 Whilst Mount Kilimanjaro may stand head and shoulders above its close cousin, Mount Meru still remains one of the most beautiful and inspiring volcanic mountains in the whole of Africa. As the slanted sunlight tumbles down the mountain side and the call of black and white colobus monkeys shatters the morning calm – the sight of Mount Meru is nothing short of a miracle.
SWEEPING SCENIC LANDSCAPES ON SAFARI IN MOUNT MERU
The landscape decorating the steep summit of Mount Meru is abundant in rich flora, from scented Montane forests to giant figs and velvet colored cushions of heather, trickling streams and open moors. The climb to reach the summit of Mount Meru provides some spectacular opportunities for witnessing Mother Nature in all her glory. On clear days you can see the rising spire of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail sweeps through scenic grasslands where you can catch sight of wild buffalo and warthogs grazing on the lush pastures.
A WILDLIFE EXTRAVAGANZA
The cries of wild birds are a common sound around the dense forests of Mount Meru and it is not unheard of to see a spotted leopard slinking through the shadows. You can also see rhinos standing like stone, staggering giraffes, herds of elephants and bright baboons. As Mount Meru is at the epicenter of the Arusha National Park the area supports a vast and varied wildlife extravaganza and the mountain pulls in plenty of visitors hoping to get closer to the wilderness of Africa.
The trail to the summit of Mount Meru is not for the fainthearted as the narrow, rocky ridge climbs to embrace the very heart of adventure. The views across the ash cone and the never ending plains of the Moshi are simply stunning and enough to lift the heart of anyone on Safari To Mount Meru
STAND ON THE EDGE OF HEAVEN
Those willing to explore the rugged wilderness of Mount Meru and attempt the climb to stand on the very edge of heaven can do so usually with a tour guide. Along the route there are little huts perfect for resting weary legs with firewood stacked close by. Nothing beats watching a flaming sunset settle over Mount Meru as you sit beneath the valley of stars and listen carefully to the sounds of monkeys calling to each other close by.
HUTS AND HOTELS
The accommodation choices on the trail of Mount Meru are basic but provide spectacular views of the surrounding area. The two most used huts during the climb are the Saddle Hut and Miriakamba Hut. However visitors can bring a tent during high season to avoid overcrowding. Those wishing to stay closer to the ground can enjoy a stay at some luxury hotels nestled in the foothills with feather soft beds and cool plunge pools.
THE BEST TIME TO CLIMB
The best time to attempt the climb up Mount Meru is during the months of June and February. The mountain enjoys a similar weather pattern to Kilimanjaro, with light rain pattering against the slopes in November. July to March is the dry season and during the period of December to February you can witness truly majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
STEP OUT OF THE SHADOW
Hiking to the summit of Mount Meru will usually take a minimum of three to four days. Many climbers use Mount Meru as a warm up exercise before completing the mammoth task of tackling Mount Kilimanjaro. However despite being the runner up and failing to step outside the shadow of the larger more popular mountain, Mount Meru has so much to offer guests. The calming serenity and simplistic beauty of the smaller mountain is an environment not to be scoffed at. With rich green glades, scented forests, staggering craters and opulent bursting flora and fauna, Mount Meru is the perfect stop off for those wanting to get off the beaten track a little and enjoy the true scenery of Tanzania on your Safari To Mount Meru