MT. OL'DOINYO LENGAI
Complete guide to Mount Meru
Ol’doinyo Lengai is 2878 meter (9650 ft). The holy Mountain of God as it is considered by Maasai. It is the most difficult mountain to climb in the area which has the cone shaped and this is the only active volcano in the world that erupts a rock called carbonatite. It is located in the Rift valley in the heart of Maasai land and locally regarded as the mountain of God.
Lengai means God and Ol’doinyo means Mountain in Maasai language. Looking northwards from its summit, cooler the hot barren salt flats of Lake Natron stretch into the distance, beyond lies the Kenya border, The day temperatures by the Lake often exceed 40 centigrade (100 F), few animals survive here and only Flamingo makes the Lake its home, nesting on the salty surface on upraised mounds where slightly cooler air stops its eggs.
Also from the summit one can view Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru eastward, and forested escapements and hills comprising the western slopes of the Great African Rift Valley. To the south stretch the famous Ngorongoro crater highlands, Ngorongoro being one of the Primetime Park in Africa.
A shallow crater filled with recently solidified lava that has oozed like molten chocolate, with cracks and fumaroles enjecting blasts of searching hot sulfurous stops into the air. Usually a blast from deep within the mountain shook the ground and you can see smoke comes out of fumaroles. The lava temperature of 700 degree centigrade. An early start in middle of the night is recommended and the best approach is from the west where the morning sun can be avoided for a while.
Best time for trekking: Available all year round, but probably want to avoid the shot rains in November and December, and certainly long rains from March thru May Duration: 6 days / 5 nights: A truly spectacular trip for those waiting a combination safari of stunning views, great game viewing as well as physical challenge.
Climate: The coolest month are from June–October (10-20 ctgd), the warmest from December–March (27-29 ctgd) Convenient centre: Arusha Nearest Airport: K.I.A-Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) Volcano status: Active Mountaineering gear: Available for hire
Included: A chief guide leader, trained Maasai guide, armed ranger, all walks, one bottle of water p/p day, game drives and all park entry fees
How to book: Ngorongoro Expedition and Tours. Arusha-Tanzania.
Oldupai Gorge: Located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, it is 180 km from Arusha. Humans have been Part of Ngorongoro landscape for millions of years. The earliest signs of mankind in the conservation area are at La-etoli, where hominid footprints have been preserved in volcanic rock for the past 3,600,000 years. The story continues at oldupai (Oldupai) Gorge, a river Canyon cut 100mts deep through the volcanic soil of the Serengeti Plains.
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.
Best Time To Visit
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 THERE
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
- 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.
