I have noted elsewhere that climbers should also look at options in Arusha. Aside from those reviewed, the Meru View Lodge (tel. 0784/19-232; www.meru-view-lodge.de; from $130 B&B double), adjacent to the Arusha National Park, is worth highlighting. This is a highly recommended climbing base, very efficiently owner-managed by Horst and Deborah Bachmann. Horst is a regular climber of both Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, as well as a seasoned self-drive fly-camper throughout the Northern Circuit. His advice on everything from routes to road conditions is invaluable. He utilizes Zara Tours, so you get exactly the same climbing deal as you would at Springlands, though you pay more for the privilege of starting and ending in the more peaceful atmosphere of this small (15-unit) lodge, with accommodation in separate huts dotted in the garden around the pool.