9 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Northern Circuit Route

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TRIP OVERVIEW

The Northern Circuit route is one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro, offering nearly 360 degrees of beautiful scenery including the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit also has the most acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate. Thus, the Northern Circuit route is highly recommended.

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge, before crossing the Shira Plateau. The route then heads north and circles clockwise from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp to School Hut, before summiting from the east. Descend is made via the Mweka route.

Supreme Kilimanjaro offers the Northern Circuit as a nine day group climb or private climb. A 10 day variation that includes an overnight at Crater Camp is available as a private climb by special request.

ITINERARY SUMMARY

ROUTE MAP

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Day 1: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi

With prior arrangement, an airport pick-up to your hotel in Moshi Town is available from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). You will be warmly welcome at the airport by our driver, after loading the luggage into the vehicle you will make your way to your hotel. Our team will meet you later the day for a pre-climb briefing, your hiking equipment will then be thoroughly checked and you may be able to borrow any missing equipment necessary for the trek. We will also confirm you have bought the appropriate travel insurance. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

  • Drive: 45 minutes to one hour

Day 2: Moshi to Londorossi Gate (2100m) to Mti Mkubwa/Forest Camp (2750m)

You start early in the day! After breakfast, head to the Londorossi Gate with your mountain team. The three hour drive is a remarkable cultural experience, traversing the fascinating cities of BomaN’gombe and SanyaJuu. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro National Park, the authorities will register you for your trek as our team prepares everything for your ascent. Take the time and get to know all the members of your crew, including your porters and the cook. After registration, continue up the hill to the starting point of your hike. On the first leg of your Kilimanjaro ascent, you’ll wander through untamed wilderness, past ancient and exotic plant species. Black and white colobus monkeys bounce through the lush rainforest, while you may catch a glimpse of larger mammals such as elephants or buffaloes. Your destination for the day is Mti Mkubwa Camp (2750 m), where you can relax for the rest of the day.

  • Hiking time: 3 hours
  • Distance: 7 km
  • Height gain: 450m

Day 3:Mti Mkubwa (2,750m) to Shira Camp 1 (3,550m)

The day starts on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro and you have the longest and most spectacular day ahead of you. You will pass through the last sections of the rainforest before the majestic barren landscape of the Moorland Zone pops up in front of you. Marvel at rare plant species, including the giant purple lobelia and the wild vegetation. Wander through the massive Shira Plateau, the remains of an ancient volcanic crater. You will then cross the Shira Ridge on the slopes of Shira Camp 1 (3,600m) where your crew will pitch up for you.

  • Walking time: 6-7 hours,
  • Distance: 10 km,
  • Height gain: 800m

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3540m Shira 2 (3840m)

After a warm breakfast, you will continue your scenic hike through the moorland. Few visitors have frequented this section of Kilimanjaro, allowing you to fully experience its pristine beauty. Along the Shira Plateau, you will be greeted by a truly breathtaking view of the top of Kilimanjaro, before you reach Shira Camp 2 (3810 m). The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the spectacular area, including the iconic Shira Cathedral, a towering volcanic stone formation. Your guide will take you on a short hike to help you get used to the altitude.

  • Walking time: 3-4 hours,
  • Distance: 8 km,
  • Height gain: 290m

Day 5: Shira Camp 2 (3840 m) to the Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m)

On your fifth day the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route takes you to the High Alps Desert on the east side. Here you join with two of the famous routes such as the Lemosho and the Machame before a lonesome walk. You would have an opportunity to marvel at various desert plant species and the iconic shark-tooth volcanic rock formation on the way to the Lava Tower. The hike to the Lava Tower involves smooth acclimatization to the altitude. The end of the day is in sight as soon as you discover the Moir Camp (4,200 m) behind the magnificent Lent Hills. There you can put your feet up and enjoy a hot meal.

  • Walking time: 5-7 hours
  • Distance: 14 km
  • Height gain: 610m

Day 6: Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m) to the Buffalo Camp (4020 m)

The refreshing mountain air has a revitalizing effect and gives energy for the further ascent. After breakfast, continue your trek from the Moir Valley. Take a short diversion to the top of Lent Hill to admire the view before continuing on the Northern Circuit Trail. You would walk along hilly terrain until you reach the Buffalo Camp. Relax for the night on a breathtaking campsite watching the gigantic views of views of the Kenyan plains.

