9 Days Epic Escapade Kilimanjaro Trekking
Welcome to the 9-day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Trek, where every step brings you closer to the summit of Africa's highest peak. This adventure promises not only a physical challenge but also an intimate connection with the diverse ecosystems that grace the slopes of Kilimanjaro.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : : Moshi Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
- Day 2 : : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3 : : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Day 4 : : Shira 2 Camp to Lava Towe tor Moir Hut
- Day 5 : : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Day 6 : : Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
- Day 7 : : Third Cave - School Hut
- Day 8 : : School Hut - Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp
- Day 9 : : Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate
Itinerary
Day 1: : Moshi Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
Hours: 4-6 hours Temperature: 20°C - 25°C Today, you will drive to the Londorossi Gate, the starting point of your trek. The trail takes you through Distance: Approximately 110 km lush rainforests, teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Arrive at Big Tree Camp, nestled in the heart of the forest, where you will set up camp and enjoy the sounds of nature as you rest for the next day's journey.
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 to Shira 1 Camp
Distance: 8 km Hours: 4-6 hours Temperature: 15°C - 20°C Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends to the Shira Plateau. Mti Mkubwa, meaning "Big Tree," gives way to the vast open spaces of Shira 1 Camp. Here, you will be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the stunning Shira Cathedral.
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 to Shira 2 Camp
Distance: 10 km Hours: 5-7 hours Temperature: 10°C - 15°C Continue your ascent through the high-altitude moorland. The trek to Shira 2 Camp reveals the stark beauty of the alpine desert, with the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro providing a breathtaking backdrop.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: : Shira 2 Camp to Lava Towe tor Moir Hut
Distance: 12 km Hours: 6-8 hours Temperature: 5°C - 10°C Today's trek takes you to the Lava Tower, a striking rock formation at 4,600 meters. As you climb, the landscape transforms into an otherworldly realm. Descend to Moir Hut, nestled in the Great Barranco Valley, where the temperatures drop, offering a taste of the challenges that lie ahead.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Moir Hut Camp
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Distance: 10 km Hours: 5-7 hours Temperature: 0°C - 5°C The journey to Buffalo Camp unveils the rugged beauty of the alpine desert. Trek across the high-altitude terrain, surrounded by giant Senecios and the iconic giant lobelias. Camp at Buffalo Camp, where the frigid temperatures prepare you for the final push to the summit
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: : Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Distance: 8 km Hours: 4-6 hours Temperature: -5°C - 0°C The trail descends into the picturesque Third Cave, where the landscape shifts yet again. Marvel at the unique flora adapted to the harsh conditions of Kilimanjaro's higher altitudes. Giant lobelias and Senecios dot the rocky terrain, their hardy resilience a testament to nature's ingenuity. As you trek through this rugged landscape, take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings and the sheer magnitude of the mountain.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Pofu Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: : Third Cave - School Hut
Distance: 10 km Hours: 5-7 hours Temperature: -10°C - -5°C Today's journey takes you to School Hut, the final camp before the summit push. Ascend through rocky terrain and barren slopes, surrounded by towering cliffs and dramatic ridges. The air becomes thinner as you gain altitude, and the temperatures drop steadily. Arrive at School Hut, perched at an elevation of 4,800 meters, where you will rest and prepare for the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 8: : School Hut - Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp
Distance: 21 km (summit day) Hours: 10-14 hours Temperature: -15°C - 5°C The summit day begins before dawn as you embark on the ultimate challenge: reaching the roof of Africa. Trekking by the light of your headlamp, you ascend steadily towards Stella Point, the crater rim of Kilimanjaro. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the horizon, you push onward, fueled by determination and awe-inspiring views. Finally, you stand at Uhuru Peak, 5,895 meters above sea level, surrounded by endless vistas stretching to the horizon. After savouring this triumphant moment, begin the descent to Mweka Camp, where you will spend the night.
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 9: : Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate
Distance: 10 km Hours: 3-4 hours Temperature: 10°C - 20°C On the final day of your trek, descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps towards civilization. The air becomes warmer and filled with the scent of vegetation as you descend, leaving behind the barren slopes of Kilimanjaro. Arrive at Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to the mountain that has challenged and inspired you. From here, transfer back to Moshi or Arusha, where hot showers and comfortable beds await, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- 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
- Park fees
- 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
Start a fitness regimen focused on cardiovascular and lower body strength exercises.
Essentials include sturdy hiking boots, layers for varying temperatures, a sleeping bag, and a backpack.
The Northern Circuit is challenging but rewards with breathtaking scenery. Adequate fitness is crucial.
Participants should be in good health. Consult with a healthcare professional before booking.
• Accommodations range from tents to huts, providing a mix of camping and rustic shelter experiences
Proper acclimatization and gradual ascent help minimize the risk. Guides are trained to handle emergencies.
Nutritious and energy-packed meals are provided, catering to various dietary preferences.
Charging facilities are limited, so bring power banks and conserve battery usage.
While Kilimanjaro is not a wildlife trek, some unique bird species may be spotted.
Strict Leave No Trace principles are followed. Waste is carried down and disposed of responsibly.
Guides are trained in first aid, and evacuation plans are in place if needed.
Reviews for 9 Days Epic Escapade Kilimanjaro Trekking
. changing landscapes The guides were knowledgeable, ensuring our safety at every step. The were like stepping into different worlds. A truly transformative journey."
. The temperatures and terrain variations added a thrilling dimension. The sense of accomplishment reaching Uhuru Peak is indescribable. An adventure etched in my memory forever."
. The guides emphasized Leave No Trace, and the campsites were well-maintained. The beauty of the Northern Circuit is unparalleled, and I felt a profound connection with nature."
: "The diverse landscapes kept me engaged throughout. The gradual ascent allowed for proper acclimatization. The responsible approach to waste management was evident
The guides' expertise and the group dynamics made the journey enjoyable. Standing at Uhuru Peak felt like conquering not just a mountain but personal limits
. The temperature variations challenged me, but the support from the guides and fellow trekkers kept me going. The beauty of Kilimanjaro is unparalleled, and I'm grateful for this adventure."
. The varying temperatures tested my endurance, but the guides' encouragement was constant. The Northern Circuit offers a genuine wilderness experience, and reaching Uhuru Peak was a triumph of determination
The temperatures and landscapes pushed my limits, but the sense of accomplishment was unparalleled. The guides' commitment to responsible trekking added an extra layer of appreciation."
"As a solo traveler, the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Trek was a transformative experience. The days were challenging yet rewarding, and the camaraderie with fellow trekkers made it special.