Climbing Mount Meru in Arusha, Tanzania

Climbing Mount Meru inside Arusha National Park in Tanzania is a rewarding challenge. This lesser-known mountain is often done as a warm-up trek for Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. These iconic landmarks are only 70km apart and when climbing one, you will be treated to great views of the other. Trekking up Mount Meru will reduce the risk of altitude sickness when climbing its bigger brother, Kilimanjaro.

A Guide to Climbing Mount Meru

Climbing Mount Meru is one of the most spectacular mountain treks in East Africa. Unlike the crowded routes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mt Meru sees very few hikers. The trek takes you through various vegetation zones, with the grasslands and forests on the slopes hosting a diverse array of African wildlife such as buffalo, elephants, giraffes, zebras, leopards, Harvey’s red duiker, bushbuck, Kilimanjaro colobus, and blue monkeys. The birdlife is also remarkable, with over 400 species recorded.

How Tall Is Mount Meru?

Standing at 4,562 meters (14,967 feet), Mount Meru is the second-highest peak in Tanzania and the fifth-highest in Africa. While severe altitude sickness is unlikely at this elevation, reaching this height helps your body acclimate effectively for a climb up Kilimanjaro

How Hard Is Climbing Mount Meru?

Don’t underestimate a hike up Mount Meru. Although it is a non-technical climb, it is quite steep and demands a good level of fitness. The only route available is the Momella Route, which begins on the eastern side of the mountain and ascends along the northern edge of the crater to reach the summit, known as Socialist Peak.

How Long Does It Take To Climb Mt Meru?

A typical Mount Meru climb takes four days (three nights), though it can be completed in three days (two nights) if desired. While the shorter option might be more budget-friendly, it’s not generally recommended. Both itineraries share the same first two days, but the three-day version combines days three and four into a single, long day. This entails summiting at sunrise and then descending over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) all the way back to the park entrance in one go.

What Is the Typical Itinerary of climbing Mount Meru?

With just a single route for ascent and descent, climbing Mount Meru follows a typical four-day schedule:

Day 1

At Momella Gate, the beginning of your Mt. Meru climb, your guide will handle the necessary paperwork. Here, you’ll also meet your mountain crew, which includes a park ranger and porters. You’ll start with a hike through open grasslands before the serious climbing begins. Along the way, you might encounter wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, and zebras. As you ascend, the scenery will shift, eventually leading you into a dense forest where you may encounter Kilimanjaro colobus monkeys and Harvey’s red duiker.

Hike from: Momella Gate (1,500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Walking time: 4 to 6 hours

Day 2

On the second day, the hike isn’t very long, but the steep ascent makes it quite challenging. You’ll pass Elephant Ridge, the halfway point, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the crater if the weather is clear. If you still have energy, you can do an out-and-back hike from Saddle Hut to Little Meru (3,801m) in the afternoon. Climbing Little Meru will give you extra altitude that will benefit you on summit day, plus you will be treated to stunning views of Arusha National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Alternatively, you can use this time to rest up for the summit.

Climb from: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Walking time: 3 to 5 hours

Day 3

You will begin your hike at about 2am to reach the summit in time for sunrise. The initial section of the route is a steep climb to Rhino Point (3,850m). From there, you’ll traverse a narrow ridge all the way to the top, where you will be greeted with panoramic views in every direction. After reaching Socialist Peak, you will return to Miriakamba Hut to spend the night. This is undoubtedly the most challenging day of the hike.

Climb from: Saddle Hut (3,570m) to Socialist Peak (4,562m)
Descend back down to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Walking time: 10 to 12 hours

Day 4

The final day is a pleasant stroll. After a leisurely breakfast, you will make your way back to Momella Gate, marking the end of your tour. You can opt for a direct route or take a small detour to visit the ash cone. As you descend to the lower slopes, you which have the opportunity to spot more wildlife, and with a bit of luck, you might even see elephants.

Hike from: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Momella Gate (1,500m)
Walking time: 2 to 3 hours

What Are the Huts Like on Mount Meru?

On Mount Meru, there are two spots with well-equipped huts for hikers: Miriakamba and Saddle Hut. They both offer dormitory-style accommodation. And each dorm room features bunk beds for up to four people. Facilities include communal bathrooms, a mess room for meals, and outdoor tables for additional comfort.

What Do I Need To Pack for Climbing Mount Meru?

Your gear can significantly impact your trip, especially when climbing a mountain. While you should receive a comprehensive packing list from your tour operator, here are some essential items to start with:

A waterproof duffel bag (to be carried by a porter, assuming you will have one)
A day pack which you will carry yourself)
A waterproof jacket
Warm, lightweight quick-drying clothing (no cotton)
Good hiking boots. Don’t ever skimp on these and make sure to break them in at home.
Good quality socks
Comfortable shoes or sandals for around camp (to give your feet a break from the boots)
A very warm sleeping bag and anything else you need for a good night’s rest
Water bottles to fill and put in your day-pack
Toiletries and any medical items you might need including plasters
A few favorite hiking snacks
Sunscreen and maybe sanitizer and/or wet wipes (to put in your day-pack too)

Are There Day Trips on Mount Meru?

If climbing Mt Meru is too time-consuming, expensive, or intimidating, a day trip offers a great alternative. You’ll drive through beautiful primary forests, passing the famous Fig Tree Arch, a massive strangler fig with an archway large enough for a Land Cruiser to pass through. The road concludes at Kitoto Viewpoint (2,500m), where you’ll begin a 2 to 4-hour hike on foot through Meru Crater and its ash cone.

Do I Need a Guide To Climb Mount Meru?

At the very least, you must hire an armed ranger for your Mount Meru climb to ensure safety from potential wildlife encounters. While you can choose to tackle the climb without additional support, it’s generally advisable to book your trip through a licensed operator. They will handle all the necessary arrangements, including fees, food, equipment, transport, porters, guides, and the park ranger.

What Is the Cost of Climbing Mount Meru?

The cost of a four-day climb on Mount Meru ranges from US$850 to US$1500 per person. This typically includes transportation from your accommodations in Arusha or Moshi to Arusha National Park and back. The package also covers food, permits, and overnight stays in mountain huts, but does not include tips for the mountain crew, such as the guide, cook, park ranger, and porters.

Although prices vary widely, the tours themselves are quite similar, as everyone stays in the same huts. Camping is also an option, but the fees remain the same. The main differences are the quality of the guiding and the food provided. Three-day climbs on Mt Meru generally cost about the same.

What Is the Best Time for Climbing Mount Meru?

You can climb Mount Meru at any time of year, but the best conditions are from June to February when the weather is mostly dry and relatively warm. For clear skies and excellent views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the ideal months are December to February.