Brief Description

Grade:Difficult

Location: Africa

Altitude:4566 m

Duration:4 Days

Resting in the giant shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, figuratively and geographically, Mt. Meru at 4,566M is yet another one of Tanzania’s offerings in addition to its rich wildlife, indigenous people, white sand beaches and fascinating culture. The mountain does not get its fair share of admiration because it usually gets outshined by its much larger cousin, Mount Kilimanjaro and all its esteemed titles. But Mt. Meru is not short on its list of unique offerings of its own.

This rocky mountain which is a fair bit challenging happens to be Tanzania’s second highest and Africa’s fifth highest peak. With an abundance of wildlife housed on its slopes where you walk alongside the likes of giraffes, elephants, zebras and much more while trekking, Mt. Meru, which is just 70kms west of the most sought-after attraction in Africa, serves as a pleasant yet challenging trek on its own and also doubles up as a perfect acclimatization trek before tackling its higher cousin, Mount Kilimanjaro.

The trek on this peak is a short four day affair. The mountain has huts all along the way offering a comfortable stay during the trek. Witnessing the exotic wildlife Africa is famously known for on its lower slopes is nothing short of magical. It is the best way to get acclimatized to the terrain, and climate of the region (since it is also a volcanic mountain) as well as the altitude so as to maximize your chances of success on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the best way to warm up all your trekking muscles. Adding Mt. Meru to your itinerary, to turn your Tanzanian adventure into a dual climb only has plusses in our opinion. If you are short on time and cannot make it to Kilimanjaro, even on its own, Mt. Meru is a perfect trek to explore the volcanic mountains of Africa.

The best time to climb Mt. Meru is in the dry seasons of Africa that is from January to March and June to October. Stay on this page for more information on Mt. Meru.

Please Note: If you want to make it a dual climb and combine it with Mount Kilimanjaro, let us know and we will make it happen! For a standalone trek to Mount Kilimanjaro, check itinerary here.

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Brief Itinerary

Welcome to Tanzania!

Arusha (1,400M) to Meriakamba Hut (2,515M) via Momela Gate (1,590M)

Meriakamba Hut (2,515M) to Saddle Hut (3,570M)

Saddle Hut (3,570M) to Arusha (1,400M) via Summit of Mt. Meru (4,566M) and Momela Gate (1,590M)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Tanzania!

Your flight will bring you to Kilimanjaro International Airport. From here, Arusha, which is a small town at the base of the volcanic Mt. Meru and is also the hub of the safari circuit in Northern Tanzania, is only a 52 km drive. Airport pick up is part of the trek cost – you will be met by someone from our team who will assist you to your hotel in Arusha. There is nothing more on the agenda for today than to get comfortable in this friendly land, explore this charming little town, get acquainted to your fellow climbers, and arrange for equipment, in case you are missing something. Since we start our trek tomorrow, we also use today to go over some do’s and don’ts, what to expect on the trek and get done with some paperwork before we can dive head in to indulge ourselves in this small town of many offerings.

Day 2

Arusha (1,400M) to Meriakamba Hut (2,515M) via Momela Gate (1,590M)

Distance: 10 kms

Duration: 5-6 hours

After a short drive from Arusha to Momela Gate which is the point of entry and exit for a climb on Mt. Meru, we start our trek for today. At the gate, the park rangers check for all the paperwork and entry permits into the national park. The trek today, although 10kms long, is a pleasant walk through the wilderness on a gradually inclining terrain. It is a perfect introduction to the African savannah and the many animals that call it home. You are likely to be accompanied by monkeys, antelope, elephants, zebras, giraffe and buffaloes who keep the hike for today anything but dull!

The stay is indoors, in dormitory style huts.

Day 3

Meriakamba Hut (2,515M) to Saddle Hut (3,570M)

Distance: 8 kms

Duration: 4-5 hours

After an early breakfast, we head out towards Saddle Hut. It is a short but a steep climb which takes us on a ridge with magnificent views of the crater of Mt. Meru. On reaching Saddle Hut, we have our breakfast and head out for an acclimatization walk to the highlight for today - Little Meru. Climbing to Little Meru at 3,820M brings the elevation gain for today to close to 1300M. Climbing to Little Meru is firstly, great for acclimatization for we are climbing high (to 3,820M) and sleeping low (at 3,570M) which will sufficiently prep our body for the summit of Mt. Meru. Secondly, the cone of Little Meru provides for some of the best sunset views of the valley. The terrain today shifts from forests to moorland.

The stay is indoors, in dormitory style huts.

Day 4

Saddle Hut (3,570M) to Arusha (1,400M) via Summit of Mt. Meru (4,566M) and Momela Gate (1,590M)

Distance: 18 kms

Duration: 14-15 hours

We will be crossing a variety of terrain today, from moorland to alpine desert on the higher reaches to forests on our way down. The trek up to the summit is close to 5 kms. Since the day is long, like any other summit attempt, we start our climb between 1-2 AM. The climb rises steeply to first touch Rhino Point at 3,800M and then onwards to Cobra Point at 4,350M. We should reach the top of Mt. Meru just in time for a spectacular sunrise and a glorious view of the snow-clad top of Mount Kilimanjaro which rises conspicuously above a thick blanket of clouds. The last part of the climb is over ridges and slopes that form the outer wall of the crater.

