Mount Meru is a volcano towering at 4566 m/14,980 ft over the vast African savannahs and rainforests. It ranks as one of the highest peaks in Africa and Tanzania's second-highest, just behind the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, which lies only 40km away. While Kilimanjaro often steals the spotlight, Mt Meru is an impressive mountain with its own unique charm.
Climbing Mount Meru is an epic adventure that combines hiking with exploration of African nature and wildlife. Situated within a national park, it is home to a variety of rare animals and plants. The slopes of Meru are covered in lush tropical forests that give way to heather and high-altitude flora as you trek higher.
And, of course, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding savannahs, beautiful lakes, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon reaching the summit, travelers will marvel at the awe-striking sight of sunrise over Africa – a truly memorable moment that will stay with you forever.
An expedition to Mount Meru does not require any special skills and can be considered a moderately difficult trek. Additionally, if you're considering climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, trekking to the Meru summit first is an excellent way to prepare and acclimatize to the high altitude, which will be of great help on the “Roof of Africa”.
TMount Meru trekking is suitable for both those looking for a challenging high-altitude experience and those seeking acclimatization before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It's a moderately challenging trek, ideal for reasonably fit individuals, and offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and wildlife encounters.
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where Grey Eden Safaris representative will meet you and transfer to the hotel.The hotel provides all the essentials for a comfortable stay, such as: cozy rooms, Internet access, hot water, a swimming pool, and a helpful staff. In the evening, an orientation session with our tour coordinators will ensure that you are ready to begin the spectacular Meru climb.
Overnight: Ilboru Safari Lodge, Arusha.
Early in the morning you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this time, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). The first day of hiking is similar to a walking safari; you should expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and potentially elephants near the trail. Due to the high possibility of spotting wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, is required to hike with our team for the duration of the hike. As you continue hiking, you will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a beautiful waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon arriving to Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), your chef will prepare a hot dinner and warm water for you.
Note: This will be your first day at this altitude, so it is strongly recommended you heed the following instructions from this point on:
At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your breathing pattern at night, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and experience a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Starting Point: Momella Gate.
End Point: Marikamba Hut 2500m.
Walking Duration: 4-6 Hours approx.
Overnight: Mandara Hut, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
After breakfast, you will start ascending up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. You may see various wildlife along the way! The trail has amazing views of Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. When you arrive at camp, you have the option of hiking Little Meru (3,820 m) with your guide to further acclimate. You will be served an early dinner, so you can receive ample rest before your midnight summit attempt.
Starting Point: Marikamba Hut 2500m.
End Point: Saddle hut 3,550m.
Walking Duration: 3-4 Hours approx.
Overnight: Saddle hut, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
For clients trekking Mount Kilimanjaro in 6 days today is an acclimatisation day. Horombo is usually bustling with hikers, guides, chefs and porters with an atmosphere of adventure and excitement and we highly recommend this additional acclimatisation day and night to give you a greater chance of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. Today you will have the opportunity to hike towards to Mawenzi Hut passing the Zebra Rocks which is a 4-5 hour round trip approx. Today you will continue your ascent into alpine desert and to the Saddle before continuing to Kibo Hut where the summit is only 1,195m above you. Tonight you will enjoy an early dinner and retire to your tent where you will prepare for your hike to the summit later tonight. At 11:30pm you will be woken with tea or coffee and a snack before making your way into the night.
Starting Point: Saddle hut 3,550m.
Summit: Meru Peak 4,566m.
Descend: Momella Gate.
Walking Duration: 12-14 Hours approx.
Overnight: Ilboru Safari Lodge, Arusha.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.
At Grey Eden Safaris, our greatest reward is seeing the joy, excitement, and wonder on our guests’ faces. But don’t just take our word for it hear directly from the adventurers who’ve journeyed with us!
The accommodations were top-notch, blending luxury with the beauty of nature. Every day brought new and breathtaking experiences, from witnessing the Great Migration to spotting the Big Five. I felt truly connected to the African wilderness thanks to Grey Eden’s dedication to authentic and responsible tourism.
I highly recommend Grey Eden Safaris to anyone looking for a memorable and life-changing safari experience. They exceeded all my expectations and made every moment unforgettable. I can’t wait to travel with them again!
The accommodations were top-notch, blending luxury with the beauty of nature. Every day brought new and breathtaking experiences, from witnessing the Great Migration to spotting the Big Five. I felt truly connected to the African wilderness thanks to Grey Eden’s dedication to authentic and responsible tourism.
USA
As an Aussie who loves adventure, Grey Eden Safaris delivered beyond my wildest dreams! From start to finish, their team was exceptional—super friendly, professional, and genuinely passionate about showcasing Africa’s beauty. The guides were brilliant, spotting wildlife I never thought I’d see up close.
The safari lodges were stunning, offering a perfect mix of comfort and authentic bush experience. Every day was filled with unforgettable moments, from sunrise game drives to evenings under the stars. I felt safe, well cared for, and truly immersed in nature.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable safari down under or anywhere in the world, Grey Eden Safaris is the way to go. I’ll definitely be back for more adventures with them!
Australia
Five years ago, I embarked on a safari with Grey Eden Safaris, and the memories are still as vivid as the day they happened. From the warm hospitality to the breathtaking wildlife encounters, every detail was flawless. It was truly the trip of a lifetime
The safari itself was beyond anything I had imagined. We ventured deep into the wilderness, witnessing majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, and even a pride of lions up close. Our guide’s knowledge of the land and wildlife made each moment more meaningful, turning every sighting into a story worth remembering. The landscapes were like something out of a dream, changing from golden savannahs to lush green plains.
Even now, five years later, I can close my eyes and be back there — the sunsets painting the sky, the sounds of nature all around, and the feeling of pure wonder.
USA