Mount Meru Trekking (4 Days)
Safari Highlights Mt. Meru may not be a name which enjoys the same international recognition as mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, 80km to the east. But whether you are training for an ascent of Africa’s highest peak, or targeting Meru as your primary goal, this really is an experience to treasure. At a lofty 4566 metres, this is a great challenge in its own right. Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Momella Gate to Mariakamba Hut Elevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft – Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Distance: 14 km | 9 miles Habitat: Rain Forest We depart Moshi or Arusha for Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife – giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo – is high. Our hike on the Southern Route takes us through the rain forest to Maio Waterfalls and Fig Tree Arch until we reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade. Day 2: Mariakamba Hut to Saddle Hut Elevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft – Hiking Time: 3-5 hours Distance: 6 km | 3 miles Habitat: Health We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash-Tray. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization. Day 3: Saddle Hut – Summit – Mariakamba Hut Saddle Huts to Summit Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft – Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Summit to Miriakamba Huts Elevation: 14,977 ft to 8,250 ft – Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Distance: 6 km | 4 miles – Habitat: Alpine Desert Distance: 12 km | 7 miles – Habitat: Health Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our climb to the summit. The trail is steep to Rhino Point and then Cobra Point. The path continues along the ridge of ash and rock to the summit – Socialist Peak. Here we enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and the sunrise before returning to Miriakamba Huts. Day 3: Mariakamba Hut – Momella Gate Elevation: 11,712 ft to 4,921 ft – Hiking Time: 2-4 hours Distance: 7 km | 4 miles Habitat: Rain Forest On our last day, we descend quickly through the tropical rainforest to Momella Gate. At the base of the mountain, our vehicle will meet us and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha or Moshi. WHATS INCLUDED? All Entrance fees and Government taxes Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure) Clean, purified drinking water Fair wages for the mountain crew. All meals while on the Mountain Rescue Fees and all taxes. Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit WHATS EXCLUDED? International and local airfare. Yellow fever vaccinations Passport, Visa, and Travelers Insurance Local transportation before and after the climb. Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc. Tips for the support team Private Toilet and hot shower tent Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles. Enjoy an Array of African Safari Experiences