Mount Meru is located in the heart of Arusha National Park, just 50 miles west of the famous Mt. Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is a massive volcano that rises to 14,980 feet ( approximately 4,565 meters). Mt Meru trek serves as a perfect warm up for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro due to its altitude acclimatization but also hiking distances. This trek is also a great alternative for hikers that prefer less crowds and a more challenging ascent due to its steep nature.
Owing to the fact that Mount Meru is located in Arusha National Park where wildlife roam freely, hikers must be accompanied by an armed ranger throughout the climb. On the lower slopes of the mountain, trekkers are more likely to encounter elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes, as well as smaller game like duikers but also notably the black and white colored Colubus Monkeys.
As hikers continue their ascents up Mt Meru, the hiking trail follows the north rim of the dormant volcano’s crater along a sharp and dramatic ridge line. During the climb, hikers normally spend the nights in special designated huts along the trail, namely Miriakamba and Saddle hut. On summiting day hikers reach the summit dawn as the sun is rising and are rewarded with spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and of the Mt. Meru Crater.
Where is Arusha National Park/Mt Meru and How big is it?
Mount Meru is a dormant volcano massif that is located in Arusha National Park which measures 137 sq km 82.89 sq miles).
The mountain and Arusha National Park are located in Northern Tanzania, northeast of Arusha town.
Getting to Mount Meru in Arusha National Park
Mt Meru is accessible through a nice tarmac road only 40-minute drive from Arusha town. The 2nd highest mountain in Tanzania is approximately 60 km (35 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The Momella lakes, the Arusha National Park’s forest and the beautiful Ngurdoto Crater can all be visited in the course of a half-day or full day outing at the beginning or end of an extended northern safari.
Arusha National Park & Mt Meru Activities
One can do Forest walks, with numerous picnic sites at the Momella lakes, canoe rides at the Momella lakes (subject to water levels). Hiking lovers can enjoy 3 day or 4-day Mt Meru climb that serves as a great acclimatization for Kilimanjaro climbing.
When you are booking your Mt Meru trekking it is easy for us to combine this trek with your Tanzania safari tour, and or Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach holidays.
What is the best time to Climb Mt Meru?
The best time to climb Mt Meru is between June and February although it may rain in November so one should avoid that month if possible.
The best views of Mt Kilimanjaro from Mt Meru are experienced between December and February.
Please take note that Mountain Climbing Permits for Mt Meru should be booked at least 12 HOURS in advance.
Mt Meru Climbing Itinerary Options
Mount Meru Trekking 3 days 2 nights
Mount Meru Trekking 4 Days 3 nights
Packing for Mount Meru climbing is quite similar to the packing list for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.