MOUNT MERU TREKKING
Mount Meru is a striking volcano located in Tanzania, approximately 70 kilometers (about 43 miles) west of Mount Kilimanjaro.
It’s the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and the fifth-highest in Africa.
Overview:
Elevation: Mount Meru stands at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) above sea level.
Scenery: The mountain offers dramatic landscapes, including a crater rim, a prominent peak, and expansive views of the surrounding plains. The ascent provides views of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially from the summit.
Volcanic Activity: Mount Meru is an active stratovolcano. Its most recent eruption was in 1910, but it's considered relatively stable compared to other active volcanoes.
Climbing Routes: The primary route up Mount Meru is the Momella Route, which starts at the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. This route offers diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine meadows, and takes climbers through various ecological zones.
Climbing Duration: The climb typically takes about 3 to 4 days:
4 DAYS MT MERU TREKKING
Climbing Mount Meru in 4 days is a common itinerary that provides a thorough experience of the mountain while allowing for proper acclimatization.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect on a 4-day climb:
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles)
Elevation Gain: From 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) at the gate to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) at Miriakamba Hut.
Duration: About 4 to 5 hours of hiking.
Description: After registration at the Momella Gate, you will start your trek through the lush rainforest, which eventually transitions to alpine meadows. You’ll reach the Miriakamba Hut in the late afternoon. Enjoy your first night in the mountains and acclimate to the altitude.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)
Elevation Gain: From 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) to 3,570 meters (11,710 feet) at Saddle Hut.
Duration: About 4 to 5 hours of hiking.
Description: Today’s trek will take you through moorland and eventually reach the Saddle Hut. You’ll walk past striking volcanic landscapes and enjoy views of the surrounding terrain. Saddle Hut is located between Mount Meru’s summit and the crater rim, and provides a good spot for acclimatization before the summit attempt.
Day 3: Summit Day and Descent to Miriakamba Hut
Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) total (summit and descent)
Elevation Gain: From 3,570 meters (11,710 feet) at Saddle Hut to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) at the summit, then back to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) at Miriakamba Hut.
Duration: About 10 to 12 hours total (summit and descent).
Description: The summit day starts very early in the morning, around 1:00 or 2:00 AM. You’ll ascend to the summit of Mount Meru, enjoying breathtaking views of the crater and the surrounding landscape. After reaching the summit, you’ll descend back to the Saddle Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut. The descent can be long and tiring but is crucial for reducing altitude-related stress.
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles)
Elevation Loss: From 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) at Miriakamba Hut to 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) at Momella Gate.
Duration: About 4 to 5 hours of hiking.
Description: On your final day, you’ll trek back down to the Momella Gate. This is a relatively straightforward hike through the rainforest and savannah, concluding your climb.
