Northern Circuit Route 8-9 Days

Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

On the first day, you will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, where you will be met by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha town. Here, you will have a briefing session and prepare for the upcoming trek.

Day 2: Lemosho Glades (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,800m)

The trek begins at the Lemosho Glades, a lush and remote area on the western side of Kilimanjaro. The trail winds through the dense rainforest, offering glimpses of unique flora and fauna, such as colobus monkeys and various bird species. After approximately 3-4 hours of trekking, you will reach the Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you will spend the night.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,800m) to Shira Camp 1 (3,500m)

On the third day, the trail continues through the rainforest before emerging into the moorlands. The landscape transforms into a unique and rocky terrain, with giant heathers and volcanic rocks dominating the scenery. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Shira Camp 1, where you will spend the night.

Day 4: Shira Camp 1 (3,500m) to Moir Hut (4,200m)

Today’s trek takes you through the Shira Plateau, a unique and expansive alpine desert, before reaching the Moir Hut. This day’s trek will take approximately 5-6 hours, providing ample time for acclimatization.

Day 5: Moir Hut (4,200m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)

The day begins with a steady descent into the Northern Circuit, a remote and less-traveled section of the route. The trail takes you through stunning landscapes and offers breathtaking views of the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. After approximately 5-7 hours of trekking, you will reach the Buffalo Camp, where you will spend the night.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Inca Camp (3,610m)

Today’s trek continues through the Northern Circuit, offering a sense of solitude and stunning vistas. The trail takes you through unique and rugged terrain, with occasional glimpses of wildlife. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach the Inca Camp, where you will spend the night.

Day 7: Inca Camp (3,610m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)

The day begins with a steady ascent through the Kibo Saddle, a unique and challenging section of the trek. The trail takes you through the alpine desert, offering breathtaking views of the Kibo Peak and the surrounding glaciers. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach the Kibo Hut, your final campsite before the summit attempt.

Day 8: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You will wake up around midnight to begin the final ascent to the summit, Uhuru Peak. The climb is steep and demanding, but the stunning views of the glaciers and the sunrise over the clouds make it all worthwhile. After reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking panoramas, you will descend to the Mweka Camp, where you will rest and recuperate.

Day 9: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) and departure

On the final day, you will descend through the rainforest, retracing your steps back to the Mweka Gate. The descent is relatively easier, and you will have the opportunity to spot wildlife and take in the lush surroundings one last time. After reaching the gate, you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha, where you can celebrate your achievement and prepare for your journey home.