1. What is the Northern Circuit route on Kilimanjaro?

The Northern Circuit route is a less-travelled 9-day climb on Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. It offers a unique and gradual ascent, maximizing acclimatization and increasing the chances of a successful summit.

2. Is the Northern Circuit suitable for beginners?

While the Northern Circuit allows for better acclimatization, it is still a challenging climb that requires a good level of fitness and previous CLIMBING experience. It is recommended for intermediate to advanced climbers.

3. How long is the Northern Circuit route?

The Northern Circuit route typically takes 9 days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 91 kilometres (56 miles) to reach the summit and return.

4. What are the highlights of the Northern Circuit climb?

The Northern Circuit offers breath-taking views of the mountain's western face, lush rainforests, the expansive Shira Plateau, and the unique experience of encircling the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.

5. Are there camping facilities along the Northern Circuit route?

Yes, camping is the primary accommodation option on the Northern Circuit. Well-equipped campsites with basic facilities are available at designated locations along the route.

6. What is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit route?

The best time for the Northern Circuit climb is during the dry seasons, which are typically from January to March and June to October. These periods offer more stable weather and clearer views.

7. Do I need to hire a guide and porters for the climb?

Yes, hiring a licensed guide and porters is mandatory for all climbs on Kilimanjaro. Guides provide valuable expertise, while porters help carry the majority of the equipment, leaving you to focus on the climb itself.

8. How challenging is the summit day on the Northern Circuit route?

Summit day, regardless of the route, is physically and mentally demanding. The Northern Circuit's gradual ascent helps with acclimatization, but the final push to the summit will still require determination and perseverance.

9. What permits do I need for the Northern Circuit climb?

For the Kilimanjaro climb, you'll need a Kilimanjaro National Park entry permit, which is typically organized by your tour operator as part of the package.

10. Can I combine the Northern Circuit with other attractions in Tanzania?

Yes, many climbers choose to combine their Kilimanjaro adventure with a safari in Tanzania's renowned national parks, such as Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, for an unforgettable and diverse African experience.

9 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Northern Circuit Route Experience

Price $2139 pp

Book this tour

9 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Northern Circuit Route Experience package

Embark on a 9-day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climb for an unforgettable journey to Africa tallest peak. Traverse diverse landscapes, including lush glades, Shira Plateau, and the stark beauty of Lava Tower. Challenge yourself with a night climb to Uhuru Peak before descending to Mweka Gate. An adventure of awe-inspiring views and personal triumph awaits.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Hotel to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2 : Climb from, Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, 3rd day of 9 days Kilimanjaro climbing
Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp climb up to Moir Camp
Day 5 : Steep climb from, Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp
Day 6 : Shorter climb from, Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave
Day 7 : Steadily climb from, third Cave to School Hut
Day 8 : Summit day! School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Day 9 : Final climb day, millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel

Day 1 : Hotel to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After enjoying a hearty breakfast and receiving the final briefing, we'll head to Londorossi Park Gate, which takes around 3 hours by road. From there, our journey into the wild begins as we follow a forest track in a 4WD vehicle leading to Lemosho Glades. Your first climb will be through the enchanting Montane Forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp, aptly named after a grand tree that stands tall in the campsite. The elevation gains from 1830m to 2650m, and the distance covered is approximately 6km, making it a pleasant 2-3 hours of climbing. Delight in the lush montane forest habitat surrounding you. Lunch and dinner will be provided to keep your energy high.

Accommodation for day 1

Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 2 : Climb from, Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Today, as we embark on the trail, you'll notice the terrain slowly transforming into the giant heather moorland zone. The climb leads us across streams and over the Shira Ridge, eventually descending to Shira 1 Camp, situated by a serene stream on the Shira Plateau. This lovely journey takes around 4-5 hours, covering 8km. The elevation increases from 2650m to 3500m, allowing you to experience the moorland habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided to fuel your climbing spirit.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, 3rd day of 9 days Kilimanjaro climbing

Rising to a new day, you'll be greeted by a gentle climb across the Shira Plateau, revealing the beautiful moorland meadows surrounding Shira 2 Camp. With an elevation gain from 3500m to 3850m, this 8km climb takes around 4-5 hours. Enjoy the ample opportunities for acclimatization and breathe in the refreshing moorland air. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will keep you energized and ready for the journey ahead.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp climb up to Moir Camp

Today, a longer but rewarding climb awaits, as we venture eastward through the 'Garden of the Senecios' and enter the high alpine desert zone. As you ascend to Lava Tower and Shark's Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, you'll have lunch amidst stunning views. Afterward, we join the Northern Circuit, descending to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This strategic day ensures you experience higher altitudes before sleeping lower, aiding the acclimatization process. The climb covers 14km over 5-7 hours and offers an opportunity to explore the moorland habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will keep you energized.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Steep climb from, Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

