9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Trekking
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Northern Circuit of Kilimanjaro, a 9-day trekking expedition that promises not only breathtaking views but also a soul-stirring adventure. This unique route will take you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged terrains, offering an immersive experience that combines nature, challenge, and self-discovery.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi to 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 Tower to Moir Hut
- Day 5 : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Day 6 : Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
- Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut
- Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
Distance: Approximately 55 km Hours: 2 hours drive to Londorossi Gate + 3-4 hours trek Temperature: 20°C (day) / 10°C (night) Begin your trek at Londorossi Gate, traversing through lush rainforests to reach Big Tree Camp. The trek offers glimpses of wildlife and unique flora, setting the tone for the days to come.
Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Accommodation: Big Tree Camp
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Distance: 8 km Hours: 5-6 hours trek Temperature: 15°C (day) / 5°C (night) Today's journey leads you through the moorland, where you will witness the transition from forest to open landscapes. Shira 1 Camp, surrounded by expansive views, awaits you for a well-deserved rest.
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: 4-5 hours trek Temperature: 12°C (day) / 3°C (night) As you ascend to Shira 2 Camp, the terrain changes, revealing the grandeur of the Shira Plateau. Enjoy the panoramic vistas and acclimatize to the increasing altitude.
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 Tower to Moir Hut
Distance: 12 km Hours: 6-7 hours trek Temperature: 8°C (day) / -2°C (night) A challenging day awaits as you ascend to Lava Tower, reaching an altitude of 4,630 meters. Descend to Moir Hut for a night amidst the striking landscape.
Destination: Shira 2 Camp To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp
Accommodation: Barranco
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Distance: 15 km Hours: 6-8 hours trek Temperature: 5°C (day) / -5°C (night) Trek through the Alpine Desert, passing unique rock formations and the iconic Lent Hills. Buffalo Camp offers a surreal setting for a night under the stars.
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: 10 km Hours: 5-7 hours trek Temperature: 10°C (day) / 0°C (night) Traverse the desolate landscape of the Saddle, surrounded by the towering peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Third Cave provides a strategic resting point before the final ascent.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To third cave
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut
Distance: 10 km Hours: 4-5 hours trek Temperature: 5°C (day) / -5°C (night) Your journey continues as you ascend to School Hut, the last camp before the summit. Here, you'll rest and prepare for the ultimate challenge ahead.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Distance: 21 km Hours: 12-14 hours trek to Uhuru Peak, 5-6 hours descent to Mweka Camp Temperature: -10°C to -20°C (summit) / 5°C (day) / -5°C (night) Today is the pinnacle of your adventure as you embark on the summit push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Begin your ascent in the early hours, guided by the light of your headlamp and the stars above. As the sun rises, you'll witness breathtaking views from the roof of Africa. Take a moment to savor your achievement before beginning the descent to Mweka Camp, where you'll spend the night.
Destination: School Hut
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi/Arusha
Distance: 10 km Hours: 3-4 hours trek to Mweka Gate, 1-hour drive to Moshi/Arusha Temperature: 20°C (day) Your descent continues through the lush rainforest, where you'll bid farewell to Kilimanjaro's slopes. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, celebrate your accomplishment before transferring back to Moshi or Arusha. Reflect on the memories made and the challenges overcome during your extraordinary journey through the Northern Circuit of Kilimanjaro.
Destination: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Bath towels
- 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
- Porterage
- Rescue fee
- Climbing gear
- Gorilla trekking permits
- 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
Reviews for 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Trekking
John's experience on the Northern Circuit was transformative. He emphasizes the need for responsible trekking practices, including waste disposal and respecting the natural habitat. The guides ensured a safe and enjoyable journey.
Maria praises the diverse landscapes encountered on the trek. She emphasizes the importance of choosing an eco-conscious tour operator, and her guides demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving Kilimanjaro's natural beauty.
David commends the guides' knowledge of the local flora and fauna, enhancing the trek with insightful information. He emphasizes the significance of responsible tourism to preserve the unique ecosystems of Kilimanjaro.
impressed by the eco-friendly practices observed during the trek. She highlights the minimal environmental impact of the expedition, showcasing the importance of sustainable tourism in such pristine environments.
Olga reflects on the cultural exchange with the local guides, adding a rich layer to the trekking experience. She advocates for responsible tourism that supports and respects the communities around Kilimanjaro.
Diego emphasizes the need for trekkers to be mindful of their impact on Kilimanjaro's delicate ecosystems. He applauds the expedition organizers for promoting responsible trekking practices throughout the journey.
Aisha appreciates the attention given to acclimatization during the trek, ensuring the well-being of all participants. She underscores the importance of choosing responsible tour operators committed to both safety and environmental stewardship.
Lucas was inspired by the local community engagement initiatives integrated into the trek. He believes responsible tourism, as showcased on the Northern Circuit, can serve as a model for sustainable adventure travel worldwide.
Sophie was deeply moved by the respectful and responsible attitude of the guides towards Kilimanjaro's environment. She urges future trekkers to prioritize operators that prioritize conservation and community welfare.