This morning we take a leisurely breakfast at our hotel, before setting out in our vehicle at around 08.00 to allow for a scheduled arrival at Momela Gate 1500 meters at 10.00. Before reaching that start-point, we stop at Momela park entrance to complete formalities; from, there it is a further 15km drive to Momela. You will be introduced to your expert mountain team: the guides, porters and everyone else who will take you safely up the mountain. And crucially, we will be accompanied by an armed ranger – proof indeed that the wildlife is close by!

Today’s walk is a fairly long one: in pure numbers, you gain just over 1000 metres in altitude during your 14km/9miles of walking. Keep your eyes peeled in the first hour or so, as the wildlife here is abundant. Maybe you’ll spot a troop of baboons, or some dik-dik. The scenery is varied as you ascend, with forest and the well-known Meru’s Garden marshland, as well as the extraordinary Arched Fig Tree and then the Maio Falls further on.

Various viewpoints on the ascent provide excellent photo-opportunities to capture the magic of the stunning landscape around Mount Meru. Finally, we will see the welcome sight of Miriakamba Huts 2500 meters, our resting-place tonight..

Although today’s stage is much shorter in distance, we will ascend significantly to Saddle Huts 3500 meters. Shorter and steeper than yesterday, today will be a challenge, so we will obey the golden rule of the mountain: pole pole, or ‘slowly, slowly.’

We will transition today from rain forest into heathland, and views of the marvellous Meru Crater, distinctive Ash Cone and the stunning white-capped peak of Kilimanjaro in the distance will provide us with some highlights. And don’t be surprised to see an elephant today, even at this increased altitude.

This afternoon, if you have some energy to spare, you will have the option to hike up Little Mount Meru, thus helping you to acclimatize. At 3820 metres, it is not really that little and you’ll get some super views from its summit..

Today is the day: ‘summit day’ of course! To make the most of our summit experience, we will be awake early – around midnight – with another short and very steep ascent. First, you will notice that we leave the large vegetation specimens of yesterday behind as we cross the saddle and reach Rhino Point at 3874 metres. Briefly, the stage profile flattens, before we ascend once again towards the peak at 4566 metres. After we have achieved our goal and of course, celebrated the moment, we will descend once more past the familiar Miriakamba Huts 2500 meters and continue downwards to Momela Gate 1500 meters.

Here, you will be presented with your certificate to commemorate your achievement and will have a chance to tip your mountain team.

Please note that the Tanzania Experience safari ends at Kilimanjaro International Airport at 17.30 hours. Your departure can only take place today if you have pre-booked a domestic flight which leaves from Kilimanjaro International Airport at 19.40 hours or after, or an international flight which leaves at 21.00 hours or after. Otherwise, you will need to book an extra night’s accommodation (not included in the tour price unless you need to) and take a flight the following day