The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, Rongai has...
Mt. Meru which is Tanzania’s second highest mountain standing tall at 4,566m. It is located in Arusha National Park and offers some of the most spectacular scenery and wildlife diversity of any mountain in Tanzania. Mt. Meru is a challenging trek due to its steepness, but is a great way to acclimatize before attempting Mt. Kilimanjaro. Climbers are accompanied by an armed ranger due to the abundance of wildlife on the lower slopes. Mt. Meru also has some historical significance to it whereby some have suggested that it was the resting place of Noah’s Ark when it came to rest after the biblical flood receded. Mt. Meru is a great trekking option for those who want to take on a climbing challenge and get the sense of being out in the wild, but are not quite ready to tackle Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Day one of 3 Days Mount Meru Climb, Starting from Momela Gate, the track passes through open grassland with cape buffalo and warthogs. With luck, you may also see giraffe and elephants. Continue a steady climb through montane forest. You can have your lunch at the famous “Fig tree”. After lunch, the trek continues through less dense forest, where there are lots of birds and monkeys including the black and white colobus. By mid-afternoon, you will have your first close views of the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. Miriakamba Hut, situated in idyllic grassy glade, is reached in time to enjoy the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro.
Day two of 3 Days Mount Meru Climb, The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a steep sustained climb all the way. Starting through beautiful and lush montane forest, the path continues beyond the halfway point of Elephant Back Ridge and carries on uphill through the giant heather and other moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut for lunch. In the afternoon, you can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft) for superb views. It takes about 1 hour to walk up and 30 minutes to walk down. The ascent is 1,056 m / 3,465 ft.
Last day of 3 Days Mount Meru Climb, Summit day has an early start at around 12:00AM. There is a 1 hour steep climb to Rhino Point (3,800m / 12,467ft), then the path continues along a ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350m / 14,272ft). The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m) is an hour further on a steep path with magnificent views of Kilimanjaro. Depending on your speed, you can enjoy sunrise at Cobra Point or the summit. The views are stunning: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds, and the Rift Valley.
The route back to Rhino Point in the sharp morning light along a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Brunch and a brief rest is taken at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut. NOTE: For an easier climb, you can start the trek at 05:00 A.M., hike for about 1 hour, and enjoy sunrise at Rhino Point before going back to Saddle Hut for breakfast and then descending. NOTE: In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point.
There are two ways down from here. You can descend the route you came up or walk down the jeep road, which descends to the lower crater floor. You pass through the well-known Fig Tree Arch and can visit an impressive waterfall hidden in a ravine not far from the road. A fast descent through open grassland and mixed forest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. This trail has excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of the National Park. We’ll have lunch on the way down. Momela Gate is reached by mid-day or afternoon.
The ascent of Mount Meru typically takes 3 to 4 days, depending on the chosen route and climber’s pace. Capybara Safari offers various itineraries, including shorter and longer options to accommodate different preferences and fitness levels.
No worries about that – this is a common concern. It is much better for your body if you proceed slowly and guides will permanently remind you about this (“pole-pole” – which means “slowly slowly”). By walking slowly, your body will much better acclimatize to high altitude. There is plenty of time allocated each day for the treks, even for those who like to go very slowly.
Accommodation on Mount Meru consists of mountain huts strategically located along the ascent route. These huts provide basic amenities such as bunk beds with mattresses, blankets, and shared restroom facilities. Capybara Safari ensures climbers have comfortable lodging during their expedition.
Mount Meru is considered a challenging trek, particularly during the final ascent to the summit. The route involves steep sections, rocky terrain, and high altitude, requiring climbers to be in good physical condition and adequately prepared for the climb.
The best time to climb Mount Meru is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to October and from December to February. These months offer favorable weather conditions with clear skies and minimal rainfall, making for a more enjoyable climbing experience.
Essential items to pack for climbing Mount Meru include sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a sleeping bag, personal hygiene products, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle. Capybara Safari provides a detailed packing list to ensure climbers are adequately prepared for their expedition.
Most climbers access Mount Meru by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Arusha, the nearest major city. From Arusha, it’s a short drive to Arusha National Park, where Mount Meru is situated. Capybara Safari can arrange transportation from Arusha to the park entrance.
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We are thrilled to share that Capybara Safari has been honored with a perfect 5/5 rating from our valued clients. This exceptional recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to going above and beyond for every guest. Our mission is to ensure that each safari experience is not only memorable but truly fulfilling. We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our customers, and we remain dedicated to making every journey extraordinary. Thank you for inspiring us to strive for excellence every day.
Verified
LeoBl24 March 2025A great Kilimanjaro experience I have recently climbed Kilimanjaro with Brighton and his crew and I had an outstanding experience. The meals were always amazing, lots of food as well. One of our guys struggled a little with altitude sickness, but everyone made sure that he will make it up the top, but all in a safe manner. Brighton is a very knowledgeable guy in the area and has been running Kilimanjaro tours for a very long time and you can see and feel his experience in any possible way. I can’t recommend him and his crew enough!Verified
jungleJim2224 March 2025Trek to Uhuru Peak, Mount Kilimanjaro Very well organized trek to uhuru peak mount kilimanjaro. Food, guides and the whole organization was excellent. I can highly recommend.Verified
Hannah H21 March 2025First time - not the last time This was my first trekking trip, and it was amazing.The whole Crew was always very Kind and polite, every one helped us going up to the top. The food was really good we had plenty to eat even on top of the mountain! The mood was always good, we had a lot of fun and felt safe all the time. We did some safety stops for getting used to the height. The tents were always made by the crewMy guide was a super funny guy from moshi who kept the motivation high and pushed us to go further. It was a great experience and I would recommend any timeVerified
Nath_London21 March 2025Hiking Kilimanjaro I had the once in a lifetime opportunity to climb up Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho route. Although the trek was challenging- especially getting to the summit, it was lots of fun and I had the chance to experience some spectacular scenery and nature along the way. The support of all the team was first class and I would recommend this for anyone considering taking up the Kilimanjaro challenge!
Our itinerary ideas are designed to be as personalized as you wish, crafted around your unique interests and desires. While these suggestions offer a glimpse of what’s possible, think of them as just the beginning. Your trip will be specially created to reflect your individual preferences and make your experience truly one-of-a-kind. Let us turn your vision into reality and craft an adventure that’s uniquely yours.
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