9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Trek Details

TREK OVERVIEW

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Spanning nine days, this trek offers an exceptional experience with diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. The route is designed for optimal acclimatization, providing a higher success rate for reaching the summit. Enjoy breathtaking views and a comprehensive Kilimanjaro adventure on this journey.

SAFARI ITINERARY

Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you’ll be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Take the day to rest and prepare for the trek, enjoying a pre-trek briefing to go over the itinerary and gear. Overnight in Moshi.

  • Transfer to Londorossi Gate: Approx. 2 hours.
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) at Londorossi Gate to 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Transfer to Londorossi Gate for park registration and start your trek through the lush rainforest. The trail ascends gradually, leading you to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in tents at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) at Mti Mkubwa Camp to 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) at Shira 1 Camp.

Continue your trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp. Traverse through the rainforest and enter the moorland zone, enjoying expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) at Shira 1 Camp to 3,850 meters (12,631 feet) at Shira 2 Camp.

Hike from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, exploring the Shira Plateau. This shorter day helps with acclimatization and offers fantastic views of the plateau’s unique landscapes. Rest at Shira 2 Camp.

  • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 3,850 meters (12,631 feet) at Shira 2 Camp to 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) at Lava Tower.
  • Elevation Loss: From Lava Tower to 3,960 meters (12,993 feet) at Barranco Camp.

Hike from Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower, then descend to Barranco Camp. The trek includes a challenging ascent to Lava Tower, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp. This day aids acclimatization by incorporating a high-altitude climb and descent.

  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 3,960 meters (12,993 feet) at Barranco Camp to 4,035 meters (13,270 feet) at Karanga Camp.

Ascend from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp, navigating the Barranco Wall and traversing alpine desert terrain. The relatively short hike provides time for acclimatization and spectacular views. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 4,035 meters (13,270 feet) at Karanga Camp to 4,673 meters (15,331 feet) at Barafu Camp.

Hike from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, located at the base of the summit. The trail provides beautiful views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the surrounding landscape. Prepare for the summit attempt and rest at Barafu Camp.

  • Ascent to Uhuru Peak: 6-8 hours.
  • Elevation Gain: From 4,673 meters (15,331 feet) at Barafu Camp to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) at Uhuru Peak.
  • Descent to Mweka Camp: 6-7 hours.

Begin your summit attempt early in the morning, climbing through the night to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp, passing through the alpine desert and rainforest zones.

  • Descent to Mweka Gate: 3-4 hours.
  • Elevation Loss: From 3,100 meters (10,171 feet) at Mweka Camp to 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) at Mweka Gate.

Complete your descent from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory evening and overnight stay or prepare for your onward journey.

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