lush forests, with magnificent views across the Momela Lakes and the surrounding plains.
Less Traffic, More Peace
As the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, Meru offers a peaceful alternative to Kilimanjaro, with much fewer climbers on the route. If you’re looking for a less crowded, more personal experience, Mount Meru is an ideal option.
Climb Overview: 4 Days
Day 1: The trek begins at Momela Gate and ascends through a rainforest, offering the chance to see wildlife. The hike continues up to Miriakamba Hut for the night at an altitude of 2,514 meters.
Day 2: A challenging climb leads to Saddle Hut, located at 3,500 meters, and offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes. This day prepares climbers for the final ascent, as it allows for better
acclimatization.
Day 3: Summit Day involves an early morning start to the top of Mount Meru at 4,566 meters. The summit offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding national park. Afterward, the descent follows the same route back to Miriakamba Hut.
Day 4: The final day involves descending back to the Momela Gate to complete the climb.
Accommodation on Mount Meru
Climbers stay in dormitory-style huts along the route, including:
Miriakamba Hut at 2,514 meters
Saddle Hut at 3,500 meters
These basic but comfortable huts provide a place to rest after each day’s hike, offering a chance to relax and recharge for the next stage of the journey.
Summary: Why Choose Mount Meru?
Great acclimatization trek for those planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Incredible wildlife experiences on the lower slopes
Less crowded compared to Kilimanjaro
Beautiful scenery and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day
Challenging but rewarding trek with a chance to summit a major peak in Tanzania
