MOUNT
MERU
Mount Meru ( 3 Nights / 4 Days) Climb
Guaranteed Departures Minimum order: 2 People
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Mount
Meru is one of Africa's most beautiful volcanoes,
and it is the second highest mountain in Tanzania
at 4,5685m, the fifth highest in Africa. The mountain
is located within Arusha National Park, Tanzania’s
gem. This prime location gives walkers the opportunity
to spot some of the birds and wildlife that inhabit
the area. The ascend is quite steep, the route to
the summit passes over streams, through parkland,
Montana forest, a giant heather zone and moorland.
The summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge, which
provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several
thousand feet below in the crater. Weather permitting,
Kilimanjaro can be seen in the West. There are two
huts available to climbers on the mountain and firewood
is supplied. The best time to climb Meru is between
October and February.
Mount Meru
- At the Summit Video:
DAY
01: Hotel - Mommela Gate - Miriakamba Hut
Depart from your hotel in the morning for Momella
Gate of Arusha National Park (1,500 m.). After park
entrance formalities, we begin our hike, guided by
a park ranger. The track passes open grassland, providing
an opportunity to see buffalo, warthogs and other
grazers. The trail continues as a steady climb through
Montana forest. We take lunch near a giant Fig Tree
arch. After lunch, the route continues through less
dense forest, where there are an abundance of birds
and black and white colobus monkeys. By mid-afternoon,
we can see towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. We reach
Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m.), situated in an idyllic
grassy glade, in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon
sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains
towards Kilimanjaro. (4-6 hours walking).Dinner and
Overnight at the hut.
Meal Plan: {B, L, D}
DAY
02: Miriakamba Hut - Saddle Hut
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little
Meru is a short day but a steep climb. We slowly ascend
through lush Montana forest to reach the halfway point
of Elephant Ridge. From here we enjoy excellent views
of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. The
path continues through giant heather and other fascinating
moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m),
where lunch is will be provided. The afternoon is
free to relax and to enjoy the views. The more energetic
can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little
Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset.
(3-5 hours walking).
Meal Plan: {B, L, D}
DAY
03: Saddle Hut - Peak - Miriakamba Hut
You will start early at around 2 a.m. to climb steeply
to Rhino Point (3,800 m.), continuing along an undulating
ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350
m) at sunrise. 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 west towards the Rift Valley if the weather is
clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) is
an hour further on a good but steep path. The route
back to Rhino Point in the morning light, on a narrow
ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater
and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall, is one of
the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa.
We enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing
the descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours
walking). Miriakamba Hut Note: The ridge between the
summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering
from vertigo. In icy conditions or in strong winds,
it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond
Rhino Point.
Meal Plan: {B, L, D}
DAY
04: Miriakamba Hut - Momella Gate
Breakfast. You will take the direct route down through
open grassland and mixed forest, with good chances
of seeing wildlife. This trail has excellent views
back towards the crater and over the plains of the
National Park. We should reach Momella Gate by late
morning (2-3 hours walking). Once you reach the end
of the climb you will be transferred to your hotel.
Meal Plan: {B }
END
OF CLIMB
Included
:
• National Park entry fees, hut fees, rescue
fees
• English speaking guide(s), cook and porters
• Full board camping accommodation during the
climb
• Mineral water for the first day, boiled and
filtered water on the other days
• Transfer to the gate and return to Arusha
Not
included :
• Other drinks
• Meals and accommodation in Arusha –
We can arrange this one too.
• Sleeping bag
. Personal expenses and tips