Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (from 1,500 meters to 2,500 meters)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest, Heath Zone
Highlights of the Day:
Wildlife sightings, including giraffes and zebras.
Scenic hike through montane forests.
First views of Mount Meru and its surroundings.
Your adventure begins at Momella Gate (1,500 meters), where you will register and meet your guide and crew. From there, the trail starts with a gentle ascent through lush montane forest, where you may encounter wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and various bird species. The air is cool and refreshing, and the forested path gives way to increasingly open areas, where the views start to open up.
By mid-afternoon, you'll reach Miriakamba Hut (2,500 meters), where you'll spend the night. The hut provides basic accommodations, and the area offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of the peak of Mount Meru. Relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while acclimatizing to the higher elevation
What to Wear:
Lightweight moisture-wicking clothes.
Long sleeves and pants to protect against the elements.
Hiking boots.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (from 2,500 meters to 3,500 meters)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Heath Zone, Alpine Meadow
Highlights of the Day:
Gradual ascent through alpine meadows and heath zones.
Beautiful views of Meru Crater and Little Meru.
Opportunity for acclimatization before the summit attempt.
On Day 2, the trail continues its steady ascent, now leading you into the heath zone and alpine meadows. You will notice the terrain becoming more rugged and barren as you climb higher, and the flora becomes more sparse with increasing altitude. The day’s trek takes you past stunning cliffs and volcanic rock formations, with incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
You will reach Saddle Hut (3,500 meters), situated between Mount Meru’s Little Meru and the main summit. This hut is an excellent place to rest before the summit attempt, with panoramic views of the nearby Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. After arriving, spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing.
What to Wear:
Moisture-wicking clothes with layers for warmth.
A fleece jacket and gloves for cooler temperatures.
Comfortable hiking boots.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
Day 3: Saddle Hut to Summit (Socialist Peak) to Momella Gate
Elevation Gain: 1,066 meters (from 3,500 meters to 4,566 meters)
Hiking Time: 8–10 hours (Round Trip)
Habitat: Alpine Desert, Summit Zone
Highlights of the Day:
Sunrise from the summit: Witness an unforgettable sunrise from Socialist Peak.
Panoramic Views: Stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Meru Crater.
Summit Achievement: Reach the Socialist Peak and take in the spectacular scenery.
Descent through Forest: A peaceful descent back to Momella Gate, through diverse ecosystems.
The Journey:
On the final day of your Mount Meru trek, you’ll rise early at around 2:00 AM to begin the ascent towards Socialist Peak, the summit of Mount Meru. The journey is steep and challenging, passing through rocky terrain and volcanic scree. As you make your way upward, you’ll trek under the stars, with the anticipation of the sunrise.
As the sun rises, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance and the vast Meru Crater below. The climb to Socialist Peak (4,566 meters) is rewarding, with breathtaking panoramic views that make the effort worth it.
After celebrating your summit achievement, you’ll descend back to Saddle Hut for a brief rest before continuing your descent to Momella Gate. The descent takes you through lush forested areas, offering a peaceful and relaxing end to your trek.
What to Wear:
Warm layers for the cold early morning ascent.
Waterproof jacket and pants for protection from wind and rain.
Hat, gloves, and a headlamp for the night trek.
Sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles for the challenging terrain.
