MOUNT MERU

At 4,566 metres high, it ranks as Tanzania’s second highest, and as Africa’s fourth highest mountain. During the colder months and with high altitude rains its peak can be covered by snow. Its steep mountain rim serves as the western border of the park.  When viewed from the south, Mount Meru shows the typical cone shape of a volcano.  However, when seen from the east, it offers a completely different sight! The collapsed eastern mountainside, and the remains of eruptions within the crater, bears witness to the intense volcanic activities which shaped the mountain so many years ago as a part of the eastern Great Rift Valley.

Apart from a few fumaroles emitting hot steam, today’s Mt Meru is a dormant volcano with impressive and unique scenery for both nature lovers and mountain climbers. The mystery of the mountain is in the fairytale setting of giant trees with “legs” and “hair” like witches, whispering streams and waterfalls - the lush green dotted with jewels of hidden flowers and hovering butterflies.