After spending some time on the summit, we start our 13kms of long descent which will bring us to Momela Gate – our starting point of the trek. From here, we get our drive back into Arusha. Expect to reach your hotel by late evening.

What's Included

All travel cost from Kilimanjaro International Airport (pick-up point) to Kilimanjaro International Airport drop-off (including internal travel to and from the hotel to the park gate)

1 night accommodation at a hotel in Arusha (Day 1)

Breakfast & Dinner in Arusha Hotel

All meals on the mountain

Accommodation (in huts) on the mountain

All park entry and permit fees + rescue fees

Safety Equipment (common) including static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys & other items used for climbing

Complete Medical Kit

Mountaineering certified and First Aid certified expedition guide

Guiding cost

Fully equipped service and support staff (local): guide, porters, cook

Kilimanjaro International Airport pick up and drop

What's Not Included

Internal & International flight cost

Visa cost

Cost of travel and health insurance

Accommodation in Arusha (except on day 1)

Tips for the local support staff

Any expense of personal nature

Any expense not specified in the included list

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

Mount Meru, located just 70 kilometers west of Africa's most popular attraction, Mount Kilimanjaro, serves as a pleasant yet challenging trek on its own. It is also an ideal acclimatization trek before tackling its much taller cousin, Mount Kilimanjaro. The long distances to be covered each day make this trek a tad bit demanding. It is recommended for anyone who is looking to challenge themselves even if they are budding hikers.

Difficult

4566 m

36 km

BRS Level Required

BRS Level Required

BRS 5

Mount Meru Trek is a level 5 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

It is recommended that you have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 4 on the BRS. The altitude, and the long distances to be covered each day demand a certain level of skill and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of a high altitude environment.

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

we will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

Trekking Gear

Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1

Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day

Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1

U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1 Here is how you can choose the best sunglasses for trekking.

Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each

Footwear

Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1

Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1

Clothing

Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty - 2

Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking

Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking

Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1

Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking

Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1

Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1

Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1

Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1

Woolen cap. Qty-1

Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1

Toiletries

Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)

Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 Here is your Sun Protection 101 to stay safe in the bright sunny outdoors.

Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

Utensils

Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1

Plate. Qty- 1

Spoon.Qty-1

Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

Camera (Optional)

Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.

Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Mount Meru is a level 5 trek on the Bikat Rating Scale. This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 4 on the BRS. The altitude, the terrain and the long distances demand a certain level of endurance and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of high altitude environment.

Mount Meru is a hikeable peak which does not require any special mountaineering skills other than optimum fitness levels and some experience of high-altitude.

Jog/Run for 5 Kms in 25-30 mins Or Walk continuously for 10 kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) and

Hold your breath for 40 seconds and

3 sets of Climbing 30 – 40 steps in one stretch and

Push Ups – 10 and

Lunges & Squats – 15 X 2 sets
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.

Mount Meru is a good way to get a taste of the volcanic terrain of Africa. It is also the perfect way to acclimatize before heading to its higher cousin, Mount Kilimanjaro. The unique geography of the peak as well as the challenge of the climb and all of its highlights open up a world of experiences waiting to be explored.

The best time to trek Mount Meru is between January to March and June to October.

There are direct flights available from most major airports that land at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The base town, Arusha, is only an hour long drive (53kms) away from here – making it easily accessible.

The mountain stations itself in Tanzania which has some of the world’s best National Parks teeming with the most exotic wildlife like lions, hippos, giraffes, gorillas to name a few. The country is also famous for its pristine islands with white-sand beaches which are perfect both for some down time or to indulge in water sports like diving and snorkeling. The country is rich in indigenous cultures and fascinating people. A summit climb of Meru does not have to be restricted to the climb alone but opens up a whole different world of experiences waiting to be explored.

The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied by their parents/ guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

Mount Meru has dormitory style huts all along its trekking route.

While the common safety gear like static rope, pulleys and carabiners will be carried by the expedition guide, personal gear will not be provided for this trek. Since this is not a technical climb, you do not require any technical equipment or gears – only your personal belongings (trekking poles, trekking shoes, head lamp etc) as well as altitude and weather-appropriate clothing.

Like any other high-altitude mountain, weather is unpredictable here as well. The lower parts of the mountain are prone to unannounced rains and the higher reaches of the mountain are extremely windy.

Like any high-altitude climb, use the layering method here as well. Since you will be starting for the summit much before sunrise, it will be extremely cold. The lower reaches of the mountain are prone to unannounced rains, so good rain wear is extremely important. Even when the sun is high up in the sky, the winds high up on the exposed regions of the mountain are extremely notorious. You need all your best clothing to protect you from the elements here. Under no circumstances can you afford to forget your down and your gore-tex.

A copy of your Passport and Visa, ID Proof and Medical Certificate are the mandatory documents required for this trek. (Soft copies for all of these are to be sent to us & originals should be on your person while on the trek).

