Mount Meru Climb

Memorable trekking adventure in the wild with expert guides. High-quality equipment. Small groups. Guaranteed departures
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SUPERB ACCLIMATIZATION
SUPERB ACCLIMATIZATION
Our climbing itineraries are crafted in a way that ensures the smoothest acclimatization transition.
STUNNING SCENERIES
STUNNING SCENERIES
Mesmerizing scenic vistas of Mt Kilimanjaro await you. Visual euphoria and amazing photos guaranteed.
OFFICE IN TANZANIA
OFFICE IN TANZANIA
Our base-camp team at the foothills of majestic Kilimanjaro is always here tracking your expedition in a real-time mode.

Mount Meru Climb

A thrilling hiking adventure in the pristine wild

Magnetized by Mt Kilimanjaro, the hikers often overlook Mt Meru, the second highest peak of Tanzania. Towering over Arusha National Park, Mount Meru offers both an excellent warm-up exercise for Kilimanjaro, in addition to being a stunning trekking experience in the wild by its own right.

Mount Meru trekking is a real adventure. The slopes of this dormant (yet active - the last eruption was in 1910) volcano offer fascinating panoramic vistas and bustling wildlife around.

This volcano was “born” around 500,000 years ago, and its very first eruption virtually exploded its eastern side, creating its, peculiar appearance. In addition to that, Mt Meru has one of the deepest craters - over 1,500 meters!

Why Climb Mount Meru

There are several reasons to include Mount Meru ascent into your Tanzania adventures list. Regrettably, this volcano is often outshadowed by Kilimanjaro - located in the immediate vicinity, it attracts more international hikers, thus making it a secondary hiking destination or a warm-up exercise. The majority of hikers, however, ignore it altogether.

We at Altezza firmly believe that Mt Meru hiking is a great adventure by itself because of these reasons:

Reason 1 - Stunning scenery

Mount Meru features incredibly captivating scenic vistas. The trek to Socialist Peak of Mount Meru (4566 m/14,980 f), traverses several climatic zones, offering diverse landscapes and unparalleled scenes for wildlife photography.

The views from the summit area of Mt Meru are truly rewarding - valleys, forests and meadows, all buried in lush verdure, and magnetizing view of the Kilimanjaro peak looming on a horizon will surprise even the most seasoned travellers.

Reason 2 - Rich wildlife

Nestled in Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is one of the few mountains of the world still densely inhabited by the wildlife, which freely roam on its slopes. The hikers are likely to experience multiple encounters with different animals, including buffaloes, antelopes, monkeys, giraffes and, with some luck in your pocket, even elephants.

Reason 3 - No crowds

Meru is not yet popular among hikers. During the high season, on the popular routes of Kilimanjaro (Marangu and Machame) there is a chance of “traffic jams”, something that you will never experience on the trails of Meru. For those who are seeking reclusive, tranquil hiking in the wild, Meru is a great choice.

RANGER ESCORT REGULATIONS The rules of Arusha National Park prescribe that all groups climbing Mount Meru must be accompanied by an armed ranger. Distribution of rangers to climbing groups is managed by the administration of Arusha National Park. During busy times, the park may assign only one ranger to several groups doing the climb at the same time. The ranger will have to keep the pace of the slowest climber. Although we will make every effort to negotiate a private ranger for your group, at this point no mountain tour company is in the position to guarantee it.

Mount Meru climb is a truly unforgettable one-of-a-kind adventure. To enjoy it to the full, please be prepared for the possibility of the arrangements described above. This applies only to Meru climbs, but not to Kilimanjaro.

EXCELLENT PREPARATION FOR KILIMANJARO Climbing Mount Meru is by far the most proven way to gain acclimatization for your Kilimanjaro adventure. As we explained in our article about the importance of high altitude acclimatization, it is the adaptation of your body to the heights (not your physical strength and stamina) that is critical for the Kilimanjaro success. Practically, the longer you stay at high altitudes, the better your body adapts. Thus, hiking Meru before Kilimanjaro is a good extra acclimatization boost for you, hugely elevating your Uhuru chances! In addition, Mt Meru trekking gives good insights into what it takes to be a member of a true mountain expedition. A minor of version of Kilimanjaro, it gives a glimpse into the “main mount” challenge, showing you what the future adventure will be like.

Reason 4 - Mount Meru hiking tour is affordable

In contrast to other hiking adventures, Mt Meru climb is quite an affordable activity. Because no tents are necessary (overnight stays on Mt Meru are in huts), the number of crew is small, reducing the travel costs. Therefore, for those with shrinking budgets, Mountain Meru can become a good and affordable alternative.

