



Duration
11 days
Max Group Size
100
Departure Type
Scheduled
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Physical level
hard
Operated In
Age Requirement
15 - 0 Ages
Tour Overview
Standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and a popular destination for adventure seekers. Among the various routes to the summit, the Northern Circuit Route is one of the newest and least-traveled paths, offering breathtaking views and a high success rate for reaching the peak.
The Northern Circuit Route is longer and more gradual compared to other popular trails like the Marangu or Machame routes. It takes approximately 9–10 days to complete, allowing for better acclimatization and increasing the chances of a successful summit.
The journey begins at Londorossi Gate on the western side of the mountain before looping around the northern slopes, providing climbers with unique perspectives of Kilimanjaro. This route passes through a variety of ecological zones, from dense rainforest to alpine desert, offering a chance to witness diverse flora and fauna along the way. The stunning scenery includes sweeping views of the Tanzanian and Kenyan plains, as well as glimpses of the nearby peaks of Mount Meru and Mount Kenya.
One of the key advantages of the Northern Circuit Route is its secluded and quiet nature, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a less crowded experience. However, like all Kilimanjaro climbs, proper preparation and training are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. It is highly recommended to climb with a licensed guide and experienced trekking agency for support and safety throughout the expedition.
Itinerary
We will pick you up and transfer you to House of West Kili for an overnight stay on a (BB) basis
Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft
Altitude gained: 396m
Embark on a scenic 45-minute drive from Moshi through charming mountainside villages to reach the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. While waiting for permits to be issued, witness the energetic preparations of the crews for the upcoming journey. Delight in the lush rainforest scenery and winding paths as your knowledgeable guide enlightens you about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. Be mindful of the muddy and slippery terrain at lower elevations and equip yourself with gaiters and trekking poles for added safety.
Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3504m/11,496ft
Altitude gained: 719m
Experience a refreshing start to your hike with a good night's sleep and a hearty breakfast. As you emerge from the rainforest, the ascending trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Shira Plateau. The temperature begins to drop as you leave the forest behind and continue on your journey.
Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft
Altitude gained: 391m
Explore the majestic Shira Plateau on our trek from Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp, crossing one of the world's highest plateaus. For a unique experience, join fellow climbers ascending from the Machame Route and spend the night at Shira II Camp. Don't miss the chance to witness the stunning view of the valley below and the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above by trekking a bit higher up the plateau. Remember to bundle up for the chilly night with temperatures dropping below zero as the plateau is exposed. Please note that eight-day climbers will continue towards the Shira Plateau Ridge to Lava Tower and Moir Camp.(4,200) metres.
Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 91m
Discover the importance of acclimatization with our exceptional journey. Although we end the day at the same elevation as the starting point, this day is significant. Trekking east from the Shira Plateau, we traverse a ridge that passes the Kibo peak junction. Our journey then turns south towards the breathtaking Lava Tower, also called the "Shark's Tooth," standing at 4650m/15,250ft. A second junction follows that leads to the Arrow Glacier. Finally, we descend overnight to the Barranco Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Elevation: 4155m/13,632ft to 4033m/13,232ft
Altitude loss: 122m
Embark on a moderate climb from Moir Valley, and add a thrilling experience to your journey by summiting Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters.
Resume the Northern Circuit trail and traverse a series of inclines and declines along the northern slopes of Kibo, enjoying breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro plains. Admire the vast, unobstructed landscapes extending to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border until we reach Buffalo Camp in the afternoon. Recharge with a delectable lunch and take some time to unwind.
Elevation: 4033m/13,232ft to 3936m/12,193ft
Altitude lost: 97m
Day six of our adventure begins with an invigorating climb up Buffalo Ridge before descending to Pofu Camp for lunch. Our journey continues eastward, hugging the northern slopes until we reach Rongai Third Cave. As you become more accustomed to the altitude, today's climb is shorter than the previous day. Expect to reach Third Cave in the mid-afternoon, feeling energized and ready to continue your journey.
Elevation: 3936m/12,913ft to 4717m/15,476ft
Altitude gained: 781m
Experience a steady ascent over the Saddle, situated between the magnificent peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Our next destination is School Hut, where you'll enjoy an early dinner before resting up for our midnight summit attempt. Don't forget to pack your essential gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamps, and cameras, before retiring for the night.
Elevation: 4717m/15,476ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1178m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost:2789m
Prepare yourself for the most challenging part of the trek as we set out early, between midnight and 2 a.m. Our climb to the summit continues between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, as we battle the elements to reach Stella Point on the crater rim. Here, we'll pause to enjoy the stunning sunrise, and within an hour, we'll reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate your accomplishment and capture the moment in photos before our descent to Mweka Camp.
Remember to bring gaiters and trekking poles to navigate the loose gravel and volcano ash terrain. Enjoy a well-deserved rest at Mweka Camp, relishing your final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m
Experience a heartwarming ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew before departing for your descent. The journey to Mweka Park Gate to obtain your summit certificates presents its own set of challenges, with steep, wet, and muddy terrain. To make the most of your journey, we highly recommend equipping yourself with trekking poles and gaiters.
Upon obtaining your certificates, our team will transport you to Gold Crest Hotel for an overnight stay that includes breakfast. This package ensures a relaxing end to your trek, so you can reflect on your unforgettable experience.
After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, it will be time to depart according to your designated flight schedule.
Trip includes
Included
- Pre & Post Trek accommodation in Moshi town on bed and breakfast Basis
- Camping tents
- 1 night at House of West Kili – bed and breakfast basis
- 1 night at Gold Crest Hotel – bed and breakfast basis
- Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
Guiding Method
Fully guided
- Full board accommodation during the trek – 3 meals daily
- Evacuation Insurance – Amref Flying Doctors
- 2-way airport transfers - 1 on arrival and 1 on departure
- Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- Park fees, camping fees & rescue fee
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- Filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Enough porters to carry your camping equipment and food supplies
- Certificate of achievement
Excluded
International flights and Visa
- Visa
- Tips
- Laundry
- All items of personal nature like sunscreen, sun glasses, etc
- Trekking gear like Sleeping matt, gaiters, boots and rain gear
- Oxygen cylinder
- Chemical toilet
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