8 Days Epic Expedition Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Escape
The Northern Circuit Route is a spectacular 8-day hiking tour that takes you through the diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes of Mount Kilimanjaro. This challenging journey offers a unique blend of thrilling adventure and breathtaking scenery, providing an unforgettable experience for avid trekkers. Starting at Kilimanjaro Airport, the trek covers a distance of approximately 75 kilometers, showcasing the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the region.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi Londorossi gate Big Tree Camp
- Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa Shira 1 camp
- Day 3 : Shira 1 camp Lava Tower Moir Hut
- Day 4 : Moir Hut- Buffalo camp
- Day 5 : Buffalo camp -Third Cave
- Day 6 : Third Cave - School Hut
- Day 7 : School Hut- Uhuru Peak- Mweka camp
- Day 8 : Mweka camp- Mweka gate -Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi Londorossi gate Big Tree Camp
Embark on your trek as you leave Moshi and head to Londorossi gate. The trail takes you through lush rainforests, revealing the vibrant flora and fauna that call Kilimanjaro home. The Big Tree Camp, your first stop, offers a tranquil setting to rest and acclimate to the altitude. Distance: 7 km, Time: 4-5 hours, Temperature: 20°C - 25°C.
Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Shira 1 camp
Traverse Mti Mkubwa, the 'big tree,' as you ascend to Shira 1 camp. The landscape evolves into a more arid terrain, providing stunning panoramic views of the Shira Plateau. Distance: 5 km, Time: 4-6 hours, Temperature: 15°C - 20°C.
Destination: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 3: Shira 1 camp Lava Tower Moir Hut
Reach the Lava Tower, a striking rock formation, before continuing to Moir Hut. The day's trek introduces you to alpine desert landscapes, preparing you for the challenges ahead. Distance: 14 km, Time: 7-9 hours, Temperature: 10°C - 15°C.
Destination: Shira 2 Camp To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp
Accommodation: Barranco Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: Moir Hut- Buffalo camp
Embark on a rugged journey towards Buffalo camp, where the terrain becomes steeper and more demanding. As you ascend, the temperatures drop, providing a taste of the challenges of high-altitude trekking. Distance: 12 km, Time: 6-8 hours, Temperature: 5°C - 10°C.
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Buffalo camp -Third Cave
Trek through the captivating Third Cave, surrounded by highland meadows. The day's journey presents an opportunity to acclimate further, both physically and mentally. Distance: 8 km, Time: 5-7 hours, Temperature: 0°C - 5°C.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Third Cave - School Hut
As you approach the final ascent, the landscape transforms into rocky terrain. School Hut provides a base for the ultimate push towards Uhuru Peak. Distance: 7 km, Time: 4-6 hours, Temperature: -5°C - 0°C.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: School Hut- Uhuru Peak- Mweka camp
Summit day unfolds as you conquer Uhuru Peak, standing at 5,895 meters. Descend to Mweka camp through glaciers and snowy landscapes, celebrating your triumph. Distance: 18 km, Time: 10-14 hours, Temperature: -10°C - -5°C.
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 8: Mweka camp- Mweka gate -Back to Moshi/Arusha
Descend through the lush Mweka rainforest to Mweka gate, marking the end of your journey. Return to Moshi or Arusha, reflecting on the incredible adventure and achievements of the past eight days. Distance: 10 km, Time: 3-4 hours, Temperature: 10°C - 15°C.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Porterage
- Rescue fee
- A professional driver/guide
- All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- Bath towels
- Rental vehicle
- Climbing gear
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All flights during the tour
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time is during the dry season, from late June to October.
Basic restroom facilities are available at campsites, but are prepared for rustic conditions.
It's a demanding trek, requiring physical fitness and mental resilience. Proper acclimatization is crucial.
Accommodations range from tents at campsites to basic huts at higher altitudes.
Yes, porters can be hired to carry your main luggage, allowing you to focus on the trek.
Group sizes are typically limited to ensure a personalized and safe experience, ranging from 6 to 12 participants.
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk. Adequate acclimatization and awareness are essential.
While the focus is on the landscapes, there are occasional wildlife encounters, including unique bird species.
Strict Leave No Trace principles are followed, and waste is carried down for proper disposal.
Absolutely, many participants choose to explore the local culture and relax post-trek.
Yes, travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes is strongly recommended.
