DAY 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Huts
Elevation: 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft, Distance: 10 km, Hiking Time: 4-6 hours, Habitat: Rain Forest
Depart from the hotel and drive to Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife – giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo – is high. We climb steadily through the rain forest until the reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade.
DAY 2: Miriakamba Huts to Saddle Huts
Elevation: 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft, Distance: 8 km, Hiking Time: 3-5 hours, Habitat: Heath
We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization.
DAY 3: Saddle Huts to Summit down Mariakamba hut
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 14,977 ft, Distance: 5 km, Hiking Time: 4-6 hours, Habitat: Alpine Desert
Summit to Miriakamba Huts
Elevation: 14,977 ft to 8,250 ft, Distance: 13 km, Hiking Time: 4-6 hours, Habitat: Heath
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our climb to the summit. The trail is steep to Rhino Point and then Cobra Point. The path continues along the ridge of ash and rock to the summit – Socialist Peak. Here we enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and the sunrise before returning to Miriakamba Huts.
DAY 4: Miriakamba Huts to Momella Gate
Elevation: 11,712 ft to 4,921 ft, Distance: 10 km, Hiking Time: 2-4 hours, Habitat: Rain Forest
On our last day, we descend slowly through the tropical rainforest to Momella Gate. At the base of the mountain, our vehicle will meet us and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
