CONQUERING THE MAJESTIC MOUNT MERU

Tuesday, 30.Apr 2024

Here is a fun fact about Mount Meru: Did you know that it's actually an active volcano? While it hasn't erupted in over a century, it still shows signs of volcanic activity.

Mount Meru it’s a stunning mountain located in northern Tanzania, near Arusha. It’s actually the second highest peak in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro it is also the highest mountain point in Arusha Region, many people choose to climb Mount Meru as a warm-up before attempting Kilimanjaro. Its known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. The Mount Meru’s Lavas are alkaline in character and include nephelinite, much of the mountain’s height was lost due to a summit collapse. The mountain had a minor eruption in 1910 the several small cones and craters seen in the vicinity probably reflect numerous episodes of volcanic activity.

Climbing Mount Meru requires more technical climbing skills than the routes on Kilimanjaro. What Mount Meru ‘lacks’ in height, it makes up for in difficulty. Therefore! It is important to have some climbing experience.

What are some popular routes to Climb Mount Meru.

There are few popular routes to climb Mount Meru. The most common route is called the Momella Rout, which starts at Momella. Gate and takes about 3-4 days to complete. Another popular route is the Machame Route, which is a bit more challenging and takes around 4-5 days both routes offer incredible views and a rewarding climbing experience. Mount Meru is the topographic centerpiece of Arusha National Park. Its fertile slopes rise above the surrounding savanna and support a forest that host diverse wildlife, including nearly 400 species of birds, and monkeys and leopards. 

What Is the Best Time to Climb Mount Meru.

The best time to climb mount Meru is during the dry season, which is from June to February. The weather is generally clear and the trails are more stable! However, its important to note that Mount Meru can be climbed year-round, so it ultimately depends on your preference and availability, the most important thing is to check the weather condition before climbing.

Specific gear requirements for climbing Mount Meru

There are some specific gear requirements for climbing Mount Meru, some think its not heavy clod like Mount Kilimanjaro or not as challenging. Here are some things you should consider having when climbing the mountain. You will need sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a good backpack, a sleeping bag, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle and a headlamp. Your guide will arrange some of the things to be carried by the potters.

What are the Average Temperature on Mount Meru

The average temperatures on Mount Meru can vary depending on the season and altitude, during the day temperatures can range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit) at lower altitudes, while it drips to around -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit) at higher altitudes, especially during the night. It’s important to pack layers to stay warm and comfortable throughout the climb. There are few more things you might want to consider for your Mount Meru climb. It is a good idea to have a waterproof jacket and pants to protect you from rain or snow. Also, don’t forget to bring gloves, a warm hat, and thick socks to keep you extremities cozy, and of course, a camera to capture those incredible views just make sure to pack light and only bring what you really need.

If you are not intending to climb Mount Meru entirely, or simply don’t have the time, then there are several day-hikes reaching lower heights on Mount Meru. These hikes are very rewarding as you’ll hike through green vegetation, surrounded by wildlife. Here you can get some real peace and quite as its not as over-run as Kilimanjaro (day-hikes) and most likely won’t encounter many others. 

The formation of Mount Meru

It happened after the formation of Great Rift Valley, when million years ago the volcano standing on this area lost its top after a gigantic explosion. This explosion gave Mount Meru its shape of a horseshoe. Mount Meru is still an active volcano with the last smaller eruption in 1910. The first person to climb Mount Meru up to the peak was Dr. Fitz jaeger in 1904. The local Arusha people who leave around Mount Meru regard it a sacred place, they sacrifice a bull or sheep every year to the mountain for a rainy season. Mount Meru offers two huts for overnight stays, Miriakamba and Saddle hut. Additionally, the Arusha National Park has three campsites, a rest-house and few lodges.