Reviews for 8 Days Epic Expedition Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Escape
"The Northern Circuit Route provided an unparalleled adventure. The guides were knowledgeable, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles. The challenging terrain tested my limits, but the sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak was incomparable. A truly responsible and transformative experience."
"Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a journey of a lifetime. The guides ensured our safety, and their commitment to responsible trekking practices was evident. The landscapes were awe-inspiring, and reaching Uhuru Peak was a testament to the team's expertise. An adventure that leaves a positive footprint."
"As a seasoned trekker, the Northern Circuit Route offered a unique challenge. The support staff's commitment to responsible tourism stood out. The gradual ascent allowed for proper acclimatization, and the landscapes were truly diverse. Kilimanjaro is a jewel, and this trek does justice to its magnificence."
"Embarking on the Northern Circuit Route was a transformative experience. The guides' expertise and emphasis on responsible trekking practices were evident throughout. The changing landscapes, from lush forests to alpine deserts, made every step worth it. Uhuru Peak was the pinnacle of an unforgettable journey."
"The Northern Circuit Route was a journey of resilience and beauty. The guides emphasized environmental responsibility, ensuring we minimized our impact. The trek itself was a test of endurance, but the sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak was unparalleled. Highly recommended for those seeking a responsible adventure."
"The Northern Circuit Route was a journey of resilience and beauty. The guides emphasized environmental responsibility, ensuring we minimized our impact. The trek itself was a test of endurance, but the sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak was unparalleled. Highly recommended for those seeking a responsible adventure."
"The Northern Circuit Route was a journey of resilience and beauty. The guides emphasized environmental responsibility, ensuring we minimized our impact. The trek itself was a test of endurance, but the sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak was unparalleled. Highly recommended for those seeking a responsible adventure."
"The Northern Circuit Route was a journey of resilience and beauty. The guides emphasized environmental responsibility, ensuring we minimized our impact. The trek itself was a test of endurance, but the sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak was unparalleled. Highly recommended for those seeking a responsible adventure."
"The Northern Circuit Route was a journey of resilience and beauty. The guides emphasized environmental responsibility, ensuring we minimized our impact. The trek itself was a test of endurance, but the sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak was unparalleled. Highly recommended for those seeking a responsible adventure."
"Trekking Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a profound experience. The guides' dedication to responsible practices was evident throughout. The changing landscapes mirrored the diverse ecosystems, and reaching Uhuru Peak felt like conquering nature's masterpiece. An adventure that marries challenge with responsibility."
"Trekking Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a profound experience. The guides' dedication to responsible practices was evident throughout. The changing landscapes mirrored the diverse ecosystems, and reaching Uhuru Peak felt like conquering nature's masterpiece. An adventure that marries challenge with responsibility."
"Trekking Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a profound experience. The guides' dedication to responsible practices was evident throughout. The changing landscapes mirrored the diverse ecosystems, and reaching Uhuru Peak felt like conquering nature's masterpiece. An adventure that marries challenge with responsibility."
"Trekking Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a profound experience. The guides' dedication to responsible practices was evident throughout. The changing landscapes mirrored the diverse ecosystems, and reaching Uhuru Peak felt like conquering nature's masterpiece. An adventure that marries challenge with responsibility."
The Northern Circuit Route was a revelation in responsible trekking. The guides were not only knowledgeable but deeply committed to preserving Kilimanjaro's beauty. The trek itself was challenging yet rewarding, offering a unique perspective on the mountain's ecosystems. A truly responsible and enriching journey
Tackling Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a dream fulfilled. The responsible approach to trekking, from waste management to minimal impact practices, impressed me. The gradual ascent allowed for proper acclimatization, and each day unfolded with new wonders. A must-do for adventure seekers with a conscience.
The Northern Circuit Route was not just a trek; it was a symphony of landscapes and responsibility. The guides' commitment to leaving no trace resonated with me. The diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to alpine deserts, showcased Kilimanjaro's grandeur. Uhuru Peak was the climax of an eco-conscious adventure.
Embarking on the Northern Circuit Route was a life-changing experience. The responsible practices, combined with challenging trekking, created a perfect balance. The landscapes, especially the transition from Shira Plateau to alpine deserts, were awe-inspiring. Uhuru Peak was the culmination of a responsibly guided journey.