Tanzania - Mount Meru Trek

Tanzania Trekking

Mount Meru Trek

Mount Meru is one of Africa's highest and most beautiful volcanoes. The route to the summit passes through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. Finally, the summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge which provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater and Kilimanjaro in the background. Over 400 species of birds, rhino, elephant, buffalo, baboon, warthog, black and white Colobus monkey and duiker are all found in this delightful "gem amongst parks". The visit to the Ngurdoto crater and Momella lakes, with their superb scenery, flamingoes and other wildlife, is an unforgettable experience.

The group will be accompanied on Mount Meru by a Park Guide and porters. On the mountain we use dormitory style huts. A sleeping bag and mat are required for the huts. This is a tough walking trip with some steep terrain.

Day 1

Arrive at the Springland Hotel near Moshi, overnight B&B.

Day 2

After driving from Moshi we start from the Momella Gate {1’500 m.} in the late morning, the track soon passes some open grassland, and have some game viewing. You can see Buffalo, Warthog, Elephants, etc. and then continue as 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 a lot of birds and monkeys including the black and white colobus. By mid afternoon, there are the first closer views of the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. MIRIAKAMBA HUT (2’514 m.), situated in idyllic grassy glade, is reached in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. It takes about 4 to 6 hours walking. Ascent is 1’014 m.

Day 3

The walk from MIRIAKAMBA HUT to the saddle below Little MERU is a short day but a steep sustained climbing all the way. Starting through attractive, open and lush montane forest, the path continues beyond the halfway point of Elephant ridge and carries on uphill through the giant heather and other moorland vegetation to reach SADDLE HUT {3’570 m} and lunch. The afternoon is free to rest and enjoy the views. For energetic ones, can make the short climb to the nearby summit of LITTLE MERU {3’820 m} for superb views just before sunset. It takes about 3 – 5 hours walking. The ascent is 1’056 m. SADDLE HUT is similar to MIRIAKAMBA but water is collected from a stream about 10 minutes away.

Day 4

An early start at around 0200 hrs to climb steeply to RHINO POINT {3’800 m} the path continues along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point {4’350 m.} at around sunrise. 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 if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Pak {4’566 m} is an hour more on a superb but often steep path. 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 well-earned rest is taken at SADDLE HUT before continuing the descent to Miriakamba Hut {2’514 m}. It takes 10 to 12 hours. Ascent 996 m. Descent 2’052 m.

NB: In icy conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to progress beyond Rhino Point. Sunrise from here is equally as spectacular as from Cobra Point.

Day 5

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. Momella Gate is reached by late morning. It takes about 2 to 3 hours walking. Descent 1’014 m. Drive to the Springland hotel near Moshi.

Day 6

Leave the hotel after breakfast.

For sodas and other drinks bring smaller Tanzian Bank notes with you, change is scarce on the mountain.

Make the ascent in a pace that suits you.

The climb includes:

Springlands Hotel on the first and last night no B&B basis
Transportation from Moshi to the starting point and return to Moshi
National Park gate fees
Hut fees / Camping fees
Rescue fees
Guides & Porters salaries
All meals on mountain
Government tax

Check List

Documents

Passport
Yellow Fever Certificate
Visa
Medical Cover

Personal Items

Toothbrush & Paste
Torch and batteries
Soap
Travellers Cheques
Address Book
Travel Insurance

Equipment

Day Pack
Water Bottle
Toilet Paper
Torch & extra batteries
Pocket Knife

Clothing

Jersey
Raincoat
Shorts
T – Shirts
Jeans
Jacket
Waterproof Pants
Waterproof Jacket
Thermal Underwear
Balaclava
Gloves
Sunglasses
Woolen Socks
Hiking Boots
Sleeping Bag
Light shoes
Cap/Hat
Towel
Underwear
Socks

Food

Energy Drinks
Chocolate
Sweets
Fruit
Nuts
Energy Snacks

Photographic

Camera
Spare Batteries
Film
Different Lenses
Video Camera
Battery Packs
Video Tapes
Battery Charger
Binoculars
ASA 200 film is good for taking pictures with little light. You reach the summit just before sunrise and may not wish to wait due to the cold. After sunrise ASA film is O.K. It is essential to use sky light flilters at high elevations, less sensitive film with 15 DIN for bright areas and 17 or so for use in the dark rain forests.

First Aid / Medical

Asprin, Assorted Plasters
Sun Protection Cream
Anti Malaria Tablets
Insect Repellent, Lip salve
Water Purification Tablets, Antiseptic Cream
Bandages, Gauze
Adhesive, Throat Lozenges

Miscellaneous

Walking Stick
Notebook
Pens
Plastic Bags – for keeping your clothes dry in holdall
Pencils
Cash US Dollars

TIPPING GUIDELINES:
Chief Guide: US$15 - 20 Per Day
Assistant Guide: US$8 - 12 Per Day
Cook: US$ 6 - 8 Per Day
Porters: 5 - 6 Per Day

If any additional information is required, please do not hesitate to contact us.

All itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.