MT MERU CLIMBING

Mount Meru Overview

Mount Meru, standing at 4,566 meters, is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and one of the most rewarding climbs in East Africa. Located within Arusha National Park, the trek offers a unique combination of wildlife encounters, lush landscapes, and dramatic volcanic scenery. Unlike Kilimanjaro, the Mount Meru trail begins inside the park itself, where trekkers often spot giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and colobus monkeys before even reaching the higher elevations.
The trek is typically completed in 3 or 4 days, with the 4-day itinerary offering a more gradual pace and better acclimatization. The highlight of the climb is reaching Socialist Peak at sunrise, where climbers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the sweeping plains of Arusha National Park.
Mount Meru is also considered an excellent acclimatization climb for those preparing to tackle Kilimanjaro, as it provides high-altitude trekking experience in a shorter timeframe.

Map of Mt Meru

Difficulty – Is Mount Meru Hard to Climb?

Mount Meru is considered a moderately challenging trek, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The trails are less steep than some Kilimanjaro routes, but the summit push involves a sharp ridge climb in the dark, requiring good fitness, determination, and proper guidance.
Because the climb starts lower and ascends quickly, altitude sickness can still be a concern — which is why the 4-day itinerary is recommended for better acclimatization.

MT MERU ITINERARIES