Reason 5 - Excellent addition for the safari tour

The wildlife of Tanzania is what attracts most of the visitors to the country. Tanzania has been voted the best destination for wildlife viewing several years in a row.

At the same time, flying over half of the world surely justifies having more diverse experiences. Thus, pairing your safari tour with a Meru climb may be an excellent idea to get the best of Tanzania.

Mount Meru Expedition - Essential points

The key features of Mt Meru expedition:

You do not need special alpine skills or experience to take part. Together with Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a “hiking”, not climbing “mountain”. Neither ropes, nor ice axes or helmets are necessary - the trekkers reach the Socialist Peak (4,562 m/14,967 f) on foot, and for the majority of them, Mt Meru is the first mountaineering experience.
Ordinary fitness level is ok. Meru hiking does not require anything special - as long as you can comfortably walk up to 10 km/6 miles per day, you can do it. Trekking level there is moderate.

Acclimatization to altitude is important! Do not take it lightly - the altitude of Mt Meru is serious enough to be the cause of altitude sickness. Follow these fundamental rules acclimatization:

  • Hike slowly (recommended pace is two times slower than your ordinary one)
  • Drink much water (3-4 liters per day)
  • Listen to your guide
  • Do not drink alcohol or too much coffee

The combination of these simple principles will make your Meru climb enjoyable, safe and successful.

The crew will take care of everything. Under the TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority), a qualified guide should accompany the hikers. The team of porters and cooks are responsible for carrying your luggage, camp organization, food preparation, etc.

CLIMBING STANDARDS AT ALTEZZA TRAVEL At Altezza we believe that it is the crew that makes your adventure a lifetime experience. All our guides and porters are hand-picked, individually trained professionals. The guides have Wilderness First Responder/Wilderness First Aid certifications. They know how to act in times of emergency and how to make your experience with Altezza a lifetime adventure.

Under the local customs, in order to promote employment, half of the porters crew should be hired from the Meru tribe, which live in the foothills of Mount Meru.

Overnight stays on Mount Meru are in huts only. In contrast to Kilimanjaro, where tented camping options are available on all routes but Marangu, on Mount Meru one should be ready to stay in huts only.

An armed ranger will be accompanying your party up to the summit camp. In order to make your stay in the wild safe and protect the animals from poachers, an armed ranger will be hiking with you up to Saddle Hut Camp (see itinerary below).

Mount Meru Climb - day-by-day itinerary

There is only one route leading to Socialist Peak - “Momella”. Three and four day hiking are available

3-DAY VS. 4-DAY HIKE - HOW TO CHOOSE? If the schedule allows and you have not gained acclimatization on other mountains before (meaning that you have successfully climbed anything above 4,000m/13,123f and did not get affected by altitude sickness), we always recommend choosing a longer option. The more time you spend on Mount Meru - the more effectively your body adapts to the altitude, making the whole experience less stressful for it.

The Momella route approaches Mount Meru from the eastern face, moving up through the northern ridge to the peak.

The total trek distance is 45 km/27 miles.

Mount Meru Photography

Day 1
Arrival to Tanzania

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our representative will meet you and transfer to the hotel.The hotel provides all the essentials for a comfortable stay, such as: cozy rooms, Internet access, hot water, a swimming pool, and a helpful staff. In the evening, an orientation session with our tour coordinators will ensure that you are ready to begin the spectacular Meru climb.

Day 2
From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut

Early in the morning you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and warm water for you.

This will be your first day at this altitude, so it is strongly recommended you heed the following instructions from this point on:

  • Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine
  • Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently)
  • Take a Diamox pill to help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. Most mountain climbers take Diamox in the
  • morning, before they start their ascent, in order to reduce discomfort associated with altitude sickness. We
  • recommend you consult your doctor prior to the trip in case of potential allergies.

At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Elevation
1,500 m to 2,500 m
Hiking time
4-5 hours
Distance
10 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Meadows and rainforest
Day 3
From Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut

After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has amazing views of Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Meru (3,820 m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt.

Elevation
2,500 m to 3,550 m
Hiking time
3-4 hours
Distance
5 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Moorland and heath
Day 4
From Saddle Hut to Meru Peak and descent to Momella Gate

Summiting has an early start at around 00:00. There is a 1-hour steep climb to Rhino Point (3,800 m), then the path continues along a ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m). The summit of Meru Peak (4,562 m) is an hour further on a steep path with magnificent views of Kilimanjaro. Depending on your speed, you can enjoy sunrise at Cobra Point or the summit. The views are stunning: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds, and the Rift Valley. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light along a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the cliffs of the inner wall is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Brunch and a brief rest is taken at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Momella Gate. After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you, and then you will be transferred to Moshi or Arusha town.

