4 Days 3 Nights Mount Meru Climb

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Day 1: Arusha - Miriakamba Hut

In the morning, depart from your hotel for Momella Gate of Arusha National Park (1,500 m.). Following the park's formalities, we begin our hike, accompanied by a park ranger. The trail passes through open grassland, where you can see buffalo, warthogs, and other grazers. The trail continues to climb steadily through montane forest. We eat lunch near a massive Fig Tree arch. After lunch, the trail continues through less dense forest, where birds and black and white colobus monkeys abound. We can see towering cliffs and the Ash Cone by mid-afternoon. We arrive at Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m.), located in a picturesque grassy glade, just in time to catch the last rays of the afternoon sun and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. Kilimanjaro is in sight. (Walking for 4-6 hours).

Overnight: Miriakamba Hut

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Day 2: Miriakamba Hut - Saddle Hut

The hike from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle beneath Little Meru is a short but steep day. We gradually ascend through lush montane forest to reach Elephant Ridge's halfway point. We have great views of the summit ridge and the crater floor from here. The path continues through giant heather and other interesting moorland vegetation to Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where lunch will be served. The afternoon is free to relax and take in the scenery. The more energetic can make the short climb to Little Meru (3,820 m) for spectacular views just before sunset. (Walking time: 3-5 hours).

Overnight: Saddle Hut

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Day 3: Saddle Hut – Summit - Miriakamba Hut

We leave around 2:00 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m), then continue along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to Cobra Point (4,350 m) at sunrise. The views are breathtaking: the crater rim cliffs, the Ash Cone rising from the crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating in the morning clouds, and if the weather is clear, views west towards the Rift Valley. Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) is an hour away via a good but steep path. The route back to Rhino Point in the morning light, along a narrow ridge between the crater's sloping outer wall and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall, is one of Africa's most dramatic and exhilarating walks. Before continuing our descent to Miriakamba Hut, we stop for a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours walking).

Overnight: Miriakamba Hut - Arusha

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Day 4

We take the direct route down through open grassland and mixed forest, where we are likely to see wildlife. This trail offers spectacular views of the crater and the National Park's plains. Arrive at Momella Gate and take a transfer to Arusha.