Northern Circuit Route

Overview

• Most Beautiful Route on Kilimanjaro in 8 Days
  The Northern Circuit is not only known for its stunning scenery, but also for its high success rate—around 95% of climbers reach Uhuru Peak. This less-trodden path provides a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience. It starts at Londorossi Gate and takes you through scenic southern trails to Lava Tower, where the route diverges towards less explored paths. This is where the Northern Circuit offers a unique experience, bypassing Kibo and providing a sense of solitude.
• Same Route, a Bit Faster
  If you’re keen to take the Northern Circuit but prefer a shorter, 8-day trek, you can still enjoy high success rates. You’ll experience the same beautiful landscapes while maintaining the same level of acclimatization, ensuring you reach Uhuru Peak with confidence.
• Guaranteed Departure for Every Date
  Every departure is guaranteed, so you can plan your adventure without worrying about availability.

As with all Bookatrekking.com offerings, the 8-day Northern Circuit includes:

• Transfers to and from the airport
• Guides and porters
• Meals
• Accommodation in tents

A full list of the included services will be provided.

Itinerary for Northern Circuit Route – 8 Days

Day 1: Moshi – Starting Point – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780 m)

• Duration: 02:25 h
• Distance: 4.7 km / 2.9 mi
• Ascent: 400 m / 1312 ft

Your adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where registration takes place. From there, you’ll trek through a pristine natural forest to reach Mti Mkubwa Camp. Due to wildlife presence, an armed ranger will accompany you for the first two days.

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

• Duration: 06:40 h
• Distance: 6.35 km / 3.9 mi
• Ascent: 490 m / 1608 ft
• Descent: 50 m / 164 ft

Today, you transition from the rainforest to the dry heather moorland. As you ascend to Shira Camp 1, you’ll encounter stunning landscapes of lobelias and alpine flora. You’ll also pass the Shira Ridge and enjoy magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 3: Shira Camp 1 (3,610 m) to Moir Camp (4,200 m)

• Duration: 04:20 h
• Distance: 9.5 km / 5.9 mi
• Ascent: 630 m / 2067 ft
• Descent: 30 m / 98 ft

This trek takes you across the Shira Plateau and into the high alpine desert zone. As you journey east, you’ll reach Moir Camp, nestled at 4,200 meters, after crossing the ‘Garden of the Senecios’.

Day 4: Moir Camp (4,200 m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020 m)

• Duration: 03:40 h
• Distance: 9.9 km / 6.2 mi
• Ascent: 270 m / 886 ft
• Descent: 440 m / 1444 ft

Today features a moderate ascent out of Moir Valley, followed by a detour to Little Lent Hill. You’ll continue along the northern slopes of Kibo before descending to Buffalo Camp.

Day 5: Buffalo Camp (4,020 m) to Rongai Third Cave (3,800 m)

• Duration: 01:50 h
• Distance: 5.6 km / 3.5 mi
• Ascent: 50 m / 164 ft
• Descent: 100 m / 328 ft

This short trek begins with an ascent up the Buffalo ridge before descending toward Rongai Third Cave. A restful afternoon awaits you here, with the opportunity to acclimatize.

Day 6: Third Cave (3,800 m) to School Hut (4,800 m)

• Duration: 02:15 h
• Distance: 3.91 km / 2.4 mi
• Ascent: 700 m / 2297 ft

A gradual ascent across the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks brings you to School Hut. Here, you’ll have an early dinner and prepare for the summit attempt that night.

Day 7: School Hut (4,800 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and then to Mweka Camp (3,950 m)

• Duration: 10:40 h
• Distance: 17.4 km / 10.8 mi
• Ascent: 1190 m / 3904 ft
• Descent: 2800 m / 9186 ft

Around midnight, you’ll begin your summit attempt. After navigating steep slopes, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for rest.

Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100 m) to Mweka Gate (1,800 m) and then back to Moshi

• Duration: 03:40 h
• Distance: 8.7 km / 5.4 mi
• Descent: 1420 m / 4659 ft

The descent through the rainforest takes you to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your climbing certificate. After celebrating your success, you’ll return to Moshi for a well-earned rest.

Included in Your Kilimanjaro Trekking Package:

1. Private Transport to and from Airport
   • Pick-up from the airport and transfer to your hotel, as well as a return transfer to the airport at the end of your trek.
2. Transportation to and from the Start/End Point
   • Transfers between your accommodation and the starting point of your trek are included, both at the beginning and end of the journey.
3. Four-Season Mountain Tents
   • Comfortable, well-maintained tents set up for you at each camp. These tents are built to withstand mountain conditions.
4. Double-Layered Sleeping Mats
   • Quality double-layered sleeping mats provided to ensure a restful night’s sleep.
5. Hot Meals Daily on the Mountain
   • Three meals a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all prepared by your trekking company’s cook. Enjoy exclusive three-course dinners during the trek.
6. Treated and Filtered Water
   • Adequate water throughout the trek, ensuring you stay hydrated.
7. Hot Water for Washing
   • While not a full shower, hot water will be provided for basic washing during your trek.
8. Altitude Sickness & First Aid Kit
   • The guides carry an altitude sickness kit to monitor key health metrics and emergency portable oxygen. Guides are Wilderness First Responders, trained to manage altitude-related issues.
9. KINAPA Rescue Fee
   • The Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) rescue team fees are covered. KINAPA’s motto, “We carry each other,” reflects their commitment to your safety.
10. Park Fee, Camping Fee, VAT, and Other Taxes
    • All fees for park entry, camping, the crater, and taxes are included in the package price.
11. Fair Salary, Food, Insurance, and Accommodation for Guide and Porter(s)
    • The cost covers not only your basics but also the fair compensation and support for your guide and porters.
12. Your Own Team of Porters and Guides
    • A dedicated team of 1 guide, 1 cook, and 8 porters per person (or 2 guides, 1 cook, and 12 porters for groups of four) to assist you throughout the climb. The number of support staff varies depending on the route.

This comprehensive package ensures that you are well taken care of during your Kilimanjaro trek, with all essential services included for a safe and comfortable experience.

Excluded from Your Kilimanjaro Trekking Package:

1. Visa for Tanzania
   • Visas are required for all visitors and typically cost around $50. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, but check with your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
2. Flights to and from Moshi
   • Flights to and from Tanzania are not included. For flight options to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), check relevant airlines on their website.
3. Personal Expenses
   • Personal expenses such as drinks at the bar, laundry, and other similar costs are not included and are your responsibility.
4. Travel Insurance Including Repatriation
   • International travel insurance is your responsibility. Make sure your policy covers high-altitude adventures, and confirm your itinerary with the insurance provider before your trip.
5. Tipping
   • Tips for guides and porters are not included. It’s recommended to tip generously, and it’s wise to research tipping customs in Tanzania prior to your trek.
6. Portable Flush Toilet
   • If you require a portable flush toilet with a toilet tent, it is available for an additional fee of USD 70 for the entire trek.
7. Accommodation Before and After the Trek
   • Accommodation and meals before and after your trek in Moshi, Arusha, or elsewhere are not included and should be arranged independently.

These exclusions should be planned for separately to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience.