Climbing Mount Meru Before Kilimanjaro

Mount Meru, Tanzania's second-highest mountain, rises above Arusha at roughly 4,560 meters (around 14,970 feet). Many climbers have never heard of it, yet it is one of the most beautiful treks in East Africa and an excellent warm-up for Kilimanjaro.

Spending a few days on Meru before Kilimanjaro gives your body a valuable head start on acclimatization, along with a stunning adventure in its own right.

Why climb Meru first

Altitude is the main reason people do not reach the summit of Kilimanjaro. Climbing Meru first exposes your body to high altitude and gives it time to start adapting before you begin the bigger climb.

It also lets you test your boots, layers and pace on a real mountain, and gives you a clearer sense of how your body responds to altitude. Many climbers arrive at Kilimanjaro feeling noticeably more confident.

What the climb involves

Meru is usually climbed in three to four days on the Momella Route, which starts on the eastern side of the mountain within Arusha National Park. Accommodation is in simple mountain huts, typically Miriakamba Hut and Saddle Hut.

Summit day to Socialist Peak follows a dramatic, narrow ridge along the rim of the collapsed crater, with views of the ash cone below and, on clear mornings, Kilimanjaro on the horizon. Some sections are steep and exposed, so a head for heights helps.

The trail climbs through montane forest with fig trees, waterfalls and open meadows before rising into heath and then rocky alpine terrain. Huts are basic, with bunk beds in shared rooms, and the crew prepares meals for you as on Kilimanjaro. Many climbers set off for the summit in the early hours from Saddle Hut, aiming to reach the top around sunrise.

Wildlife on the trail

Because Meru sits within Arusha National Park, the lower slopes are home to wildlife such as buffalo, giraffe, colobus monkeys and many birds. For this reason, climbers are accompanied by an armed park ranger as well as their guide.

Walking through forest and open glades where wild animals live is a rare treat that you do not get on Kilimanjaro.

Planning both climbs

A common approach is to climb Meru, rest for a day or two in Arusha or Moshi, then begin Kilimanjaro. That rest day matters, so do not be tempted to start Kilimanjaro the day after coming off Meru.

Combining both climbs takes more time, but many climbers feel it is worth it.

Talk to us about your overall dates early, as fitting both climbs plus rest days around your flights takes some careful planning.

• Allow three to four days for Meru
• Plan one or two rest days before Kilimanjaro
• Choose a Kilimanjaro route of at least six or seven days
• Consider adding a short safari afterward to rest and celebrate

Is Meru right for you?

Meru suits climbers who want to improve their acclimatization, enjoy quieter trails or simply love mountains. It is a serious climb in its own right, so the same advice on training, gear and listening to your guide applies. If you have limited time, a longer Kilimanjaro route is an alternative way to build acclimatization.