Mount Meru is a dormant stratovolcano located 70 kilometres (43 mi) west of Mount Kilimanjaro in southeast Arusha Region, Tanzania. At a height of 4,562.13 metres (14,968 ft), it is visible from Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day and is the fifth-highest of the highest mountain peaks of Africa, dependent on definition.
Mount Meru is located just north of the city of Arusha, in the Arusha Region of Tanzania. It is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, after Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is also the highest mountain/point in Arusha Region. The Momella route – which starts at Momella gate, on the eastern side of the mountain – is used to climb Mount Meru.
We recommend comfortable light clothing for the day and something warmer for the evenings, which can be chilly in the northern highlands. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for those planning on walking in the parks (must be booked in advance). You will further need a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
You can find a more detailed list of items to take in our article "What to take on Tanzania safari?"
In short - Tanzania is absolutely safe for tourists. Tourism provides a large part of the country’s foreign income and the local authorities take matters of security very seriously. Moreover, Tanzania is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and Tanzanians are very friendly as a people.
This said, some criminality does exist, just as it does everywhere else. We, therefore, recommend that you exercise common sense and follow the rules below:
Avoid the dangerous parts of any town- these are mentioned in most books and your guide will be happy to point them out.
Do not leave your belongings unattended.
When planning to take photos in towns, it is best to bring along a guide. This is not so much in the interests of safety, but, rather to facilitate communication with the locals, who are – for cultural reasons – not always happy about being photographed and often do not speak English.
After dark it is best to avoid walking. Instead, use taxis for all your travel within town. These are best organized by your tour operator or hotel reception.
We highly recommend that you have your travel insurance regardless of what foreign country you may be visiting. If you are planning a Kilimanjaro climb, make sure that climbing emergencies are covered in your policy at height no less than 6,000 meters. If necessary your Tour Manager will assist with purchasing such insurance.
Depart for Arusha National Park. Begin the trek from Momella gate, crossing the Ngarenanyuki river, past the Fig tree arch to Miriakamba hut (2514m). The trek covers a distance of about 10 km and takes 4-5 hrs. Supper and overnight.
Today's trekking lasts about 2-3 hrs, covering a distance of about 4km to Saddle Hut (3570m). There is an optional trek to Little Meru (3820m) or Rhino Point, either of which takes an additional 2-3 hrs. The scenic view of the Meru Summit and Kilimanjaro can be seen from here. Supper & overnight at Saddle Hut.
Depart Saddle Hut at around 02:00 hrs in time to reach the summit and see the sun rising behind Mt. Kilimanjaro. The trek to the summit at 4566m is along a very narrow ridge for about (5kms) and 4-5 hrs. The descent takes 4-5 hours (9kms) to Miriakamba Hut where you will overnight.
After breakfast depart Miriakamba hut for Momella gate (3-4hrs). Here you will be met and transferred to Arusha.
Overshadowed by its sister mountain Kilimanjaro, Mt. Meru is generally considered more of a challenge. Combined with Kili it makes for some of the most thrilling hiking in the world.