MOUNT MERU

Complete guide to Mount Meru

Standing at 4566 m, Mount Meru is located in Arusha city about 23 km on Arusha-Moshi main road within the Arusha National park. It’s also the second highest Mountain in Tanzania after the Mt. Kilimanjaro which has 5896 m.

Unlike Mt. Kilimanjaro, Meru has only one route which is Momela gate where by all the registration and payments are done, also porters and guides are obtained on this entrance. It takes three days to hike the Meru but one day for acclimatization is recommended by the company.

Clients needs full armed rangers to accompany them while crossing to the Arusha National Park top to the Mount Meru. Arusha National Park is famous for walking safaris and when hiking to Meru clients can see zebras, black and white colobus monkeys, African buffaloes, baboons, lions, leopards, klipslingers, antelopes, Masaai giraffe, waterbucks, hyenas and warthogs.

The park is also enrich with scenic flora (highland rain forest and acacia woodland) and fauna, numerous birdlife more than 400 species are recorded most of them dwell in Momela Lake and Ngurudoto crater they include the greater and lesser flamingos, white pelicans, African spoonbill, Marabou stork, European pintail, kingfishers, sun birds, crows and turracos.

Also Meru has different types of reptiles, the African black and green mamba, Egyptian cobras, chameleons and lizards they are rarely been seen while hiking but you are assured to see all this in the snake park within the Arusha National Park.

Highlights

What to do in Mt Meru

Forest walks, numerous picnic sites;
Three- or four-day Mt Meru climb – good acclimatization for Kilimanjaro.

When to Climb Mt Meru

To climb Mt Meru, June-February although it may rain in November.
Best views of Kilimanjaro December-February.

Serengeti National Park

BEST TIME TO VISIT mount meru

December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.

HOW TO GET TO MOUNT MERU

By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.

TIPS FOR VISITORS WHO WANTS TO CLIMB MOUNT MERU

Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.