Mount Meru

4,566

METERS (OR 14,980 FEET) ABOVE SEA LEVEL

How high is Mount Meru? Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro, standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet). It is located in Arusha National Park, just 70km to the west of Kilimanjaro. The mountain offers a more technical climb than Kilimanjaro, though it is considered a slightly easier and shorter alternative to Kilimanjaro’s trek, typically taking between 4 to 5 days to summit. The climb is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and unique volcanic features, including the crater and its ash cone.

Good to Know about Mount Meru

Location: Arusha National Park, Tanzania


Height: 4,566 meters (14,980 feet)


Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (due to technical sections & altitude)


Best Time to Climb: June - October and December - February


Climbing Routes:

  • Momella Route (the most popular route)
  • Laloto Route (less commonly used)

Packing Tips for Mount Meru

Clothing: Layered clothing, including warm clothes for the summit night, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.


Footwear: Sturdy, high-quality hiking boots with good ankle support.


Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, and plenty of water.



Sleeping Bag: Ensure you have a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures.

What to Expect on the Trek

Wildlife: Arusha National Park is home to giraffes, buffalo, zebras, monkeys, and various bird species. Hikers will have chances to see these animals, especially during the lower sections of the trek.


Altitude: The trek offers a great way to acclimatize to altitude before attempting higher peaks like Kilimanjaro.



Views: Along the trek, climbers can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Meru Crater, and the surrounding savannah.

Laini Safaris Trekking Itinerary for Mount Meru

5 Days / 4 Nights


Day 1: Arrival in Arusha, brief trek preparation, and overnight at the hotel.


Day 2: Transfer to the Momella Gate, commence the trek to Miriakamba Hut. Overnight at the hut.


Day 3: Trek to Saddle Hut for acclimatization.


Day 4: Summit day, reach the peak of Mount Meru, and descend back to Saddle Hut.


Day 5: Descend to Miriakamba Hut, then continue to the Momella Gate. Transfer back to Arusha for departure or onward travel.


Package Includes:


  • Arusha National Park fees
  • Professional guides and porters
  • Accommodation in huts 
  • Meals (full board)
  • Transport from Arusha to the gate and return


A Volcanic Adventure

Climb Mount Meru for an epic 4-day adventure through forest, wildlife, and volcanic craters. It's an active stratovolcano with a dramatic, horseshoe-shaped crater - a geologic spectacle.


Mount Meru is for adventurous trekkers who want more wilderness, fewer tourists, and epic views of Kilimanjaro from Meru’s summit ridge.


A solid high-altitude challenge, you can do Mount Meru either as a warm-up for Kilimanjaro or a standout experience on its own.