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NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE 9 or 10 Days

The Northern Circuit Route, with its 360-degree panoramic views and northern slopes, offers an unparalleled trekking experience on the majestic Kilimanjaro. As a challenging trail, it provides climbers with an opportunity to pause and appreciate the awe-inspiring landscape. As a reputable travel organizer, we provide guidance and support throughout your climb, making your journey as smooth as possible.

The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route, offering stunning views of the lowlands below. Despite its difficulty, the trail promises enjoyment and valuable experience for those who undertake it. If time and budget allow, this route is one of the most thrilling paths to explore, showcasing diverse vegetation and some endangered wildlife species.

Geology of the Northern Circuit Route – The journey begins with a comfortable drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, starting in the west along the Lemosho Route. The trail approaches the summit from the east. If you’re an adventurer at heart who doesn’t want to miss out on the wilderness, then pack your bag for an unforgettable journey on Kilimanjaro.

Climate of the Northern Circuit Route – The Northern Circuit Route offers a mild climate compared to other routes. However, Mount Kilimanjaro encompasses almost all ecological zones. Therefore, you will likely experience a variety of climates during your expedition, including rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic conditions. There is no specific season for trekking; you can choose according to your preference.

History of the Northern Circuit Route – Among the seven trails, the Northern Circuit Route is considered one of the most successful. As a newly appreciated route, it doesn’t have an ancient history but has quickly gained popularity among travelers seeking a challenging summit journey.

Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route? – Known as the latest and longest trail to reach Kilimanjaro’s peak, the Northern Circuit route is a favorite among trekkers who enjoy challenges. Its appeal lies in its daunting path and captivating views of the mountain and its lush vegetation.

As a trusted travel organizer, we offer affordable packages for 9-day and 10-day treks on the Northern Circuit Route.

Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll receive a warm welcome and be escorted to your selected hotel in Moshi/Arusha. Here, your guide will meet you, providing a detailed briefing on your upcoming trek and ensuring all essential mountain gear is checked. Any required equipment can be rented on-site.

Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast”

 
 
 
 
 
 

Begin your journey on the Northern Circuit Route, commencing from Londorossi Gate, which serves as the starting point also used by the Lemosho Route. Following a picturesque two-hour drive from Moshi or a longer route from Arusha, you’ll complete registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities. From there, you’ll be driven further up the mountain to the trailhead. Most tour operators offer a delightful lunch before embarking on your trek towards Mti Mkubwa Camp. Keep watch for elephants or buffalo emerging from the rainforest! Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, a satisfying dinner will be served.

Distance: 5.5km / 3mi Duration: 3-4 hours Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On the second day, you’ll traverse the remaining rainforest path before ascending into the low alpine moorland zone that leads to the expansive Shira Plateau. The day’s trek is a gentle and brief one, concluding at Shira Camp 1.

Distance: 8km / 5mi
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day three involves an eastward trek through the picturesque ‘Garden of the Senecios’ into the high alpine desert zone. The morning is dedicated to ascending to Lava Tower and the notable Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters. Following lunch, you’ll continue along the northern circuit route, descending to Moir Camp.

Distance: 15km / 8mi
Duration: 5-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day four begins with a moderately steep ascent out of Moir Valley. You have the option to take a brief detour to summit Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before rejoining the Northern Circuit trail. The path winds around the northern slopes of Kibo, leading to Buffalo Camp through a series of ups and downs. Along the way, marvel at stunning vistas of the plains north of Kilimanjaro stretching to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.

Distance: 12km / 7mi
Duration: 5-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On the fifth day, the journey begins with an ascent up Buffalo Ridge, followed by a descent into Porfu Camp where a satisfying lunch awaits. The trail then turns eastward around the northern slopes, leading to Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. This day’s trek is shorter compared to the previous day, and by now, you should be well acclimatized to the altitude. Anticipate reaching the Third Cave by mid-afternoon.

Distance: 8km / 5mi
Duration: 5-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On day six, the trek entails a steady ascent up and over the Saddle, situated between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. From there, you’ll continue southwestward to School Hut at 4,800 meters. Upon reaching School Hut, an early dinner will be provided. Remember to organize and pack all your gear before resting in preparation for your midnight summit attempt.

Distance: 9.1km / 7.5mi
Duration: 4-5 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Commence your ascent towards the summit before dawn, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak by early afternoon to avoid crowds. Following a brief descent, you’ll arrive at Crater Camp, nestled in the soft sands near the renowned Furtwangler Glacier. Crater Camp isn’t a separate route but an adventurous extension that can be incorporated into any route, offering a unique overnight experience within the crater’s bowl—an extraordinary opportunity cherished by the boldest climbers.

Distance: 6km / 3.5mi
Duration: 6-8 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

On day eight, after an early breakfast, start your descent by retracing your steps back to Stella Point. From there, descend the scree slope passing by Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Distance: 6km / 3.5mi
Duration: 6-8 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embark on your summit ascent before dawn, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak by early afternoon to experience fewer crowds. Following a brief descent, you’ll arrive at Crater Camp, situated in soft sands near the renowned Furtwangler Glacier. Crater Camp isn’t a distinct route but an adventurous addition that can be included in any itinerary. This includes an overnight stay within the crater’s bowl—an unforgettable experience cherished by the boldest climbers.

