If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, climb Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak and Africa’s fifth-highest mountain. Located in Arusha National Park, Mount Meru stands at 4,566 meters (14,980 ft) and offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, climbing Mount Meru is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Mount Meru is Africa’s fifth-highest peak with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. The climb to the summit is a multi-day hike, typically taking 3 days of Mount Meru climb to 4 days of Mount Meru trekking, and is considered a challenging but rewarding experience. The trek offers a variety of landscapes, including lush forests, volcanic ash landscapes, and a spectacular summit crater. The mountain is also home to various wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and occasionally elephants and buffalos. Climbing Mount Meru is often used as an acclimatization climb for those planning to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.
Mount Meru is located near Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania. Here’s how to reach the mountain:
Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): This is the closest international airport, about 45 minutes from Arusha.
Travel to Arusha or Moshi:
Arusha: The main hub for trekkers, offering easy access to Mount Meru.
Moshi: A quieter alternative, located 45 minutes from Kilimanjaro Airport.
Transport to Momella Gate: On the day of your trek, your tour operator will arrange transport to Momella Gate, the starting point of your climb.
Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro are both significant mountains located in Tanzania, East Africa. Mount Meru, standing at 4,562.13 meters, is the fifth-highest mountain in Africa and is often used as an acclimatization mountain for Kilimanjaro climbers. Mount Kilimanjaro, on the other hand, is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain in the world, with its summit about 4,900 meters from its base and 5,895 meters above sea level. Both mountains offer unique climbing experiences, with Kilimanjaro being more popular and more challenging due to its higher altitude.
Mount Meru is Africa’s fifth-highest peak with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. The climb to the summit is a multi-day hike, typically taking three to four days, and is considered a challenging but rewarding experience. The trek offers a variety of landscapes, including lush forests, volcanic ash landscapes, and a spectacular summit crater. The mountain is also home to various wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and occasionally elephants and buffalos. Climbing Mount Meru is often used as an acclimatization climb for those planning to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.
Climbing Mount Meru typically takes about 3 to 4 days. The journey begins at Momella gate and the climb is divided into stages, with overnight stays at designated huts along the route. The final ascent often starts at midnight to reach the summit by dawn. The descent is usually completed in a single day. The total duration of the climb can vary depending on the climber’s pace and acclimatization to the altitude.
| Day | Start | Altitude | Finish | Altitude | Duration | Distance | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arusha Park | 1500m | Miriakambu Hut | 2500m | 4-6hrs | 10km | Moorland |
| Day 2 | Miriakambu Hut | 2500m | Saddle Hut | 3750m | 2-3hrs | 4km | Heath Zone |
| Day 3 | Saddle Hut | 3750m | Summit | 4565m | 6hrs | 4km | Alpine |
| Summit | 4565m | Momella Gate | 1500m | 10hrs | 18km | Varied |
Mount Meru, located in Tanzania, experiences a wide range of weather conditions due to its high altitude. The base of the mountain has a warm, tropical climate, while the peak is often covered in snow. The mountain has two rainy seasons, one from March to May and another from November to December, making these periods less ideal for climbing. The best times to climb are typically between June and October or January and February, when the weather is drier and more stable.
There are two main routes to climb Mount Meru:
Southern Route (Normal Route): The most popular and non-technical route, ideal for beginners.
Northern Route (Direct Route): A more challenging and technical climb, recommended for experienced mountaineers.
As you climb Mount Meru, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including:
Buffaloes, elephants, and giraffes on the lower slopes.
Black and white Colobus monkeys in the lush forests.
Diverse bird species throughout the trek.
The best time to climb Mount Meru in Tanzania is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. During these periods, the weather is generally clear and the trails are less slippery, making the climb safer and more enjoyable. However, it’s important to note that weather conditions can be unpredictable, so climbers should always be prepared for potential changes.
The cost to climb Mount Meru ranges from 800 to 1,500 per person, depending on factors like group size, trek duration, and the tour operator. This typically includes:
Park and camping fees.
Guide and porter services.
Meals and accommodation.
Rescue fees.
Mount Meru is considered moderately difficult, making it suitable for most hikers with a good level of fitness. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Altitude: While not as high as Kilimanjaro, altitude sickness can still occur. Proper pacing is key.
Terrain: The trek involves steep climbs but no technical mountaineering skills are required.
Preparation: Train by hiking with a weighted backpack or camping at higher altitudes to prepare for the conditions.
1. Is climbing Mount Meru difficult?
Mount Meru is considered moderately difficult, making it suitable for most hikers with a good level of fitness.
2. Do I need special equipment to climb Mount Meru?
For the Southern Route, no special equipment is required. However, the Northern Route may require technical gear.
3. Can I climb Mount Meru without a guide?
No, climbing Mount Meru requires a licensed guide for safety reasons.
Ready to climb Mount Meru? Choose from our popular trekking packages:
3 Days Mount Meru Climb: Perfect for those short on time.
4 Days of Mount Meru Trekking: Ideal for a more relaxed pace and better acclimatization.
We will contact you back within 24hrs via email.
Climb Mount Meru Powered By EAST AFRICAN SAFARI GUIDE APPROVED BY MINISTRY OF TOURISM (Govt. of The United Republic of Tanzania)
