Mt. Meru is Tanzania's second highest peak and the fifth highest on the African continent. At 14,979 ft. this dormant volcano dominates the Arusha skyline. A quarter of a million years ago it erupted, causing the entire eastern wall to be blown away. Over the years it has metamorphosed into the spectacular landscape found in Arusha National Park today.
With over 400 species of birds, and wildlife including elephant, buffalo, giraffe, baboon, warthog, black and white colobus monkey and duiker, this area offers the explorer a rich and varied wilderness experience. Impressive views abound.
For our trek, we have chosen the more scenic route up the mountain. Along the way we'll pass by Meru Crater, within which are the sacred forest groves where the local Meru people used to perform rain-making ceremonies. Buffalo are often seen grazing on the Crater floor and the keen observer may also find elephant and leopard there. The vegetation changes from montane forest to heather to moorland. We'll continue up to the saddle below Little Meru Peak (12,538 ft.). Finally we reach the rim, a barren ridge, which we circumnavigate to the summit point. No technical expertise is required, but this is a climb only suitable for intrepid hikers.
Day 1 Arusha / Mirikamba Hut
Today we depart Arusha at around 8:00am to Momella gate. After completing the administrative formalities and meeting with the porters and ranger, we begin the 4-5 hour walk to Miriakamba Hut. We trek through the forest, past the fig tree arch up to the Itikoni clearing where there are likely to be buffalo grazing. We then walk on and cross a large stream just above the Maio Waterfalls. Another 2 hours of trekking brings us to Miriakamba. Here we rest and have dinner, then retire for the night.
Overnight:Miriakamba Hut
Day 2 Saddle Hut
Saddle hut is at approximately 2-3 hours trekking from Miriakamba. The path will take us though trees and pleasant glades up to Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Ridge), where we will have a clear view of the crater and the cliffs below the summit. We will go through a pass between the slopes of Meru and the peak of Little Meru to reach Saddle Hut.
Overnight:Saddle Hut
Day 3 Summit Mount Meru
This morning we leave very early, at around 3:00am. We trek approximately 4-5 hours on a narrow ridge, between the sheer cliffs and the sloping outer wall to the summit. This portion of the journey has been said to be both exhilarating and nerve wracking. Whatever the reaction, the breathtaking sunrise makes it all worthwhile. After the summit, we will retrace our steps all the way down to Miriakamba where we again spend the night.
Overnight:Miriakamba Hut
Day 4 Miriakamba Hut / Arusha
Today we leave after breakfast and head straight for Momella gate. We'll have lunch at the gate, before proceeding to your hotel or lodge in Arusha where you can refresh and relax in your day room. If you're continuing with one of our scheduled departures you'll overnight and begin your wildlife safari the next day. Otherwise you'll continue according to your onward arrangements.
Day Use:Arusha Lodge
Consider Climbing Mt. Meru as a Prelude to Your Kilimanjaro Trek
Priced From $1,290 Per Person
Based on Double Occupancy
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