Mount Meru is situated along the northern part of Tanzania, it is a dormant volcano that is said to have erupted about a century ago, its shape in rugged nature give the best Scenic views which have made it popular, Meru is the 5th tallest mountain of Tanzania despite it being dismissed with the presence of the neighbouring mountain Kilimanjaro, the mountain grows over Arusha national park giving it a perfect picture square. The mountain rises 4566m above sea level, it is also known for its big cliffs, beautiful lush green surroundings and wildlife species within the forested area along its slopes. Mount Meru formation took place during the Rift Valley period, the volcano lost its shape following an eruption, it was once the highest mountain of Africa.
Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro, it’s often referred to as a “Little brother” to Mount Kilimanjaro, the area surrounding the mountain boasts several rivers and small streams originating from the glaciers at the summit of the mountain, these provide water to the communities of the Chagga and Masai people, it is the main feature of Arusha town, most times climbing the mountain Meru is shadowed by Mountain Kilimanjaro however it gives some on the best experiences of mountain climbing in Tanzania it is a less strenuous activity in that most travelers use it for training purposes to do the higher Kilimanjaro.
Mount Meru has a unique set of natural appeal from its surrounding lush green environment filled with Ferns, orchids, several tree species, wildflowers and lots of growing climbing plants at its lower Zones as you higher you will experience groundsel and giant lobelia, these vast environments are home to wildlife species, for example, giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, colobus monkeys, and several antelope species. There are over 400 species of birds that have been recorded in the park to date.
Things to do in Mount Meru include hiking the mountain itself, it begins in the early morning with a briefing from the park rangers on how to conduct yourself during the hike, and what to expect in general, you will be accompanied by an experienced armed ranger for protection and it is recommendable to hire a porter to assist with equipment. Hiking Mountain Meru takes shorter days to reach the summit. While climbing Mount Meru on a clear day you will have perfect views of Kilimanjaro. It takes 3 days to climb and descend the mountain via the momella route, it is more approachable to climb. Guided nature walks, there are trails that travellers can take into the region, these are led by an experienced guide, coffee tours in the farmlands of the Chagga people, cultural encounters and boat cruises in the momella lakes to mention a few.
The best time to visit Mount Meru is during the dry season between the months of December-February and June – September when the trials of the park are much drier and easier to access, it is the most recommendable time to go mountain climbing in the park.
In conclusion, if you are looking at getting a much simpler hike, Mount Meru is the best to encounter. It is placed within proximity to other parts of northern Tanzania for example the Serengeti National Park for big game and the great wildebeest migration.