Mount Meru, Kilimanjaro und Ngorongoro national park

At about 9 a.m. we start descending back to Momela Gate. Just beyond the hut the forest with its lichens start again.

Sometimes we hear the shouts of black and white colobus. We are lucky to catch of some of them.

Climbing Meru the fauna of the Arusha National Park is a very special experience. We get close to a flock of buffalos. Our ranger tells us to stay quiet…

…while the leading bull takes a proofing glimpse on us. Buffalos in flocks are less dangerous than outcast mavericks you may have unpleasant meetings with. In case of emergency the ranger would have to shoot the animal.

Though the weather is fine there are often wafts of mist drawing through the forest.

The damp climate encourages opulent vegetation. Near this brook that leads water even in droughts there grows a banana-tree. Nevertheless above 6.500 ft above sealevel.

These umbrella-like trees stand typically for the African landscape.

An elephant passed some minutes ago. But we only found his dung – traces. They walk up as high as 10.000 ft. and sometimes there can be dangerous meetings with them in the forests if you come too near. Our ranger means they can be dispelled easily by shooting in the air.

Coming down the forest lightens and gives view to the plain below.

The porters cleaned up the camp and carry down the rest of the stuff. They pass by before we reach our aim – as usual.

We reach the zone of mist. The summit of Meru is hidden and temperatures increase steadily.

We see Momela Plain with the Gate.

Some things are not packed into the carrying – bags. Some food and dishes are carried in a basket on top of the head. We are fascinated by the skilful way and balance of the porters. At last we have not tried it ourselves.

When the path gets plane we met some giraffes. We came as close as 150 ft.

With some security distance between we passed the flock of buffalos.

Back at Momela Gate our ranger handed out the official verifications of the National Park Office of Arusha to us, showing that we reached Little Meru and Socialist Peak.

A common photo with the crew is absolutely essential.

Of course we say thank you to our porters, the cook, the ranger and our guide by spending a reasonable dip.