Believed by some Christians to have been the landing point of Noah’s Ark, Mount Meru is famous for being second best to Kilimanjaro. Often thought of as a warm up for the larger, more famous mountain that is Africa’s highest. However, Mount Meru is the fifth highest mountain in Africa, and it dominates the Arusha National Park’s horizon.

The Eastern footslopes and peaks of Mount Meru are protected by the Arusha National Park boundaries and give some of the best views of Kilimanjaro. But, don’t be mistaken, Mount Meru is itself one of Africa’s hiking gems. Its location next to Africa’s most famous mountain means it gets overlooked, making it a lesser travelled trail without the tourist hoards but with just as much challenge and experience as Kilimanjaro.

Although dormant, the volcano that is Mount Meru is still active but last erupted in 1910. It is distinguished by the massive piece of missing rock that was exploded out of existence during a major Mt. St. Helens style eruption long ago. Its volcanic nature makes Mount Meru distinct in that the scenery is laden with all you would expect of a land made barren by explosions and lava. However, its location at the heart of Arusha National Park mean that a Mount Meru climb is dotted with safari style wildlife spotting and stunning views. So much so that climbing Mount Meru requires an armed guard to protect you from large game.

Forested savannah land begins the ascent of Mount Meru where buffalos and giraffes are frequently spotted. Climbing further up leads into a denser forest dripping with Spanish moss, before reaching open heath land spiked with giant lobelias. Everlasting flowers cling to the alpine desert, as delicately-hoofed klipspringers mark the hike’s progress. Astride the craggy summit, Kilimanjaro stands unveiled, blushing in the sunrise, and a full awe-inspiring capture of Arusha National Park.

The Momella Route, between 14 and 19km, is the primary and only official route to the Mount Meru summit today. This route starts at the Momella Gate at 1,500m and ascends to one of two tracks to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) with the longer track allowing for scenery including waterfalls and wildlife. From the Miriakamba Hut, you take a 4 km trail through forest up to the Saddle Hut at 3,566m where you can either summit Little Meru to 3,820m or head for the Mount Meru Summit. On the way up to the summit from Saddle Hut, the first notable bald area you’ll reach is Rhino Point where you can get amazing views of the summit and the inner crater walls, providing there are no clouds.