DAY 1 (17th February 2012)
We start from Momella Gate (1,500 m) in late morning passing through open grassland, with a good chance of seeing buffaloes and warthogs, continuing with a steady climb through montane forest.
We take lunch at, or near, the Fig Tree Arch, which is big enough to drive a car through!
After lunch, the route continues through less dense forest, where there are an abundance of birds and monkeys (the black and white colobus monkeys are particularly fascinating to watch).
By mid-afternoon, there are the first closer views of the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone.
We reach Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m), situated in an idyllic grassy glade, in time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. [5-6 hours walking]
DAY 2 (18th February 2012)
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep and sustained climb all the way.
We walk through attractive, open, and lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. This has excellent views of the summit ridge and across most of the crater floor.
Whilst resting, you might spot elephants or other animals from here.
The path continues uphill through giant heather and other moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut (3,570 m), where lunch is waiting for us.
The afternoon is free to rest and enjoy the views. The more energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset. [3-6 hours walking]
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