Mount Meru is a sacred and prominent volcanic peak located in Tanzania, Africa, standing at approximately 4,562 meters (14,968 feet) tall. Reputedly considered the center of the universe in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist cosmology, the mountain is surrounded by lush forests and diverse wildlife within Arusha National Park. Ascending Mount Meru typically takes around three days, offering adventurers a challenging yet rewarding trek with breathtaking views of its crater and surrounding landscapes. Along the journey, hikers encounter varied ecosystems, including montane forests, alpine meadows, and barren volcanic terrain, while also witnessing an array of flora and fauna, such as colobus monkeys, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species. The peak's spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty make it a popular destination for climbers seeking both physical and spiritual fulfillment.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In TanzaniaYou will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport/ Arusha airport and transferred to your hotel in Arusha town; you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented on this day.
Day 2: Momella Gate to Miriakamba HutsElevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart Arusha Town for Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife – giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo – is high. We climb steadily through the rain forest until the reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Miriakamba Huts to Saddle HutsElevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Heath
We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Pit. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Saddle Huts to Summit - Summit to Momella GateSaddle Huts to Summit
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Summit to Miriakamba Huts
Elevation: 14,977 ft to 8,250 ft
Distance: 13 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
Miriakamba Huts to Momella Gate
Elevation: 8,250 ft to 4,921 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridge line between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater.
We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Meriakamba Hut and lastly in Momela gate.
The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to Arusha at your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 5: Depart TanzaniaThe day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Arusha town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
*Safari, Zanzibar and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
● Meals: Breakfast Included
Inclusion
• Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Arusha / Moshi
• 2 nights of accommodation at Hotel
• Transportation to & from the Meru gate
• Park entry fees,
• Accommodation in wooden cabins on the mountain
• Team Meru Rescue fees
• 18% VAT on tour fees & services
• Sleeping Mats
• Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
• 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
• Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
• Hot water for washing
• Fair wages for the mountain crew
• Government taxes
• Emergency first-aid kit
Exclusions
- Lunches, dinners and drinks at your hotel before and after climb.
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Laundry (Available at hotel)
- Personal items and toiletries
- Tips for guides, porters and cook
- Tipping
Tipping on Mt. Meru from the trekking group (not per climber):
• Main Guide: $20/day/guide
• Assistant Guide: $15/day/guide
• Cook: $12/day
• Porter: $8/day/porter
Clients/Porters ratio 1:2