Hiking Mount Meru is one of the most sought-after experiences in Tanzania, Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in the country, it is said to have been higher than the mountain Kilimanjaro however following its recent eruption the mountain comes 5th in Africa, it is popular for its stunning surrounding including a variety of animal and bird species in the montane forest growing at its slopes, Mountain Meru rises 4,566m above sea level, the mountain has 2 peaks the highest summit is known as Meru, and the Ash cone, the mountain is placed near Mount Kilimanjaro and an easier hike.
Hiking Mount Meru is an angelic rewarding and yet challenging experience, it is sparked off with a morning briefing from the park rangers on how to conduct yourself during the hike, what to expect and also given time to hire a porter who is mandatory to have, with the lead of an experienced guide you will first pass through the lower slopes of the mountain Meru taking the momella route, this route typically takes 4-5 days to reach the summit of the mountain, the trail passes through beautiful vegetation zones from open grasslands, montane forest, heath and moorland and an everlasting flowering zone as you get closer to the summit.
Hiking Mount Meru requires guests to have a trekking permit, which is obtained from Arusha National Park authorities, it is mandatory to have one while making the purchase aware of using random people to acquire permits, it is recommended to hire a local guide for safety and enhancing your experience as they come in handy to assist with equipment like cameras and bags, Mount Meru is a challenging hike, it is wise to prepare yourself before the tracking through physical exercises to me physically fit. It does not require special hiking equipment to participate in the hike however you will need the essentials for example proper hiking boots, hand gloves, huts, warm clothes like jackets, stockings, long-sleeved shirts and trousers to mention a few.
The best time to go hiking Mountain Meru is during the dry season when the trails of the park are drier and easier to hike, this happens from June to October and December-February it is important to choose right the month you will be mountain climbing. Despite it being the best season Mount Meru can be hiked anytime even during the wet season, the only challenge is that it comes with difficulty in climbing.
Hiking Mount Meru will expose you to the wildlife of the park, you may encounter giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and monkeys, there are over 400 species of birds in the national park expect to encounter some of these as they echo swiftly through the trees of the park for example the African fish eagles, African harrier hawks, sunbirds, flamingoes, among other bird species.
In conclusion, Hiking Mount Meru is often shadowed by the Kilimanjaro mountain however it gives some of the best experiences, hikers usually take it to exercise for the highest peak of Kilimanjaro.