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Climb Meru
from
USD1,595
Duration: 6 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Group Size: 2-8
Adventure: Trek
Mt Meru is a challenging multiday trek that takes you up this dormant volcano to reach Socialist Peak (4,562 m), the highest point on the crater rim. On Meru, you hike through the same vegetation zones as neighbouring Mt Kilimanjaro, just not the ice-and-snow summit. Excitingly, you see much more wildlife on a Meru climb, like buffaloes, giraffes, flamingoes and zebras. And the views of Kilimanjaro throughout the climb are just sublime!
Country info and facts
Here are the basics you need to know about Tanzania to help you prepare for your adventure, like the nearest airport to Mt Meru and the local currency. We also discuss the seasons and potential health risks for climbing the neighbour to Africa's tallest mountain.
Languages
Swahili and English
Currency
Tanzanian shilling (TZS or TSh)
Airports
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Seasons
Visa and Immigration
A standard Tanzanian tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days and costs $50. US citizens must purchase a multiple-entry visa for $100 that is valid for a year. Note, however, that a visa isn't required for nationals from around 50 countries worldwide.
Health and Safety
It's safe to climb Meru when you travel with a reputable tour operator who has your health and safety as their number one priority. That said, you can climb without a guide. But everyone must be accompanied by an armed park ranger, as there are large animals like buffaloes on Meru.
Another safety issue on Meru is the high altitude. The summit of Meru is 4,562 m, which means you could develop altitude sickness. Your guide will monitor your vitals to ensure you don't climb any higher if your body isn't coping.
Please also note that you must have travel insurance that covers you for "hiking up to 6,000 m above sea level" to be allowed to climb Meru with Follow Alice.
Local leaders
Chris Sichalwe
Chris started working on Kilimanjaro in 1999 and has since made it to the summit over 300 times. He's the founding father of Follow Alice Tanzania and loves taking people to the roof of Africa! He's the steady and competent hand you need, but also a great storyteller who adds so much to every trip!
Robert Sichalwe
Robert is a highly experienced Kilimanjaro lead trek guide. He's been leading treks with Follow Alice for years, and we know our climbers are in great hands with Robert as the expedition leader. He's also a great guy who will soon become your friend and an integral part of your Kilimanjaro memories!
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Our local guides look after you in every way. Our goal is to give every traveller the feeling you get when a friend is showing you their country.
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On average, over 70% of your trip price stays in the local economy. It's important to us that the visited communities benefit the most since they're the ones hosting travellers.
Top reads
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Trek comparisons
Difficulty and training
Climate and seasons
Packing list
Wildlife
FAQs
Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Yes, most travellers need a visa to enter Tanzania. There are two ways to get one:
- Online via the Tanzania eVisa platform – This is the recommended method. It’s fast, secure, and can be done before you travel.
- On arrival at the airport – Available for most nationalities, except those who require a referral visa.
Please note: Tanzanian embassies no longer issue visas. Although the visa on arrival is available, it’s best to apply online to avoid potential delays.
You can apply through the official Tanzania Immigration website. Be sure to check if your nationality is listed under the referral visa category before applying.
What vaccinations do I need for Tanzania?
There are no specific vaccine requirements for visitors to Tanzania.
However, for travel to Tanzania, it’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations like MMR, polio, and tetanus.
Hepatitis A and typhoid are advised for most travellers, especially if visiting rural areas. Hepatitis B and rabies may be needed depending on your activities.
Yellow fever vaccination is only required if you're arriving from a country where it's present - this is when a yellow fever certificate is required. Malaria is a risk, so anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended.
Speak to your travel doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip.
Where is Mount Meru?
Mount Meru is in northern Tanzania, inside Arusha National Park. It’s near the city of Arusha and about 70 km west of Mount Kilimanjaro.
How do I get to Mount Meru?
Mount Meru is located in Arusha National Park, northern Tanzania, about a 1 to 1.5 hours’ drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). It’s also just a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the city of Arusha and around 70 km west of Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to its proximity to both the airport and Arusha, Mount Meru makes an ideal first stop for anyone planning a Kilimanjaro climb or a safari in northern Tanzania.
What type of accommodation can I expect on a Mount Meru climb?
When climbing Mount Meru, accommodation is provided in communal mountain huts rather than tents, unlike Mount Kilimanjaro, where camping is common. There are two main huts used on the route:
- Mariakamba Hut (2,624 m) – This is the first overnight stop, offering basic communal sleeping quarters and essential facilities.
- Saddle Hut (3,570 m) – Serving as the base camp for the summit push, this hut provides a simple shelter where climbers rest before the final ascent.
Both huts feature dormitory-style rooms with shared sleeping areas and basic amenities. The atmosphere is cosy and communal, giving you a chance to connect with fellow trekkers while enjoying shelter from the elements.
Is Tanzania safe?
Tanzania is one of the safest countries in Africa, ranked 12th on the continent’s Global Peace Index. It’s also incredibly welcoming; most visitors find the local people warm, helpful, and kind.
Of course, like anywhere, it’s wise to stay alert, follow local advice, and take basic precautions, especially in cities or unfamiliar areas.
