Mount Meru Waterfall

12 Days Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safari Combo

12 Days Birding Safari in Tanzania

10 Days Wildlife Kenya and Tanzania Safari

10 Days Safari in Uganda and Tanzania

10 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route

The Arusha National Park and the Living Forest

Mount Meru Waterfall is located within Arusha National Park, a small but incredibly diverse protected area. On Tanzania safaris, the park is often overlooked by travellers rushing to the Serengeti, but it is a hidden gem. The park covers the slopes of Mount Meru, the Momela Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater. The forest around the waterfall is thick and alive with wildlife. On Tanzania safaris, the hike to the waterfall takes you through stands of ancient fig trees, their roots wrapping around the rocks. You are likely to see troops of black and white colobus monkeys, their long white tails streaming behind them as they leap through the canopy. You might also spot the blue monkey, with its dark blue-grey fur and white throat. The air is cool and clean, a welcome break from the heat of the lowlands.

The Black and White Colobus Monkeys of the Canopy

The forests of Arusha National Park are famous for their black and white colobus monkeys. On Tanzania safaris, these striking animals are a highlight of any visit to the Mount Meru Waterfall trail. The colobus monkeys are large, with long, flowing white tails and a mantle of white fur that drapes over their shoulders. They are acrobatic, leaping effortlessly between the branches of the tall trees. On Tanzania safaris, you will hear them before you see them, a low, guttural call that echoes through the forest. They are often found near the waterfall, where the dense canopy provides them with food and shelter. The guides know where to look. With patience, you can watch them for hours, the mothers carrying their babies, the young males play-fighting in the branches.

The Birding and the Forest Sounds

The forest around the Mount Meru Waterfall is a paradise for birders. The combination of dense canopy, open glades, and the constant presence of water attracts a wide variety of species. On Tanzania safaris, you can spot the beautiful Hartlaub's turaco, a striking bird with green and red plumage, and a tall, white crest. The silvery-cheeked hornbill is another highlight, a large, noisy bird with a distinctive call. You might also see the African fish eagle, soaring on the thermals above the forest, or the tiny, jewel-like malachite kingfisher, perched on a branch over the water. On Tanzania safaris, the best time for birding is early morning, when the forest comes alive with the sounds of the dawn chorus. Bring your binoculars and a good field guide for East African birds.

The View of Mount Meru and the Momela Lakes

The hike to the Mount Meru Waterfall offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. On Tanzania safaris, the trail passes through open glades where you can see the towering peak of Mount Meru, its summit often shrouded in clouds. From certain vantage points, you can also see the Momela Lakes, a series of shallow, alkaline lakes that are home to thousands of flamingos. On Tanzania safaris, the contrast between the dark, green forest, the grey volcanic peak, and the pink lakes below is breathtaking. It is a reminder that Arusha National Park is not just a stopover. It is a destination in its own right.

The best time for Tanzania safaris to visit Mount Meru Waterfall is during the dry season from June to October. The weather is sunny and cool, and the trails are in good condition. The water flow is steady, making the falls dramatic and the pool deep enough for swimming. The wet season from November to May brings heavy rains. The trails become slippery and muddy, but the waterfall is at its most powerful. For most travellers, the sweet spot on Tanzania safaris is July through September. The weather is perfect for a half-day hike, and you can combine a visit to the waterfall with a game drive through the park.

Getting to Mount Meru Waterfall is very easy. Arusha National Park is located just 30 minutes from the city of Arusha. On Tanzania safaris, the drive from the city center to the park gate takes about 30 minutes on a paved road. The park headquarters is at the Momela Gate. From there, you will drive a short distance to the trailhead for the waterfall. On Tanzania safaris, you must be accompanied by an armed ranger from the park. The ranger will guide you to the waterfall and back. The hike is short, about 45 minutes each way, and is suitable for all fitness levels. The trail is well maintained, but it can be muddy in the wet season. Wear sturdy shoes.

On Tanzania safaris, there are many accommodation options near Arusha National Park. The city of Arusha has a wide range of hotels, from luxury lodges to budget hostels. For a more unique experience, you can stay at the Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge, which is located just outside the park gate. There are also several campsites within the park. On Tanzania safaris, many travellers combine a visit to the Mount Meru Waterfall with a stay at a lodge on the slopes of Mount Meru itself. The views of the mountain from these lodges are stunning.

Booking your Tanzania safaris with Dav Safaris ensures that your visit to Mount Meru Waterfall is safe, educational, and perfectly timed. Our local guides know the best hiking routes, the safest swimming spots, and the hidden corners of the Arusha National Park forest. On Tanzania safaris with Dav Safaris, we handle all the logistics, including your transport from Arusha, the park entry fees, the mandatory armed ranger, and a packed lunch. You just show up with your hiking boots and your camera. You can combine a hike to the Mount Meru Waterfall with a game drive through Arusha National Park or a visit to the nearby Kilimanjaro. You focus on the cool water, the black and white colobus monkeys, and the misty green forest. We handle everything else on your Tanzania safaris.