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Embark on an Extraordinary Journey: The Kilimanjaro 8-Day Northern Circuit Route
Embarking on the Kilimanjaro 8-day Northern Circuit Route offers an exhilarating and unique approach to conquering Mount Kilimanjaro. This route guides trekkers through stunning, lesser-explored northern slopes, offering an extraordinary adventure of physical and mental fulfillment. With 8-9 days, this northern circuit trek boosts acclimatization and heightens summit success.
Unveiling the Northern Circuit Route: Journeying the Uncharted North Slopes
The journey begins at Londorossi Gate, where trekkers receive permits and venture into the lush northern rainforest. As the trail ascends, the landscape undergoes a magnificent transformation, unveiling the captivating transition to the Giant Heather Moor Land Zone and the high alpine desert. This progression offers a mesmerizing array of diverse and breathtaking scenery, capturing the senses of adventurers with every step.
Unveiling Natural Wonders Along the Way
Continuing through the remote wilderness, trekkers encounter defining landmarks on this extraordinary northern circuit journey. The iconic Lava Tower and the remarkable Shark's Tooth rock formation stand as testament to the majestic beauty that surrounds them. Traversing valleys, ridges, and slopes, trekkers are rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views, stretching across the plains and extending all the way to the Kenya/Tanzania border.
Reaching New Heights: Summiting Uhuru Peak
Upon reaching School Hut, trekkers face an exhilarating ascent towards the ultimate goal: Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest summit. The triumphant moment is elevated by witnessing the sun embrace Mawenzi Peak, crafting an unforgettable sunrise etched in memory. The encounter with snow during the ascent adds an extra layer of wonder to this awe-inspiring summit experience, further solidifying the significance of the journey.
A Celebration of Achievement at Mweka Camp
As the descent leads trekkers back to Mweka Camp, the culmination of this extraordinary adventure unfolds. A sense of accomplishment fills the air as trekkers celebrate their conquest of Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route. A celebration awaits, marked by a cherished certificate, testament to the remarkable journey. The complete package includes essential services, camping gear, nourishing meals, and dedicated support from experienced guides, porters, and a comprehensive First Aid Kit.
Elevating the Experience: Optional Upgrades
To elevate the trekking experience to an even higher level, a range of optional upgrades are available. Adventurers can opt for a guaranteed Wilderness Responder Guide, ensuring the highest level of safety and expertise. Additional amenities such as Oxygen Cylinders, hot lunches, solar lights, and food resupply options are also at hand, further enhancing the comfort and convenience of the expedition.
A Dream Trek Unveiled: Discovering the Northern circuit Beauty
In summary, the Kilimanjaro 8-day Northern Circuit Route beckons with the promise of an unforgettable adventure. It combines Kilimanjaro's northern slopes' beauty with the challenges of an extraordinary expedition. This dream trek is tailor-made for adventurers who seek not only a less crowded path but also a more profound and rewarding connection with nature's splendor.
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Itineraries
Day 1
Plan
- Depart from Moshi for a 3-hour drive to Londorossi Gate.
- Complete park registration and permits process.
- Start trekking from Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
- Trek through the rainforest, enjoying the scenic beauty and wildlife.
- Distance: 6km / 4mi, Duration: 3-4 hours, Elevation: 2,360m/7,800ft to 2,820m/9,500ft.
Day 2
Plan
- Trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira II Camp.
- Cross the Giant Heather Moor Land Zone and ascend the Shira Ridge.
- Enjoy stunning views of Shira Plateau and Mount Meru.
- Distance: 15km / 9mi, Duration: 7-10 hours, Elevation: 2,820m/9,500ft to 3,810m/12,500ft.
Day 3
Plan
- Trek from Shira II Camp to Moir Hut.
- Pass through the "Garden of the Senecios" and enter the high alpine desert zone.
- Acclimatization trek up to Lava Tower and Shark's Tooth rock formation.
- Descend to Moir Camp.
- Distance: 14km / 8mi, Duration: 5-8 hours, Elevation: 3,850m/12,500ft to 4,200m/13,580ft.
Day 4
Plan
- Trek from Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp.
- Climb Moir Valley with an optional detour to Little Lent Hill for acclimatization.
- Continue along the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp.
- Enjoy scenic views of the plains extending to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.
- Distance: 12km / 7mi, Duration: 5-7 hours, Elevation: 4,200m/13,580ft to 4,020m/13,250ft.
Day 5
Plan
- Trek from Buffalo Camp to Third Cave.
- Ascend Buffalo Ridge and experience a sense of remote wilderness.
- Continue to Porfu Camp and the Rongai Third Cave.
- Distance: 8km / 5mi, Duration: 5-7 hours, Elevation: 4,020m/13,250ft to 3,870m/12,700ft.
Day 6
Plan
- Trek from Third Cave to School Hut.
- Walk up and over the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi Peak.
- Continue southwest to School Hut.
- Prepare for the summit attempt.
- Distance: 5km / 3mi, Duration: 4-5 hours, Elevation: 3,870m/12,700ft to 4,800m/15,600ft.
Day 7
Plan
- Summit Day: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp.
- Begin the ascent before midnight towards Gillman's Point on the crater rim.
- Witness a magnificent sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.
- Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
- Descend to Millennium Camp.
- Distance: 6km / 4mi ascent, 10km / 6mi descent, Duration: 10-14 hours, Elevation:
4,800m/15,600ft to 5,895m/19,340ft (summit) and descent to 3,950m/10,150ft
Day 8
Plan
- Trek from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate.
- Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate.
- Collect your certificates and transfer back to Moshi.
- Distance: 13km / 8.5mi, Duration: 5-7 hours, Elevation: 3,950m/10,150ft to 1,680m/5,500ft.
Congratulations! You have completed the Kilimanjaro 8-day Northern Circuit Trek and achieved an incredible feat by reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa!
The best time for the Northern Circuit Trek is during the dry seasons: January to early March and June to October. These months offer clearer skies and better trekking conditions.
The Northern Circuit Trek is considered to be more challenging but also more rewarding
due to its longer duration and less crowded nature. Adequate physical fitness and mental
preparation are recommended.
The Northern Circuit Trek has a higher success rate compared to some other routes,
primarily due to its longer duration, allowing for better acclimatization. The success rate varies
but is generally around 80-90%.
We aim to keep our trekking groups small to ensure a more personalized experience and
better attention from guides and support staff. The group size is typically 6 to 12 participants.
While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. However, participants
should be physically fit, mentally prepared for the challenges, and willing to follow the guide's
instructions.
Accommodation during the trek is in tents, except for School Hut (hut accommodation). Our
camping equipment is of high quality to ensure a comfortable stay on the mountain
Full board is provided during the climb, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are
carefully prepared by our experienced cooks to meet your nutritional needs.
Yes, portable toilets are provided at the campsites for your convenience and to ensure
responsible environmental practices.
Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid, and we carry a comprehensive first aid kit. In
case of a serious emergency, we have evacuation plans in place to ensure your safety.
We will provide a detailed packing list, but essentials include appropriate clothing, sleeping bag, daypack, trekking poles, headlamp, and personal items.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or need further information. We are committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable trekking experience on Mount Kilimanjaro!
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