How hard is Mount Meru? What to expect on the Trek

Mount Meru: Tanzania's Forgotten Giant

Towering at 4,562 meters (14,968 ft), this stratovolcano is Africa's fifth-highest peak and the second-highest in Tanzania. Often overshadowed by Kilimanjaro, Meru offers a more rugged and technical climb through diverse ecosystems - from lush rainforests to alpine deserts - culminating in a dramatic ash cone with sheer 1,500m cliffs.

Why Climb Mount Meru

• Geological Wonder: Perfect volcanic cone with intact crater rim
• Wildlife Encounters: Buffalo, colobus monkeys and elephants on lower slopes
• Technical Challenge: Final ascent involves rock scrambling
• Kilimanjaro Views: Unparalleled vistas of Kili from summit
• Cultural Significance: Sacred to both Maasai and Arusha peoples

Best Time to Visit

• Prime Season: June-October (dry conditions)
• Shoulder Season: December-February (clearer views)
• Avoid: April-May (heavy rains make trails dangerous)
• Sunrise Timing: Summit by 7am for clearest views
• Temperature Range: 25°C at base to -5°C at summit

Accommodation Options

Meru View Lodge: Panoramic views of the mountain
Arusha Coffee Lodge: Luxury base before climbs
Moshi Expedition Lodge: Climber-focused accommodation

Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge: Historic colonial-era lodge
Meru Hill Lodge: Mid-range option near park gate
Arusha Tourist Inn: Budget-friendly urban base

Ecological Zones

• Rainforest (1,500-2,500m): Home to 400+ bird species
• Moorland (2,500-3,500m): Giant lobelias and groundsels
• Alpine Desert (3,500-4,000m): Volcanic ash landscapes
• Summit Zone (4,000m+): Ash cone with sulfur deposits
• Crater Floor: Last erupted in 1910, now with small lakes

Climbing Notes: The 4-day trek requires good fitness. Summit night involves 5-6 hours of steep climbing. All climbs must be accompanied by armed rangers due to wildlife. The mountain serves as excellent acclimatization for Kilimanjaro. Unique flora includes the Meru gladiolus (Gladiolus meruensis) found nowhere else on Earth.