The ascension to the volcano Mt. Meru is a perfect preparation for the conquest of Kilimanjaro. You can get used to the heights (around 15.000 feet) and it is possible to test out the equipment, so that you will be able to correct and improve it at the rest day that lies between the climbing of Kilimanjaro. But the most important thing is to practice ascending at night, since it is not very pleasant to do this in the almost dark, when it is quite cold.
We recommend a three day tour. You will spend the nights in so called “Swiss” huts, which nobody would expect to find in Africa. Even to the top of the volcano animals roam, especially buffalo. At the foot of Mt. Meru you often meet with giraffes, elephants, wild hogs, antelopes, baboons and a great variety of birds.
To ensure your safety the group is accompanied by an armed ranger. On the tour you will cross many different vegetation zones, as there is open grassland, mountain forest, swamp, giant heather and penurious rocks, therefore you have the chance to experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arusha – Momella gate – Miriakamba Hut
Drive 1 Hr, Hike Distance 10 km, 4 – 5 hrs, 1000m ascent, Alt: 2516
Dinner and overnight Mariakamba Hut
Day 2 – Mariakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
Hike Distance 4km, 2-3 hrs, 1050m ascent, Alt: 3566
Dinner and overnight Saddle Hut.
Day 3 – From Meru Summit to Saddle Hut to Momella Gate and back to Arusha
Hike Distance 14km, 6 to 8hrs, 3050m descent, Alt: 1516
Drive 1 hr back to Arusha/Moshi
