Tour info
Duration
8 days
Tour Type
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique 360-degree trekking experience around the mountain. This 9-day trek provides excellent acclimatization opportunities, increasing your chances of reaching the summit. Enjoy diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, while experiencing the tranquility and beauty of the less-crowded northern side of the mountain.
Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Begin your journey at Londorossi Gate, trekking through lush rainforests to reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp at 2,800 meters. Enjoy the rich biodiversity and the tranquility of the less-crowded northern approach.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Ascend through the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. Enjoy spectacular views as you reach Shira 1 Camp at 3,500 meters, situated on the western edge of the Shira Plateau.
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Continue your trek across the Shira Plateau, with opportunities to explore the ancient volcanic landscape. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp at 3,850 meters, where you’ll acclimatize and enjoy stunning vistas of Kibo Peak.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Moir Hut
Travel from Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut at 4,200 meters. This day offers further acclimatization with optional hikes around the Lent Hills, providing breathtaking views and unique insights into the mountain’s geology.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Continue the trek along the Northern Circuit, enjoying stunning panoramas and the solitude of the remote northern side of the mountain. Arrive at Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Hike from Buffalo Camp to Third Cave at 3,870 meters, taking in the expansive views and rugged beauty of the alpine desert. This day offers a gentle ascent, allowing for further acclimatization.
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut
Ascend to School Hut at 4,800 meters, where you’ll prepare for the summit attempt. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Kibo summit and the surrounding landscape.
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin the final ascent at midnight, reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak, 5,895 meters. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp at 3,080 meters, passing through diverse climate zones.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Complete the descent through lush rainforests to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificates and return to Arusha/Moshi, reflecting on your incredible journey around the mountain.
