Here’s a fantastic alternative to the longer Mt. Kilimanjaro hike! The trails offer breathtaking views from the start to the end, passing through Arusha National Park. As you begin your trek, keep an eye out for giraffes, buffaloes, and black and white colobus monkeys – what an incredible way to kick off your adventure!
- You’ll be collected from the airport.
- Accommodation before the tour can be arranged for an extra cost.
Upon your arrival at either Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport, you will receive a warm welcome and be transported to Karibu Heritage House. Depending on your schedule, there’s an exciting opportunity for an Arusha city tour, which includes visits to the renowned art gallery (Cultural Heritage), the local market, and the vibrant Maasai Market.
Main Destination: Arusha (City)
Accommodation:
- Karibu Heritage House
- Budget hotel located in or near Arusha
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
We will embark on a drive from Arusha to Arusha National Park Gate, where a brief registration will take place. Our walk will commence with a dedicated armed ranger escorting us. Along the way, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe various wild animals, such as elephants, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, and antelopes. We might even spot elephants during the hike. We will conclude the day at Miriakamba Hut for dinner and overnight stay.
- Elevation: 1,387m to 1,500m (4,921ft to 8,250ft)
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
Main Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Non-alcoholic drinks
The trek from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle beneath Little Meru may be short, but it involves a steep ascent. We’ll take our time, following the ridge, which offers breathtaking views of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. Once at Saddle Hut, a hot lunch awaits, and for those interested, a quick climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) is possible, granting superb views just before sunset. We’ll have dinner and spend the night at Saddle Hut.
- Elevation: 2,514m to 3,570m (8,250ft to 11,712ft)
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Main Destination: Mount Meru
Accommodation: Saddle Hut
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Non-alcoholic drinks
We set out early, around 12:30 a.m., embarking on a steep climb to Rhino Point (3,800m) and further to Cobra Point (4,350m). As we reach the summit (4,566m), we are greeted by the breathtaking sunrise, with a chance to glimpse Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final stretch of the climb takes us along a thrilling narrow ridgeline between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater, then you arrive at the summit. After savoring the moment and capturing memories through photos, you’ll begin the descent back to Saddle Hut. You’ll reflect on the achievement of reaching the summit and the beauty of the mountain landscape.
Upon returning to Saddle Hut, you’ll have breakfast and a well-deserved rest before continuing the descent to Miriakamba and having lunch there, then get on with the descent. We will drive back from Miriakamba hut to the hotel, where you can experience the breeze of the forest and see birds and animals to ease the trip after all the exhaustion.
- Saddle Hut to Summit:
- Elevation: 3,570m (11,712ft) to 4,566m (14,977ft)
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Summit to Miriakamba Hut:
- Elevation: 4,566m (14,977ft) to 2,514m (8,250ft)
- Distance: 13 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
Main Destination: Mount Meru
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Non-alcoholic drinks
End of Tour
By mid-afternoon, we’ll reach Momella Gate, where you’ll be rewarded with a summit certificate. We will then drive you back to your hotel in Arusha.
- Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost
- You can be dropped at the airport
