Mount Meru

Size: at 4,5685m, the fifth highest in Africa.

Location: Northern Tanzania, near the town of Arusha.

Mount Meru is one of Africa's most beautiful volcanoes, and it is the second highest mountain in Tanzania. The mountain is located within Arusha National Park, Tanzania’s gem. This prime location gives walkers the opportunity to spot some of the birds and wildlife that inhabit the area. The ascend is quite steep, the route to the summit passes over streams, through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. The summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge, which provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater. Weather permitting, Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen in the West. Mount Meru most recently had a minor eruption about a century ago. The several small cones and craters seen in the vicinity probably reflect numerous episodes of volcanic activity.

Wildlife
Mount Meru is the topographic centerpiece of Arusha National Park. Its fertile slopes rise above the surrounding savannah and support a forest that hosts diverse wildlife, including nearly 400 species of birds, and also monkeys and leopards.

How To Get There
A few kilometres from Arusha Town. About one hour's drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

What To Do
Several trekking routes to the summit and other more-demanding mountaineering routes. Day or overnight hikes on the plateau. Nature trails on the lower reaches. Trout fishing.

When To Go
Clearest and warmest conditions from December to February, but also dry (and colder) from July-September. The best time to climb Meru is between October and February. But also June to September, while it is colder then.

Accommodation
There are two huts available to climbers on the mountain and firewood is supplied. There are several hotels and campsites outside Arusha National Park and in the town of Arusha.