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 and includes forest, heather, moorland, and alpine desert. With over 400 species of birds, and wildlife including elephant, buffalo, giraffe, baboon, warthog, and black and white colobus monkey, this area offers the explorer a rich and varied wilderness experience. No technical expertise is required, but this is a climb only suitable for intrepid hikers.
Day 1: Arrive Arusha
Upon your evening arrival into Kilimanjaro International Airport, Thomson Safaris will meet and transfer you to your Arusha lodge.
Overnight: Arusha Lodge
Day 2: Arusha / Mirikamba Hut
Depart Arusha this morning for Momella Gate. After completing administrative formalities and meeting your guide, porters, and ranger, hike through the forest, past the fig tree arch, and up to the Itikoni clearing where there are likely to be buffalo grazing. Cross a large stream just above the Maio Waterfalls and then arrive later today at Miriakamba. Enjoy a delicious dinner and then retire for the evening.
Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
Hours Hiking: 4-5
Day 3: Saddle Hut
This morning you’ll trek though the forest and glades up to Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Ridge), where you will have a clear view of the crater and the cliffs below the summit. Pass between the slopes of Meru and the peak of Little Meru to reach Saddle Hut. There is an optional 1-1.5 hour round trip hike to the summit of Little Meru, from the Saddle Hut.
Overnight: Saddle Hut
Hours Hiking: 2-3 or 3-4.5
Day 4: Summit Mount Meru
Leave camp this morning around 3:00am, trekking 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, and the breathtaking sunrise view is a well deserved reward. After celebrating at the summit, retrace your steps back to Mriakamba Hut for the evening.
Overnight: Miriakamba Hut
Hours Hiking: 8-11
Day 5: Miriakamba Hut / Arusha
After breakfast, depart for Momella Gate where you’ll enjoy lunch before proceeding to your lodge in Arusha. Refresh, rest and relax and continue on to trek Kilimanjaro begin wildlife viewing tomorrow.
Day Use: Arusha Lodge
Hours Hiking: 3-4
Consider hiking Mt. Meru prior to your Kilimanjaro trek
to aid acclimatization.
Priced From $1,770 Per Person
Based on Double Occupancy with Four Trekkers
© 2002-2011 by Thomson Safaris, a Division of Wineland-Thomson Adventures, Inc.
