Did you know that Mount Meru is the fifth highest mountain in Africa, and second highest in Tanzania at 4,566m above sea level? Yes, here is what you need to know about the location, formation, attractions, activities, and the best time to hike.
Mountains have shifted from being a mere compilation of rocks, but rather a magnificent destination for relaxation and fun, especially if it is one decorated with beauty like Mount Meru; surrounded by a wide range of flora and fauna, undulating Hills, shimmering flowers, scattered homesteads and eye-catching sceneries like that of the snow-capped mountain Kilimanjaro (Africa’s mountain, and the world’s highest standalone mountain).
Mount Meru is the first sight to win people’s attention upon stepping feet at Arusha city. It is situated approximately 60kms off Arusha city, and 70kms west of the giant mountain Kilimanjaro national park, at Arusha National Park. The mountain is the prime attraction at the park, offering asylum to a good concentration of wildlife, over 400 unique bird species, and unique primates such as monkeys.
There are two summits; Meru summit which is the highest and main summit at the mountain, and the other is the Ash cone; a minor summit, lying inside the crater formed in the most recent eruption. Once at the summit on a clear day, you will admire the beautiful views of Gelai volcanoes, Kitumbeini volcano and the giant Great Rift Valley on the western direction, Kibo plains, Shira plateau, and Mount Kilimanjaro to the east.
After the formation of the Great Rift Valley appears another unique attraction; Mountain Meru; a product of a gigantic volcano that erupted millions of years ago, and leaving behind horseshoe-like magnificent summit. The mountain is active till the present age, with the most recent eruptions happening about 100years ago, in 1910.
The Waarusha people (the residents) consider the place sacred and often carry out sacrifices such as bulls or sheep to evoke blessings from the gods annually for rains. Dr. Fitz Jaeger was the first foreigner to reach the peak of Mountain Meru in 1904.
The base of the mountain rises gently through the montane forest, decorated with a lush forest area, the moorland, and heather region, into a volcanic desert; home to different mammals and primates such as the rhinos, giraffes, warthogs, baboons, klipspringer, and leopards among others, yet not forgetting the flourishing tree species, and over 400 bird species. The climate in and around the mountain is adaptable by everyone despite the level of the hike.
Interestingly, this is one of the finest destinations for hiking, and many consider it as a warm-up and practice ground for the most giant snowcapped Mount Kilimanjaro; a wrong assumption, because hiking mount Meru is equally challenging to those who aren’t physically and mentally feet, though very amazing, and offering breath-taking sceneries.
Depending on your hiking speed and physical fitness. Reaching Mount Meru summit may take 3-4 days. With nights spent on the different camps on the mount, with all the different comfortable beddings and mouth-watering cuisine, prepared by expert chefs. The profession of craters, undulating hills, wildlife, and cones is your reward while having the hike to the summit. Meru peak can be accessed through only one fascinating route; the momella route. It requires no expert skill, or technical equipment to make your dream come true.
The trip starts from Moshi Tanzania to the first level of the hike. Momella gate for registration and briefing, after which you will proceed to the saddle Hut. Traversing savanna plantations and forested area with lots of birds, mammals, reptiles, and primates such as monkeys.
Thereafter, you will proceed to Meru peak. Designed by the Spanish moss; saddle hut defined by moorland zone. Little Meru and then to Mariakamba hut. Before returning to momella gate among others, then to Moshi. This hike is through a barren narrow ridge to the peak. It offers a perfect view of the ash cone, and other several attractions. Such as the magnificent giant snowcapped mountain Kilimanjaro.
Activities
Besides Hiking to the magnificent Meru peak. There are several activities you can engage in both in the Arusha national park and the mountain itself. Notably; birding, photography, game drive around the park, guided nature walks and camping among others.
Packing List
As a responsible Hiker and tourist, adequate preparation is paramount. Thus reason for you to move along with some of the items. That you need for the trip for the number of days you intend to spend, notably. Camera, binoculars to sight the distant attractions, hiking boots, jackets for warmth, gloves to protect your hands, medical insurance and several other attractions among others.
Best Time to Visit Mount Meru
As you plan to Visit Mount Meru, timing is very important. Especially when you have the intention of Hiking or engaging in several other activities such as nature walk. The most remarkable months for a visit are; June to October, and then December to April. These months are dry and remarkable for all the activities and fun.
Summing it up, Mount Meru is a very unique attraction in Tanzania and entire Africa. Besides looking at it as a mountain. You can also take it as your favorite tourist destination and the next adventure spot.