Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi or Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a representative from Lucky Moon Adventure will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha—both ideal starting points for trekking. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a comprehensive trek briefing and final gear check before your Mount Meru adventure begins.
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut
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Elevation: 1,500 m to 2,514 m (4,921 ft to 8,250 ft)
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Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
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Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
After breakfast, drive to Arusha National Park for registration at Momella Gate, where the trek begins. The trail winds through open grasslands and lush rainforest, with chances to see wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, and Colobus monkeys. Guided by an armed park ranger, you’ll ascend gradually to Miriakamba Hut, your first overnight stop nestled in the forest.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
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Elevation: 2,514 m to 3,570 m (8,250 ft to 11,712 ft)
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Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
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Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Today’s hike takes you through montane forest and heather zones, with increasingly dramatic views of the Meru crater and distant glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll reach Saddle Hut by early afternoon. After a rest and warm meal, take an optional hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) for acclimatization and stunning sunset vistas.
Day 3: Summit Day – Socialist Peak & Descent to Miriakamba Hut
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Elevation: 3,570 m to 4,566 m (11,712 ft to 14,980 ft), then descend to 2,514 m (8,250 ft)
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Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
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Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
The final ascent begins shortly after midnight. Using headlamps, you’ll climb past Rhino Point (3,800 m) and Cobra Point (4,350 m) before reaching Socialist Peak (4,566 m) at sunrise. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the crater, the Ash Cone, and Mount Kilimanjaro. After a brief rest and celebration, descend to Saddle Hut for breakfast, then continue to Miriakamba Hut for your final night on the mountain.
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate – Return to Moshi or Arusha
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Elevation: 2,514 m to 1,500 m (8,250 ft to 4,921 ft)
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Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
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Hiking Time: 2–4 hours
After breakfast, continue your descent through the forest back to Momella Gate, where your trek concludes. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned shower, rest, and celebration.
Departure or Optional Extension
After a relaxing stay in Moshi or Arusha, we’ll arrange your airport transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). Not ready to head home? Extend your adventure with a Tanzania safari or unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar—we’ll be happy to help you plan the perfect add-on.
