Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 10 km
Weather: Warm and humid in the rainforest; afternoon showers possible.
Acclimatization: First altitude gain—walk slowly and hydrate often.
Your adventure begins at Momella Gate in Arusha National Park, where registration and a safety briefing take place. With an armed ranger escort (due to wildlife), the trek begins through lush rainforest and open savannah, where giraffes, buffalo, and monkeys are often seen. The trail ascends gradually, offering sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro before reaching Miriakamba Hut, your first overnight stay inside the forest zone.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 8 km
Weather: Cooler with clear skies; cold evenings.
Acclimatization: Moderate altitude gain—take steady steps and rest often.
Today’s trek leaves the dense forest behind and climbs steeply through montane heath, passing giant heathers and rocky ridges. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Meru’s horseshoe-shaped crater and the towering Ash Cone. By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Saddle Hut, located between Little Meru and the main peak. For acclimatization, you may take a short hike to Little Meru (3,820m), which rewards you with breathtaking sunset views.
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570m) to Socialist Peak (4,566m), then down to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Hiking time: 10–12 hours total
Distance: ~19 km (ascent + descent)
Weather: Freezing cold before dawn (-5°C to -15°C); clear skies at sunrise; warmer during descent.
Acclimatization: Summit push—move slowly, breathe deeply, and conserve energy.
Summit day begins around midnight with a steep climb via Rhino Point (3,800m) and Cobra Point (4,350m). The trail is demanding, with narrow ridges and rocky scrambles, but the reward is incredible: a dramatic sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro and the sweeping plains below. From Socialist Peak (4,566m), enjoy panoramic views of Meru’s crater and beyond. After celebrating, descend carefully back to Saddle Hut for a short break, then continue down to Miriakamba Hut for your final night.
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) to Momella Gate (1,500m)
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 7 km
Weather: Warmer and humid; light rain possible in the rainforest.
Acclimatization: No longer needed, but knees and joints are tested on descent.
The final day is a gentle descent through montane forest alive with wildlife, including colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and a variety of birds. By late morning, you’ll reach Momella Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your trekking certificate. From here, transfer back to your hotel for a hot shower, rest, and celebration of your successful Mount Meru climb.