What To Know Before Climbing Mount Meru? Tanzania is a great destination not only for wildlife viewers but also for mountain climbers. It is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, Mount Meru, Ol Doinyo Lengai, and many others. Many visitors, however, prefer hiking the Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is lesser known and is usually brushed aside. If you want a less difficult climb yet one that is rewarding, a Mount Meru climb is worth your time.
Is the Mount Meru climb worth it?
With the highest peak just 43 miles away from Mt. Meru, many hikers would choose to try Kilimanjaro than Meru. Some think it has nothing to offer. Well, let us see some rewards you can get by climbing Mount Meru.
- Mount Meru is lesser-known. Compared to Kilimanjaro, it receives very low traffic. You will only meet a few hikers. The hike is quieter and more rewarding since other hikers will not disturb you.
- Less serious altitude sickness. The most common problem that affects many climbers is altitude sickness. This is common when hiking higher peaks like Mt. Kilimanjaro.
- It is a warm-up trek before the Kilimanjaro climb. You have an advantage in climbing Kilimanjaro after climbing Meru. It is perfect for acclimatization.
How high is Mount Meru?
Mount Meru is 4,566 meters above sea level. It is the second-highest peak in Tanzania and the fifth-highest peak in Africa. It is a significant peak in the country after Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Mount Meru climbing difficulty
Meru climb is not that hard but do not underestimate it. It requires a high fitness level. The trail is steep and technical and you have to hike up a steep trail in three or four days.
Meru has one route – the Momella Route. Unlike Kilimanjaro which has seven routes, Meru has just one route. The route starts from the east, ascends to the north of the crater, and finally reaches the summit. There are two huts: Miriakamba and Saddle where four hikers can stay in a dorm. Camping is optional but the fee is the same.
The wildlife is plenty on the lower slopes.
Hikers do enjoy views of wildlife, especially on the first day of the hike. It is common to spot animals like buffalos, leopards, bushbuck, Harvey’s duikers, and blue and colobus monkeys. For safety purposes, an armed ranger has to accompany you. The first day is like a long walking safari.
What can you see from Mount Meru?
Forget the feeling of stepping on top of the second-highest peak in Tanzania, Mt. Meru offers panoramic views. You will see the town of Arusha. The mirror-like lakes of Momella reflect the color of the sky. They bring a picturesque appearance when standing on the top.
If the day is clear, you can view Mount Kilimanjaro. The white cap appears very clear from Meru. Meru also rises out of the wild. When you reach the Little Meru, you can watch the Ngurdoto Crater and other places.
Length and cost of the hike
It takes three or four days to reach the Socialist Peak (4,566 meters). Probably you are still wondering whether you should take 3 or 4 days. We will leave that to you. Spending three days requires more fitness. Prior preparation is essential that is a quick ascent. We highly recommend four days to climb Mount Meru. You will have enough time to acclimatize and explore the beauty.
When it comes to the cost, every tour operator has own price tag. However, the cost does not differ much. The average price ranges from $850 to $1500 per person. This price usually includes all transfers, meals, permits, and accommodations and excludes tips and travel insurance.
The best time to climb Mount Meru
Mt. Meru is a year-round destination. Climbers can go there at any time. However, the dry season (June to October) feels great. The sky is always clear and you will not consume much strain since the trail is dry.
The rainy season (November to May) is also good. There is no traffic and the trail is green, thus creating a scenic background. However, between March and May, the rain is frequent. Be sure to bring quick-drying clothes and a waterproof jacket.
What to pack for Mount Meru Climb?
Before you board your flight to Tanzania, make sure you have all the necessary things to tackle the Mt. Meru hike. Make sure you have the following things:
- A waterproof duffle bag
- Daypack
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking boots
- Hiking socks
- Quick-drying clothes
- Good shoes or sandals
- Sleeping bag
- Water bottles
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
You do not have to overload yourself. This list is just a reminder. You can have all these things before or when you arrive. We’ll check your gear and take you to reliable shopping places before you start the hike.
Now you know a lot about Mount Meru. You can now start a plan with Explore African Safaris. Our team will assist with any more questions about the Meru hike and other Tanzania safaris. Good luck!