Elevation
3,550 m to 4,562 m
4,562 m to 1,500 m
Hiking time
12-14 hours
Distance
16 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Alpine, heath, moorland
Day 5
Departure

Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.

Trek cost

All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.
All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.

Our classic adventures are what the majority of climbers are looking for. The combination of great comfort and high safety standards makes our classic hikes enjoyable and memorable. This is the most popular option among our clients.

This climbing package includes everything that a climber may need for the hike - our experienced mountain crews, high-quality group equipment and nutritionist-designed meals. Our safety protocols, though, are the same for all our hiking adventures - only the guides with Wilderness First Responder certification are assigned to lead a party. Other safety measures include a supply of oxygen cylinders, complete medical kits and compulsory medical check-ups (two per day).

The progress of each trekking party is tracked with GPS device. You may share the link with your family and friends, who will be able to monitor your progress in a real-time mode.

Before and after the adventure you will stay in a good hotel with caring staff, hot water, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool.


3-day climb + 2 days in a hotel
1 pax 2 pax 3 pax 4 pax 5 pax 6 pax 7 pax 8+ pax
Mount Meru Climb
Mount Meru Climb
$1 785 $1 246 $1 163 $1 085 $1 049 $969 $944 $943 Compare prices
3-day climb + 2 days in a hotel
Mount Meru Climb
Mount Meru Climb
1 pax
$1 785
2 pax
$1 246
3 pax
$1 163
4 pax
$1 085
5 pax
$1 049
6 pax
$969
7 pax
$944
8 pax
$943
Compare prices
The price includes:

Transfers:

  • Pick-up and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport;
  • Transfer to the trailhead in Arusha National Park;
  • Pick-up at the end of the trek.

Entry fees:

  • All fees collected by the Arusha National Park for Mt Meru trekking (conservation fees, hut fees, crew fees, vehicle fee, rescue fee and all other fees collected by the Tanzania National Parks Authority).

Accommodation:

  • One night at 3* hotel (Aishi Machame Hotel or Altezza Lodge) before the expedition and one night after; The hotels have everything for your comfortable stay - caring staff, nice rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool);
  • Accommodation in huts on the trek.

Please note:

All hotel accommodation is based on a sharing basis (i.e. you will be sharing with your travel companion a twin/double room. If you travel alone, we will match you with a same-sex adventurer). Single occupancy in a hotel is available upon request and extra chargers apply. Single accommodation is not available in huts while on the trek, because it is the park rangers who assign the trekkers to the huts.

Meals:

  • Breakfast in the hotel before and after the hike;
  • All meals on the hike. Our Mount Meru diet includes energy-rich and highly nutritious meals prepared by our professional high-altitude cooks. In our menu you will find different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost;
  • All drinks on the hike (coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water).

Hiking and safety equipment:

  • 4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats;
  • All group equipment;
  • Oxygen cylinders and oximeters;
  • GPS-tracking service;
  • Complete medical kits.

Climbing crew:

  • Professional guides, licensed by the Tanzania National Park Authority. All our guides are the holders of Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid certifications and have 7+years of successful mountaineering experience;
  • Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).
The price excludes:
  • Airline tickets to Tanzania;
  • Visa fee;
  • Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the hike);
  • Personal gear rentals;
  • Tips for the mountain crew (100–150 USD per person);
  • Mountaineering insurance.
Day 1
Arrival to Tanzania

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our representative will meet you and transfer to the hotel.The hotel provides all the essentials for a comfortable stay, such as: cozy rooms, Internet access, hot water, a swimming pool, and a helpful staff. In the evening, an orientation session with our tour coordinators will ensure that you are ready to begin the spectacular Meru climb. 

Day 2
From Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts

In the morning you will go to Arusha National Park, and then straight to the trailhead. The ride takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. 

At Momella Gate the guides will arrange the entry permit formalities, and you will start trekking to Miriakamba Huts. Wild animals (warthogs, zebras, monkeys, antelopes and, sometimes, elephants) are likely to be seen on the way. 

Hot lunch will be served upon arrival to Miriakamba Huts. There you may rest or explore the surroundings. 

Elevation
1,387 m to 2,514 m
Hiking time
5-6 hours
Distance
10 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Meadows and rainforest
Day 3
From Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts

After the breakfast, the group will start trekking to Saddle Huts. The rainforest zone will end soon, giving place to heath and moorland with large trees. The trail will open amazing panoramic vistas. 

Upon reaching the saddle huts, those who are willing and energetic enough may reach the Little Meru Peak, further boosting your acclimatization transition. 

Our team will serve hot lunch and dinner in the camp. 

