Mount Meru National Park is located in the Northern region of Tanzania with Mount Meru being the most prominent safari attraction here. Mount Meru is a strato volcano and known famously for its incredible wildlife animal species, terrain landscapes, ecosystems, montane forests and Savannah Plains.

The park covers an area of 1,500 square kilometers (579 square miles) with unique features as well as an incredibly diverse landscape and vegetation ranging from verdant montane forests at lower altitudes to alpine meadows and volcanic craters higher up.

Mount Meru

Mount Meru elevates to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) above sea level hence becoming the second-highest peak in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru is an active volcano with a crater which is one of the major attractions.

Wildlife and Flora

Mount Meru National Park inhabits various wildlife species that can be watched as they wander around the park’s diverse habitats. Compared to the famous Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater which offer exceptional wildlife encounters, Mountain Meru National Park offers a quiet unique experience for those interested in exploring Tanzania’s Wildlife in a more quiet and tranquil way.

The wildlife animals you can watch in the park include; elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, leopard, lions, colobus monkeys, zebra, warthogs, hyenas etc.

Birdlife

Mount Meru National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded in the park. Some of the bird species you watch include; the African fish eagle, white-cheeked turaco, silvery-cheeked hornbills and various species of hornbills, vultures, and eagles. Watch these bird species in both the forested and savannah areas especially close to the park’s water sources.

Flora

The park is rich in plant life, with dense montane forests at lower altitudes transitioning to alpine meadows higher up the mountain. The forest is filled with a wide range of trees, including giant ferns, orchids, and towering hardwoods such as cedar and podocarpus. Higher altitudes feature alpine vegetation, such as grasses and heath shrubs.

Activities in Mount Meru National Park

Hiking and Climbing

Hiking and Climbing  Mount Meru is the most prominent safari adventure carried out in the park despite the fact that it offers a challenging trek for avid hikers and climbers. You take a period of four to five days depending on the preferred route.

Hikes start at the Momella Gate where hikers follow a well-maintained trail that follows through verdant forests, alpine meadows and volcanic landscapes. The trek gives you beautiful views of the crater and surrounding areas, and climbers can encounter various wildlife along the way, including giraffes, buffaloes, and monkeys.

The summit of Mount Meru provides an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. The climb is physically demanding, but the reward is worth the effort, offering one of the best opportunities to experience the pristine beauty of Tanzania’s mountains.

Game Drives

For those looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the park’s wildlife, game drives are a great option. Safari vehicles can be hired from the park entrance to explore the park’s wildlife and scenery. Although the park is less crowded than other reserves, the game drives still provide great opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including giraffes, buffaloes, and elephants, as well as the elusive leopards and lions.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris are another popular activity in Mount Meru National Park. Guided by experienced rangers, visitors can explore the park’s trails and learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and ecological systems. The walks can range from short excursions to longer, more immersive treks. Walking safaris offer a unique opportunity to get close to nature and enjoy the park’s landscapes from a more intimate perspective.

Bird Watching

Given the park’s wealth of bird species, birdwatching is a must-do activity. The diverse ecosystems attract both migratory and resident bird species, and experienced guides can help birdwatchers spot rare and endemic species. The best birding areas are typically around water sources and in the park’s forested regions.

Cultural Experiences

While Mount Meru National Park is primarily known for its natural beauty, visitors can also experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. The nearby Arusha and Meru communities offer cultural tours, where travelers can learn about the traditions and history of the local people. These visits often include opportunities to witness traditional dances, local crafts, and village life.