3 Days Mount Meru Climbing

Tour Itinerary

• Day 1

  Drive from Arusha to Momela Gate, Hike to Miriakampa Hut:

  Commencing from Momela Gate, the trail winds through expansive grassland inhabited by cape buffalo and warthogs. If fortune favors, you may also catch glimpses of giraffes and elephants. Ascend steadily through montane forest, pausing for lunch at the renowned "Fig tree." Afterward, the trek traverses less dense forest, teeming with birdlife and monkeys, including the black and white colobus. By mid-afternoon, the towering cliffs and Ash Cone come into view. Miriakampa Hut, nestled in a picturesque grassy glade, awaits, offering a serene setting to bask in the afternoon sun and admire panoramic vistas over the surrounding plains toward Kilimanjaro.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Miriakampa Hut

• Day 2

  Hike from Miriakampa Hut to Saddle Hut, Afternoon Hike up Little Meru:

  The journey from Miriakampa Hut to the saddle below Little Meru involves a steep, sustained climb throughout. Commencing amidst lush montane forest, the trail progresses beyond the halfway mark of Elephant Back Ridge, ascending through towering heather and other moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a brief ascent to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft) for breathtaking vistas. The ascent takes approximately 1 hour, with a 30-minute descent. The elevation gain is 1,056 m / 3,465 ft.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Saddle Hut

• Day 3

  Summit Ascent and Descent to Trailhead, Return to Arusha:

  Summit day commences in the early hours around 12:00 AM. Embark on a steep 1-hour climb to Rhino Point (3,800m / 12,467ft), followed by a ridge traverse of ash and rock leading to Cobra Point (4,350m / 14,272ft). The final ascent to Socialist Peak (4,566 m) takes approximately an hour on a steep path, offering awe-inspiring views of Kilimanjaro. Depending on pace, witness the sunrise at Cobra Point or the summit, marveling at the panoramic vistas including the Crater rim, Ash Cone, Kilimanjaro, and the Rift Valley. Retrace your steps to Rhino Point along the narrow ridge before descending to Miriakamba Hut for brunch and a brief respite.
  Note: For a more leisurely ascent, commence the trek at 05:00 AM, hiking for approximately 1 hour to enjoy the sunrise at Rhino Point before returning to Saddle Hut for breakfast and descending.
  Note: In icy or windy conditions, progression beyond Rhino Point may be impeded. Descend via the ascent route or the jeep road leading to the lower crater floor, passing notable landmarks like Fig Tree Arch and a hidden waterfall. Descend swiftly through open grassland and mixed forest, with opportunities to spot wildlife and relish scenic vistas. Lunch is served en route, with arrival at Momela Gate by midday or afternoon.
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch