Mount Meru forest

Mount Meru Forest reserve Plantation is one of the 22 plantations owned and managed by the Tanzania Forest Service Agency (TFS). It is located in the Arusha region, approximately 5-10 km from the Moshi-Arusha-Nairobi highway on the northern side. The forest lies between 3°15’–3°18′ South and longitudes 36°41’–36°42′. The forest borders Arusha National Park to the north, while its southern boundary is shared with local villages, including Olgilai, Sura, Kilinga, Ngongongare, Sikila, Oldonyo Sambu, Olmotonyi, and Timbolo.

Climate

The climate of Meru-Usa Forest is characterized by relatively low temperatures, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C. The region experiences divergent wet and dry seasons, with a highland climate and dry winters. The area receives more precipitation and cooler temperatures due to the influence of Mount Meru, despite being relatively close to the equator. The climate features a bimodal rainfall pattern, with two main rainy seasons: the long rains (locally called “Masika”) between March and May, and the short rains (“Vuli”) between November and December. The dry season occurs from June to October. In the higher elevations and some parts of the forest, local communities grow crops such as bananas, Arabica coffee, potatoes, carrots, maize, beans, green beans, and a variety of leafy vegetables.

Elevation:

The Meru Forest Plantation lies between 1,400 meters and 2,300 meters above sea level, with the highest point at 2,300 meters.

Geomorphology

Mount Meru, a dormant volcanic mountain, was formed millions of years ago. The last recorded eruption occurred in 1877. The mountain’s slopes are covered with extrusive volcanic rocks, which lie atop an eroded surface of Precambrian metamorphic rock. Over time, volcanic materials, including mud flows and ash, deposited on the surface, creating fertile clay soil rich in montmorillonite, illite, and kaolinite. This soil supports the lush vegetation of the forest on the mountain’s slopes.

Activities in Meru Forest

A visit to Mount Meru Forest offers an incredible experience. Forest guides will brief visitors on the plantation and the communities surrounding the area. Activities include:

• Camping
• Birdwatching
• Mount Meru Forest Nature Walk
• Cultural Experiences with Local Villages
• Tree Planting (Carbon Offsetting Project)
• Hiking to Waterfalls
• Sambasha Hill Hiking
• Cycling Tour in the Forest

Sambasha Hill Hiking

The tour begins at the tree nursery, where visitors learn about the various activities carried out by the Meru-Usa Forest Plantation, from planting to harvesting timber. Visitors can participate in the tree-planting project by planting a tree. The hike then takes visitors into the natural forest, descending to the riverbed. From here, visitors ascend the slopes of Sambasha Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding villages and Arusha City. Along the way, there are opportunities to spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, forest antelopes, singing forest birds, and vibrant flowers. At the top of Sambasha Hill, visitors will learn about beekeeping and enjoy the views with drinks and snacks at the Sambasha Picnic Site.

Waterfall Tour

The forest is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the region. The tour starts from Oldonyo Sapuk village, where visitors walk through thick forest to the river valley. After about 15 minutes, visitors follow the river upstream to reach the waterfalls, equipped with waterproof shoes or slippers. Along the way, visitors can spot various bird species and monkeys. The waterfall, named “Navuru” by the Maasai, is believed to hold spiritual significance. Visitors can swim in the cool, refreshing waters of the falls if they wish.

Birdwatching

The forest hosts a variety of bird species, from highland forest birds to seasonal migratory birds. Birdwatching opportunities are abundant, and visitors can identify a wide range of species while listening to the melodies of the birds and other wildlife. The birdwatching experience can be tailored to different points of interest and can be scheduled based on the tour timing.

Picnic Sites

The forest offers several scenic picnic sites for visitors who wish to enjoy a packed lunch or drinks. These sites are equipped with clean washrooms and other basic facilities for comfort during your adventure.

Cycling Tour

Explore the forest on a bicycle with a cycling tour covering 10-15 km along the southern part of Mount Meru. This ride offers a chance to see various primates, such as baboons, monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys, as well as a wide variety of birds and flowers. The tour starts at the forest’s main gate, enjoying the fresh air of the forest, and continues through local villages and farms where visitors can learn about local agricultural practices. The tour ends back at the forest’s main gate.

Forest Walk

For those seeking a tranquil experience, a silent forest walk through Mount Meru Forest offers a chance to connect with nature. Visitors will listen to the sounds of birds, monkeys, and the wind, while breathing in the fresh forest air and enjoying the natural beauty around them. The walk offers both mental and physical benefits, promoting peace and relaxation.

Village Tour

The village tour offers visitors the chance to engage with the local communities, where they can learn about their lifestyle, sing, and dance with the villagers. A local guide will take visitors to a massive fig tree, considered sacred by the Maasai (Illarusa dialect). The tour also includes visits to local farms, Maasai homes, and traditional herbalists and midwives, who will share their knowledge of local plants used for medicinal purposes. The tour ends with a traditional lunch prepared by the Naramatisho Women’s Group. Visitors may also visit local schools to learn about the education system and other community development projects.

Camping

For those interested in an overnight stay, camping grounds are available near the forest gates. The area is safe and equipped with modern toilet facilities.

How to Get There

The Meru Forest Ecotourism Coordination Office is located 12 km northwest of Arusha Town. Visitors can take commuter mini-buses (locally known as “dala dala”) from Arusha to Ngaramtoni, then take a taxi or walk for about 30 minutes north along the forest road to reach the Meru Forest Ecotourism office. Alternatively, visitors can access the forest via Sekei Road, heading north to Olgilai village, where an entrance gate is located. The entrance is about 7 km from the Arusha Clock Tower and takes about 10-20 minutes by private or hired taxi.

Check this Hidden Gems in Tanzania