Mount Meru is the second highest peak in Tanzania; it rises up to 4566m (14990”). Mount Meru sits in the Arusha National Park, a small park (137 sq km or 53 sq miles) located in northern Tanzania. It is a very beautiful mountain known for its landscape and biodiversity of plants and wild animals. Mount Meru is not as well known as its neighbor Mount Kilimanjaro. Although the distance is shorter, hiking Mount Meru is a little more challenging than Mount Kilimanjaro due to the steepness of the climb. However, there is no need for climbing gear.

It takes four days to hike Mount Meru. You will begin climbing at Momela Gate (1475m). On the first day you have a choice to take a short route or a long route to Miriakamba Hut (2500m). I advise clients to take the short route up and then take the long route on their way back down. This way you will have plenty of energy on the second day to climb to Saddle Hut (3500m). On the third day you will reach the summit at sunrise and climb back down to Miriakamba Hut. On the fourth day you will climb down to Momela Gate.

On your way to the mountain you will enjoy the plants and animals such as buffalo, giraffe, warthog, monkey, elephant, and a lot of different birds. If the clouds are clear on summit day, you may get a chance to see the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Accommodations for Mount Meru are wooden huts with a dining area, beds, mattresses, and pillows. They also have solar powered lights and bathroom facilities. 

 

Some tour operators will advise you to climb the mountain in three days. This makes the climb very difficult. Four days are recommended so that you can enjoy your hike and not have to rush.