Mount Meru – Tanzania’s Silent Giant
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru stands quietly just 70 kilometers away—but make no mistake, this volcanic mountain is a spectacular destination in its own right. Rising to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak and offers one of the most scenic and rewarding climbs in all of East Africa.
Located inside Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is more than just a mountain—it’s a journey through an ever-changing landscape. The lower slopes are draped in lush rainforest, alive with the calls of colobus monkeys and the rustle of giraffes grazing among the trees. As you ascend, the forest gives way to alpine meadows, misty heather zones, and eventually the stark, windswept beauty of the summit ridge.
One of Mount Meru’s most striking features is its massive crater—partially collapsed thousands of years ago—creating a dramatic eastern ridge that climbers follow toward the summit. At sunrise, the narrow path along the crater rim offers stunning views across the plains and, on clear mornings, an unforgettable silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro rising above the horizon.
Unlike the busier Kilimanjaro routes, Meru offers a more peaceful experience. There are fewer climbers, but just as much natural beauty—plus the added thrill of walking through wildlife-rich terrain, often accompanied by armed rangers to ensure safety near animals like buffalo and giraffes.
For many, Mount Meru is more than a warm-up for Kilimanjaro—it’s a truly rewarding adventure in its own right. With its dramatic scenery, diverse ecosystems, and panoramic views, Meru is a mountain that surprises and inspires all who climb it.
