Mount Meru – Trekking & Climbing, Packages & Cost
Mount Meru is the second highest volcanic mountain in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro, trekking tours on Meru and Kilimanjaro are the major Tourism business in Arusha City.
Location of Mount Meru
Mount Meru is situated in the Tourism capital of Arusha Tanzania – East Africa. It stands 70 km west of Mt. Kilimanjaro, as you approaching Arusha town this is the first thing that your eye can possibly sight.
At a height of 4,565 m (14,977 ft) above the see level in a very clear day this mountain is visible from Mt Kilimanjaro and it is the 9th or 10th highest Mountain in Africa. The cones and craters present today are probably reflecting to the last minor eruption in 1910 and other previous incidents of volcanic activities.
Two peaks are present at Mount Meru, Meru Summit which is the highest point, another peak is inside the crater formed recently after the volcanic activity. On clear days from mount Meru you can view the Great Rift Valley and the volcanic mountain of Kitumbeini and Gelai appears on western side, on east part his majesty Mount Kilimanjaro with Kibo and Shira Plateau are clearly visible.
How much Does it Cost to Climb Mt Meru? Prices for 2026/2027
Our package prices for Meru trekking is less when compared with big companies, you will be surprised when i tell you that the service is the same.
Mount Meru Trekking Packages when 2 Person Sharing
- Prices Per Person for 4 Days is US$ 957 Including VAT
- Prices Per Person for 3 Days is US$ 730 Including VAT
- For solo hiker & more than 2 person please ask for discounted Prices
The only and useful official route to the peak of this Mountain is Momella route, and the Summit can be reached in 3 or 4 days. Any mountainous techniques and special equipment’s does not count for climbing this Meru. Physical fitness, good health and preparations for altitude gains can be enough for Meru climbers. Take your time for good acclimatization and enjoy the climbing.
1. Great Views
Mount Meru trekking offers an outstanding views of Mt. Kilimanjaro as well as the views of crates and small cones Mt meru is part of Arusha National Park hence offering a variety of wildlife along the forested slope. Like buffaloes, monkeys, Baboons, birds and many more.
2. Mount Meru Climb Pre – Kilimanjaro Experience
At the low Montana is Savannah endowed with some animal species like buffaloes and giraffes. Parkland is reached at the lower slopes presented with grassland, rainforest, Spanish moss and red- hot pokers. The massive heather zones, known as moorlands are forested by huge lobelias.
At the alpine desert which is closer to the summit you can spot ceaseless flowers. As you way up to the summit you will experience a narrow path along the barren ridge all the way to the summit. An amazing view of the ash cones inside the crater can be seen as you spend sometimes at the summit.
Despite of Arusha National Park offering Meru Climbing but still you can explore the mountain and its surrounding by engaging yourself in different activities like walking safari, bird watching, canoeing at Momella Lakes as well as game viewing.
3. Wildlife
Meru Mountain is home to over 400 bird species but the most common once in this area is Levaillant’s cuckoo, lanner falcon as well as crowned eagle and the flamingos around the Momella lakes. Animals like black and white colobus monkey, buffaloes, giraffes, baboons and others can be seen.
4. Best Time to Climb Mount Meru
The optimal seasons are the dry periods:
- June to October (reliable dry weather, good visibility, but cooler at higher elevations).
- December to February (clear skies for the best Kilimanjaro views, warmer conditions).
Avoid the rainy seasons (March–May and November) when trails can be slippery and muddy, though climbs are possible year-round with luck.
5. Accommodation
Meru Mountain offers huts accommodation at two points of Miriakamba and Saddle. Three campsite at present are available, rest house and few lodges run by Arusha National Park.
Trekking & Climbing Tips
Mount Meru follows the single Momella Route (starting at Momella Gate), with overnight stays in basic mountain huts (Miriakamba Hut at ~2,500 m and Saddle Hut at ~3,570 m). No tents are needed. The trek involves ~46 km total distance and significant elevation gain, with steep sections, loose gravel, and exposure on the summit ridge.
Preparation & Fitness
- Build endurance with regular cardio (hiking, running, stair climbing), leg strength exercises, and hikes carrying a daypack. Train for 6+ weeks if possible.
- It’s moderately difficult—steeper and more technical in places than many expect, but non-technical (no ropes/climbing gear required).
- Good fitness is essential; the summit push is steep and demanding (often starting ~2–3 a.m. for sunrise).
Acclimatization
- Altitude sickness is a real risk despite the lower height—rapid gain makes it trickier than some Kilimanjaro routes.
- Choose the 4-day itinerary over 3 days for better acclimatization (highly recommended for most people).
- On day 2/3, do the optional side trip to Little Meru (~3,801 m) for extra altitude exposure.
- Stay hydrated (3–4 liters/day), eat well even if appetite drops, and ascend slowly (“pole pole” pace of one step at a time).
- If doing Meru before Kilimanjaro, allow 1–2 rest days in Arusha afterward.
Practical Tips
- Guides and an armed ranger are mandatory (for wildlife safety in the park).
- Pack layers for variable weather: hot lower forests, cold/windy summit (sub-zero at night).
- Key gear: sturdy hiking boots, warm sleeping bag (huts can be chilly), rain jacket, headlamp, trekking poles (helpful on steep/loose sections), and sun protection.
- Wildlife is abundant early on—stay alert and follow your ranger.
- Summit day is tough: steep, exposed ridge with sheer drops—focus on steady breathing and pacing.
- Tipping: Expected at the end (~10% of package cost or $200–$350 total per person for the crew, shared among guide, porters, cook, ranger).
Mount Meru is an underrated gem—offering a thrilling mix of wildlife, dramatic scenery, and a genuine high-altitude challenge without Kilimanjaro’s crowds or price tag. It’s an ideal standalone adventure or perfect Kilimanjaro warm-up that boosts your success chances on the bigger peak. With solid preparation, the 4-day option, and a reliable guide, most fit trekkers reach the summit and enjoy an unforgettable sunrise experience. If you’re heading to Tanzania, don’t skip Meru—it’s often the highlight for those who make the climb! Always book with experienced, ethical operators for the best outcome.
It is very possible to combine Mount Meru climbing with our Northern Tanzania safari package or Kilimanjaro Climb or Zanzibar beach holidays or Meru and two of the above.