Yes, since Mount Meru is in Tanzania, you will need to apply for Visa to be eligible for this climb and you will need a valid Passport to apply for the Visa. It is an online Visa process which is fairly simple and hassle-free. Apply for your Visa on the following link: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/.

For Indian nationals, the entire process from application to receiving of Visa might take anywhere between 7-15 days. Start your process accordingly. Rules may differ based on your home country. The information is available online easily. Apply for your Visa on the following link: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/..

You will need two kinds of insurance for the trip:

Travel Medical Insurance: To cover accident, injury or sickness during your travel and stay in the host country. The cost will depend on the number of days you plan to stay in the host country including travel days.

Insurance to cover your climb: To cover cost of rescue if need be, in addition to medical and health coverage in case of sickness and injury during your time on the mountain. The cost depends on the service you choose, the number of days you are exposed to the risk and the altitude of the mountain of choice. There are adventure insurance companies based in India but it would make sense to get insured by a company which might have better reach in the region of travel for speedy service.

Mount Meru is located just south of the equator in the East African country – Tanzania. It is 70 kms from Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Meru comes under the Arusha National Park region. All park entry fees and permits are covered in the trek cost.

Unlike Kilimanjaro, there is only one official route to climb Mount Meru.

Firstly, Mount Meru is a climb on a volcanic mountain. Being on this mountain made of ashes, lava and rock is a unique experience.

Secondly and more importantly, we believe that the Himalayas are GREAT and nothing can beat the magnanimity of the mountains in this incredible range, but exploring a different mountain range has so much to offer in terms of perspective. To indulge in the same sport in a different setting makes the connection with the sport itself stronger because of the learning experience.

Thirdly, it is a perfect acclimatization climb before heading to its higher cousin, Mount Kilimanjaro.

Mount Meru is a hikeable peak. This is to say that it is not technical and requires little to no knowledge of mountaineering. However, its distance, altitude and weather are still factors that must be given their due for being worthy challenges.

The unique terrain, changes in scenery and a chance to experience all climactic conditions on a single climb are only a few of the highlights of this trek. The mountain stations itself in Tanzania which is teeming with wildlife, white-sand beaches, indigenous cultures and fascinating people. A summit climb of Meru does not have to be restricted to the climb alone but opens up a whole different world of experiences waiting to be explored.

Yes. As per the National Park rules, you definitely need a local guide or a licensed trekking outfit to have access to the mountain’s slopes.

Why Bikat?

Small Group Size

Our batch sizes are capped at 15 for smaller treks with the trek leader and trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, in our years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals as well as groups. Capping the size of the group ensures individual attention to each trekker so that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps to form a more cohesive cohort with better group energy which helps define the rhythm and pace of days on the trek.

As you go higher up on the BRS scale, since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with the ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.

Qualified Trek Leaders

We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. In addition to their qualification, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. Being unpredictable is the core nature of the mountains but being ready for any circumstance as best as possible is a controllable asset that we try to nurture.

Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response.

Watch: Forerunners - The Making of A Trek Leader At Bikat Adventures

Guided Progression

Since Bikat Adventures is a learning-based organization, we help you climb up the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Our on-ground training modules are designed to handhold you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.

Equipment Quality and Check

All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.

Support Systems

Along with the staff you see on-ground, we have a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Our background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and in receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.

Communication

Our on-field staff is in constant contact with our teams based in primary locations so as to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. We try to use the best tools for communication available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.

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Cancellation Policy

Cash refund

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date

5% deduction

Cancellations between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure date

50% deduction

Cancellations within 15 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Voucher refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date

No Deduction

Cancellations within 5 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Please Note:

Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers

This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

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Mount Meru Trek

Mount Meru Trek

Available Batches

Available Batches

Brief Description

Gallery

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

What's Included

What's Not Included

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

BRS Level Required

BRS 5

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

Packing List

Trekking Gear

Footwear

Read full

Clothing

Toiletries

Utensils

Miscellaneous

Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility

Experience required

Requisite Skills

Fitness benchmark

About the activity

Why should I go for this trek?

Best Season

What are the best months to visit this trek?

Packing List

How should I pack my rucksack?

How should I select my trekking shoe?

What to pack

Connectivity

How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?

What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?

Nearby attraction

What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?

Age limit

What is the minimum & maximum age limit?

Accommodation

What will be the accommodation type in this trek?

Equipment and facilities

What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?

Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?

If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?

What kind of food will be provided for the trek?

What equipment can I rent from you?

What gear and equipment will be provided to us?

Weather conditions

What will the temperatures be like during this trek?

When will there be snow on this trek?

What clothing do I need for this climb?

Miscellaneous

Is there an option to offload my backpack?

Who will lead us on the trek?

Is the trekking pole necessary?

Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?

Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?

Will you give certificates on completion of trek?

Transport

In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?

What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?

Mandatory documents

What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?

International Travel

Will I need a Visa?

When should I apply for the Visa?

What kinds of insurance do I need for climbing this peak?

Where is this peak located?

Do I need a permit to climb this peak?

What route is the best to climb this peak?

How is this climb different from the mountains in India?

Is it a technical climb?