  • Walking time: 5 – 7 hours
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Height loss: 180m

 

Day 7: Buffalo Camp (4020 m) to Third Cave (3870 m)

Your Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit adventure continues with a restful morning up to the top of the Buffalo Ridge, after lunch you will continue to pace eastwards through the Alpine landscape, the vegetation will become increasingly sparse Rongai Third Cave Camp. At this time of your Kilimanjaro climb, you are fully acclimatized.

  • Walking time: 5 – 7 hours
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Height loss: 150m

Day 8: Third Cave Camp (3870 m) to School Hut (4,800 m)

This is the last leg of the hike before the final climb to the top of Kilimanjaro. The highlight of the day will be the hike up and over “The Sattle,” a lunar landscape that lies between the Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. You will then travel southwest to School Hut (4,800 m). Your guides will give you a final briefing on the early morning summit hike.

  • Hiking time: 4 – 6 hours
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Height gain: 930m

Day 9: School Hut (4,800 m) to Mweka Camp (3060 m)

Your last morning on the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route is an early start to the day. You and your mountain guide wander through the darkness of the night towards the main crater rim, to Gilman’s Point. Here you can enjoy a warm cup of tea before relaxing and enjoy the view of the surrounding glaciers. You reach the summit of Kilimanjaro in time to catch the sunrise, one of the most spectacular natural scenery. A feeling of exhilaration will inspire you, you have made it to the highest point of Africa, the Uhuru Peak. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the view before you begin your descent along the crater rim. The Mweka Camp is your last stop of the journey. Fall into a triumphant sleep and admire one last time the starry night sky.

  • Hiking time: 11 – 15 hours
  • Distance: 19 km
  • Height gain:1095m
  • Height loss: 2835m

Day 10: Mweka Camp (3060 m) to Mweka Gate (1,640 m) to Moshi

The last hike is short and takes you to the Mweka Gate. You will be greeted by your Supreme Kilimanjaro driver, who will take you back to the property, where you will find a hot shower, soft mattress and a range of clean clothes, as well as the ceremonial handover of your certificate.

  • Walking time: 3 – 4 hours
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Height loss: 1420m

Day 11: Hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

After a good night rest and breakfast at the hotel, our transfer vehicle will be ready to pick you up and take you to Kilimanjaro International Airport to connect with your flight back home. However, if you wish to extend your program and proceed with safari kindly let us know so that we can arrange it in advance.

  • Drive: 45 minutes to one hour

PRICE

We will send you a personalized quote with the exact price upon booking confirmation. Indeed, the price can vary according to availability, levels of services, period, number of participants, reservation deadline and many others.

TOUR PRICE - INCLUDES

TOUR PRICE - EXCLUDES

frequently Asked QUESTIONS

The following are the questions that we tend to get asked the most by our climbers. If you have further questions after reading this, do check out the Climb Mount Kilimanjaro website that accompanies the guide book, and of course the Kilimanjaro guide book itself, which has been deliberately designed to give as much detail and answer as many questions as possible.

Kilimanjaro is the only highest mountain which allows you to reach its summit Uhuru peak without any technical skills. Climbing Kilimanjaro is easy compared to other mountains, as it has easier terrains than steeps. However, you may need to use your hands while climbing the Barranco wall as it is the only steep wall in the entire Kilimanjaro zone. This is one of the important Kilimanjaro FAQs and has a proper answer. During wet season you may require hiking poles because the rocks are more slippery. Make sure you wear proper hiking boots or gaiters while you are climbing Kilimanjaro.

The weather in Kilimanjaro is considered as wet season and dry season. Before knowing about Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro”, the weathers and climates are very important to decide for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. All the Kilimanjaro routes pass the ecological or climatic zones where the weather tends to change hourly due to the high-altitude condition and the trade winds. The wet season has more rainfall and dry season has lesser rainfall with more dry days. The main climatic zones are: Cultivation zone, Rainforest zone, Heath or moorland zone, Highland dessert zone and Artic zone. Each zone are unique in its own way and also have a distinct weather conditions all the way.

