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Northen Circuit Route
9 Days Kilimanjaro Northen Circuit Route
- Wildlife safari
- Day Trip
- Trekking
From - $ 2,500
Route Overview
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Offering unmatched acclimatization opportunities and remote trails, this 9-day trek promises stunning panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s untouched northern slopes, significantly increasing your chances of a successful summit.
Route Specifications
- Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
- Distance: ~90 km (56 miles)
- Elevation Gain:From 2,360m (7,740ft) at Londorossi Gate to 5,895m (19,341ft) at Uhuru Peak
- Difficulty Level:Moderate to challenging
- Accommodation: Camping
- Starting Point: Londorossi Gate (2,360m / 7,740ft)
- Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380ft)
Route Highlights
- Remote Trails – Experience the serenity of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes with fewer climbers.
- Diverse Ecosystems – Hike through rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and the arctic summit zone.
- Kibo & Shira Plateau Views – Enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the Shira Plateau.
- Lava Tower & Acclimatization – Proper acclimatization opportunities with a gradual ascent profile.
- Summit Sunrise at Uhuru Peak – Reach Africa’s highest point at dawn, an unforgettable experience.
Acclimatization Strategy
The Northern Circuit Route is ideal for acclimatization, with a gradual altitude gain and plenty of time for adaptation. The route is designed to increase your chances of summiting successfully.
Key Acclimatization Points:
- Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190ft) – A key acclimatization point before descending to Moir Hut (4,200m / 13,780ft).
- Gradual Ascent Profile – Ensures a steady gain in altitude, which promotes better oxygen adaptation.
- Rest Days – Built-in rest days provide ample time for your body to acclimate.
Recent News
9-Day Northen Circuit Route Itinerary
01
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfer to your hotel in Moshi for dinner & overnight stay.
- Gear check & briefing with the guide.
- Overnight in Moshi (915m / 3,000ft).
02
Day 2: Londorossi Gate (2,360m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
- Elevation Gain: +460m
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Experience: Hike through lush forest, spotting wildlife along the way. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
03
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
- Elevation Gain: +790m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Heather Zone
Experience:Enter the heath zone with spectacular views of Kibo Peak.
04
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
- Elevation Gain: +240m
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Experience: Short trek with time for acclimatization and exploration of the plateau.
05
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Moir Hut (4,200m)
- Elevation Gain: +350m
- Distance: 9 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Experience: Hike via Lava Tower for acclimatization, overnight at Moir Hut.
06
Day 6: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
- Elevation Gain: -180m
- Descent: -2,175m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Northern Slopes
Experience: Enjoy solitude and panoramic views along the northern slopes.
07
Day 7: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time:4-6 hours
- Elevation Gain: -150m
- Habitat: Heath Zone
Experience: A gradual trek with incredible views of Kibo Peak and the plains below.
08
Day 8: Third Cave Camp – School Hut (4,750m)
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time:4-5 hours
- Elevation Gain: +880m
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Experience: Prepare for the summit night with a rest at School Hut.
09
Day 9: Summit Day! School Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
- Distance: 18 km
- Hiking Time:12-15 hours
- Elevation Gain: +1,145m
- Descent: -2,795m
- Habitat: Rainforest
Experience: A gradual trek with incredible views of Kibo Peak and the plains below.
- Midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point!
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the summit.
- Descend to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
10
Day 10: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time:3-4 hours
- Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
- Transfer to Moshi for hot lunch, a shower, and certificate ceremony
Preparation & Logistics
Physical Preparation
- Cardio Training: Focus on endurance training with activities like running, cycling, or swimming.
- Strength Training: Incorporate leg workouts like squats, lunges, and step-ups to build strength.
- Hiking Practice: Practice with a backpack on uneven terrain for realistic preparation.
Essential Gear
- Clothing:
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms
- Insulation: Fleece or down jacket
- Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket & pants
- Footwear:Well-broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
- Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, UV-protected sunglasses, and a headlamp
- Equipment:
- Sleeping Bag:Rated for -10°C (14°F) or lower
- Daypack: 25-35L for essentials
- Trekking Poles: To reduce strain on knees
- Hydration System: 3L+ water capacity (bottles or hydration bladder)
- Personal Items: Sunscreen, lip balm, personal medications, first aid kit
Permits & Fees
- Climbing Permits: Required and arranged by your tour operator (includes park fees, rescue fees, and camping fees).
- Conservation Fee: $70/day
- Camping Fee: $50/day
- Rescue Fee: $20/day
Guides & Porters
- Guides: Certified and experienced, ensuring safety and navigation.
- Porters: Porters: Carry your luggage, set up camp, and prepare meals. Tipping recommended:
- $20/day for guides
- $10/day for porters.
Recent News
Best Time to Climb
Dry Seasons (Best Time to Climb)
- January – Mid-March:Warm weather, clear skies.
- June – October:Cooler but stable conditions.
Rainy Seasons (Challenging Conditions)
- April – May:Heavy rains make trails muddy (not recommended).
- November:Less intense rain but still wet.
Includes/Excludes
What’s Included
- Private transport (airport/hotel to Kilimanjaro & back)
- Park fees & climbing permits
- Camping equipment (tent, mattress, sleeping bag)
- Professional guide & porters
- Meals & private cook (special diets available)
- Rescue fees
- Certificate of achievement
What’s Excluded
- International flights
- Additional accommodations before/after the climb
- Personal items (gear, snacks, etc.)
- Tips for guides & porters
- Travel insurance
Customization Options
- Private Climbs - Solo or private group treks.
- Photography Packages - Capture professional summit moments.
- Safari & Zanzibar Add-On - Extend your trip with a wildlife safari or beach relaxation.
Why Book With Us?
- Expert Local Guides – Certified & experienced team.
- High Summit Success Rate – 95%+ success rate with acclimatization strategies.
- Safety First – Daily health checks & emergency evacuation plans.
- Responsible Tourism - Ethical treatment of porters & eco-friendly policies.
Recent News
Recent News
