9 Days Rift Valley Rendezvous Kilimanjaro Northern Route
Experience the majesty of Kilimanjaro through the lens of the less-trodden Northern Circuit Route, a 9-day odyssey that combines geological wonders with a spiritual ascent to Uhuru Peak. This unique route unfolds against the backdrop of the Rift Valley, offering an unparalleled journey through diverse landscapes and climatic zones. Embark on a Rift Valley rendezvous during our 9 day Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Route A geological and spiritual journey to the summit.
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 - Mweka Camp
- Day 9 : Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi - Londorossi Gate - Big Tree Camp
Embarking from Moshi, you will traverse to Londorossi Gate, the gateway to the Northern Circuit Route. The trek kicks off amidst lush rainforests, leading to the enchanting Big Tree Camp. Covering approximately 8 kilometers, this day introduces you to the verdant beauty of Kilimanjaro.
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
As you ascend through the Giant Forest (Mti Mkubwa), the landscape transforms into moorland. The journey covers around 15 kilometers, and you will find yourself at Shira 1 Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks. Temperature: 15°C | Duration: 6-7 hours
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
Continuing through the alpine desert of Shira Plateau, you will trek approximately 7 kilometers to Shira 2 Camp. The stark beauty of the terrain and the ever-changing panorama make this leg a visual spectacle. Temperature: 12°C | Duration: 4-5 hours
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
Today's trek introduces you to Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation. Covering about 10 kilometers, you will reach Moir Hut, perched at an altitude of 4,200 meters, providing stunning views of the landscape.
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
Your journey takes you to Buffalo Camp, navigating through the surreal landscapes of the high alpine desert. This 15-kilometer stretch is a testament to Kilimanjaro's geological diversity. Temperature: 5°C | Duration: 6-7 hours
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Buffalo Camp - Third Cave
As you descend to Third Cave, the scenery transforms once again. Covering around 10 kilometers, this leg offers a captivating mix of geological features and lush surroundings. Temperature: 10°C | Duration: 4-5 hours
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Pofu Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: Third Cave - School Hut
Temperature: 5°C | Duration: 4-6 hours Leaving Third Cave behind, you continue your descent towards School Hut, the final camp before the summit push. The trail winds through rocky terrain and alpine meadows, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's rugged landscape. With each step, you draw closer to the culmination of your journey. Arriving at School Hut, situated at an elevation of 4,800 meters, you will rest and recharge, preparing for the exhilarating 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
Today marks the pinnacle of your adventure as you embark on the summit push to Uhuru Peak. Beginning before dawn, you navigate the steep and challenging terrain under the glow of your headlamp. As the sun rises, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson, you press onward, fueled by determination and awe-inspiring views. At Stella Point, located on the crater rim, you pause to catch your breath and bask in the glory of your achievement. From here, the final push to Uhuru Peak awaits, where you will stand atop Africa's highest point, 5,895 meters above sea level. After soaking in the breathtaking vistas and capturing memories to last a lifetime, you begin the descent to Mweka Camp, where you will spend the night reflecting on your incredible accomplishment. Temperature: -10°C to 5°C | Duration: 12-14 hours
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
Temperature: 10°C to 20°C | Duration: 3-4 hours On the final day of your trek, you descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps towards Mweka Gate. The air is filled with the sweet scent of vegetation as you descend, leaving behind the rugged slopes of Kilimanjaro. Arriving at Mweka Gate, you receive your well-deserved summit certificates, a testament to your perseverance and determination. With hearts full of gratitude and memories etched in your mind, you bid farewell to Kilimanjaro, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- 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
- Porterage
- 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
While challenging, the gradual ascent and diverse landscapes make it accessible to experienced trekkers.
The dry season from late June to October is ideal, providing stable weather conditions.
Yes, basic facilities are available at designated campsites.
Proper hiking boots, layers, and a good sleeping bag are crucial. Refer to our detailed packing list.
Our guides are trained to recognize symptoms, and gradual acclimatization is built into the itinerary.
Charging facilities are limited, so it's advisable to bring portable chargers.
Participants must be at least 12 years old, and those under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
Yes, we ensure an adequate supply of purified water throughout the journey.
To ensure a personalized experience, our groups typically consist of 6-12 participants.
We adhere to Leave No Trace principles, with waste disposal systems in place at each camp.
We offer tailor-made options to suit individual preferences and schedules.
Reviews for 9 Days Rift Valley Rendezvous Kilimanjaro Northern Route
The Northern Circuit Route provided a breathtaking journey through diverse ecosystems. The guides' commitment to responsible trekking and environmental conservation impressed me deeply. A life-changing experience.
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a geological marvel. The team's dedication to safety and environmental stewardship ensured a fulfilling adventure. Highly recommended.
The transition from rainforests to alpine deserts was awe-inspiring. The guides' knowledge of the region's geology and flora enhanced the trek. An absolute must for nature enthusiasts.
The Northern Circuit Route surpassed my expectations. The well-paced itinerary allowed for acclimatization, and the team's commitment to responsible tourism was evident at every step.
An unforgettable journey through Kilimanjaro's geological wonders. The guides' expertise and the responsible approach to trekking made this a truly enriching experience.
From the lush rainforests to the high-altitude desert, the Northern Circuit Route offers a kaleidoscope of landscapes. Kudos to the team for their responsible tourism practices.
The Northern Circuit's scenic beauty combined with the guides' commitment to sustainable trekking left me in awe. Kilimanjaro's magic is best experienced through this route.
The Northern Circuit provided a perfect blend of adventure and responsible trekking. The guides' cultural insights added an extra layer of richness to the experience.
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a gem for those seeking a profound connection with nature. The team's dedication to preserving the environment and supporting local communities is commendable.