Mount Meru, located within Arusha National Park and overlooking the town of Arusha, is Tanzania’s second-highest peak after Kilimanjaro. It offers a thrilling climb with opportunities to spot wildlife on the lower slopes and experience changing vegetation zones as you ascend.
While sections of the trail, particularly along the steep saddle, are challenging, the views are well worth the effort. From the summit, you can admire breathtaking vistas of Kilimanjaro, 80 kilometers to the northeast, and the sheer drop into Meru Crater. Despite the steepness, no technical climbing gear is required.
The trek is typically completed over 3 days and 2 nights, though some climbers choose to extend their trip by an extra night at Miriakamba Hut, turning it into a 4-day, 3-night adventure. Accommodations are in alpine huts along the route.
Day 1: After a morning transfer to Momela Gate (1,500m), a 3-hour hike takes you to Miriakamba Hut. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Meru Crater. Overnight at Miriakamba Hut.
Day 2: Continue to Saddle Hut, a 3-hour climb along steep walls. In the afternoon, you can take a 1.5-hour hike to Little Meru (3,820m). Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Day 3: Begin an early morning ascent to the summit of Mount Meru (4,566m), which takes about 5 hours. You can either descend to Miriakamba Hut for an overnight stay or continue all the way to Momela Gate (a 7-hour descent).
Though Mount Meru is typically climbed from the western side at Olkokola, the route via Little Meru is also an option. The best time to attempt the climb is between October and February, though November can bring occasional rain.