9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit route
This journey offers a condensed yet immersive experience, traversing diverse landscapes and culminating in the triumphant summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The 9-day Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro encapsulates a thrilling adventure packed with challenges and unparalleled rewards. Commencing from Kilimanjaro Airport and passing through varied terrains, from lush forests to rugged alpine deserts, this journey is a testament to perseverance and exploration.
Itinerary
Moshi – Londorossi gate – Big Tree Camp:
Commence the trek at Londorossi gate, entering a vibrant rainforest teeming with life. The day's hike leads to Big Tree Camp, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C. The lush vegetation showcases a rich tapestry of flora, from towering trees to exotic orchids
Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 camp
Transition into the moorland zone, reaching Shira 1 camp. The altitude increases, touching approximately 3,500 meters, and the temperature drops further. The landscape transforms, featuring giant heather and other hardy plants adapted to higher altitudes
Shira 1 camp – Shira 2 camp
Continue the ascent to Shira 2 camp, situated at around 3,850 meters. The terrain showcases a mix of moorland and alpine desert, with temperatures ranging between 5°C to 15°C. Vegetation becomes sparser, highlighting resilient shrubs and unique alpine flora
Shira 2 camp – Lava Tower – Moir Hut
Climb to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation, at an altitude of approximately 4,600 meters. The day’s temperatures drop further, and the landscape shifts to a barren alpine desert. Sparse vegetation includes hardy mosses and lichens, defining the rugged beauty of this zone.
Moir Hut – Buffalo camp
Navigate through the Barranco Valley, crossing alpine desert and heath zones. Arrive at Buffalo camp situated around 4,020 meters. The landscape is stark, with minimal vegetation emphasizing the raw, untamed beauty of the surroundings.
Buffalo camp – Third Cave
Progress through the alpine desert, reaching Third Cave at approximately 3,870 meters. Temperature fluctuations vary, and the vegetation becomes even scarcer, with only the hardiest plants resilient to the harsh conditions.
Third Cave – School Hut
Ascend to School Hut, positioned at an impressive 4,715 meters. The landscape is dominated by rocky outcrops, and temperatures drop significantly. Vegetation is limited to resilient mosses and lichens, adapting to the extreme conditions.
School Hut – Uhuru Peak (summit point) – Mweka camp
The pinnacle day arrives as you conquer Uhuru Peak at an elevation of 5,895 meters. Descend to Mweka camp at approximately 3,100 meters, experiencing a drastic change in temperature and vegetation – from the icy summit to the lush rainforest.
Mweka camp – Mweka gate – Back to Moshi/Arusha
Complete the descent through the rainforest, reaching Mweka gate. The adventure concludes with a return to Moshi or Arusha, celebrating the triumph over Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit.
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- A professional driver/guide
- 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
- 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 Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit route
"The 9-day Northern Circuit was a whirlwind of challenges and triumphs. The guides' commitment to responsible trekking practices was commendable, emphasizing both safety and environmental stewardship."
The ever-changing landscapes kept us spellbound throughout the trek. The guides' knowledge about local flora and fauna added depth to the journey, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment."
"The trek was intense but immensely rewarding. Witnessing the transition from lush forests to the icy summit was surreal. Kudos to the team for their eco-conscious approach, ensuring minimal impact on the environment."
"Conquering Uhuru Peak in just 9 days felt like an achievement of a lifetime. The responsible trekking ethos was evident in every aspect, from waste management to supporting local communities."
The Northern Circuit in 9 days was a journey of self-discovery. The guides' dedication to environmental preservation was inspiring, making it a fulfilling and sustainable adventur
"Conquering Uhuru Peak in just 9 days felt like an achievement of a lifetime. The responsible trekking ethos was evident in every aspect, from waste management to supporting local communities."