Meet in Arusha after breakfast, then drive 1 hour to Momella Gate for registration. Accompanied by a park ranger, we hike the southern route through grasslands, with chances to see buffalo, giraffe, and elephants. The scenic forest offers diverse flora and fauna, including birds and butterflies. Cross the Ngare Nanyuki river, climb through montane forest, and lunch at the “Fig Tree.” Afterward, spot black colobus monkeys and wildflowers as the canopy thins. Mid-afternoon, enjoy views of Mt Meru’s cliffs and ash cone. Arrive at Miriakampa Hut by afternoon, with optional evening game walk to nearby watering holes.
Hike from Miriakampa Hut to the saddle below Little Meru, a steep 4 km trek through lush montane forest. Pass striking tree species like hygenium abyssinica and nuxia congesta, adorned with mosses and lichens. At Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Back Ridge), enter moorland vegetation with giant heather and common shrubs. By midday, reach the alpine zone of Saddle Hut for rest and a picnic lunch. Energetic trekkers can ascend Little Meru (3820m) in the afternoon for views of Socialist Peak. The round trip takes 1-1.5 hours. Encounter birdlife such as bearded vulture, white-naked raven, and alpine swift.
Start at 3 am, don warm clothes, and enjoy a hot drink. Begin a steep climb to Rhino Point (3800m), then follow a narrow ridge to Cobra Point (4350m). Continue scrambling to the summit (4566m) for breathtaking views of the crater rim, ash cone, Kilimanjaro, and the Rift Valley. Descend, spotting klipspringers, and traverse a dramatic ridge back to Rhino Point. Reach Momella Gate by late afternoon, collect summit certificates, and enjoy a picnic lunch. Transfer to Moshi/Arusha by bus or Jeep, with options to continue to a safari or Zanzibar. Transfers to Kilimanjaro Airport or bus station are provided.
