MOUNT MERU & KILIMANJARO

Climb Two of Africa's Finest Mountains

Mt. Meru (4566m) is the smaller neighbour of Kilimanjaro, a dormant volcano that thousands of years ago blew out from one side leaving a crescent crater wall which forms the basis of a spectacular ridge walk to the summit. Meru is normally overlooked by people ascending Kilimanjaro, but is an excellent acclimatisation walk for those who have more time. There are few people around, but so much wildlife (buffalo, elephant, gazelle and waterbuck abound in the grasslands and forests of Meru National Park) that you will be escorted by an armed guide. The mountain is also well known for its high Hagiena Rose wood forests, aboral orchids and prolific Spanish moss draped over the branches like green hair.

The summit day takes you high out of the forest along a roller-coaster ridge walk towering over an inner conical cinder-cone, with spectacular views over to Kilimanjaro. Many even prefer Meru to its big brother! When you climb Kilimanjaro afterwards you will see Meru usually sitting in a pink sea of early morning cloud. After a night in Moshi we set off for our Meru Peak Trek through lush forest and cross the Ngare Nanyuki river. We camp at Miriakamba hut (2541m). The following day we ascend steeply to Saddle hut (3500m). On our final day on the mountain we rise early to ensure a spectacular sunrise from the summit and then descend all the way down to Momella Gate.

The ascent of Kilimanjaro is a challenge, made difficult by the altitudes involved. The itinerary is carefully planned to climb in a controlled manner to give the best chance of reaching the summit. Uhuru peak on the snow-capped rim of volcanic Kilimanjaro stands at almost 6000metres, dominating the surrounding African savannah. The ascent is a non technical six day trek, but it demands stamina and above all care. We have chosen the Machame route for our ascent. Much less used than the Marangu Route, and less demanding than the Shira or Umbwe route. The Machame offers a climatic world tour from the tropics to the Arctic, splendid scenery, and most of all the best chance of success. We emerge from the lush vegetation of the lower slopes on the Shira Plateau (3840m) to enjoy the views of Kibo peak, before crossing the barren slopes to Barranco camp. The next stage to the Barafu hut, shuns more direct routes in the interest of further acclimatisation. The summit attempt demands a start in the early hours and a tough walk across scree and snow to Gillmans point (5685m). From there we circle around the snow fields of the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the summit of Kibo, and a glorious sunrise over the African Plains. The descent on the Mweka route provides new panoramas and is easier with each step you take. A final night at our hotel completes the journey.

The Best Time to Visit Kilimanjaro
On tailor made tours you can travel any day that you wish.  The clearest and warmest conditions are December to February.  It is also clear and dry, but cooler from July to September.

Guided Camping Tour 12 days  Click here detailed dossier Duration: 12 nights/13 days Tour Code: AMK Grade: Challenging Plus Day Stages: Min 4 hours, max 9 hours Group Size: Min 2, max 15  TAILOR MADE Dates 2011/12/13  Click here for latest TAILOR MADE prices Any Day. Dec to Feb or Mid June to Sept.    ESCORTED Dates 2011/12/13    Click here for latest ESCORTED prices EAMK07  Tue 7 Feb - Sat 18 Feb  EAMK21  Tue 21 Aug - Sat 1 Sep EAMK05  Tue 5 Feb - Sat 16 Feb 2013     Home     Advanced Search