Distance: 12.1km / 7.5mi
Duration: 6 hours
Accommodation: Breakfast, Lunch

You have a day to unwind and recuperate after your trek before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you might explore Moshi town, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax.

Book This Tour

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll receive a warm welcome and be transferred to your designated hotel in Moshi or Arusha town. Here, you’ll meet your guide who will provide a detailed briefing about the upcoming trek. An equipment check will be conducted to ensure you have all the necessary mountain gear. Any missing items can be rented on the same day.

Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast

Begin your journey on the Northern Circuit Route, commencing from Londorossi Gate, the same starting point as the Lemosho Route. After a scenic two-hour drive from Moshi or a longer trip from Arusha, you’ll complete registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities. Following this, you’ll be driven up the mountain to the trailhead. Most tour operators provide a delicious lunch before you embark on your trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Keep a lookout for elephants or buffalo emerging from the rainforest! Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, a hearty dinner awaits.

Distance: 5.5km / 3mi
Duration: 3-4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On day two, you will trek through the last segment of rainforest trail before ascending into the low alpine moorland zone towards the Shira Plateau. The journey is a gentle and steady climb, culminating at Shira Camp 1.

Distance: 8km / 5mi
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On day three, you’ll journey across the expansive Shira Plateau from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2. Those on the nine-day trek will settle in at Shira Camp 2 and join up with trekkers from the Machame Route. It’s recommended to ascend a bit higher at Shira Camp 2 to enjoy stunning vistas of the valley below and the towering Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above. Be prepared for a cold night as temperatures can drop below freezing due to the plateau’s exposed location.

Distance: 7km / 4mi
Duration: 3-4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On day four, you will embark on an eastward trek through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ into the high alpine desert zone. The morning will be dedicated to ascending to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters. After lunch, you will continue on the northern circuit route, descending to Moir Camp.

Distance: 14km / 8mi
Duration: 5-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On the fifth day, your trek begins with a moderately steep ascent out of Moir Valley. Trekkers have the option to take a short detour to summit Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before rejoining the Northern Circuit trail. The path then winds around Kibo’s northern slopes, leading to Buffalo Camp through a series of inclines and declines. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the plains north of Kilimanjaro extending all the way to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.

Distance: 12km / 7mi
Duration: 5-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On day six, you’ll begin with an ascent up Buffalo Ridge, then descend to Porfu Camp for a satisfying lunch. The trail continues eastward around the northern slopes, leading to Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. This day’s trek is shorter than the previous one, and by now, you should be well acclimatized to the altitude. Plan to arrive at the Third Cave by mid-afternoon.

Distance: 8km / 5mi
Duration: 5-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On day seven, you will undertake a steady ascent up and over the Saddle, situated between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. From there, the trail leads southwest up to School Hut at 4,800 meters. Upon reaching School Hut, an early dinner will be provided. Remember to pack all your gear before resting in preparation for your midnight summit attempt.

Distance: 9.1km / 7.5mi
Duration: 4-5 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your summit ascent before dawn, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak by early afternoon to experience fewer crowds. Following a brief descent, you’ll arrive at Crater Camp, located in soft sands near the renowned Furtwangler Glacier. Crater Camp isn’t a separate route but a challenging extension that can be included in any trekking itinerary. It offers an overnight stay within the crater’s bowl—an extraordinary experience cherished by the boldest climbers.

Distance: 6km / 3.5mi
Duration: 6-8 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

On day nine, after an early breakfast, commence your descent by retracing your steps back to Stella Point. From there, descend down the scree slope passing by Barafu Camp for a brief break, before continuing down to Millennium Camp where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Distance: 6km / 3.5mi
Duration: 6-8 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your summit attempt before dawn, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak by early afternoon to enjoy a quieter experience. Following a brief descent, you’ll arrive at Crater Camp, situated in soft sands near the renowned Furtwangler Glacier. Crater Camp is not a distinct route but an adventurous extension that can be integrated into any itinerary. This includes an overnight stay within the crater’s bowl—an extraordinary experience favored by the most adventurous climbers.

Distance: 12.1km / 7.5mi
Duration: 6 hours
Accommodation: Breakfast, Lunch

The day is yours to unwind and relax after your trek, before your departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may choose to explore Moshi town, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy some leisure time before heading to the airport.

Book This Tour

PRICE INCLUDES

  • Professional, experienced, mountain guides
  • All Park fees
  • Rescue fees
  • All meals while on the Mountain
  • Arrival and Departure transfers
  • Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
  • Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
  • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
  • Clean, purified drinking water
  • Crisis management and safety procedures
  • Fair and ethical treatment of porters
  • Flying Doctors insurance (AMREF)

PRICE EXCLUDES

  • International Flights
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks not included
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
  • Travel insurance
  • +255 627 664 151
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