Mount
Meru
Tanzania's Second Highest Peak (4,566m) — The Silent Brother
The Ultimate Altitude Challenge & Prep
Meru: Safari by Day, Summit by Night
Meru is not just a high mountain; it's a 3-4 day expedition through Arusha National Park. You begin with a wildlife walk escorted by an armed ranger before the steep, rapid ascent to the Socialist Peak at 4,562m.
Unforgettable views of Kilimanjaro at sunrise.
Superior Acclimatization
A multi-day trek reaching **4,562m** provides ideal, proven altitude preparation before tackling Kilimanjaro.
Safari on Foot
The lower trails offer a rare walking safari, encountering buffalo, giraffe, and the unique Black & White Colobus monkey.
Dramatically Different
Meru's steep terrain and narrow summit ridge offer a challenging and different physical experience compared to the Kili trek.
Mount Meru: The Volcano
Meru is a stunning, elegant stratovolcano located in the heart of Arusha National Park. Standing at 4,566m, it's Tanzania's second-highest peak and the "Silent Brother" of Kilimanjaro.
The mountain's topography is defined by its massive caldera, which exploded approximately 7,800 years ago, leaving a dramatic crescent-shaped crater and the steep cliffs of the Ash Cone.
Trek & Safari Combined
Meru is the only major Tanzanian trek with guaranteed wildlife sightings on the trail.
The lower slopes pass through lush montane rainforest, home to rich fauna. All trekking groups are escorted by an armed ranger from TANAPA for safe passage.
Ranger Escort
Mandatory on Day 1 for safe passage through forest zone
Wildlife
Buffalo, Giraffes, Warthogs, and endemic Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys
"The trail from Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut is a walking safari where you might see elephants grazing near the path."
Step-by-Step Ascent
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
The trek begins with a walking safari through open grassland and forest, accompanied by your armed ranger. Excellent acclimatization and game viewing.
4–6 Hours TrekkingDay 2: Miriakamba to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Steeper climb through Montane Forest and Heath zone. Views of Meru Ash Cone dominate. Optional acclimatization trek to Little Meru (3,820m).
3–5 Hours TrekkingDay 3: Summit Day (4,566m) & Descent
Pre-dawn start to climb the steep ridge to Socialist Peak. Witness sunrise over Kilimanjaro, then descend back to Miriakamba Hut.
10–12 Hours TrekkingDay 4: Miriakamba to Momella Gate
Final descent through forest, using a quicker route or retracing path for more wildlife viewing. Transfer back to Arusha.
2–3 Hours TrekkingPlanning Essentials
Pre-Kili Preparation
Meru is highly recommended as a warm-up climb for Kilimanjaro. Its 4,566m summit provides excellent altitude exposure.
- Higher success rate on Kili due to prior altitude exposure
- Tests gear and fitness before the main event
Accommodation & Gear
Mount Meru treks utilize dedicated, solid mountain huts (Miriakamba and Saddle Hut) for more comfort and shelter.
- Hut Accommodation: No camping required
- Porters: Mandatory, as per TANAPA rules
Ideal Climbing Seasons
The best periods mirror those for Kilimanjaro, ensuring clearer skies and better trail conditions.
Avoid the heavy rains of April and May
What's Next?
Having conquered the Silent Brother, your adventure has just begun. Meru is perfectly positioned for easy connections to other North Tanzania highlights: