Mount Meru Trekking
The Mt Meru hike is one of the best treks in Tanzania. Mount Meru is the fifth highest mountain in Africa at 4,562 metres and rises above the city of Arusha inside Arusha National Park. The trek is shorter and quieter than Kilimanjaro, with views over the crater and Kilimanjaro across the plains, and wildlife on the lower slopes. It is also an excellent warm-up for a Kilimanjaro climb.
The Mt Meru hike is one of the best treks in Tanzania. Mount Meru is the fifth highest mountain in Africa at 4,562 metres and rises above the city of Arusha inside Arusha National Park. The trek is shorter and quieter than Kilimanjaro, with views over the crater and Kilimanjaro across the plains, and wildlife on the lower slopes. It is also an excellent warm-up for a Kilimanjaro climb.
Our Mount Meru treks start from USD 2,599 per person and are led by experienced mountain guides with an armed park ranger.
Mount Meru itinerary: 4 days
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
You start at Momella Gate and walk through forest and grassland, often with giraffes, buffalo and monkeys. You climb to Miriakamba Hut at about 2,500 metres.
Day 2: Miriakamba to Saddle Hut
A steady climb to Saddle Hut at 3,500 metres, with an optional afternoon walk to Little Meru for acclimatisation.
Day 3: Summit day
You leave at about 1 or 2 in the morning and climb the ridge along the crater rim to Socialist Peak and then Meru's summit at 4,562 metres, watching the sunrise over Kilimanjaro. You then return to Miriakamba Hut.
Day 4: Descent
A walk down to Momella Gate and a transfer to Arusha.
How hard is Mount Meru?
Meru is a demanding trek, steeper than the Kilimanjaro routes, and the summit ridge is narrow and exposed in places. You do not need technical skills, but you need good fitness and a head for heights. The altitude is lower than Kilimanjaro, but altitude effects are possible.
Meru as Kilimanjaro training
Many trekkers climb Mount Meru before Kilimanjaro. The four days at altitude help your body acclimatise, and it tests your boots, your clothes and your fitness in good conditions. The trail also gives a taste of mountain life without the crowds.
Best time for Mount Meru
The dry seasons from June to October and from December to February are best. The trail is slippery in the long rains from March to May.
Wildlife on Mount Meru
The lower slopes of Meru are part of Arusha National Park, and the trail passes giraffes, buffalo, warthogs and monkeys. An armed ranger walks with you for safety. Higher up the vegetation changes to moorland, and you may see eagles and sunbirds. The summit ridge has views of the Ash Cone and across to Kilimanjaro.
What to bring on Mount Meru
The kit is similar to Kilimanjaro on a smaller scale: sturdy boots, warm layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a hat, a headlamp and trekking poles. Temperatures at the summit are below freezing, and the wind on the ridge is strong. You carry a daypack, and porters carry the rest.
Meru before Kilimanjaro
Climbing Meru first gives you a rehearsal for Kilimanjaro. You learn how you handle altitude, how your boots feel and how to pace yourself on a steep trail. Many people say it is a harder day than Kilimanjaro because of the ridge. The combined trip needs about two weeks, with a rest day between the climbs.
Mount Meru facts at a glance
- Height: 4,562 metres, the fifth highest mountain in Africa
- Location: Arusha National Park, about an hour from Arusha town
- Duration: 3 or 4 days
- Accommodation: Miriakamba and Saddle huts
- Requirement: an armed ranger accompanies every group
- Best months: June to October and December to February
Preparing for Meru
Train with long hikes and stair climbing, and practise on steep ground. The summit day starts in the early hours with a headlamp, and the ridge is narrow. Bring a warm hat, gloves and a windproof jacket. Walking poles help on the descent. We explain the route and the safety rules at the briefing the night before.
Mount Meru trekking packages
- 4 Day Mt Meru Trekking Via Momella Gate (4 Days / 3 Nights, from USD 2,599 per person) 4 Day Mt Meru Trekking Via Momella Gate, private Tanzania itinerary visiting Mount Meru.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a ranger on Mount Meru?
Yes. An armed park ranger accompanies all trekkers because of wildlife on the lower slopes.
Is Mount Meru harder than Kilimanjaro?
It is steeper and shorter. Many people find the ridge more demanding, though the altitude is lower.
How long does the trek take?
Three or four days. We recommend four days, for better acclimatisation.
Can I combine Meru with a safari?
Yes. Arusha National Park is on the doorstep, and we often combine Meru with a safari or a Kilimanjaro climb.
How cold is the summit of Meru?
It is usually below freezing at night and in the early morning, with wind on the ridge.
How long does the summit day take?
About eight to ten hours including the descent to Saddle Hut or Miriakamba Hut.