9 Days Summit Serenity Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure
The Northern Circuit Route stands out for its less-crowded paths, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of Kilimanjaro. This 9-day trek offers an unrivaled opportunity to witness the changing landscapes, from dense forests to alpine deserts, making it a soul-stirring journey for adventure enthusiasts. Let's delve into the day-wise description of this remarkable trek. This less-traveled route offers a unique perspective of Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak.
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 -Shira 2 Camp
- Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp- Lava Tower -Moir Hut
- Day 5 : Moir Hut -Buffalo Camp
- Day 6 : Buffalo Camp- Third Cave
- Day 7 : Third Cave -School Hut
- Day 8 : School Hut -Uhuru Peak (Summit Point) -Mweka Camp
- Day 9 : Mweka Camp- Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi- Londorossi Gate -Big Tree Camp
The journey begins with a drive to Londorossi Gate, the starting point of the Northern Circuit Route. Trekking through lush rainforests, you will cover approximately 8 km, reaching Big Tree Camp. The temperature here hovers around 20°C, providing a comfortable start to your trek.
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
Leaving the rainforest, you ascend to Mti Mkubwa and continue to Shira 1 Camp. The day covers around 15 km, showcasing the transition from lush greenery to the expansive Shira Plateau. Temperatures drop to around 15°C as you gain altitude.
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 -Shira 2 Camp
A shorter trek of about 7 km takes you to Shira 2 Camp. The landscape transforms into an otherworldly alpine desert, with temperatures reaching around 10°C. The panoramic views of the Shira Plateau make this an unforgettable day.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp- Lava Tower -Moir Hut
Hiking through challenging terrain, you will pass the iconic Lava Tower before reaching Moir Hut. Covering approximately 14 km, the day's trek brings a mix of high-altitude desert and alpine meadows. Expect temperatures around 5°C.
Destination: Shira 2 Camp To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Moir Hut -Buffalo Camp
A trek of around 12 km takes you to Buffalo Camp, offering glimpses of the stunning Barranco Valley. The landscape becomes more rugged, and temperatures drop further to around 0°C.
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Buffalo Camp- Third Cave
Covering about 15 km, this day involves traversing the vast, rocky terrain towards Third Cave. The landscape becomes more challenging, with temperatures nearing freezing at approximately -5°C.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: Third Cave -School Hut
With a trek of around 10 km, you will ascend to School Hut, situated just below the summit. The air thins, and temperatures drop significantly, reaching as low as -10°C. The surreal landscape prepares you for the final ascent.
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 (Summit Point) -Mweka Camp
The summit day! Beginning at midnight, you will trek to Uhuru Peak, conquering the highest point in Africa. This challenging ascent covers about 20 km. As you reach the summit at sunrise, temperatures can plummet to -15°C. Descending to Mweka Camp, you will cover another 10 km, appreciating the accomplishment of reaching the top.
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 Back to Moshi/Arusha
The final descent of around 15 km takes you through lush rainforests back to Mweka Gate. From there, you will be transferred to Moshi or Arusha, completing this extraordinary journey.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rental vehicle
- Porterage
- Rescue fee
- Park fees
- 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
- 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
A: The best time is during the dry seasons, either January to March or June to October.
A: The trek is challenging and requires a good level of fitness. Regular cardiovascular exercise is recommended.
A: While there's no strict age limit, participants should be in good health and able to handle the physical demands.
A: Accommodations range from tents during the trek to comfortable lodges in Moshi or Arusha.
A: Yes, acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
A: Yes, nutritious meals are provided throughout the trek, catering to different dietary needs.
A: Our guides are highly experienced, certified, and trained in mountain safety.
A: Charging facilities are limited, and it's advisable to bring a power bank.
A: A detailed packing list will be provided, including essential gear and clothing.
A: Basic toilet facilities are available at campsites, but be prepared for rustic conditions.
A: Yes, private treks can be arranged for groups with customized itineraries.
Reviews for 9 Days Summit Serenity Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure
By Emily Thompson 
Visited: November 2023
The Northern Circuit Route exceeded my expectations. The guides were knowledgeable, the landscapes were breathtaking, and the entire experience was well-organized. A journey of a lifetime!
By Raj Patel 
Visited: September 2023
Kilimanjaro Trekking via the Northern Circuit was a challenging adventure, but the sense of achievement at the summit is indescribable. The team's support and the diverse landscapes made it truly memorable.
By Raj Patel
Visited: September 2023
Kilimanjaro Trekking via the Northern Circuit was a challenging adventure, but the sense of achievement at the summit is indescribable. The team's support and the diverse landscapes made it truly memorable.
By Maria Rodriguez 
Visited: August 2022
The Northern Circuit Route showcased Kilimanjaro's beauty in ways I never imagined. The gradual climb allowed for better acclimatization, and the guides' expertise made it a safe and unforgettable trek.
By Yukio Tanaka 
Visited: May 2023
From the dense rainforests to the snow-covered summit, every step was a revelation. The Northern Circuit Route provided a unique and less crowded perspective of Kilimanjaro. Highly recommended.
By Isabella Costa 
Visited: September 2017
The 9-day trek was a perfect balance of challenge and beauty. The changing landscapes kept things interesting, and the guides' commitment to responsible trekking practices was commendable.
By Samuel Johnson 
Visited: February 2019
A truly immersive experience! The Northern Circuit Route's gradual ascent allowed for better acclimatization, and the team's attention to safety and environmental responsibility was evident throughout.
By Aisha Al-Mansoori 
Visited: July 2020
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a hidden gem. The route provided a unique perspective, and the guides' knowledge of the region's flora and fauna added an educational dimension to the trek.
By Liam O'Connor 
Visited: May 2018
A challenging yet rewarding journey. The Northern Circuit Route's less-traveled paths revealed Kilimanjaro's true beauty, and the team's dedication to sustainable trekking practices was evident at every stage.
By Mei Ling 
Visited: January 2021
An unforgettable adventure! The Northern Circuit Route offered a variety of terrains, from lush forests to rocky landscapes. The guides' expertise and commitment to responsible trekking made this journey exceptional.
