THE ASH CONE OF MT. MERU TREK

Duration: 1N/2D
Start point: Momella Gate
Activity: Trekking
Difficulty: Easy-to-Medium
Max Height: 3,685 m / 12,090ft.
Min. age: 10

Overview:

The Ash Cone of Mt. Meru trek is the best and quickest way to climb Mt. Meru for those looking for a short and easy-to-medium trek. The trek takes places in the Arusha National Park in Tanzania and offers spectacular views of surrounding mountains, volcanic cones and craters.

Mt. Meru is a dormant volcano, whose eruptions had caused its topography to heavily change and form small cones and craters across the landscape, with Ash Cone being one such prominent feature. This trek allows you to climb Mt. Meru on the north-eastern slope, hike through lush alpine forests, and spot various species of flora and fauna.

ASH-CONE HIGHLIGHTS

Enjoy an easy trek to Ash Cone that is fit for beginners and experienced trekkers.
Climb Mt. Meru and explore the Ash Cone in just 2 days
Spend the night in traditional huts at Miriakamba
Get spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro from the top of the Ash Cone of Mt. Meru trek

Pick up point:

Serena Mountain Village / Planet Lodge.

How to get there:

The most convenient airport to arrive to is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Our driver and/or guide will be at the airport to greet you upon arrival and drive you to the start point. Please refer to the itinerary for the accommodation arrangements. Please note, you can arrive a day earlier to start the Mt. Meru trek the next day or arrive just in time to start the Mt. Meru trek the same day.

Inclusions:

- Accommodation at Mirikamba hut for 1 night
- Sleeping bag
- Lunch, snacks, and dinner on Day 1; breakfast, lunch, and snacks on Day 2
- Park fees
- Transport from airport to start point and back
- Guide fee
- Support crew fee

Exclusions:

- Tips
- Extra porter
- Beverages

Sketch itinerary:

- Day 1:Trek from Momella gate to Miriakamba through the unique Fig tree.
- Day 2:An early start. Trek from Miriakamba to Ash Cone; descent back to Miriakamba for Lunch then continue down to Momella gate.

What to expect:

- Walk in the bushes
- Little bit of bouldering
- Some sections of terrain can be steep up/down

What to wear:

- Warm, fully covering, and comfortable hiking clothes (avoid bright colours, i.e., white, red, etc.)
- Outer layers like wind cheaters or jackets that can be easily layered on or off according to weather changes
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Gloves
- Warm hat
- Rain gear like a poncho

What to carry:

- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- A day pack (can be shared among 2)
- Rain cover for your bag
- 1Lt / 32oz water bottle
- Dry snacks
- Insect repellent
- Poncho (rain jacket)
- Headlamp or torch
- Trekking pole
- Basic first aid kit
- Medication (if required to carry any)
- Toiletries
- Passport

When to go:

The best time to enjoy Ash Cone of Mt. Meru trek and its surrounding vistas is between Jan – Mar, Jul – Oct, or Dec.

Photos

Itinerary

Day 1Trek to Miriakamba (8,251 ft. | 2,515 m)

We begin today with a drive to the Arusha National Park entry gate. After permit clearance, together with your guide and armed ranger, start your trek toward Miriakamba. Your ranger and guide are experienced and know what you can or cannot do during the hike, so make sure you follow their instructions as you climb Mt. Meru to ensure your own safety. This route will take you through the lush rain forest up to the Fig Tree picnic site where you will stop for lunch before continuing towards Miriakamba.

Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut

Trekking time: 5 – 6 hours

Meals included: Lunch, tea and snacks, dinner and breakfast.

Day 2Trek to Ash-cone (12,090 ft. | 3,685 m); descent to Momella Gate

Day 2 of your Meru trek begins early. Today, you’ll climb toward West to the Mt. Meru to reach a height of 3,685 m, where the infamous Ash Cone lies. You’ll have some time to explore the unique landscape formed by ancient volcanic eruptions and soak in the spectacular vistas. Soon, you’ll descend back down to Miriakamba for a light meal and descend to Momella gate then drive to your lodge. This marks the end of your Ash Cone of Mt. Meru trek.

Trekking time: 3 – 4hrs ascending and 3hrs descending

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and snacks.

FAQ

When is the best time to go on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

The best months to go are from January to March, July to October, and December. The mountain receives considerable rainfall between April and June and in November, making the trek less ideal.

How many hours will I trek each day on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

On the Ash Cone of Meru trek, you’ll trek between 5 – 7 hours each day.

I’m a beginner – am I still eligible for the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

Yes! The Ash Cone of Meru trek is an extremely short and easy trek, giving you a small taste of the full Mt. Meru trek.

How can I prepare for the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

This trek does not require much preparation, however, we recommend exercises that help build your stamina, control your breathing, increase your endurance, and get you accustomed to climbing on inclines. You can train with cardio exercises, yoga, and frequent runs.

What kind of accommodation will be provided on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

During the Ash Cone of Meru trek, you’ll stay in huts at Miriakamba. These wooden huts can house up to 4 travelers and their gear. The huts have solar lights and mattresses. You will have common washrooms and sinks in a separate building along with a common dining area.

How to do I get to the start or pick up point of the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

The best way to reach Kilimanjaro is to fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). The airport is frequented by many international airlines from across the world. From the airport, we will transfer you to your lodge (which, as with the transfer back to the airport at the end of your trek, is included in the price of your trek).

What gear is needed while on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

No specialty mountaineering gear is needed (i.e., ice axe, crampons, helmet, etc.) to climb Kilimanjaro. However, basic trekking gear like hiking boots, base layers, fleece hats and gloves, a fleece sweater, etc. are required. Once you’ve joined the Ash Cone of Meru trek, you’ll receive a detailed packing list and rental gear list to help you prepare.

What medication should I carry on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

It is important to consult your doctor before departing for the trek for the types of medications you need to carry with you. Make sure you carry any prescription medicines you need. Though all our guides carry a first aid kit, make sure you carry one yourself in case you need immediate help. Carry enough medication to last you the duration of the trek and a few extra in case your trip gets extended.

What kind of food will I eat on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

Our highly trained chefs prepare three hot nutritious meals daily, as well as trail snacks and afternoon tea each day. We are also equipped to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other specialty meals with advance request.

Where can I get drinking water throughout the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

We provide clean drinking water each night for you to fill up your water bottles for the trek. We recommend you bring two to three 1-ltr bottles.

Will there be network on the Ash Cone of Meru trek?

Cellular network is extremely inconsistent on the Ash Cone of Meru trek. You can check with your guide or porters to know when the occasional signal pops up, but that, too, is infrequent.

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