Transfer from Hotel to Momella Gate in Arusha National Park

Mount Meru - In the early morning, guests will be picked up from their hotel and taken to the Momella Gate in Arusha National Park. At this point, porters will organize and pack the gear for the hike while the guide and guests register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA).

The first day of hiking resembles a walking safari; expect to see giraffes, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and possibly elephants along the trail. Due to the likelihood of encountering wildlife, an armed ranger, hired through the National Park, will accompany the team throughout the hike.

As the hike progresses, participants will pass the Ngarenanyuki River and a stunning waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru. Upon reaching Miriakamba Hut (2,500 m), a chef will prepare a hot dinner and provide warm water. This marks the first day at this altitude, so it is highly recommended to follow these instructions from this point forward: (Avoid alcohol and caffeine consumption).

Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut

Mount Meru - After breakfast, the ascent begins up the steep trail along the ridge of the saddle. Various wildlife may be spotted along the way! The trail offers breathtaking views of Meru Crater and the Ash Cone. Upon arrival at camp, there is an option to hike Little Meru (3,820 m) with the guide for further acclimatization. An early dinner will be served to ensure ample rest before the midnight summit attempt.
ELEVATION
2,500 m to 3,550 m
HIKING TIME
3-4 hours
DISTANCE
5 km

Saddle Hut to Meru Peak and Descent to Momella Gate

Mount Meru - The summit attempt begins early at around 00:00. There is a 1-hour steep climb to Rhino Point (3,800 m), followed by a path along a ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m). The summit of Meru Peak (4,562 m) is an hour further on a steep path with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro. Depending on the pace, sunrise can be enjoyed at Cobra Point or the summit. The views are spectacular: the cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds, and the Rift Valley. The return route to Rhino Point in the morning light along a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the cliffs of the inner wall is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Brunch and a brief rest are taken at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to Momella Gate.

After the descent, the entire group will gather to celebrate, and then guests will be transferred to Moshi or Arusha town.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Mountain crew, guide, cook and porters
• Other

• Tip to the crew
• Personal expenses

CLIMBING STANDARDS
We believe that it is the crew that makes your adventure a lifetime experience. All our guides and porters are hand-picked, individually trained professionals. The guides have Wilderness First Responder/Wilderness First Aid certifications. They know how to act in times of emergency and how to make your experience with us a lifetime adventure. Overnight stays on Mount Meru are in huts only. In contrast to Kilimanjaro, where tented camping options are available on all routes but Marangu, on Mount Meru one should be ready to stay in huts only.

An armed ranger will be accompanying your party up to the summit camp. In order to make your stay in the wild safe and protect the animals from poachers, an armed ranger will be hiking with you up to Saddle Hut Camp.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.