kilimanjaro Northern Circuit route

TREKKING

Tour Overview

ABOUT THE TREK

Embark on an extraordinary 9-day adventure to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro through the awe-inspiring Northern Circuit Route. This captivating journey offers trekkers an unrivaled opportunity to traverse the diverse landscapes of Africa’s highest peak, while benefiting from superior acclimatization for increased summit success. Beginning at the picturesque Londorossi Gate, the trail winds its way through lush rainforests, expansive heath and moorlands, and the rocky expanse of Shira Plateau. As you ascend to greater heights, each day reveals breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountainscape, including glimpses of Kibo and the Eastern Icefields. Delight in the tranquility of the lesser-trodden path, and take advantage of the acclimatization day at Moir Hut to prepare for the ultimate challenge—a midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak. Experience the glory of standing atop the continent’s highest point and witnessing the sunrise over Africa. Concluding with a sense of triumph and accomplishment, this unforgettable expedition offers a unique and immersive Kilimanjaro experience that is sure to leave trekkers with cherished memories for a lifetime.

SAFARI ITINERARY

Elevation at the start: Londorossi Gate (2,360 meters/7,743 feet)

Elevation at the end: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters/9,252 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 3-4 hours

The journey begins at Londorossi Gate, where you will register with the park authorities. The first day's trek is relatively short and takes you through the lush rainforest. You'll spend the night at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Elevation at the end: Shira 1 Camp (3,500 meters/11,483 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 5-7 hours

The trail continues through the rainforest and then enters the heath and moorland zone. As you ascend, you'll get stunning views of the Shira Plateau. Overnight stay will be at Shira 1 Camp.

Elevation at the end: Shira 2 Camp (3,840 meters/12,598 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-6 hours

Today's trek is relatively shorter and allows for further acclimatization. You'll hike through the rocky landscape of Shira Plateau and then set up camp at Shira 2.

Elevation at the end: Moir Hut (4,200 meters/13,780 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 3-5 hours

The trail takes you to higher elevations, and you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the mountain and its surroundings. Moir Hut offers a scenic location for your overnight stay

It's essential to spend an extra day at Moir Hut for acclimatization. You'll have the option to take a short hike to a higher elevation and then descend back to Moir Hut to sleep.

Elevation at the end: Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters/13,189 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 5-7 hours

The trail takes you through the Alpine desert zone, and you'll have breathtaking views of Kibo and the Eastern Icefields. Overnight stay will be at Buffalo Camp.

Elevation at the end: Third Cave Camp (3,870 meters/12,694 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 5-7 hours

You'll continue the trek through the Alpine desert zone, descending to Third Cave Camp for the night.

Elevation at the end: School Hut (4,800 meters/15,748 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-6 hours

You'll reach School Hut, the starting point for the summit attempt. Here, you'll rest and prepare for the final push to the summit.

Elevation at the summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet)

Elevation at the end: Mweka Camp (3,100 meters/10,170 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 12-16 hours (Summit) + 4-6 hours (Descent to Mweka Camp)

You'll begin the summit attempt at midnight, hiking through the night under the stars. After a challenging ascent, you'll reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and witness the breathtaking sunrise. You'll then descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

Elevation at the end: Mweka Gate (1,640 meters/5,380 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 3-4 hours

On the final day, you'll trek back to Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates and celebrate the successful completion of the Northern Circuit Route.

SAFARI PRICING

  1. Park fees: This includes the entrance fees to Kilimanjaro National Park, camping or hut fees, and conservation fees.
  2. Professional guides and porters: The package typically includes experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the mountain and its routes. Porters are also provided to carry the bulk of your gear and camping equipment.
  3. Meals: Most packages include all meals during the climb, from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to snacks. The food is often prepared by the trekking company and is designed to provide the necessary energy for the ascent.
  4. Camping equipment or huts: Depending on the route you choose, the package may include camping equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats. For the Marangu Route, accommodation is in huts with basic amenities.
  5. Safety equipment: Safety gear such as first aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and communication equipment may be included for emergencies.
  6. Transfers: Some packages include airport transfers and transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro starting point (e.g., Machame Gate or Marangu Gate).
  1. International flights: The package usually does not include international airfare to Tanzania.

  2. Visa fees: You’ll need to obtain a Tanzanian visa, and this cost is typically not included in the package.

  3. Personal gear: Climbers are responsible for bringing their personal gear, such as clothing, hiking boots, daypacks, and other essentials.

  4. Travel insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. This is usually not included in the package.

  5. Tips: While not mandatory, it’s customary to tip the guides, porters, and other staff for their hard work and support.

  6. Additional accommodation: Accommodation before and after the climb is often not included in the package. You’ll need to arrange and pay for these separately.

  7. Personal expenses: Any expenses for souvenirs, extra snacks or drinks, and other personal items are not included.

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Beyond summiting, it's a transformative journey, fostering self-reflection, and changing lives positively.

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Daily health checks by Wilderness First Responder-trained guides are conducted on the mountain.

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