Conquering Mount Meru: A Journey Above the Clouds and Back to Comfort

There’s something quietly humbling about standing on the summit of Mount Meru at sunrise. The shadow of Africa’s fifth-highest mountain stretching across the plains below, the silhouette of Kilimanjaro floating on the horizon — it feels like the world momentarily stands still just for you.

Mount Meru is often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbor, yet it offers a climb that is both thrilling and intimate. The trails wind through dense montane forest, where colobus monkeys leap overhead and the air is thick with birdsong. As you ascend, the scenery transforms—lush green gives way to rugged cliffs and alpine moorland, finally revealing a crater rim that tests both stamina and spirit.

Unlike its more crowded counterpart, Meru feels deeply personal. The summit push begins in darkness, guided by stars and the quiet crunch of boots on volcanic rock. Then suddenly, light—casting the caldera in gold as you reach Socialist Peak, 4,562 meters above sea level. The feeling? Elation. Relief. Awe.

And exhaustion.

That’s where returning to The Scenery Residence becomes part of the story. After days of altitude and adventure, stepping back into this serene corner of Arusha felt like a homecoming. Set just off the road leading back from Arusha National Park, the residence welcomed me with the kind of comfort only a soft bed, a warm meal, and genuine hospitality can offer.

The mountain views didn’t end at the summit. From my suite, I watched the peaks soften into dusk while soaking sore muscles in a long, hot bath. Dinner was made to order—grilled chicken with local spices and a side of fresh vegetables from the garden kitchen. And as the lights of Arusha sparkled through my window, it finally hit me: the climb wasn’t just about reaching the top. It was about finding peace on the way down, too.

Whether you're ticking off a bucket-list trek or seeking a quieter path to reflection, Mount Meru offers an unforgettable ascent—and The Scenery Residence offers the gentle landing you’ll be thankful for.