Best time to climb Kilimanjaro is a major Kilimanjaro Faq’s asked by most of the trekkers. Mount Kilimanjaro can be ascended year around and all the Kilimanjaro routes will support climbing Kilimanjaro round the year. As Kilimanjaro is near to equator the region experiences a very less extremes of winter and summer weather, rather it has wet and dry seasons. Hence, the Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro is dry season which is warm. It is advised to avoid climbing Kilimanjaro during wet season for beginners. However, if you are with a professional climber and have all the safety precautions taken, then climbing Kilimanjaro in wet season would be really adventures. This also depends on your preference of Kilimanjaro Routes. You will need to choose best Kilimanjaro route and also choose a longer itinerary for better acclimatization.

You will be provided with tents, camping gear, food, utensils, and guidance. You should bring your own sleeping bag, water system, personal clothing, light duffle bag, and day pack. Hiking poles can be rented. If What Do I Need To Climb Kilimanjaro?” is your question, the following list is for you. A packing list is provided to all climbers, along with our pre-departure packet:

  • 1 mountaineering sleeping bag
  • 1 LED flashlight with spare batteries
  • 1 Pair of comfortable trekking boots
  • 1 towel
  • 2 fleece jackets
  • 1 down jacket or long-sleeved wind-breaker
  • 1 set of thermal underwear
  • 2 pairs of trekking trousers
  • 1 waterproof jacket
  • 1 pair of waterproof trousers
  • 1 sun hat
  • 1 pair of sunglasses

The Kilimanjaro Food during your climb will help you to avoid from Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness. The menu on Kilimanjaro is designed to ensure your food intake matches your level of exertion. It will provide you with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables. When you are at altitude you could start to feel uneasy and your appetite may be suppressed, so the meals prepared at high altitude usually contain more carbohydrates and less protein to help you to digest your food. Your meals will be prepared by your cooks on Kilimanjaro and the food will be carried by your porters. You will be provided with Porridge, Toast, Pancakes, Egg, Smoked sausages, Tea, coffee and Hot chocolate. Sandwiches, Hard boiled eggs, Biscuits, Fruit juice. Soup, Pasts, Rice, Potatoes, Chicken, Beef, vegetables, Salad and Fresh fruits.

Mount Kilimanjaro has recorded the highest altitude level and one needs to be physically and mentally fit to summit the highest peak. You will need to have good acclimatization if you are climbing Kilimanjaro. You will need to sleep on the lower elevations and spend more time on higher elevations. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be an achievement as well as more than the failure. The main health issue is related to respiratory problem. You will have Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness, Acute Mountain sickness and also it may lead to High altitude pulmonary edema and also High altitude cerebral edema. However, these are self-diagnosable at the beginning. If you reach the severe condition you will need to descend.

The guides and porters are professionally trained to handle the emergency situations. They are equipped with first aid kits and also trained to provide first aid medicines. In case of any severe emergency the recuse team will be available to help you descend through a stretcher or in case of more sever emergency there will be a helicopter rescue team who will take you to the high altitude medical clinic and transfer to the best hospital in the city.

Yes, the drinking water is safe and there will be available enough water for all the climbers. We recommend you to carry 2-3 litres of water with you and add water purification tablets to it. This will help to purify the flowing water in the mountains and you will be safe to drink water in the mountains. It is suggested to drink more water to keep yourself hydrated and energised while Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

While it comes to altitude sickness, then the question would be “How hard is it to climb Kilimanjaro?” The high-altitude level needs physical fitness and mental determination to climb Kilimanjaro instead of high-altitude medications. However, it is your preference to take high altitude medication while climbing Kilimanjaro, one of the tablet is Diamox which will help you control the high altitude sickness. It make you urinate more. So, we recommend to make yourself fit and train for Kilimanjaro and then attempt to the summit.

It is better to check with your doctor or centre of disease control before leaving for any recommendations. This one of the major Mount Kilimanjaro Facts you should take into considerations. However, while entering Tanzania you will need a yellow fever vaccination certificate and also malaria vaccination certificate. Apart from these other vaccinations are not compulsory. However, it is better to consult your doctor for Vaccinations for Kilimanjaro if you have asthma or any chronic health problems.

