Gabriel Sabbas Safaris

Climbing Mount Meru

DAY 01: Momella Gate 4,921 to Miriakamba Huts 8,250 ft
Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

We depart Arusha for Momella Gate in Arusha National Park for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins in open grassland with an armed ranger as the possibility of seeing wildlife - giraffe, zebras, antelope, elephant and buffalo - is high. We climb steadily through the rain forest until the reach Miriakamba Huts, situated in a grassy glade.

DAY 02: Miriakamba Huts 8,250 ft to Saddle Huts 11,712 ft

Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
We continue climbing through the rain forest until we enter the heath zone accompanied by giant heather and other moorland vegetation. Along the ridge of the saddle, we have views of Mount Meru Crater and the Ash Tray. After arriving at Saddle Huts, there is an option to hike to the top of Little Mount Meru for superb views and to further aid acclimatization.

DAY 03: Saddle Huts 11,712 ft to Summit 14,977 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Summit 14,977 ft to Miriakamba Huts 8,250 ft
Distance: 13 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our climb to the summit. The trail is steep to Rhino Point and then Cobra Point. The path continues along the ridge of ash and rock to the summit - Socialist Peak. Here we enjoy magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and the sunrise before returning to Miriakamba Huts.

DAY 04: Miriakamba Huts 11,712 ft to Momella Gate 4,921 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
On our last day, we descend quickly through the tropical rainforest to Momella Gate. At the base of the mountain, our vehicle will meet us and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha.