1. Q: What is the Northern Circuit Route on Mount Kilimanjaro?

A: The Northern Circuit Route is a lesser-known and longer trek that starts on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. It offers stunning landscapes and ample acclimatization time, making it a preferred choice for adventurous trekkers.

2. Q: How difficult is the Northern Circuit Route compared to other routes?

A: The Northern Circuit is considered to be a moderate to challenging route. Its longer duration allows for better acclimatization, increasing the chances of reaching the summit successfully.

3. Q: How many days does the Northern Circuit Route take to complete?

A: The Northern Circuit Route typically takes 9 days to complete, offering a slower and more enjoyable ascent compared to shorter routes.

4. Q: What is the best time of year to trek Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route?

A: The best times to trek are during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These months offer clearer skies and better chances of successful summits.

5. Q: Is altitude sickness a concern on the Northern Circuit Route?

A: Altitude sickness is a possibility on any Kilimanjaro route. However, the Northern Circuit's gradual ascent and longer duration allow for better acclimatization, reducing the risk.

6. Q: What type of accommodations are available during the trek?

A: Trekkers will stay in tents at designated campsites along the route. The campsites are equipped with basic facilities, including mess tents and portable toilets.

7. Q: How physically fit do I need to be for this trek?

A: Trekking Kilimanjaro is a demanding endeavor. While no technical trekking skills are required, participants should be in good physical shape and undertake regular training for endurance and strength.

8. Q: Are there age restrictions for trekking the Northern Circuit Route?

A: There is no strict age limit for trekking Kilimanjaro, but participants should be at least 16 years old. Older trekkers should consult their doctor before attempting the trek.

9. Q: Will I need special gear and equipment for the trek?

A: Yes, you will need appropriate clothing, trekking boots, sleeping bags, and other essential gear. Most tour operators provide a detailed gear list for trekers to prepare adequately.

10. Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Northern Circuit Route?

A: Yes, hiring a certified guide is mandatory for all Kilimanjaro treks, including the Northern Circuit Route. Experienced guides ensure your safety, offer guidance, and handle logistics during the trek.

9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit Route

Price $2109 pp

Book this tour

9 Days KILIMANJARO TREKKING VIA NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE TOUR

The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro trekking expedition offers an extraordinary and less-traveled journey to conquer Africa highest peak. Known for its scenic beauty and excellent acclimatization opportunities, this route takes trekkers on a longer and more gradual ascent, maximizing the chances of reaching the summit successfully.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa ( Big Tree) Camp to Shira Camp 1
Day 3 : Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Day 4 : Shira Camp 2 to Moir Camp
Day 5 : Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp
Day 6 : Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave
Day 7 : Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp
Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak and Millennium Camp
Day 9 : Conclude Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

Day 1 : Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

The Northern Circuit Route commences at Londorossi Gate, an exciting starting point that shares the same origin as the Lemosho Route. After registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, we'll head up the mountain to the trailhead. The first day's trek is short but rewarding, taking you through the rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Keep an eye out for magnificent wildlife like elephants and buffalo on the path. Relish a satisfying dinner upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp.

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 : Mti Mkubwa ( Big Tree) Camp to Shira Camp 1

Day two treats you to the final stretch of rainforest path before you enter the low alpine moorland zone leading to the Shira Plateau. The trek is gentle and brief, culminating at Shira Camp 1. Take in the breathtaking surroundings of the rainforest and low alpine zone.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2

Today, the journey takes you across the Shira Plateau from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2. While at Shira Camp 2, you'll be captivated by the mesmerizing view of the valley below and Kilimanjaro's Western Breach above. Prepare for a chilly night at the exposed plateau with temperatures potentially dropping below freezing.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : Shira Camp 2 to Moir Camp

On day four, you'll venture eastward, passing through the "Garden of the Senecios" and entering the high alpine desert zone. The highlight of the morning is the ascent to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark's Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where you'll enjoy lunch. Afterward, you'll join the northern circuit, heading down to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This strategic acclimatization day ensures you experience high altitude and then rest at a lower elevation.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp

