Mount Meru – Tanzania’s Second Highest Mountain
Rising gracefully within Arusha National Park, Mount Meru stands as Tanzania’s second-highest peak and one of Africa’s most captivating mountains. This dormant stratovolcano reaches an impressive 4,566 metres (14,980 feet) and offers a breathtaking blend of scenic beauty, ecological diversity, and adventure. Often overshadowed by its taller neighbour, Mount Kilimanjaro, located just 70 kilometres to the east, Mount Meru provides a quieter, more intimate trekking experience — perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Location – Northern Tanzania, Within Arusha National Park
Located just 45 minutes from Arusha town, Mount Meru lies within Arusha National Park, in the heart of Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit. The mountain’s dramatic slopes rise from the park’s savannah plains, framed by lush forests and crater lakes, and crowned by a horseshoe-shaped caldera created by a volcanic explosion thousands of years ago.
Its proximity to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) and Arusha city makes it easily accessible and a favourite acclimatisation climb for those preparing to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.
Unique Features
Africa’s Fifth-Highest Mountain: Standing at 4,566 metres, Mount Meru offers a spectacular and less crowded alternative to Kilimanjaro, with equally rewarding views.
UNESCO World Heritage Setting: Nestled within Arusha National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Mount Meru’s lower slopes teem with wildlife and lush vegetation.
Crater and Ash Cone: The mountain’s summit ridge encircles a striking ash cone, providing one of East Africa’s most dramatic volcanic vistas.
Diverse Ecosystems: Ascending Mount Meru takes trekkers through multiple biomes — from savannah plains and montane forests to heather and moorland, culminating in alpine desert near the summit.
Wildlife Encounters: It’s one of the few treks in Africa where hikers may see giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, elephants, and antelopes along the lower slopes.
Panoramic Views of Mount Kilimanjaro: From the summit, climbers are rewarded with awe-inspiring sunrise views of Mount Kilimanjaro floating above the clouds.
Activities in the Area
Mount Meru and Arusha National Park offer a rich variety of adventures and natural experiences:
Mountain Climbing & Trekking: Follow the Momella Route, the standard trail to the summit, usually completed in 3–4 days. The climb is fully guided by armed rangers to ensure safety among wildlife.
Wildlife Viewing: Enjoy sightings of giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, elephants, warthogs, and guereza colobus monkeys along the lower forest trails.
Birdwatching: Spot some of Tanzania’s 400+ bird species, including the Hartlaub’s turaco, silvery-cheeked hornbill, and tawny eagle.
Cave Exploration: Explore small caves and volcanic formations carved into the mountain’s slopes.
Camping & Photography: Overnight stays in Miriakamba Hut and Saddle Hut offer spectacular stargazing and photographic opportunities.
Guided Walking Safaris: Experience Arusha National Park on foot — accompanied by rangers — to spot wildlife and enjoy the park’s waterfalls and forest trails.
Travel Information
How to Get There
By Road: Mount Meru is located 45 minutes (30 km) from Arusha town, accessible via the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park.
By Air: Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) is approximately 1 hour’s drive from Arusha and the park entrance, with regular connections from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Nairobi.
Travel Distances
Arusha → Mount Meru (Momella Gate): ~30 km / 45 minutes
Mount Meru → Kilimanjaro International Airport: ~1 hour (55 km)
Mount Meru → Arusha National Park HQ: ~15 km (20 minutes)
Mount Meru → Mount Kilimanjaro: ~70 km (2 hours)
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (June – October & December – February): Best for trekking and clear summit views, with stable weather conditions and excellent visibility.
Wet Season (March – May & November): The mountain is lush and green, ideal for photography and birdwatching, though trails can be slippery.
Why Include Mount Meru in Your Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Mount Meru offers the perfect balance of wildlife, adventure, and solitude. Its smaller crowds, abundant wildlife, and panoramic summit views make it an ideal warm-up climb for Mount Kilimanjaro or a standalone trekking destination for nature enthusiasts.
The journey up Meru is not just a physical challenge but a passage through Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems, culminating in one of Africa’s most stunning volcanic craters.
Key Attractions
Mount Meru Summit (4,566 m) – Tanzania’s second-highest peak
Ash Cone & Crater Rim – dramatic volcanic scenery
Arusha National Park Wildlife – giraffes, elephants, zebras, and colobus monkeys
Momella Lakes – scenic lakes with flamingos and waterbirds
Mount Kilimanjaro Views – stunning sunrise vistas
Forest & Heather Zones – lush hiking trails with diverse flora
Guided Walking & Camping Safaris
