9 Days Epic Trip Kilimanjaro Trekking the Ultimate Northern Circuit Route
The 9-day Northern Circuit Trek on Kilimanjaro is a profound odyssey through varied terrains, offering adventurers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and diversity of nature. Commencing from Kilimanjaro Airport and traversing through a spectrum of landscapes, this journey culminates in the exhilarating summit of Uhuru Peak.
Itinerary
Moshi – Londorossi gate – Big Tree Camp
Start the trek at Londorossi gate, entering a lush rainforest teeming with life. The day's hike leads to Big Tree Camp, covering a distance of approximately 7 kilometers. The temperature drops to around 10°C, and the dense vegetation showcases a variety of flora, from towering trees to exotic ferns and mosses.
Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 camp
Transition into the moorland zone, reaching Shira 1 camp. The day's trek covers about 5 kilometers, and the altitude increases to approximately 3,500 meters. The landscape transforms, featuring giant heather and other hardy plants adapted to higher altitudes.
Shira 1 camp – Shira 2 camp
Continue through the moorland, progressing to Shira 2 camp at an elevation of around 3,850 meters. The day's trek spans approximately 10 kilometers, showcasing panoramic views of the surrounding plains and sparse vegetation characteristic of this zone.
Shira 2 camp – Lava Tower – Moir Hut
Ascend to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation, before descending to Moir Hut. The trek covers about 14 kilometers, reaching altitudes of 4,600 meters at Lava Tower and around 4,200 meters at Moir Hut. The landscape shifts to an alpine desert, with sparse vegetation dominated by hardy mosses and lichens.
Moir Hut – Buffalo camp
Navigate through the Barranco Valley, transitioning through alpine desert and heath zones. Reach Buffalo camp, covering approximately 12 kilometers and situated at an altitude of about 4,020 meters. The terrain becomes stark, with minimal vegetation, accentuating the raw beauty of the landscape.
Buffalo camp – Third Cave
Continue through the alpine desert, arriving at Third Cave, covering a distance of approximately 8 kilometers. The altitude varies around 3,870 meters, and the vegetation becomes even sparser, showcasing only the hardiest of plants adapted to the challenging conditions.
Third Cave – School Hut
Ascend to School Hut, standing at an elevation of 4,715 meters. The day's trek covers around 7 kilometers, with temperatures dropping significantly. The landscape is characterized by rocky outcrops, and vegetation is limited to resilient mosses and lichens.
School Hut – Uhuru Peak (summit point) – Mweka camp
The pinnacle of the journey arrives as you conquer Uhuru Peak at an impressive 5,895 meters. Descend to Mweka camp, situated at 3,100 meters, covering a distance of approximately 20 kilometers. Experience a drastic change in temperature and vegetation, transitioning from the icy summit to the lush rainforest.
Mweka camp – Mweka gate – Back to Moshi/Arusha
Complete the descent through the rainforest, arriving at Mweka gate. The adventure concludes with a return to Moshi or Arusha, celebrating the triumphant completion of the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit.
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- Bath towels
- Climbing gear
- All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All flights during the tour
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Questions & Answers
Reviews for 9 Days Epic Trip Kilimanjaro Trekking the Ultimate Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit offered a diverse canvas of landscapes. Each day was a testament to nature's resilience. The guides' commitment to preserving these environments made the journey even more enriching.
The trek was more than just reaching the summit. It was a lesson in responsible trekking. The guides' knowledge of the local flora and their eco-conscious practices were commendable.
The changing terrains were captivating. The emphasis on responsible tourism by the team was evident at every step. Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a must for adventurers seeking both challenge and conservation.
Ascending Uhuru Peak was a dream come true. The team's dedication to minimizing the environmental impact was remarkable. A challenging yet profoundly rewarding journey.
The trek was a blend of physical endurance and environmental appreciation. The guides' commitment to sustainability added a deeper layer to the experience. Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit truly leaves an imprint on your soul.
"The trek was a perfect balance of adventure and environmental consciousness. The guides' insights into local ecosystems enhanced the journey, making it an unforgettable experience.
The Northern Circuit surpassed my expectations. The responsible approach of the team towards waste management and preservation was remarkable. A transformative journey in every sense.
Trekking through varied landscapes was exhilarating. The team's dedication to preserving these pristine environments was evident throughout. An adventure that echoes the importance of responsible tourism.