Elevation
2,514 m to 3,570 m
Hiking time
4-5 hours
Distance
8 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Moorland and heath
Day 4
From Saddle Huts to Meru Peak and to Miriakamba Hut

Midnight wake-up and the group starts trekking to the Meru Peak. The hikers should be prepared for a tough and strenuous hike - the legs to Rhino Point and Cobra points are especially precipitous. Be careful! 

The group will reach Meru Peak (4,565 m/14,977 m) by sunrise, where you’ll have true visual euphoria - thrilling panoramic sceneries around and mesmerizing sunrise.  

After the summit time, the group will descend to Miriakamba Huts for a hot lunch, dinner and overnight stay. 

Elevation
3,570 m to 4,565 m
4,565 m to 2,514 m
Hiking time
8-12 hours
Distance
19 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Alpine, heath, moorland
Day 5
From Miriakamba Huts to Momella Gate

Morning, breakfast and hike down to Momella Gate. Our car will be waiting there for your party for transfer to the hotel (see description below). 

Elevation
2,514 m to 1,387 m
Hiking time
2-4 hours
Distance
7 km
Difficulty
Medium
Habitat
Rainforest
Day 6
Departure

Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.

Trek cost

All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.
All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.

Our classic adventures are what the majority of climbers are looking for. The combination of great comfort and high safety standards makes our classic Kilimanjaro hikes enjoyable and memorable. This is the most popular option among our clients.

This climbing package includes everything that a climber may need for the hike - our experienced mountain crews, high-quality group equipment, nutritionist-designed meals. Our safety protocols, though, are the same for all our hiking adventures - only the guides with Wilderness First Responder certification are assigned to lead a party. Other safety measures include a supply of oxygen cylinders, complete medical kits and compulsory medical check-ups (two per day).

The progress of each trekking party is tracked with GPS device. You may share the link with your family and friends, who will be able to monitor your progress in a real-time mode.

Before and after the adventure you will stay in a good hotel with caring staff, hot water, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool.

4-day climb + 2 days in a hotel
1 pax 2 pax 3 pax 4 pax 5 pax 6 pax 7 pax 8+ pax
Mount Meru Climb
Mount Meru Climb
$2 231 $1 569 $1 431 $1 340 $1 299 $1 217 $1 228 $1 179 Compare prices
4-day climb + 2 days in a hotel
Mount Meru Climb
Mount Meru Climb
1 pax
$2 231
2 pax
$1 569
3 pax
$1 431
4 pax
$1 340
5 pax
$1 299
6 pax
$1 217
7 pax
$1 228
8 pax
$1 179
Compare prices
The price includes:

Transfers:

  • Pick-up and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport;
  • Transfer to the trailhead in Arusha National Park;
  • Pick-up at the end of the trek.

Entry fees:

  • All fees collected by the Arusha National Park for Mt Meru trekking (conservation fees, hut fees, crew fees, vehicle fee, rescue fee and all other fees collected by the Tanzania National Parks Authority).

Accommodation:

  • One night at 3* hotel (Aishi Machame Hotel or Altezza Lodge) before the expedition and one night after; The hotels have everything for your comfortable stay - caring staff, nice rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool);
  • Accommodation in huts on the trek.

Please note:

All hotel accommodation is based on a sharing basis (i.e. you will be sharing with your travel companion a twin/double room. If you travel alone, we will match you with a same-sex adventurer). Single occupancy in a hotel is available upon request and extra chargers apply. Single accommodation is not available in huts while on the trek, because it is the park rangers who assign the trekkers to the huts.

Meals:

  • Breakfast in the hotel before and after the hike;
  • All meals on the hike. Our Mount Meru diet includes energy-rich and highly nutritious meals prepared by our professional high-altitude cooks. In our menu you will find different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost;
  • All drinks on the hike (coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water).

Hiking and safety equipment:

  • 4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats;
  • All group equipment;
  • Oxygen cylinders and oximeters;
  • GPS-tracking service;
  • Complete medical kits.

Climbing crew:

  • Professional guides, licensed by the Tanzania National Park Authority. All our guides are the holders of Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid certifications and have 7+years of successful mountaineering experience;
  • Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).
The price excludes:
  • Airline tickets to Tanzania;
  • Visa fee;
  • Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the hike);
  • Personal gear rentals;
  • Tips for the mountain crew (100–150 USD per person);
  • Mountaineering insurance.

They Travel with Us

Nimsdai
Nimsdai
Record breaking mountaineer
Eugene Kaspersky
Eugene Kaspersky
CEO of Kaspersky Lab.
Sergey Ryazansky
Sergey Ryazansky
Russian cosmonaut
Stephan Siegrist
Stephan Siegrist
Professional Mountaineer and Basejumper
Thomas Senf
Thomas Senf
Red Bull photographer
Thomas Huber
Thomas Huber
Professional mountaineer