Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania, at approximately 4,566m high, and lies 70 km to the west of its larger sister volcano, Mount Kilimanjaro. Although Meru is also an active volcano its shape was transformed by a large eruption which took place approximately 8,000 years ago, resulting in one side of the mountain slipping downwards. The most recent eruption from Mt Meru was about a hundred years ago, and looking around the area the ash cones and small craters, evidence of volcanic activity, can be seen everywhere.

 

Nestled at the base of Mount Meru lies Arusha, and several of Africa's most famous natural landmarks and national parks are within a couple of hours drive, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, and of course Mount Kilimanjaro. Arusha is a bustling town in the north of Tanzania, full of life and atmosphere and making an excellent base for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, climbing Mount Meru or going on a game viewing Tanzania safari into the world famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater

 

The closest, of course, is Arusha National Park itself, lying literally on the eastern edge of town and including the towering slopes of Mount Meru. Arusha National Park hosts an extensive array of game, including herds of wildebeest, zebra and buffalo, and is particularly famous for the number of giraffe which wander through its range of habitats. It also boasts an endemic species of primate, the Black Colobus Monkey, which lives in the rain forests around the volcanic craters of the park and can be seen leaping with remarkable ease between the towering tree-tops of the rain forest canopy.

 

Of course, one of the most popular activities in Arusha National Park is hiking and trekking the lower slopes of Mount Meru, and climbing Mount Meru to the summit. The park also offers opportunities for game driving and viewing, and canoeing on the Momella Lakes below the slopes of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro.

 

Arusha also acts as a base for many visitors who have come to climb Kilimanjaro. There is a good range of hotels and lodges in and around Arusha, catering for everything from the budget traveler to the high-end luxury lodges. Only 60km from Kilimanjaro Airport, Arusha is easily accessible both from within Tanzania and internationally, and provides an excellent stop-off before or after a mountain climb or Tanzania safari.

 

The climate in Arusha is pleasant, as the town lies at at elevation of about 1400m. Even in the summer when much of Tanzania is hot and humid, the cool breeze and pleasant temperatures make Arusha an excellent spot to prepare for or relax after your Kilimanjaro climb.

For more information on Mount Meru and Arusha contact us.