MOUNT MERU- 4566 m.

Mount Meru is located at 3.25 degrees south and 36.75 d. E, of the Northern circuit, within the Arusha National Park. Standing at an altitude of 4566 m high, Meru does not require any technical mountain climbing experience to ascend this less snowing mountain.

Most of the alpine's climb Meru for acclimatizing purposes before their Kilimanjaro bid.

The top right image shows the massive volcanic explosion that blew off a craggy chunk of the mountain's shoulder in the early 1900's, now crowned by sheer cliffs overlooking the crater. The main cone of the volcano has a caldera which is 3.5 km in diameter and a huge breach on its Eastern side.

Being the second highest mountain in Tanzania and ideally situated within the little Serengeti-Arusha N Park,Meru provides the climbers with a double treat, flora and fauna viewing while hiking up through forests of dripping Spanish moss, carpeted with clover rising to open heath, spiked with giant lobelia plants.

The delicate Klipslingers antelopes and mountain Rock Hyraxes are amongst the unique spectators who watch the hiking in progress from the top of huge boulders ,while everlasting flowers cling to the alpine desert underfoot.

As usual the summit bid is the toughest potion, but the sunrise is breathtaking and the sight of Mt. Kilimanjaro's south western breach is clearly visible.

A three to four day's hike up the top or even to Little Meru is highly rewarding and a great experience and exercise especially if planning to go for UHURU PEAK on Kilimanjaro.

The crater lakes of Momela and Ngurdoto attract a multitude of flamingos and other bird life (more than 400 recorded species in ANP). Lesser game is plentiful at lower attitude.
The elusive Buffalo, Zebra, Giraffes, Warthogs and the rare Leopards(most ra re..) can be spotted in the dense forest trees.

Accommodation is facilitated at the Momela lodge within the National Park providing clients with clear views of animals like the proud Giraffes and Zebras. Camping facilities are also available in and outside the park.

You shouldn't underestimate Mt. Meru, the ascent is steep and strenuous and the high altitude strains your lungs if ascending too fast. The best season to ascend Mt. Meru is between the months of September and March although there might be some showers around November.

During the rainy months of March and cold months of June and July the last section of the ascent from the saddle hut to the summit is covered with patches of ice and snow, making it relatively dangerous.

LT 304 MMT: 3 to 4 DAYS ITINERARY.

DAY 1: MOSHI /ARUSHA TO MARIAKAMBA (+1000 m ALT).

Two routes are available from Momela gate (1,500 m) to Miriakamba hut (2,514 m). The southern route takes 4 hours and the northern route takes 5 hrs. A natural spring provides water both during the dry and wet seasons.

After reaching the hut, you will have an opportunity to climb to the Njeku Viewpoint, a platform overlooking a waterfall, providing excellent views of the Ash Cone and the whole crater itself. Allow 2 to 3 hours for this side trip. You may also trek up to little Meru (3,821 m) from Miriakamba hut (2,514 m), which takes about 3 hrs, giving you a chance to view the beautiful surroundings and a most spectacular sun setting.

Accommodate at Miriakamba huts campsite - 2514 m.

DAY 2: MARIAKAMBA TO SADDLE HUT(+1056 m ALT).

Depart early morning after B/fast, from Miriakamba Hut heading to the Saddle campsite. The climb becomes quite steep as you reach the splendid Mgongo wa Tembo viewpoint overlooking the entire crater floor covering less than 3 hrs. The trail proceeds even steeper up to the saddle Hut (3570m).

After feeding and resting a bit, ascent to the summit of Little Meru (3820 m), which takes 01:30 hrs climb, from here the spectacle is really splendid. Descend from little Meru back to the Saddle hut for dinner and the overnight (3570 m).

DAY 3: SADDLE HUT TO SUMMIT (+996 m ALT).

3:00 AM after a light breakfast leave un-needed equipment inside the hut and head out into the darkness toward the summit (4566 m) . Around 5:00 AM you will reach Rhino point. Here, you can wait for your breathtaking sunrise behind Kilimanjaro.

Follow the crater rim all the way to the top; it's about a four hour walk. After admiring and photo eng all the stunning vistas, you will descend all the way to Momela gate via the northern trail. You should reach the gate around sundown.

At the gate you shall be awarded with your certificate of achievement before you hop into the waiting cruiser to drive you back to base for lunch, a cool beer/ soda, swim , relaxation and a warm bed.

GUIDES:

Hikers are not allowed to walk within Arusha National Park without being accompanied by an official armed ranger. LTS will arrange for a ranger at Momela gate, daily fee are charged for the Ranger.

PORTERS: Usually every trekker needs at least two porters to carry 15kgs each, of your gear and food supplies plus his own. A small tip(min 10%) is also expected and appreciated in the end of the expedition.

EXTRA DAY: This is usually spent at the Saddle hut on the second day.

After breakfast you can hike up to the little Meru - (3820 m) ,1:30 hrs walk and return to the saddle campsite. You will gain about 350 m in altitude.

Dine and accommodate at the saddle huts.