Climbing Mount Meru

Mount Meru, rising to 4,565 meters (14,977 feet), is Tanzania’s second-highest peak. Nestled in Arusha National Park, it offers a diverse trekking experience through lush forests, heathlands, and alpine desert landscapes. Climbers are rewarded with stunning views of the crater rim and Mount Kilimanjaro from the summit, making it a truly rewarding adventure in Tanzania’s wilderness.

Mount Meru, located in Tanzania’s Arusha National Park, is an iconic volcanic peak renowned for its dramatic landscapes and challenging climbs. Standing at 4,565 meters (14,977 feet), it is the fifth-highest mountain on the African continent. Unlike its famous neighbor, Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a more compact yet equally diverse trekking experience.

The ascent begins in lush montane forests, where climbers can encounter wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and various bird species. As you climb higher, the landscape transitions through heath and moorland zones, featuring giant lobelias and other endemic flora. Near the summit, the rugged alpine desert zone presents steep slopes and rocky terrain, leading to breathtaking views of the crater rim and Ash Cone.

A typical Mount Meru trek lasts 3-4 days, offering a rigorous yet rewarding journey with overnight stays at designated campsites. Experienced guides lead climbers along well-marked trails, ensuring safety and sharing insights into the mountain’s geological history and local culture. Reaching the summit provides panoramic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains, making it a captivating alternative for adventurers seeking a challenging trek in Tanzania’s stunning wilderness.

Key Facts about Mount Meru

Elevation

4,566 meters / 14,980 feet

Climatic zones

Tropical Forest, Heather Moorland, Alpine Desert

First ascent

Victor Carl Uhlig (1901) or Fritz Jaeger (1904)

Expedition duration

3-4 days

Geological type

Stratovolcano

Nearest airport

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Required experience

Not required; Average fitness level

Summit success rate

88%

Our Classic Mount Meru Itinerary

Discover an extraordinary adventure with our Mount Meru climbs, where you’ll ascend one of Tanzania’s hidden gems. Soaring to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) above sea level, Mount Meru presents a mesmerizing blend of rugged terrain and lush beauty. As the second highest peak in Tanzania, it offers a dramatic ascent through ever-changing landscapes, from verdant forests to alpine meadows. Prepare to be awed by sweeping vistas and embrace the challenge of this stunning mountain, set within the breathtaking expanse of Arusha National Park.

Mount Meru Climbing

4 Days

$1450

Mount Meru Climb

3 Days

$1150

Little Meru Peak

Mount Meru has two peaks: the main summit, known as Socialist Peak, and the lower peak, called Little Meru. The primary goal of any expedition is to reach Socialist Peak, but for active travelers, Little Meru offers an additional rewarding experience.

On the second day of the ascent, after arriving at the upper camp, Saddle Hut, there is usually a half-day available for those interested in hiking to the summit of Little Meru. Accompanied by a guide, the route is relatively straightforward, and on a clear day, the views are absolutely stunning. From Little Meru, climbers are treated to a direct view of Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing them to admire its majestic presence.

Standing at 3,820 meters (12,533 feet) above sea level, Little Meru is worth summiting for two key reasons. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, it provides essential acclimatization before the early morning push to the main summit. This follows the “golden rule” of mountain expedition: climb high, sleep low.

Visiting the summit of Little Meru is possible on both 3-day and 4-day programs with Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition.

Popular questions about Mount Meru, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition recommends Global Rescue for its unparalleled reliability. Your insurance should cover three essential aspects: high-altitude expedition up to 5,000 meters, helicopter evacuation, and medical services. Additionally, if you plan to climb Kilimanjaro, ensure that your insurance also covers mountain expeditions up to 6,000 meters.

Mount Meru is located in East Africa, in northern Tanzania, close to Mount Kilimanjaro. It is part of Arusha National Park, situated in the Arusha region. The mountain is approximately 50 kilometers from Kilimanjaro International Airport, making it about an hour’s drive away.

Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition goes beyond just mountain treks in Tanzania; we curate unforgettable safari adventures that immerse you in the heart of the country’s breathtaking wilderness. Explore the iconic Serengeti, marvel at the wonders of Ngorongoro Crater, journey through the wildlife-rich Tarangire, and discover the untamed beauty of Ruaha. With us, every adventure is crafted to connect you with the wild spirit of Tanzania’s most stunning national parks

Measurements in 2019 recorded Mount Meru’s height at 4,567 meters, while subsequent measurements in 2022 noted a slight decrease to 4,566 meters above sea level. These changes reflect the ongoing volcanic activity that continues to reshape the mountain’s form, as observed by Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition.

If you have the time, we highly recommend experiencing both of Tanzania’s highest mountains. It’s best to climb them in ascending order: start with Mount Meru, followed by Mount Kilimanjaro, which stands more than a kilometer higher. This approach allows the Meru expedition to serve as an excellent warm-up and acclimatization before tackling the “Roof of Africa.” Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expeditions is here to help you plan and embark on this adventurous journey.

While some suggest that the final push to the summit on Mount Meru can be more challenging due to the terrain, the lower altitude makes it less taxing compared to Mount Kilimanjaro. Overall, the Mount Meru climb, while not a walk in the park, is generally considered less demanding than climbing Kilimanjaro. This insight is based on experiences shared by Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition.

Mount Meru is a dormant volcano, with its last recorded eruption occurring over a century ago in 1910. This eruption was moderate, sending stones and ash several kilometers high, but since then, there have been no indications of volcanic activity. Major eruptions happened tens of thousands of years prior. Reports of ash ejection in 2015 were later clarified to be smoke from forest fires rather than volcanic activity.

Currently, scientists have observed no signs of imminent volcanic activity. As you reach the crater rim, you’ll be rewarded with views of the ash cone nestled within Mount Meru’s vast caldera, a testament to the mountain’s geological history.

Mount Meru, standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and offers a challenging yet rewarding climb. While not as renowned as Mount Kilimanjaro, Meru is often considered more difficult due to its steeper slopes and technical aspects.

The trek typically spans 3-4 days, with the Momella Route being the most popular. This route traverses diverse landscapes, from savannah and rainforest to alpine desert, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

The final ascent to Socialist Peak includes some scrambling and exposed sections, making acclimatization essential to avoid altitude sickness. Many climbers use Mount Meru as a preparatory trek before tackling Kilimanjaro, benefiting from its challenging terrain and altitude experience.

With Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expeditions, climbers receive expert guidance, top-notch equipment, and a focus on safety, ensuring a successful and memorable ascent of Mount Meru.

During the initial stage of your ascent, you’ll trek from the park gates to the first Miriakamba Hut camp. This route takes you through a lush forest habitat, home to antelopes, colobus monkeys, and buffaloes.

Climbing Mount Meru requires the presence of an armed ranger for safety. These guides are skilled in animal behavior and are equipped to manage any potential wildlife encounters.

In our decade of experience operating in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition has never encountered a wild animal attack during our expeditions. Your safety is our top priority.

During your Meru expedition with Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition, you’ll be supported by a skilled mountain cook dedicated to preparing delicious and nourishing meals. Our team carefully selects high-quality ingredients to ensure you enjoy both flavorful and nutritious food throughout your trek.

For breakfast, we provide a hearty selection including porridge, fresh fruits, eggs, sausages, and toast with jam. Lunch and dinner offer a diverse range of options, including salads, soups, meat and vegetable dishes. We accommodate various dietary preferences, so if you have specific needs, just inform our manager in advance. We offer vegetarian options and cater to dietary requirements such as gluten-free diets, as well as any religious or personal preferences.

What to take on the expedition?

At Kilimanjaro Bucketlist Expedition, we ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and successful climb. We provide all essential equipment for food preparation and our skilled mountain chef prepares delicious meals to keep you fueled throughout your trek. We also supply first aid kits and oxygen systems to address any symptoms of altitude sickness.

For your comfort and safety, please bring appropriate mountain clothing, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and any personal items you might need. You can either bring these items with you or rent them from our equipment warehouse in Tanzania. For more info read this Article.

Be prepared for cold night time temperatures at the summit, which often drop below freezing, around 0°C (32°F). The conditions can also include rain and strong winds. When selecting your clothing, make sure to account for both the air temperature and the potential for precipitation and cold winds.