Mount Meru is a spectacular volcano located inside Arusha National Park. At 14,980 feet high, Meru serves as a preparation to Mount Kilimanjaro or a complete standalone hike in it of itself. The crowds that can plague Kilimanjaro are non-existent here, allowing for a solitary, peaceful trek. Accommodations are in wood huts. This trekking can be accomplished in 3/four days.
Mount Meru Overview
Click to enlarge
Trekking Ittinerarye
Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)/Arusha airport , We will arrange a private transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha safari lodge, where the rest of the day is spent at leisure.
You stay at Ilboru safari Safari Lodge/Ahadi lodge/ meru game lodge /Mount meru hotel or Hotel of your choice, which is beautifully located on the slope of Mt. Meru and is a perfect place to prepare for your adventure.
We will gather at the hotel for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and equipment
Meriakamba Hut
We drive from Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha to Momela Gate. After a short registration at the gate, our walk will begin with full armed ranger escorting us. The ranger with us is for our safety as we may encounter wild animals on the way including zebras, giraffe, monkeys, antelope, and often elephants, buffalo, along the route.
Dinner and overnight night at Miriakamba Hut.
Elevation(m): (1,387 m to (1,500 m)
Elevation(ft): (4,921 ft to 3,000 ft )
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Saddle Hut
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone.
After the lunch at Saddle Hut we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset.
Dinner and overnight night at Saddle Hut.
Elevation(m): 2,514 m to 3,570 m
Elevation(ft): 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Summit Day
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb up to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and then continue on to Cobra Point (4350m). If we reach the summit (4,566 m) in 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.
Elevation(m): 3,570 m to 4,565m to 2,514m
Elevation(ft): 14,977ft to 11,712 ft to 8,250ft
Distance: 5 km up 13 km down
Hiking Time: 10 – 12 hours
Meriakamba Hut to Momella Gate to Arusha
We take a short and fast descent way through open grassland and mixed forest, with possibility of seeing wildlife before reaching Momella Gate in the late morning.
The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to pick you and drive you back to your Lodge.
Elevation(m): 2,514 m to 1,500 m to 1,387 m
Elevation(ft): 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft to 4,921ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 2-4 hours
Depart Arusha
Private transfer from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Costs:
- Private pick up and drop off at KRO (JRO)
- Pre & Post Trek accommodation
- Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- 4 Season big sleeping mountain tents
- Double layered Sleeping Mats
- Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- Filtered water throughout the trek
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Portable toilets and toilets tents.
- Hot Water For Wash
- Flights
- Items of a personal nature
- Laundry Services
- Tips to mountain crew
