Day 1: Arusha to Miriakamba Hut
Depart from your hotel in the morning for Momella Gate of Arusha
National Park (1,500 m.). After park entrance formalities, we begin
our hike, guided by a park ranger. The track passes open grassland,
providing an opportunity to see buffalo, warthogs and other grazers.
The trail continues as a steady climb through montane forest. We
take lunch near a giant Fig Tree arch. After lunch, the route
continues through less dense forest, where there are an abundance of
birds and black and white colobus monkeys.
By mid-afternoon, we can see towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. We
reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m.), situated in an idyllic grassy
glade, in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful
views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. (4-6 hours
walking).
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) to Saddle Hut (3,570 m)
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a
short day but a steep climb. We slowly ascend through lush montane
forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. From here we
enjoy excellent views of the summit ridge and across the crater
floor. The path continues through giant heather and other
fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where
lunch is will be provided. The afternoon is free to relax and to
enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the
nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before
sunset. (3-5 hours walking).
Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570 m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)
We start early at around 2 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point
(3,800 m.), continuing along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to
reach Cobra Point (4,350 m) at sunrise. The views are stunning: the
cliffs of the Crater rim, the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor,
Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift
Valley if the weather is clear. The summit of Socialist Peak (4,566
m.) is an hour further on a good but steep path. The route back to
Rhino Point in the morning light, on a narrow ridge between the
sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner
wall, is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa.
We enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the
descent to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m, 10-12 hours walking).
Miriakamba Hut Note:
The ridge between the summit and
Rhino Point is not suitable for those suffering from vertigo. In icy
conditions or in strong winds, it may be impossible for anyone to
progress beyond Rhino Point
Day 4:
Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) - hotel in Arusha
We take the direct route down through open grassland and mixed
forest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. This trail has
excellent views back towards the crater and over the plains of the
National Park. We should reach Momela Gate by late morning (2-3
hours walking). Once you reach the end of the climb you will be
transferred
to your hotel.
