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The Little Brother of Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Meru

Mount Meru, standing at 4,565 meters (14,977 feet), is Tanzania’s fifth-highest peak. Located in Arusha National Park, it offers a diverse trekking experience through lush forests, heathlands, and an alpine desert. 

Mount Meru, located in Tanzania’s Arusha National Park, is an iconic volcanic peak known for its dramatic landscapes and challenging climbs. Rising to 4,565 meters (14,977 feet), it stands as the fifth-highest mountain on the African continent. Unlike its famous neighbor Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers a more compact yet equally diverse trekking experience.

The mountain features distinct ecological zones, starting with lush montane forests teeming with wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and diverse bird species. As climbers ascend, the landscape transitions through heath and moorland zones, characterized by giant lobelias and other endemic flora. Near the summit, a rugged alpine desert zone challenges climbers with steep slopes and rocky terrain, culminating in stunning views of the crater rim and Ash Cone.

Mount Meru’s ascent typically spans 3-4 days, offering a rigorous yet rewarding journey that includes overnight stays at designated campsites. Experienced guides lead climbers through well-marked trails, ensuring safety and providing insights into the mountain’s geological history and local culture. Summiting Mount Meru provides panoramic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains, making it a captivating alternative for adventurers seeking a challenging trek in Tanzania’s breathtaking wilderness.

Key Facts about Mount Meru

Elevation

4,566 meters / 14,980 feet

Climatic zones

Tropical Forest, Heather Moorland, Alpine Desert

First ascent

Victor Carl Uhlig (1901) or Fritz Jaeger (1904)

Expedition duration

3-4 days

Geological type

Stratovolcano

Nearest airport

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Required experience

Not required; Average fitness level

Summit success rate

88%

Little Meru Peak

Mount Meru has two peaks: the main one is named Socialist Peak, and the lower one is simply called Little Meru. The main summit is, of course, the goal of the expedition, and Little Meru is a bonus for active travelers.

On the second day of the ascent, there’s a half-day remaining after reaching the upper camp, Saddle Hut. Those interested can, accompanied by a guide, hike through the saddle to the summit of Little Meru. The route is relatively straightforward, and on a clear day, the views are breathtaking. Little Meru offers a direct view of Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing climbers to admire its “big brother” from the peak.

Little Meru stands at 3,820 meters (12,533 feet) above sea level. Summiting it is recommended for two reasons: besides the stunning landscapes, it provides additional acclimatization before the early morning start to the main summit. It’s a “golden rule” of mountain expeditions: climb high, sleep low.

Visiting the summit of Little Meru is possible on both 3-day and 4-day programs with Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions.

Popular questions about Mount Meru, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions recommends Global Rescue for its unparalleled reliability. Your insurance should cover three essential aspects: high-altitude expeditions up to 5000 meters, helicopter evacuation, and medical services. Note that if you plan to climb Kilimanjaro, your insurance should also cover mountain expeditions up to 6000 meters.

Mount Meru is situated in East Africa, in northern Tanzania, not far from Mount Kilimanjaro. It is part of Arusha National Park in the region of the same name. The distance from the nearest international airport, Kilimanjaro, is approximately 50 kilometers, with a travel time of around an hour.

Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions organizes not only mountain expeditions in Tanzania but also safari trips to the country’s stunning wildlife areas. We offer exciting tours to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Ruaha, and other national parks.

Measurements in 2019 recorded a height of 4,567 meters, while subsequent measurements in 2022 noted a height of 4,566 meters above sea level. It’s also worth noting that ongoing volcanic processes continue to reshape the mountain’s form, as observed by Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions.
If you have time, we recommend visiting both of Tanzania’s highest mountains. It’s better to climb them in increasing order: first Meru and then Kilimanjaro, which is more than a kilometer higher. With this arrangement, the Meru expedition serves as a great warm-up and acclimatization before tackling the “roof of Africa.” Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions can help you plan and execute this adventurous journey.
Some have suggested that the summit push is a bit more challenging on Meru in terms of terrain. However, the lower altitude of Meru makes it less taxing compared to Kilimanjaro. Overall, while not a walk in the park, the Mount Meru climb expedition is not as challenging as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, according to Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions.