Fair and transparent tipping

Tanzania has a tipping culture and your support team may expect (though will never demand) a tip from your group at the end of the tour. As a responsible operator, we want to ensure that our tipping procedures are transparent and clear for both the support team and you the client. Based on your group size, the expected support team and tipping guidelines you should budget for this in addition to the total tour cost.

Suggested tip for 8 Days trek: Each crew will receive the following amounts per trip

Here is tipping guiding you should budget for this trip in addition to the total tour cost: –

Persons in group
Tip per participant
1
760
2
500
3
373
4
310
5
308
6
287
7
237
8
283
9
264
10
250

Want to add anything else or need any more information?

Ask your consultant for more! We have been planning and operating Tanzania tours since 2004 and have a vast experience in the country. You can check with your tour consultant if there are any extra or planned activities that may not already be included in your tour package or varied routes that may be possible within the itinerary planned.

Booking terms and Conditions

To book a trip, contact us with your desired activities and destinations. We will work with you to create the ideal itinerary and accommodations to fit within your budget. Along with this, we may also offer some other activities that fit your interests.

We recognize that most people do not get many opportunities for such a trip, therefore we put all our efforts into making this a safe and memorable journey for you. For that reason, you might find that we are not the lowest price tour operator that can be found. However, be aware that there are always details that some operators will be willing to omit in order to offer a lower price.

Payment and Cancellations

After an itinerary is agreed upon, a 20% deposit payable by wire transfer (through bank or services such as Western Union) is required to hold your reservation. We are sorry but due to bank restrictions, credit and bank card payments can only be processed when presented in person. Unless final payment is to be made by bank/credit card, it is due no later than 7 days before the tour starts.

Cancellation Policy

We recommend trip insurance for all travelers to minimize loss in cases of cancellation. Postponements made by clients after a deposit has been made will result in the deposit being applied to the new itinerary. Lodge and permanent tented camps may have stricter loss of deposit policies that will force us to deduct any amount retained by the lodges.

Cancellation of a holiday must be done in writing and is effective from the date we receive the written notification. Reservations that are cancelled, reduced in length of stay or reduced in numbers of participants are subject to cancellation charges.

Liability

We act as an agent for hotels, lodges and facilities provided by other parties, firms or corporations and cannot be held responsible for delays, loss, damage, injury or accident or change of itineraries which may occur through the negligence of any individual company entrusted with such service. The company cannot be held responsible for any occurring loss of personal valuables (e.g. camera, laptop, mobile phone, money etc.) during the activities. The client has to ensure, that at all times, they take care of their properties.

Insurance

We strongly advise any client to take care of adequate insurance against all risks with a sufficient sum. The company does not provide any medical care and does not accept liability for any inadequate care provided. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers to obtain coverage for themselves, travel companions and family members to cover unforeseen travel issues such as cancellations, interruptions, delays, lost/stolen/ damaged travel documents and property, medical, and emergency transportation. We shall not be responsible for any injuries, damages or losses caused to any traveler in connection with dangers and risk inherent in sporting and adventure activities, climatic conditions, accidents or illness, mechanical or construction failure or difficulties, social or labor unrest, local laws, abnormal conditions or developments, acts of God or any other actions, omission or conditions outside our control.

Place of Jurisdiction

The company’s contract is governed by and constructed in accordance with the law of Tanzania. Accordingly, each party irrevocably submits to the jurisdiction of the Tanzanian courts to settle any dispute or matter arising under the contract.

$ 2,560 / Person

Choose a scheduled date or contact us to set up private dates or a bespoke itinerary. Read our booking terms and conditions for more details.

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MT. KILIMANJARO CLIMBING GUIDE

At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world; it is one of the Seven Summits. The snow-capped peak of Africa is a dormant volcano and can be found inside the Kilimanjaro National Park of Tanzania.

Who Can Climb Kilimanjaro? Anyone from children over the age of 10 to older generations in their 60s and 70s! All you need is determination and the will to get to the summit. The real challenge with climbing Kilimanjaro is the altitude and the rate of ascent. Don’t worry we will be with you every step of the way! Our guides are highly skilled professionals and are a key component to your success.

Join the thousands of climbers who have stood on the Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Guided by Our Trek Expert Team. Explore our Tips & Guides on How to Success Mount Climb Kilimanjaro

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