9-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: Northern Circuit Challenge
- 9 Days
Adult
Child
Description
Trek Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit over 9 days, immersing yourself in breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. This scenic route offers an incredible opportunity to experience varied landscapes, from dense rainforests to stark alpine zones. The journey is designed for optimal acclimatization, providing a gradual ascent that culminates in the rewarding experience of reaching the summit. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery and the exhilaration of standing atop Africa’s highest peak!
Duration
9 Days
Group Size
100
Language
English
Introduction
Included
- Professional, experienced mountain guides and porters
- All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Accommodation before and after the climb (if applicable)
- High-quality camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats, and dining tents
- Nutritious meals prepared by experienced mountain chefs
- Clean drinking water throughout the trek
- Comprehensive medical kit and emergency oxygen
- Portable toilet facilities
- All government taxes and VAT
Excluded
- Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Tanzania are not included
- Visa Fees: Entry visa fees for Tanzania are the responsibility of the traveller
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and evacuation is not included but highly recommended
- Personal Gear: Climbing equipment such as hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are not provided
- Tips: Gratuity for guides, porters, and other staff is not included but appreciated
- Additional Meals: Meals not specified in the itinerary, including snacks and beverages, are excluded
- Personal Expenses: Any expenses of a personal nature, such as souvenirs, laundry, or phone calls, are not covered
- Optional Activities: Optional excursions or activities outside of the planned itinerary are not included
- Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses incurred during the climb, including medications and treatment, are the responsibility of the traveller
- Airport Transfers: Airport transfers outside of the designated meeting points are not included
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
- Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
- Distance: 6 km/4 miles
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site
Day 2 - Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
- Distance: 8 km/5 miles
- Hiking Time 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Heath
We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau
Day 3 - Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft
- Distance: 7 km/4 miles
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Heath
We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees
Day 4 - Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower
- Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
- Distance: 7 km/4 miles
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Moir Hut
- Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,580 ft
- Distance: 7 km/4 miles
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth
Day 5 - Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Elevation: 13,580 ft to 13,200 ft
- Distance: 12 km/7 miles
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border
Day 6 - Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
- Elevation: 13,200 ft to 12,700 ft
- Distance: 8 km/5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Heath
As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave
Day 7 - Third Cave to School Hut
- Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft
- Distance: 5 km/3 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day
Day 8 - School Hut to Uhuru Peak
- Elevation: 15,600 ft to 19,341 ft
- Distance: 6 km/4 miles
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065
- Distance: 12 km/7 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Artic
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep
Day 9 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
- Distance: 10 km/6 miles
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi
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