Your journey begins in a stunningly lush montane forest, where the vibrant flora envelops you in nature’s embrace. As you traverse beyond the halfway point of Elephant Back Ridge, the path leads you upwards through majestic giant heather and diverse moorland vegetation, culminating at Saddle Hut for a well-deserved lunch.

In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to embark on a short but rewarding climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m / 12,533 ft). This trek offers spectacular panoramic views and takes about one hour to ascend and thirty minutes to descend, with an elevation gain of 1,056 m / 3,465 ft.

Prepare for an early start around midnight. Your ascent begins with a steep one-hour climb to Rhino Point (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). From there, the trail continues along a ridge of ash and rock, leading you to Cobra Point (4,350 m / 14,272 ft). A final hour of climbing brings you to the summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m), where breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro await. Depending on your pace, you may witness a stunning sunrise at either Cobra Point or the summit itself, with vistas that include the dramatic cliffs of the crater rim, the ash cone rising from the crater floor, and Kilimanjaro appearing to float among the morning clouds, alongside the expansive Rift Valley.

The return to Rhino Point, bathed in the sharp morning light, takes you along a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall, offering one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. After brunch and a brief rest at Saddle Hut, you’ll begin your descent back to Miriakamba Hut.

Note: For a more leisurely ascent, you may opt to start your trek at 5:00 AM, hike for about an hour, and enjoy the sunrise at Rhino Point before returning to Saddle Hut for breakfast and then descending. Be aware that during icy conditions or strong winds, it may be impossible to progress beyond Rhino Point.

There are two descent options from here. You can retrace your steps along the route you came, or take the jeep road that descends to the lower crater floor. Along this path, you’ll pass the iconic Fig Tree Arch and may choose to explore an impressive waterfall hidden within a nearby ravine. This fast descent through open grasslands and mixed forests offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and stunning views back toward the crater and over the expansive plains of the national park. We’ll enjoy lunch on our way down, with Momela Gate reached by midday or early afternoon.

On the final day of your unforgettable 4-Day Mount Meru Climb, you have two options for your descent. You can either retrace your steps along the route you ascended or take the scenic jeep road that leads down to the lower crater floor. This route allows you to pass through the iconic Fig Tree Arch and visit an impressive waterfall hidden in a nearby ravine—a delightful surprise not far from the road.

As you embark on a swift descent through open grasslands and mixed forests, keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to spot wildlife. This trail offers stunning views back toward the crater and across the expansive plains of the National Park, making your descent as memorable as your ascent.

You’ll reach Momela Gate by late morning, where your adventure concludes. Afterward, you can relax and reflect on your journey during your overnight stay at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.