- Mountain Trekking
- Tour Details
Mt. Meru
Explore Tanzania’s Towering Treasure: Mount Meru
Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania, stands at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) and offers a unique and captivating trekking experience. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a stunning volcanic mountain located within Arusha National Park. Its lush slopes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views make it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced trekkers.
Mount Meru is an active stratovolcano with a distinct cone and a history of significant eruptions. The last major eruptions. The last major eruption occurred over a century ago, creating a stunning caldera and a unique landscape for exploration.
- Caldera: The summit of Mount Meru features a striking caldera, with sheer cliffs and a lush crater floor.
- Little Meru: At 3,820 meters (12,522 feet), Little Meru provides an excellent acclimatisation hike and offers panoramic views of the main summit.
- Momella Lakes: Located at the base of the mountain, these alkaline lakes are home to a variety of bird species and provide a serene starting point for the trek.
Mt Meru Ecological Zones
Trekking Mount Meru is a journey through diverse ecological zones, each with its own unique flora and fauna:
- Cultivation Zone (1,500-2,000 meters): Farmland and villages surround the base of the mountain, where local communities cultivate crops like coffee and bananas.
- Montane Forest Zone (2,000-2,800): Dense Forest teeming with wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and a rich variety of bird species.
- Heath and Moorland Zone (2,800-3,500 meters): Open moorland with giant heathers, lobelias, and a striking view of the surrounding landscape.
- Alpine Desert Zone (3,500-4,500 meters): Harsh, rocky terrain with sparse vegetation and dramatic volcanic features.
Routes to Summit Mt. Meru
Mount Meru offers a single route to the summit, known as the Momella Route. This route is renowned for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife encounters, and challenging terrain.
Starting from Momella Gate, this route takes trekkers through lush forests, across open moorlands, and along the dramatic caldera rim to the summit. The trek typically takes 4-6 days, with accommodations in designated huts along the way.
Climbing Experience
Climbing Mount Meru is a rewarding adventure that requires no technical climbing skills but demands good physical fitness and acclimatisation to handle the altitude and challenging conditions.
Mount Meru Trekking Tour: Climbing Tanzania’s Second-Highest Peak
Mount Meru is often overlooked, which means fewer crowds and a more peaceful trek. Our route begins in Arusha National Park, where you may spot giraffes, buffalo, and warthogs on foot. You will be guided by experienced rangers who are there to keep you safe.
The trail climbs through forest and heathland, with monkeys overhead and birdsong all around. As altitude increases, the landscape opens up. You’ll sleep in mountain huts, enjoy warm meals, and (if the skies are clear) catch views of Kilimanjaro in the distance.
🗺️Momella Route & Highlights
- Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut – rainforest & wildlife.
- Day 2: Miriakamba to Saddle Hut via Little Meru – acclimatisation & views.
- Day 3: Summit Socialist Peak at sunrise, descend to Miriakamba Hut.
- Day 4: Return to Momella Gate – final forest descent.
🐾Wildlife & Landscapes
- Lower Slopes: Colobus monkeys, bushbucks, giraffes.
- Heathland & Moorland: Giant heathers, sunbirds, expansive views.
- Alpine Desert & Crater Rim: Eagles, hyraxes, volcanic ridges & crater vistas.
🗓️Best Time to Trek
- Jun–Oct: Dry, clear skies, popular season.
- Jan–Mar: Quieter, dry, softer light & cool air.
- Apr, May, Nov: Wet season, lush scenery, fewer trekkers.
💰Costs & What's Included
- Park permits, huts & full guiding team included.
- Ground transport & meals along the trek.
- Clean water on trail provided.
- Not included: international flights, visas, insurance, personal gear & tips.
Get in Touch with Us
Mount Meru
Your adventure starts here – book your Mount Meru trek today with MileleExplorer and discover Tanzania’s hidden volcanic gem for an unforgettable experience!