Day 1: Momella Gate (1,500m) – Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure to Arusha National Park. After registration at Momella Gate, the trail begins through open grasslands where you might spot buffalo, warthogs, zebras, and other game.

The route steadily ascends through montane forest, stopping for a packed lunch beneath the iconic fig tree arch. Continuing through the forest, expect sightings of colorful birdlife, blue monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Scenic viewpoints such as Njeku and Kitoto offer fantastic photo stops.

By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at Miriakamba Hut, nestled in an open glade with views extending to Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.

• 🕐 Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• ⬆ Elevation Gain: +1,014m

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) – Saddle Hut (3,570m)

After breakfast, the trail climbs steeply through lush forests and moorland, with a midway stop at Elephant Ridge. You’ll continue through giant heather and unique high-altitude vegetation until reaching Saddle Hut just before noon for a hot lunch.

In the afternoon, adventurous trekkers can opt for an acclimatization hike to Little Meru (3,820m). This short yet rewarding climb offers panoramic views over the Ngorongoro Highlands, Oldonyo Lengai, Mount Kilimanjaro, and into Kenya.

• 🕐 Hiking Time to Saddle Hut: 3–4 hours

• 🕐 Optional Little Meru Hike: 1.5 hours round trip

• ⬆ Elevation Gain: +1,056m

Day 3: Saddle Hut – Socialist Peak (4,566m) – Miriakamba Hut

Summit day begins around 1:00 AM under starlit skies. A steep climb brings you first to Rhino Point (3,800m) and then to Cobra Point (4,350m). The final push to Socialist Peak (4,566m) rewards you with an unforgettable sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha town, and the sweeping Rift Valley.

The return descent to Saddle Hut along the crater rim offers breathtaking views of the inner cliffs and ash cone. After a short break and lunch at Saddle Hut, you’ll continue descending to Miriakamba Hut for the night.

• 🕐 Hiking Time: 5–6 hours to the summit, 3 hours to Saddle Hut, 2 hours to Miriakamba

• ⬆ Elevation Gain: +996m

• ⬇ Descent: -1,052m

Day 4: Miriakamba Hut – Momella Gate

After breakfast, begin your final descent via the northern route, a trail through open grassland and forested paths rich in wildlife. Enjoy views of Ngurudoto Crater, visit the scenic Tululusia Waterfall, and descend to Momella Gate where your vehicle awaits for transfer back to Arusha or Moshi.

• 🕐 Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

• ⬇ Descent: -1,014m