Day five brings a moderately steep trek out of Moir Valley. Before reaching Buffalo Camp, you have the option to detour and summit Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters for an even more astounding view. After lunch, the route skirts around the northern slopes of Kibo, offering magnificent vistas of the plains north of Kilimanjaro, extending to the Tanzanian-Kenyan border. Rest and rejuvenate at Buffalo Camp after a long day of Trek.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave

The sixth day starts with a trek up the Buffalo ridge and a descent into Pofu Camp, where lunch is served. The route continues east around the northern slopes, leading to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. By now, you should be well acclimatized to the altitude, making the trek enjoyable and comfortable. Rest at the Third Cave in the afternoon.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp

Day seven involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle, nestled between Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Continue walking southwest to School Hut at 4,800 meters. Prepare for your summit attempt, as you'll be awakened before midnight to start the journey to Uhuru Peak. Pack your gear, dress warmly, and get some rest.

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Lunch

Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak and Millennium Camp

On day eight, you'll embark on the steep incline up Kibo's slopes in the dark. After passing Hans Meyer Cave and reaching Gilman's Point, you'll witness the dawn and breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak. Push onward to Uhuru Peak, where you'll be rewarded with magnificent scenery and stunning glaciers. After capturing memories in photographs, retrace your steps to Stella Point and then descend to Barafu Camp. Finally, make your way to Millennium Camp, where you'll spend your last night on the mountain.

Accommodation for day 8

Millenium Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 9 : Conclude Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

The final day's trek takes you through the dense montane rainforest from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate. Sign out with the authorities, and receive your well-deserved certificate. A green certificate awaits those who reach Gilman's Point, while a gold certificate celebrates those who conquer Uhuru Peak. Show appreciation to your guide and porter with tips before returning to your hotel in Moshi.

Accommodation for day 9

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Costs for 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit Route

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax
$ 2184	$ 2159	$ 2159	$ 2159	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2109

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

Rescue fee

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

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

SMILE WIDE EXPEDITION

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.smilewideexpedition.com

SMILE WIDE EXPEDITION CO LTD Offers different packages for day trips, Tanzania safaris, Migration Safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing tours, we take you in the unique cultures live in harmony with wildlife in extraordinary landscapes in a travel dream that goes beyond of your expectation. We make you reach your Tanzania destination at a reasonable price.

Tour offered

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a specific location for a birdwatching session?

Some operators offer customizable birdwatching session locations. Discuss your preferences with the operator.

Can I bring my own musical instruments for community interactions?

Bringing musical instruments can be a wonderful way to engage in community interactions, but inquire with the guide or lodge.

How are medical supplies handled during hot air balloon Camping Group Join Safaris?

Medical supplies are often available on hot air balloon Camping Group Join Safari s for minor incidents.

Can I request a specific location for a guided yoga session?

Some operators offer customizable guided yoga session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I request a specific wildlife conservation activity to participate in?

Wildlife conservation activities are often organized separately. Inquire with the operator for opportunities.

How medical supplies are handled during boat Camping Group Join Safari s?

Medical supplies might be available on boat Camping Group Join Safari s for minor incidents.

Can I bring my own musical instruments for boat trips?

Bringing musical instruments can add to the enjoyment of boat trips, but check with the operator.

What's the policy on interacting with wildlife during boat Camping Group Join Safari s?

Boat Camping Group Join Safari s prioritize wildlife observation from a safe distance to minimize disturbance.

Can I request a specific location for a wildlife photography session?

Some operators offer customizable wildlife photography session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own painting materials for artistic activities?

Bringing painting materials can enhance your artistic experiences during leisure time.

How are medical supplies handled during village visits?

Basic medical supplies might be available during village visits for minor incidents.

Can I bring my own telescope for birdwatching during boat Camping Group Join Safari s?

Bringing your telescope for birdwatching on boat Camping Group Join Safari s is possible. Consider portability.