9-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route

Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a longer acclimatization period and a chance to explore the remote northern side of the mountain, making it a great choice for those seeking a less crowded experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival 

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Meet your guide for a pre-climb briefing and gear check. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250 meters) for registration. Begin the trek through the rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters). Dinner and overnight stay in tents. (Hiking time: 3-4 hours, Distance: 6 km)

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Continue the trek through the heather and moorland zone to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 meters). Enjoy views of the Shira Plateau. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. (Hiking time: 5-6 hours, Distance: 8 km)

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Trek across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 meters). This day offers excellent acclimatization with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. (Hiking time: 4-5 hours, Distance: 7 km)

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

Trek to Moir Hut (4,200 meters), passing through the alpine desert. This day provides additional acclimatization and spectacular views. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. (Hiking time: 5-7 hours, Distance: 10 km)

Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Head towards the remote northern side of Kilimanjaro, reaching Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters). Enjoy stunning views of the Kenyan plains. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. (Hiking time: 5-7 hours, Distance: 12 km)

Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

Continue trekking through the alpine desert, arriving at Third Cave (3,870 meters). This day helps with acclimatization and offers unique views of the northern slopes. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. (Hiking time: 4-6 hours, Distance: 8 km)

Day 8: Third Cave to School Hut

Climb to School Hut (4,800 meters), the base camp for the summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak. Early dinner and overnight stay in huts. (Hiking time: 4-5 hours, Distance: 6 km)

Day 9: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Begin the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). Enjoy the sunrise at the summit before descending to Mweka Camp (3,080 meters) for rest and overnight stay. (Hiking time: 7-8 hours to the summit, 6-8 hours descent, Distance: 20 km)

Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Complete the descent to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters). Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. (Hiking time: 3-4 hours, Distance: 10 km)

Day 11: Departure

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, concluding your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure.

 

  • Accommodation in Moshi (2 nights)
  • Tent accommodation on the mountain (9 nights)
  • All meals during the climb
  • Airport transfers
  • Park entry fees and camping fees
  • Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
  • Rescue fees
  • Drinking water on the mountain
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  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal climbing gear
  • Tips for guides, cooks, and porters
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks)

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