It’s worth remembering that Meru is a dormant volcano. The last recorded eruption was over a century ago, in 1910. It was moderate, ejecting stones and ash several kilometers high. Since then, there have been no signs of activity. Major eruptions occurred tens of thousands of years ago. In 2015, there were reports of ash ejection, but it turned out to be false – the smoke cloud above Meru was due to forest fires on the mountain.

Currently, scientists do not record any signs of possible volcanic activity. Upon reaching the crater rim, you’ll be able to see the ash cone in Mt. Meru’s giant caldera.

Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet). While not as famous as Mount Kilimanjaro, it presents a challenging and rewarding climb for those who attempt it. The climb is often considered to be more difficult than Kilimanjaro due to the steeper slopes and more technical aspects of the route.

The trek usually takes about 3-4 days to complete, with the most common route being the Momella Route. This route takes you through diverse landscapes, including savannah, rainforest, and alpine desert, offering stunning views of the surrounding areas and wildlife sightings along the way.

The climb to the summit involves some scrambling and exposed sections, particularly on the final ascent to Socialist Peak. Proper acclimatization is crucial, as altitude sickness can be a concern. Many climbers use Mount Meru as a warm-up for Kilimanjaro, as it helps with acclimatization and provides a taste of what to expect on the higher peak.

Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions provides guided treks to Mount Meru, ensuring climbers are well-prepared and supported throughout the journey. With experienced guides, proper equipment, and a focus on safety, Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions makes the challenging climb of Mount Meru an achievable goal for adventurous hikers.

 

During the initial stage of the ascent, you’ll trek from the park gates to the first Miriakamba Hut camp. This route winds through a lush forest habitat where antelopes, colobuses, and buffaloes reside.

For climbing Meru, it’s mandatory to be accompanied by an armed ranger. These guides are well-versed in animal behavior and equipped to deter any potential wildlife encounters.

In our decade of operating in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions has not encountered a single instance of a wild animal attack during our expeditions.

During your Meru expedition with Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions, you’ll be accompanied by a professional mountain cook dedicated to providing delicious and nourishing meals. Our team meticulously selects the finest ingredients to ensure climbers enjoy both tasty and nutritious food.

For breakfast, we offer porridge, fresh fruits, eggs, sausages, and toast with jam. Lunch and dinner feature a variety of salads, soups, meat, and vegetable dishes. If you have specific dietary preferences, simply inform our manager in advance, and we’ll tailor a special menu to accommodate your needs. Our offerings include vegetarian options and cater to various dietary requirements such as gluten-free diets, respecting religious or personal preferences.

What to take on the expedition?

At Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions, we provide all necessary equipment for food preparation and serve delicious meals prepared by our mountain chef. We also offer first aid kits and oxygen systems in case of altitude sickness symptoms.

For your comfort during the expedition, please bring appropriate mountain clothing, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and any personal items you may need. These can be brought with you or rented from our warehouse in Tanzania.

Nighttime temperatures at the summit often drop below freezing, hovering around 0°C (32°F), with a high chance of rain. When selecting clothing, consider both air temperature, precipitation, and cold wind conditions.

Climbing Useful Information

Kilimanjaro Packing List

Kilimanjaro Packing List

Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

How to prepare for the climb

How to prepare for the climb

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 18 Tripadvisor reviews 
 
 Write a review 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Alex M 
 
 
 Alex M 
 
2024-03-18
 
 
  
Fantastic trek
Job and his team did fantastic work. From the first moment chatting with him, we knew we were in good hands. His attention to safety and professionalism balanced with his sense of humor and fun personality made our trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro an awesome experience. His team is also excellent, from the level of attention and service of the waiter, Emos to the tasty meals prepared by Samora, to the encouragement, positivity and hard work of all the porters, the attention to detail and camaraderie really shined through during the 6-day Lemosho trek. Job and his team delivered on all promises and exceeded our expectations, taking this from a great experience to something very special and unforgettable. I strongly recommend Job and his team to anyone considering the trek.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Salim A 
 
 
 Salim A 
 
2023-11-13
 
 
  
Kilimandjaro and safari
The trip was amazing the staff was very kind and friendly they take care of us I recommand Job and his staff Thanks a lot
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Priyanka S 
 
 
 Priyanka S 
 
2023-11-01
 
 
  
