Momela Route - 4 Days

Your adventure begins with pickup from Arusha and a scenic drive to Arusha National Park's Momella Gate. After park formalities and meeting your expert mountain crew, you'll start ascending through lush montane rainforest.

This 5-6 hour hike serves as a gentle introduction, offering opportunities to spot black and white colobus monkeys, giraffes, and buffalo. You'll spend your first night at Miriakamba Huts (2,514m), featuring solar lighting and comfortable bedding.

Today's trek ascends through the heath and moorland zone, leaving the forest behind for open terrain with giant heather and lobelia plants. The trail follows the crater rim, offering spectacular views of the Meru Crater and the "Ash Tray" volcanic cone.

An optional side trip to Little Mount Meru (3,820m) provides panoramic views of Arusha and surrounding plains. You'll overnight at Saddle Huts (3,570m), strategically positioned for your summit attempt with extra time for acclimatization.

Summit day begins around midnight with hot tea and snacks. Ascend by headlamp through volcanic terrain, passing Rhino Point and Cobra Point before reaching Socialist Peak (4,566m) for sunrise.

The pre-dawn effort rewards you with breathtaking views—Kilimanjaro glowing in the east, the Meru Crater below, and African plains stretching to the horizon. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Miriakamba Huts for a well-earned rest and recovery night.

Key Advantage: Extra recovery night improves safety and comfort

A relaxed morning hike through the rainforest back to Momella Gate. Enjoy your final opportunities to spot wildlife and reflect on your incredible achievement.

You'll be met at the gate by our driver and transferred to your Arusha accommodations, arriving by early afternoon with plenty of time to celebrate your successful summit.

Benefit: Return refreshed rather than exhausted