5 Days Mount Meru Trekking
DESCRIPTION
This hike to the peak of Mount Meru is completed in three days. Situated at the heart of the Arusha National Park, Mount Meru overlooks the spectacular plains of the savannah. Mount was sculpted into its distinctive shape thousands of years ago when a volcanic blast destroyed an immense bulk of the eastward flank of the mountain. The fertile slopes are home to a vast range of wildlife. The climb to the summit alongside the volcanic caldera doesn’t require an athlete or an extreme alpinist but you should be in relatively good shape. Mount Meru climbing entails steep slopes, it can be challenging but you won’t regret conquering it. The enchanting view and diverse wildlife of Kilimanjaro’s little brother make this the ideal trek for an adventurous thrill seeker.
Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha
We will arrange for a driver to transport you from the airport to your hotel. Orientation regarding your trek will take place at the hotel. Your guides will provide information about the trek and perform a comprehensive inspection of your gear. They will also clarify any further questions.
Day 2: Arusha to Miriakamba Hut
We will depart from the hotel in Arusha in the morning. Our expedition begins with a drive to Arusha National Park which takes approximately one hour. The lively vegetation in the park is extremely versatile. The infamous film Hartari starring Hollywood’s Hardy Kruger and John Wayne was shot in the park.Â
Once we have completed the necessary park formalities, our trek will officially commence close to the Ngarenanyuki River. Our first waypoint is the Miriakamba. You will be accompanied by an armed ranger and a professional mountain guide throughout the duration of the walk. During the walk you will encounter a vast amount of wildlife including buffalo, waterbucks, giraffes, warthogs, zebras and gazelles.Â
Your guide will identify the different bird species you come across. There is a possibility that you will see leopards or elephants but they tend to be more reserved compared to the ones in the Serengeti. We will stop at the Miriakamba Hut where we will spend the night and enjoy an appetizing dinner.
Day 3: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
We will start the day with an energy dense breakfast and then we will follow the steep path to the Saddle Hut. The trek to little Meru can be completed once you arrive at the Saddle Hut. We will return to the Saddle hut and have dinner. Due to the fact that you will wake up at midnight to hike to the summit of Mount Meru, it is recommended that you attempt to fall asleep shortly after dinner.
Day 4: Saddle Hut to Momela Gate to Arusha
We will begin the final leg of our journey to the peak of Mount Meru around midnight. Your headlamp will assist you in the early hours of the hike. Reaching the summit is the most difficult part of the journey due to the fact that the trail is exceedingly steep. We have allocated some time for photos and a moment to comprehend what you have achieved.Â
The scenic view of the mountains as you descend to the Momela Gate is simply mesmerizing. We will briefly stop at the Saddle hut for lunch. The final hours of our journey will be spent trekking to the Momela Gate. You will have a chance to hike amid the Meru cloud forest. This trail tends be slippery so it is important to step consciously. Our vehicle will transport you from the Momela gate back to where you began your adventure and take you back to your hotel.
Day 5: Arusha to Kilimanjaro Airport
Our driver will take you to Kilimanjaro Airport, from where you will connect your flight back home or Zanzibar island.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
- Transport from/to park gate & airport transfer
- Pre & post climb accommodation (B&B) in Arusha
- Park, hut accommodation & rescue fees
- Professional English speaking guide(s); porters & cook
- All meals according to itinerary
- Water; tea and coffee with meals
EXCLUDED FROM THE PRICE:
- Flights
- Lunch & dinner in Arusha
- Travel insurance
- Visa and passport fees
- Increases in park fees where applicable
- Personal equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Tips for guide(s), porters & cook
- Soda & alcoholic beverages