Northern Circuit Route – 9 Days

Overview

The Northern Circuit Route offers the most scenic and least crowded path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 9-day trek provides ample time for acclimatization, ensuring a higher chance of reaching Uhuru Peak. Experience stunning landscapes, unique perspectives, and a rewarding journey on this extended and unforgettable route.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your trekking team for a briefing, gear check, and final preparations. Relax and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (2,820 m)

Hiking time: 3–4 hours Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles) Habitat: Rainforest
Start your journey at Londorossi Gate, where you’ll complete registration. Begin trekking through the lush rainforest, arriving at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp for your first night on the mountain.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m)

Hiking time: 5–6 hours Distance: 8 km (5 miles) Habitat: Moorland
Trek through forested areas into open moorland. Enjoy panoramic views as you make your way to Shira 1 Camp
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m)

Hiking time: 4–5 hours Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) Habitat: Moorland
Cross the expansive Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp. This day is designed to help with acclimatization, offering incredible views of Kibo Peak.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (4,200 m)

Hiking time: 5–7 hours Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles) Habitat: Moorland
Trek toward the Lava Tower, then branch off to the secluded Moir Hut. This area is perfect for acclimatization with opportunities for short hikes in the afternoon.
Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020 m)

Hiking time: 5–7 hours Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) Habitat: Alpine Desert
Follow the Northern Circuit, circling around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. Enjoy stunning views of the Kenyan plains as you arrive at Buffalo Camp.
Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870 m)

Hiking time: 4–5 hours Distance: 8 km (5 miles) Habitat: Alpine Desert
Continue along the remote northern side of Kilimanjaro, trekking through varied terrains to reach Third Cave Camp.
Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut (4,800 m)

Hiking time: 4–5 hours Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) Habitat: Alpine Desert
Ascend steadily to School Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. Rest, prepare, and enjoy the evening views before the final climb.
Day 9: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and down to Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

Summit time: 6–8 hours Descent time: 5–7 hours Distance: 18 km (11.2 miles) Habitat: Arctic and Rainforest
Begin the summit push at midnight, trekking through the dark to Stella Point and continuing to Uhuru Peak. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Barafu Camp for a brief rest and then to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,650 m)

Hiking time: 4–5 hours Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) Habitat: Rainforest Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi for a night at your hotel.
Day 11: Rest and Departure

Spend your final day relaxing at your hotel in Moshi. Reflect on your remarkable journey, explore the local area, or shop for souvenirs before heading to Kilimanjaro International Airport to conclude your adventure.

Included

All park entrance fees and concession fees
Park entry fees and camping/hut fees
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Drinking water and hot drinks
Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping mats
Emergency medical kit and oxygen for emergencies
Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
Transportation to and from the starting point of the trek
Kilimanjaro climbing certificates for successful summiters
Private portable toilets (on select packages)

Excluded

International flights to and from Tanzania
Tanzanian visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory for Kilimanjaro trekking)
Personal trekking gear (e.g., boots, sleeping bags, clothing)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended)
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Additional accommodation before and after the trek (unless specified)
Costs incurred due to itinerary changes, delays, or early descent
Optional activities or tours beyond the trekking itinerary

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Northern Circuit Route – 9 Days

Overview

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (2,820 m)

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m)

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m)

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (4,200 m)

Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020 m)

Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870 m)

Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut (4,800 m)

Day 9: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and down to Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,650 m)

Day 11: Rest and Departure

Included

Excluded

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