9 Days Unveiling Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Route Trek
Welcome to an extraordinary 9-day journey through the Northern Circuit Route of Kilimanjaro, a trek that promises not only the challenge of reaching Uhuru Peak but also an immersive experience through diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Your adventure begins at Kilimanjaro Airport, taking you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and challenging terrains, ultimately culminating in the breathtaking summit.
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 toThird Cave
- Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut
- Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak (summit point) to Mweka Camp
- Day 9 : : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: : Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
• Distance: 8 km • Duration: 3-4 hours • Temperature: 20°C • Landscape: Lush rainforest, vibrant flora Begin your trek at Londorossi Gate, traversing through the dense rainforest to Big Tree Camp, where the towering trees and diverse flora welcome you to Kilimanjaro's ecosystem.
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: 15 km • Duration: 5-7 hours • Temperature: 15°C • Landscape: Moorland, expansive views Ascend through moorland, witnessing the transition in vegetation as you reach Shira 1 Camp, surrounded by the vastness of the Shira Plateau.
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: 7 km • Duration: 4-6 hours • Temperature: 12°C • Landscape: Alpine desert, surreal surroundings Traverse the alpine desert to Shira 2 Camp, surrounded by otherworldly landscapes and the grandeur of the surrounding peaks
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: 14 km • Duration: 7-9 hours • Temperature: 10°C • Landscape: Rocky terrain, Lava Tower Experience a challenging ascent to Lava Tower, a prominent Kilimanjaro landmark, before descending to Moir Hut, set against a backdrop of rugged beauty.
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: 12 km • Duration: 6-8 hours • Temperature: 8°C • Landscape: Alpine meadows, unique flora Navigate through alpine meadows to Buffalo Camp, where the serenity of the surroundings and unique flora create a captivating atmosphere.
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Buffalo Camp toThird Cave
• Distance: 10 km • Duration: 5-7 hours • Temperature: 5°C • Landscape: Alpine desert, rocky paths Trek through the alpine desert to Third Cave, encountering rocky paths and captivating vistas as you gain altitude.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut
• Distance: 12 km • Duration: 6-8 hours • Temperature: 3°C • Landscape: Alpine desert, looming peaks As you approach School Hut, the landscape becomes more austere, preparing you for the final ascent. Marvel at the looming peaks that stand between you and 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 to Uhuru Peak (summit point) to Mweka Camp
• Distance: 21 km • Duration: 12-15 hours • Temperature: -5°C to 5°C • Landscape: Glacial terrain, breathtaking summit Embark on the ultimate challenge, reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The awe-inspiring glacial terrain leads you to Mweka Camp, where a well-deserved rest awaits.
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 9: : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
• Distance: 10 km • Duration: 3-4 hours • Temperature: 15°C • Landscape: Rainforest, triumphant descent Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, marking the end of your incredible journey. Celebrate your achievement in Moshi/Arusha.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, 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
- Bath towels
- Climbing gear
- 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
A: The best time is during the dry seasons from January to March and June to October for optimal trekking conditions.
A: The trek is challenging, and proper acclimatization is crucial. The gradual ascent of the Northern Circuit Route enhances acclimatization.
A: Basic toilet facilities are available at campsites, and trekkers are advised to follow Leave No Trace principles.
A: Altitude sickness can affect anyone, and it's essential to acclimatize properly. The Northern Circuit Route allows for gradual acclimatization.
A: Group sizes are typically limited to ensure a personalized experience and minimize environmental impact.
A: While there isn't a strict age limit, participants should be in good physical condition. Consult with your healthcare provider before embarking on the trek.
A: A detailed packing list will be provided, including essentials like proper clothing, sleeping bags, and trekking poles.
A: Guides are trained in first aid, and there's a well-established emergency evacuation procedure in place.
A: Yes, porters can be hired to carry a specified weight of personal belongings, allowing trekkers to focus on the journey.
A: While Kilimanjaro's higher altitudes are not known for wildlife, the lower slopes may offer glimpses of unique flora and fauna.
A: The trek provides opportunities to interact with local guides and porters, offering insights into the rich Tanzanian culture.
Reviews for 9 Days Unveiling Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Route Trek
The Northern Circuit Route was a transformative experience. The guides ensured our safety, and the untouched beauty of Kilimanjaro left me in awe. A journey worth every step!
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a test of endurance and a celebration of nature. The team's commitment to responsible trekking made this journey unforgettable.
Trekking through the Northern Circuit was a blend of challenge and beauty. The changing landscapes kept surprising us, and the guides' knowledge added depth to the experience.
Coming from the Himalayas, I thought I'd seen it all. But Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit unfolded a unique story of its own. The guides' expertise made the journey smoother.
The ecological diversity along the Northern Circuit was astounding. From lush forests to the stark alpine desert, each day brought something new. A fantastic journey!
The Northern Circuit trek was a perfect balance of challenge and serenity. Reaching Uhuru Peak was a triumph, and the team's support made it all possible.
The Northern Circuit is a hidden gem of Kilimanjaro. The responsible trekking practices and the team's dedication to preserving the environment made this journey meaningful.
Tackling Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit was a dream fulfilled. The guides' insights into local culture and the breathtaking landscapes made this adventure truly remarkable."
The Northern Circuit provided a unique perspective of Kilimanjaro. The gradual ascent allowed for proper acclimatization, and the team's camaraderie added to the joy of the journey.