Prepare for a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley and an optional climb to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters. As we proceed, the trail skirts around the northern slopes of Kibo, offering magnificent views. The day's destination is Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters, and the climb covers 12km over 5-6 hours through the high alpine habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Shorter climb from, Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave

Today, we embark on a shorter climb, climbing up the Buffalo ridge and descending into Porfu Camp, where lunch awaits. The trail then takes us around the northern slopes to Rongai Third Cave. As you arrive at the Third Cave around mid-afternoon, you'll feel well-acclimated to the altitude. The climb covers 8km over 5-7 hours, offering splendid views of the high alpine habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Steadily climb from, third Cave to School Hut

Prepare for a steady incline up and over the Saddle, nestled between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Climbers continue southwest to School Hut, where an early dinner awaits, and the final summit attempt will begin before midnight. Get some rest, as this night's sleep is crucial before the big day. Ensure all your gear, warm clothing, and essentials are ready before heading to bed. The climb covers 15km over 4-5 hours, granting you a glimpse of the alpine desert habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : Summit day! School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

It's summit day Awake around 11:30 PM to start the steep incline up Kibo's slopes under the shroud of darkness. Pass by Hans Meyer Cave and Gilman's Point as you head towards Uhuru Peak, reaching the summit at sunrise. Take in the breath-taking views and capture cherished memories before retracing your steps back to Stella Point. Afterward, descend to Barafu Camp and finally reach Millennium Camp for your last night on the mountain. Today's journey is the most challenging, covering 6km uphill and 11km downhill over 14-16 hours. You'll climb through the stone scree and ice-capped summit habitats. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will fuel your triumph.

Accommodation for day 8

Millenium Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 9 : Final climb day, millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel

As the sun rises on your final day on Kilimanjaro, bid farewell to Millennium Camp and descend to Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. Be prepared for wet and muddy terrain at lower elevations. Once at the gate, our team will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relish in the achievement of conquering Kilimanjaro. The descent covers 10km over 3-4 hours through the forest habitat. Breakfast will be served before departure.

Accommodation for day 9

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

Costs for 9 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Northern Circuit Route Experience

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax	11 pax	12 pax	13 pax	14 pax	15 pax	16 pax
$ 2214	$ 2189	$ 2189	$ 2189	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139

Tour activities

Game drive tours

Getting around/Walking

Hotel resting

Photographs

Tour features and style

Private tour
You can do safari privately for solo, couple, family, or in group.

Group tour
Join a group with your fellow tourists through this tour.

Budget tour
You can compute the price for budget for the whole tour

Customizable
You can customize the itinerary, price inclusions, accommodations, and also the price.

First aid/Rescue
First aid and rescue during the tour is assured.

Price inclusions

Sleeping bag or bed linen

Rental vehicle

Rescue fee

Park fees

A professional driver/guide

All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)

Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Porterage

Roundtrip airport transfer

All flights during the tour

International flights to/from the start/end of the tour

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips: tipping guideline

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

TANZANIA GUIDE ADVENTURES

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.tanzaniaguideadventures.com

Africa’s crucial wilderness areas. Enjoy a wide range of unique, high-quality safari options where you’ll encounter the Serengeti, the Masai Mara, the Great Migration, Kilimanjaro hiking and trekking, Tanzania safaris or one of our many other iconic experiences, brings you an immersive, genuine and remarkable safari experience you’ll never forget.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear for the trips?

While snorkeling gear might be provided, bringing your own well-fitting gear can enhance your comfort and experience.

What's the policy on interacting with marine life during diving expeditions?

Diving expeditions prioritize observing marine life while following responsible diving practices to protect the ecosystem.

Can I request a specific dive site for a diving photography session?

Some operators offer customizable diving photography session locations. Discuss preferences with the dive instructor.

Can I bring my own camera equipment for underwater photography during diving expeditions?

Bringing your camera equipment for underwater photography during diving expeditions can enhance your experience.

How are medical supplies handled during diving expeditions?

Dive instructors often have basic medical supplies on hand during diving expeditions to address minor incidents.

Can I bring my own diving gear for the expeditions?

While diving gear might be available, experienced divers often prefer using their own familiar equipment.

What's the policy on interacting with cultural artifacts during heritage site visits?

Heritage site visits prioritize observing and learning about cultural artifacts while adhering to preservation guidelines.

Can I request a specific heritage site for a historical discussion session?

Some operators offer customizable historical discussion session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own books or research materials for historical discussions?

Bringing relevant books or research materials can enrich historical discussions during leisure time.

How are medical supplies handled during heritage site visits?

Basic medical supplies might be available during heritage site visits to address minor incidents.