Absolutely outstanding and comfy 💝
Hey guys, I did Kilimanjaro with Job and his team.! They are amazing and super organized.! I personally experienced how Job took care of me whn I was shivering in cold at 5500m height.! Right before summit .! Moreover their company and the staff is sooo much fun and safe and respectful. They ll make you feel like a family.! Food, tents, bathroom, hot water, everything was so great with them.! And they all made my summit easy. 5 star to their work.! They all are superb and hardworking in the town.! I ll visit again to them for my safari trip .! See you💝
  
 
  
 
 
 
 The Hollywood P 
 
 
 The Hollywood P 
 
2023-10-30
 
 
  
Incredible 5* Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions
If you are wanting to take on the challenge of Mount Kilimanjaro then look no further than Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions! Took the Machame route which was 6 days with lead guide Job and his team! Job is an amazing man and was so accommodating and made our safety his top priority. I couldn’t recommend him anymore he is first class and made the climb a truly unforgettable life changing experience for which I will always be grateful, hope to be back in the future to experience the safari will Kilimanjaro mega expeditions. Thanks Job and your team for everything you are the real heroes and I couldn’t have achieved the Kilimanjaro summit without you.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Agnes A 
 
 
 Agnes A 
 
2022-12-13
 
 
  
Kilimanjaro 3days challenge
Crazy and unique experience ever!!!. Being close to the mountains is always my favourite thing in my life.I climbed kilimanjaro twice so far in 2020 and 2021via machame route. This year i had only 4days off before I catch up with some work.Since it was my birthday month i wanted to spent it in a different way so i came up with 3days challenge to kilimanjaro. I picked up the most Notorious route on Kilimanjaro, UMBWE ROUTE & in the middle of rainy season. So an expert needed to arrange my Mission.Job was my guide his knowledge, good spirit,& positive made me feel like 3days is nothing to me😅.Had a great crew 1 cook,and 2 porters these people are truly kilimanjaro warriors.1st day we had to trek/climb from Umbwe cave to barranco camp its about 17km.Its really hard route but i love it the view is amazing. I felt safe ,never had any altitude sickness, no headache I was super okay ,My guide Job was so much concerned especially on our summit day.At 6am I made it to the summit of Kilimandscharo ,what a birthday gift to myself .After that we went all the way down to moshi town.Many thanks to my Crew, glad we did left any behind couldnt have done without them. Looking forward for my next 2days challenge via Umbwe Western breach 💪🏾. Are you planning to summit kilimanjaro?Strongly recommend...
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Michael W 
 
 
 Michael W 
 
2022-09-02
 
 
  
Amazing tour guides
When climbing Kilimanjaro, I was extremely impressed by the level of care and professionalism the guides displayed. They were always ensuring the group was safe and comfortable. On my tour, there were two guides. This was perfect because it allowed our group to split up. For those who wanted to climb quickly went with one guide, and those who are slower with the other. Both guides were extremely friendly and great people. Always wanting to talk, answer questions and get to know you. And when the climb got tough, they were always by our side motivating and pushing the group up the mountain. The guides are Kilimanjaro Mega Expeditions are truly unmatched.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Damian H 
 
 
 Damian H 
 
2022-09-02
 
 
  
Best Scenery I've Ever Seen!!
For anyone wondering if they should climb Mount Kilimanjaro I have two words for you, DO IT. The scenery is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. My favorite part was waking up in the morning and drinking my coffee while watching the sunrise above the clouds. Climbing Kilimanjaro also gave me an incredible sense of satisfaction. When I finished the climb and reflected on it, I couldn’t believe what I had accomplished. I felt like I could now do anything.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Grape Soda 
 
 
 Grape Soda 
 
2022-05-16
 
 
  
Best experience ever!!
Job and his team got us to the summit of Kili back in September, I couldn't recommend him enough!! His knowledge and expertise, as well as his positive attitude ensured that we were safe and in good spirits throughout the entire trek. I even dealt with some health issues along the way, and Job knew exactly how to manage it and get me to a good place mentally and physically to reach the summit. If you climb kili, you have to have Job as your guide!!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Rickson Zacharia 
 
 
 Rickson Zacharia 
 
2022-04-05
 
 
  
BEST EXPERIENCE EVER
This was the best experience at Tarangire National Park the sanctuary of Huge groups of Elephants, Deo as our guide was so friendly, helpful, harming, and caring we had great time with mouth watering foods at Tarangire Kuro Treetops Lodge. Looking forward next year to come again for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro I really recommend travelling with this company for it has the best knowledgeable guides and assist in getting amazing accommodation while in Town also in the Bush

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