Set out on a journey to conquer Kilimanjaro via the enchanting Northern Circuit Route. Navigate through a tapestry of ecosystems, from verdant rainforests to serene alpine pastures, culminating in the awe-inspiring ascent to Uhuru Peak. The Northern Circuit Route offers a unique and unforgettable adventure, revealing the untouched splendor of Kilimanjaro at every turn.
At Summit Expeditions, we are dedicated to providing exceptional climbing experiences, and the Northern Circuit Route stands out as a testament to this commitment. Boasting an impressive 99% summit success rate across all our routes, we invite you to embark on this remarkable expedition with us. Scale the iconic peak of Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route, where the untamed beauty of the mountain beckons those who are eager to embrace the thrill and grandeur of Africa's tallest summit.
TRIP ACTIVITY
Expedition
ACTIVITY RATING
Tough
SKILL RATING
No Experience
DURATION
11 Days
DESTINATION
Tanzania
GROUP SIZE
12
Tour Highlights
Traverse Kilimanjaro's longest route, ensuring optimal acclimatization.
Enjoy stunning panoramic views and serene, less-traveled paths.
Experience diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to alpine deserts.
Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to a comfortable lodge in Moshi.
This charming town, nestled at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, will be your base for the night. You’ll have time to relax and settle in before attending a pre-trek briefing in the evening, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow trekkers. This is the perfect opportunity to ask any last-minute questions and ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2: MOSHI TO LEMOSHO GLADES TO MTI MKUBWA CAMP
Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Park Gate, where you’ll complete the necessary registration formalities. From there, you’ll embark on your trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp, located at an altitude of 2,650 meters.
The first day’s hike covers approximately 6 kilometers and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. You’ll trek through the lush rainforest, a habitat for many species of birds and monkeys. The day ends at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you can rest and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
DAY 3: MTI MKUBWA CAMP TO SHIRA 1 CAMP
On the third day, you’ll trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,610 meters. The trail covers 8 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours to complete.
As you ascend, the rainforest gradually gives way to the moorland zone, characterized by its unique vegetation, including giant lobelias and groundsel. Your efforts will be rewarded with stunning views of the Shira Plateau. The day concludes with a well-deserved rest at Shira 1 Camp.
DAY 4: SHIRA 1 CAMP TO SHIRA 2 CAMP
Your adventure continues as you trek from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, located at 3,850 meters above sea level. The day’s journey covers a relatively short distance, allowing for acclimatization and exploration of the Shira Plateau. The landscape features rolling hills and vast open skies.
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
DAY 5: SHIRA 2 CAMP TO MOIR HUT
From Shira 2 Camp, you’ll ascend to Moir Hut, situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters. The trek covers approximately 14 kilometers and takes about 5-7 hours. You’ll pass through the alpine desert zone, with its unique vegetation and geological features.
Moir Hut offers a serene setting for an overnight stay.
DAY 6: MOIR HUT TO BUFFALO CAMP
Today, you’ll trek from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp, located at 4,020 meters. The distance covered is about 12 kilometers, and the trek takes around 6-7 hours. This section of the route takes you around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering stunning vistas and a sense of solitude.
Overnight at Buffalo Camp.
DAY 7: BUFFALO CAMP TO RONGAI THIRD CAVE
The journey continues as you trek from Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave, situated at 3,800 meters. The trek covers approximately 8 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours. This part of the route offers gentle slopes and scenic landscapes.
Overnight at Rongai Third Cave.
DAY 8: RONGAI THIRD CAVE TO SCHOOL HUT
Today, you’ll ascend from Rongai Third Cave to School Hut, located at 4,800 meters. The trek covers around 5 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours. As you climb higher, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the views become more expansive.
School Hut is the final camp before your summit attempt, providing an opportunity for rest and preparation.
DAY 9: SCHOOL HUT TO UHURU PEAK TO MWEKA CAMP
Summit day is the most challenging yet rewarding part of your journey. It begins in the early hours of the morning, around midnight, to ensure you reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters, in time to witness the sunrise. The ascent from School Hut to the summit covers a distance of 6 kilometers and typically takes about 6-8 hours. During this night climb, you’ll navigate the steep switchbacks of the scree slope, a path that requires perseverance and determination. The cold and altitude can make this part of the climb particularly tough, but your guides will be there to provide support and encouragement every step of the way.
As you approach the summit, the first light of dawn will begin to illuminate the horizon, providing a boost of motivation for the final push to Uhuru Peak. Reaching the summit is an emotional moment, as you stand atop the highest point in Africa, surrounded by stunning glaciers and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll have time to take photos, celebrate with your fellow climbers, and soak in the incredible achievement of reaching the roof of Africa.
After spending some time at the summit, you’ll begin the descent back to School Hut for a short rest and then continue down to Mweka Camp, which is situated at an altitude of 3,080 meters. The descent covers a distance of 12 kilometers and takes about 4-6 hours. The journey back down can be tough on the knees, but the sense of accomplishment from summiting will carry you through. Once you arrive at Mweka Camp, you’ll have the opportunity to rest and reflect on the incredible experience of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro.
DAY 10: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE TO MOSHI
Your final day of trekking takes you from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. The descent covers 10 kilometers and takes about 3-4 hours.
Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your mountain crew. A transfer will take you back to the lodge in Moshi for a well-deserved shower and a celebratory dinner with your fellow trekkers.
DAY 11: DEPARTURE FROM KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
After an unforgettable adventure, you’ll be transferred from the lodge to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. As you say goodbye to the majestic Kilimanjaro, you’ll take with you memories of the incredible journey you’ve completed.
Tour Package Details
What’s Included?
Not Included
- Summit Expeditions team liaison pre-trek.
- Qualified and experienced English-speaking mountain guides during the trek.
- Support team, including chef(s) providing fresh meals and personal porters for duffel bags.
- Full board expedition with three meals daily, including a celebration dinner post-summit.
- Unlimited filtered water, hot drinks (tea, coffee, and hot chocolate) throughout the trek.
- Private team toilet tents at all camps.
- Premium hotel/lodge in Moshi pre/post trek.
- Individual all weather tents during the trek.
- Transfers to/from the airport.
- All road transport within the itinerary.
- All entrance fees and trekking permits.
- First aid equipment for mountain emergencies.
- Comprehensive pre-trip support to ensure readiness for the trek.
- Training advice to prepare for the physical challenge of Mt Kilimanjaro.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP
- Airfare to Kilimanjaro Airport.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Purchase or rental of personal gear.
- Tips for porters (budget $350).
- Drinks and snacks not included in the package.
- General spending money.
Tour Gallery
Upcoming Group Departures
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Upcoming Group Departures
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01-Aug-2024
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11-Aug-2024
13-Dec-2024
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23-Dec-2024
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Private group Tours
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