How MOUNT MERU came about: Following the eruption and vigorous volcanic activity, the magnificent and dramatic terrain of the Arusha National Park was formed on the eastern side of the huge fault known as the Great Rift Valley. Sprouting hot magma, fire and lava into the air 20 million years ago, then collapsing into two big calderas:- the Ngurdoto and Meru craters, which mark the western and eastern boundaries of the 52-square-mile park in the outskirts of Arusha. Depressions in the boiling mud became to form the Momela Lakes. Today, these lakes are fed by underground streams that leach salt from the under soil which is alkaline and support algae, a few small fish, and thousands of birds of various species, especially grebes and flamingo.
Mount Meru remains a volcano, though dormant since its last inception in 1910, a lava-streaked peak rising up to 14,979 feet above sea level sorrounded by lush forests and bare rock. The fifth highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Meru is often favored by mild and adventure loving climbers who prefer to avoid the heavier foot traffic on Mt. Kilimanjaro which is situated less than 50 miles away.
Each of the three aforementioned areas of the Mount Meru area, the Ngurdoto Crater, the Momela Lakes, and Mt. Meru, contains a certain flora and fauna (plants and animals) suited to adapt to its particular altitude and geology of the environment. The Ngurdoto Crater is surrounded by montage forests and marshy swamps cover the crater floor. The forests boast of hosting a wide range of tree species, from common cedars to varieties that are so rare outside of Africa such that others have no popular names existing for them in English. Some of the trees bear fruits like mangoes, olives, dates and figs. Primates swing from tree to tree, rule the branches of course feed on the fruits while the herbs provide them the necessary medication. Olive-colored baboon mothers carry their babies like little jockeys, while mature males perch pensively nearby, watching the pack wisely from poodle-nosed faces circled by full manes in territories.
The Mount Meru ascend is quite steep, the route to the summit goes through and over streams, through parkland, montage forest, a sort of gigantic heather zone and moorland. The mountain summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge, which provides stunning views of the marvelous sightings of the Ash Cone that lies several thousand feet below in the crater. At best times and permitting weather, Kilimanjaro can be seen in the West.
Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We will arrange a private transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Moshi/Arusha at your arranged hotel, where you will meet your guide for pre-climb briefing and an equipment check.
We drive from Moshi to Momela Gate. After a short registration at the Gate our walk will begin with full armed ranger escorting us, simply we can see along the way the wild animals including elephants, zebras, and giraffe , monkeys, antelope, and often elephants along the route.
Dinner and overnight night at Miriakamba Hut.
Elevation 1,387 m to 1,500 m, Distance: 10 km, Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest.
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. After hot lunch at Saddle Hut we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset.
Elevation 2,514 m to 3,570 m, Distance: 8 km, Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Forest and Moorland.
We start early at around 1:30 a.m to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridge line between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater. We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Momella gate. The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to pick you to Moshi or to your destination at your hotel.
Elevation 3,570 m to 4,565m, Distance: 5 km up 13 km down, Hiking Time: 12 – 14 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Moorland and Montane forest.
Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) Private departure transfer is included
Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We will arrange a private transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Moshi at your arranged hotel, where you will meet your guide for pre-climb briefing and an equipment check.
We drive from Moshi to Momela Gate. After a short registration at the Gate our walk will begin with full armed ranger escorting us, simply we can see along the way the wild animals including elephants, zebras, and giraffe , monkeys, antelope, and often elephants along the route.
Dinner and overnight night at Miriakamba Hut.
Elevation 1,387 m to 1,500 m, Distance: 10 km, Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest.
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. After hot lunch at Saddle Hut we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset.
Elevation 2,514 m to 3,570 m, Distance: 8 km, Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Forest and Moorland.
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridge line between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater. We return back and after some brunch at Saddle Hut, we continue down to Miriakamba hut for dinner.
Elevation 3,570 m to 4,565m, Distance: 5 km up 10 km down, Hiking Time: 12 – 14 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Moorland and Montane forest.
After breakfast we undergo the final section takes up to 3 hours to return to Momella gate where our vehicles will be waiting for pick up. It is allowed to have a short game drive in the park with your crew before returning to Moshi for overnight.