Main Info
On the incredible 9-day Northern Circuit route, you will not only experience the newest, but also the longest and most visually diverse route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Through the length of the ascent, you will go through the optimal altitude acclimation. As a result, the Northern Circuit Route has the best chance of reaching the summit than all routes. Along the way, you’ll be able to see spectacular scenery and comb through the pristine wilderness and desert. Take a look at our itinerary and read what awaits you on the unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure
What is included
- All accommodations as per itinerary
- Pickup from airport or hotel in Moshi
- Professional Mountain guide
- Professional Cook
- Ground transfers and fees
- Park entrance fees
- Meals as per itinerary
- Drinking mineral water
- Government Taxes
What is not included
- Tip for the guide
- Flights costs/fares
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation & meals after and before the Climbing the Mountain
- Extra Personal items
- Soda and Alcoholic beverages
- Extra activities
- Personal expenses (drinks, Internet, visa, etc.)
Itinerary
Elevation: Londrosi gate 2250m/ to lemosho 2100m/MTI MKUBWA CAMP 2650m
Departing from Moshi 3-4 hours drive will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here.
Elevation: 3650m
After a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast we emerge from the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, we leave the forest behind now, the trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Temperatures begin to drop.
Walking time: 3-4 hours, Distance: 8 km
After a warm breakfast, you will continue your scenic hike through the moorland. Few visitors have frequented this section of Kilimanjaro, allowing you to fully experience its pristine beauty. Along the Shira Plateau, you will be greeted by a truly breathtaking view of the top of Kilimanjaro, before you reach Shira Camp 2 (3810 m). The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the spectacular area, including the iconic Shira Cathedral, a towering volcanic stone formation. Your guide will take you on a short hike to help you get used to the altitude.
Walking time: 4 to 5 hours, Distance: 7 km
On your fifth day the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route takes you to the High Alps Desert on the east side. Here you join with two of the famous routes such as the Lemosho and the Machame before a lonesome walk. You would have an opportunity to marvel at various desert plant species and the iconic shark-tooth volcanic rock formation on the way to the Lava Tower. The hike to the Lava Tower involves smooth acclimatization to the altitude. The end of the day is in sight as soon as you discover the Moir Camp (4,200 m) behind the magnificent Lent Hills. There you can put your feet up and enjoy a hot meal.
Walking time: 5 – 7 hours, Distance: 12 km
The refreshing mountain air has a revitalizing effect and gives energy for the further ascent. After breakfast, continue your trek from the Moir Valley. Take a short diversion to the top of Lent Hill to admire the view before continuing on the Northern Circuit Trail. You would walk along hilly terrain until you reach the Buffalo Camp. Relax for the night on a breathtaking campsite watching the gigantic views of views of the Kenyan plains.
Walking time: 5 – 7 hours, Distance: 8 km
Your Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit adventure continues with a restful morning up to the top of the Buffalo Ridge, after lunch you will continue to pace eastwards through the Alpine landscape, the vegetation will become increasingly sparse Rongai Third Cave Camp. At this time of your Kilimanjaro climb, you are fully acclimatized.
Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours, Distance: 6 km
This is the last leg of the hike before the final climb to the top of Kilimanjaro. The highlight of the day will be the hike up and over “The Sattle,” a lunar landscape that lies between the Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. You will then travel southwest to School Hut (4,800 m). Your guides will give you a final briefing on the early morning summit hike.
Hiking time: 11 – 15 hours, Distance: 19 km
Your last morning on the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route is an early start to the day. You and your mountain guide wander through the darkness of the night towards the main crater rim, to Gilman’s Point. Here you can enjoy a warm cup of tea before relaxing and enjoy the view of the surrounding glaciers. You reach the summit of Kilimanjaro in time to catch the sunrise, one of the most spectacular natural scenery. A feeling of exhilaration will inspire you, you have made it to the highest point of Africa, the Uhuru Peak. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the view before you begin your descent along the crater rim. The Mweka Camp is your last stop of the journey. Fall into a triumphant sleep and admire one last time the starry night sky.
Elevation: 3100m to 1646m
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.
From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village for hot lunch stay for couple hour and then drive you back to Moshi. Enjoy a long over due hot shower, dinner and celebrations! (2 to 3 hours)
