Mount Meru

Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak at 4,562 meters (14,968 feet), is a breathtaking volcanic mountain located in Arusha National Park. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers an equally worthwhile, but less crowded trekking experience. Its dramatic landscapes include lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged volcanic craters, making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Mount Meru is a stratovolcano, which means it’s built up of layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic materials. It was formed over hundreds of thousands of years through a series of eruptions, with its last major one occurring around 1910. This eruption dramatically shaped the mountain’s current appearance, particularly its distinctive horseshoe-shaped crater, which was created when the eastern side of the volcano collapsed.

The mountain’s summit, Socialist Peak, sits on the rim of this massive crater, which is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) wide and contains a secondary ash cone. The collapse of the eastern flank also left behind a striking cliff face, which drops nearly 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) and is one of the longest sheer drops in Africa.

The mountain is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including buffaloes, giraffes, colobus monkeys, and even leopards. As you ascend, you pass through diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open moorlands, each offering unique flora and fauna. The summit climb is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift Valley, and the surrounding plains.

Unlike Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru’s trails are less traveled, providing a more intimate and serene experience. The trek typically takes 3-4 days, making it a great option for those with limited time or those looking to acclimatize before attempting Kilimanjaro.

Mount Meru is also a cultural and spiritual landmark for the local Meru people, who consider it sacred. Visiting the mountain offers not only a physical adventure but also a chance to connect with the rich history and traditions of the region.