What our travelers talks about us

5/5

4 Days Mount Meru Climbing

Overview

Mount Meru is an iconic stratovolcano located in Tanzania, within Arusha National Park, about 70 kilometers west of Mount Kilimanjaro. It stands at an impressive height of 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) above sea level, making it the fourth-highest peak in Africa.

Here’s a brief overview of Mount Meru:

  1. Geography: Mount Meru is a dormant volcano characterized by its distinctive conical shape and rugged terrain. It is part of the Arusha volcanic mountain range and is surrounded by lush forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

  2. Climbing Routes: The most popular route for climbing Mount Meru is the Momella Route, which typically takes 3-4 days to summit and descend. The ascent begins from Momella Gate, passing through montane forest, heath, and moorland zones before reaching the rocky summit. Other routes include the Miriakamba and Saddle Routes, which are shorter but less frequently used.

  3. Scenic Beauty: Mount Meru offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the plains of Arusha National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance, and the crater rim of the volcano itself. On clear days, the sunrise from the summit is particularly stunning.

  4. Wildlife and Vegetation: Arusha National Park, where Mount Meru is situated, is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, elephants, and various antelope species. The lower slopes of the mountain are covered in lush montane forest, while the higher elevations feature heath and moorland habitats.

  5. Altitude and Acclimatization: Climbing Mount Meru is an excellent opportunity for acclimatization for those planning to attempt Mount Kilimanjaro, as it provides a similar altitude experience. Many climbers use Mount Meru as a warm-up trek before tackling Kilimanjaro due to its lower elevation and shorter duration.

Overall, Mount Meru offers adventurers a rewarding and less crowded alternative to Kilimanjaro, with stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and the chance to summit one of Africa’s highest peaks.