Mount Meru is one of the major attractions of Arusha National Park. The full ascent requires at least three days. The route takes climbers through a series of natural environments with a variety of flora and fauna and an interesting mixture of nature and culture.
Meru has one route to the top and can be attempted for three days but we highly recommend doing four days for acclimatization. Most alpines use Meru for acclimatization before the Kilimanjaro climb. The mountain has less snow formed at the volcano eruption.
Unlike Kilimanjaro when you are climbing Mount Meru you have to be escorted by an armed ranger(s) as you pass through the Arusha National Park. It is at this time when you will enjoy the walking safari as you pass the groups of African buffaloes, Zebras, Black and white colobus monkeys just a little wildlife mention.
Day 1: Arusha (1400m) – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration: 5-7 hours of hiking
After early morning breakfast in Arusha (1400m), you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then begin your ascent in Arusha National Park. The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving at Miriakamba Hut (2500m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and washing water for you. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and overnight.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2500m) – Saddle Hut (3500m)
Duration: 3-5 hours of hiking
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has views of Mt. Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Mt. Meru (3820 m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt. Get to sleep by 19h00!
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3500m) – Summit Attempt (4566m) – Miriakamba Hut (2500m)
Duration: 12-14 hours of hiking
Your guide will wake you at 00:30 A.M for tea and biscuits. You will then begin your summit attempt at 1:30 A.M. The trail starts off on a steep grade from Rhino Point (3800m) to Cobra Point (4350m). In the last hour of the hike, you will scamble on a rocky ridge between the crater and inner cliffs of Meru. You will reach the summit of Meru (4565m) at sunrise with spectacular views of Mt. Meru Ash Tray and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy your views then descend to Saddle Hut for a short break. We take a short break and brunch at Saddle hut before continuing the descent to the Momella gate. Your transfer vehicle will be waiting for you at Momella gate ready to pick you at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
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