https://www.taswachallenge.com/mount-meru/

5 days Mount Meru

5-days mount Meru climbing

This hike to the peak of Mount Meru is completed in 5 days. Situated at the heart of the Arusha National Park, Mount Meru overlooks the spectacular plains of the savannah. Meru 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.

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.

We will depart from the hotel in Moshi 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. 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. 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 appetising dinner.

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.

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. 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. A Viva Africa Tours vehicle will transport you from the Momela gate back to where you began. You will have the opportunity to purchase sodas and Mount Meru climbing shirts to prove that you conquered the trek.

A driver will bring you to Kilimanjaro Airport, from where you will connect your flight. If you’ve signed up for a safari or Zanzibar beach holiday – well, that’s a different adventure and we’ll be happy to take of it for you.

Our Package Includes

Transport from/to park gate & airport transfer
Pre & post climb accommodation (B&B) in Moshi
Park, hut accommodation & rescue fees
Professional English speaking guide(s); porters & cook
3 breakfasts; 3 lunches; 2 dinners
Water; tea and coffee with meals

Not Included

Flights
Lunch & dinner in Moshi
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