.webp "9 days kilimanjaro northern circuit:")
.webp "9 days kilimanjaro northern circuit:")
.webp "9 days kilimanjaro northern circuit:")
.webp "9 days kilimanjaro northern circuit:")
.webp "9 days kilimanjaro northern circuit:")
ABOUT 9 DAYS NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE KILIMANJARO CLIMBING
A 9 days Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek is an incredible adventure that takes you around the northern slopes of the mountain, providing scenic beauty, less crowded trails, and diverse ecosystems. The Northern Circuit is the longest and most remote route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique and less-traveled experience compared to the popular routes like Marangu or Machame.
Why Choose the Northern Circuit?
Choosing the Northern Circuit for your Mount Kilimanjaro trek has several advantages. Firstly, this route provides ample time for acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing your chances of reaching the summit successfully. Secondly, the Northern Circuit is less crowded compared to other popular routes like the Machame or Marangu routes, allowing you to enjoy a more tranquil and immersive experience with nature. Lastly, this route offers stunning panoramic views from various angles, providing a unique perspective of the mountain.
DAY O - Arrival - Kilimanjaro
Our friendly transfer driver will meet you at Kilimanjaro airport. After loading the luggage into the vehicle you will make your way to the White House Hotel in Moshi. You can relax the rest of the day or go and explore the small town of Moshi. Our team will meet you later the day to have a preliminary talk in preparation for the days to follow.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
>>> 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.
- Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) to Shira 1 Camp
>>> 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.
- Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira Camp 2
>>> We explore the Shira Plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. 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.
- Accommodation: Shira Camp 2
Days 4: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower
We begin the day climbing up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
- Accommodation: Lava Tower
Day 5: Moir camp to Buffalo Camp
Let's embark on our journey by ascending a moderately steep path from Moir Valley. For those seeking an added adventure, you can take a brief detour to conquer the peak of Little Lent Hill, standing proudly at an elevation of 4,375 meters, before rejoining the Northern Circuit trail. As we continue, the trail meanders through a series of ascents and descents, gracefully skirting the northern slopes of Kibo, until we reach Buffalo Camp. Along the way, prepare to be captivated by breathtaking vistas of the expansive plains stretching northwards from Kilimanjaro, extending as far as the eye can behold, reaching the border shared by Kenya and Tanzania. Our arrival at Buffalo Camp is scheduled shortly past noon, providing an opportunity to savor a satisfying lunch and indulge in some well-deserved rest.
- Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Day 6: Buffalo camp to Rongai Cave
On the sixth day of our expedition, we embark on a rewarding ascent up the Buffalo Ridge, followed by a descent into Pofu Camp, where a delightful lunch awaits us. Our journey persists as we venture eastward, encircling the majestic northern slopes, until we reach our destination, the esteemed Rongai Third Cave. Compared to the previous day's climb, today's ascent is relatively shorter, allowing you to feel more acclimatized to the altitude at this juncture. The gradual adaptation to the elevation enhances your overall comfort and well-being. As we progress, the captivating landscapes surrounding us serve as a constant reminder of the natural wonders that await at every turn.
- Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Day 7: Rongai cave to school Hut
A steady ascent and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Continue Southwest to School Hut where you will be served an early dinner and the rest as you will begin just before midnight to start your summit attempt. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera before going to bed.
- Accommodation: Uhuru Peak
Day 8: School hut to summit
Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. We continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.
Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa! After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment. We begin our steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for uncooperative loose gravel and volcano ash terrain. Well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain
- Accommodation: moshi
Day 9: Mweka camp to mweka camp
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 to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!
- Accommodation: moshi
The Trip Cost Includes
- Guide
- Park Fees
- Tax
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Gate transfer
- Crew wages
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Environment fees
- During the climb you will spleep in Tents
- 7 Brekafasts
- 7 Brekafasts
- 8 Lunches
- 7 Dinners
- Drinking Water
- Guide
- Porters
- Cook
The Trip Cost Excludes
- Flights
- Items of a personal nature
- Laundry Services
- Tips to mountain crew
