Mount Meru

Mount Meru, rising to 4,566 meters (14,980 ft), is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and one of East Africa’s most rewarding trekking destinations. Located inside Arusha National Park, just a short drive from Arusha town, Mount Meru offers dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife encounters, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro often visible on clear mornings.

This dormant stratovolcano is perfect for travelers seeking an adventurous climb without the crowds found on Kilimanjaro. The trek to the summit passes through lush montane forests, open moorlands, and striking alpine scenery, with diverse flora and fauna along the way. Hikers frequently encounter giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, monkeys, and antelopes, making Mount Meru one of the few mountain treks in Africa where walking safaris are part of the experience.

The climb typically takes 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for acclimatization before attempting Kilimanjaro or as a standalone trekking adventure. The trail leads to the dramatic Saddle, the stunning Meru Crater, and finally to Socialist Peak, where sunrise rewards climbers with panoramic views across the Rift Valley and Northern Tanzania.

Mount Meru is suitable for fit beginners and experienced hikers alike, offering a challenging but achievable ascent. Guided treks are mandatory, ensuring safety and enriching the experience with local knowledge from professional mountain guides and armed rangers.

Whether you are a nature lover, adventure traveler, photographer, or someone seeking a quieter alternative to Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru delivers an unforgettable journey. Its combination of wildlife, scenery, and high-altitude trekking makes it a hidden gem of Tanzania’s safari circuit a perfect blend of mountain adventure and African wilderness.