Mount Meru Treks Before Safari
Trekking Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest mountain, before embarking on a safari in Tanzania offers a less crowded and often more budget-friendly high-altitude trekking experience compared to Kilimanjaro. It also serves as excellent acclimatization for a subsequent Kilimanjaro climb, if that’s part of your plan.
Pros of Trekking Mount Meru Before Safari:
- Acclimatization: The gradual ascent of Mount Meru is ideal for acclimatizing to higher altitudes, potentially reducing the risk of altitude sickness on a later Kilimanjaro climb.
- Stunning Scenery: Mount Meru offers diverse landscapes, including lush forests, volcanic ash slopes, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Wildlife Encounters: The lower slopes of Mount Meru are within Arusha National Park, providing opportunities to see wildlife like buffaloes, giraffes, monkeys, and various bird species during the initial stages of the trek.
- Less Crowded: Mount Meru generally sees fewer trekkers than Kilimanjaro, offering a more tranquil experience.
- Shorter Duration: The Mount Meru trek typically takes 3-4 days, making it a good option if you have less time than a full Kilimanjaro expedition.
Cons to Consider:
- Physical Exertion: Trekking Mount Meru is still a physically demanding activity, and you’ll need to be reasonably fit.
- Potential Fatigue for Safari: Depending on the intensity of your trek, you might be somewhat tired when your safari begins. Allow for a rest day in Arusha if needed.
- Different Ecosystem: The montane environment of Meru is different from the savanna ecosystems of the major safari parks.
Logistics:
- Location: Mount Meru is located within Arusha National Park, near Arusha town, the gateway for many northern Tanzania safaris.
- Tour Operators: Numerous operators in Arusha organize Mount Meru treks and can seamlessly transition you to your safari itinerary afterward.
- Best Time to Trek: Similar to Kilimanjaro, the dry seasons (January-March and June-October) are generally the best times for trekking Mount Meru.
Overall: Trekking Mount Meru before a safari is a great option for adventure enthusiasts who want to experience a challenging and scenic climb while potentially aiding acclimatization for Kilimanjaro and enjoying the unique wildlife of Arusha National Park.