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9-Day Arusha & Zanzibar & Kilimanjaro Safari - wildlife safari
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9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing: The Ultimate Adventure

$2,950/

per person
  • 9 Days / 8 Nights
  • Group: 4+
  • Tanzania

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day adventure with the Northern Circuit Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned for its diverse ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and spectacular views, the Northern Circuit offers a less-crowded alternative to other routes, making it ideal for those seeking a remote and immersive Kilimanjaro experience.

Starting in the lush rainforest, you’ll traverse through moorlands, alpine deserts, and finally, the arctic zone as you approach the summit. The Northern Circuit is unique due to its longer duration, which ensures a slower ascent, offering more time for acclimatization, and a higher chance of summit success.

Over the course of 9 days, you’ll experience some of Kilimanjaro's most stunning landscapes, including the famous Shira Plateau and the wild, less-explored northern slopes. The route offers a true wilderness experience, with fewer climbers and breathtaking views at every stage of the journey.

Led by our expert guides, you’ll be accompanied every step of the way to ensure your safety and success. The Northern Circuit is perfect for climbers who want a unique and rewarding adventure that takes them off the beaten path, offering tranquility, stunning vistas, and the ultimate goal of reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

Highlights of the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Adventure

  • Ascend Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic and less-crowded Northern Circuit Route, known for its diverse ecosystems and breathtaking views.
  • Experience a gradual and scenic ascent, passing through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts.
  • Enjoy the solitude and peace of a remote route, with fewer climbers and greater immersion in Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.
  • Traverse the famous Shira Plateau and the wild, northern slopes, offering unique vistas and incredible photo opportunities.
  • Benefit from expert guides, well-organized campsites, and nutritious meals to ensure a comfortable and safe climb.
  • Reach the summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), celebrating your achievement with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Support sustainable tourism, helping to preserve the environment and support local communities on Kilimanjaro.
  • Enjoy a relaxed pace with the additional days for optimal acclimatization, improving your chances of summit success and enhancing the overall experience.

Itinerary

If you've chosen the optional airport transfers, we'll fetch you from either Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and whisk you away to your lodging in Moshi.

Before embarking on the trek, a comprehensive briefing awaits you at your Moshi accommodation. It's advisable to arrive at least a day prior to the trek's commencement. During this time, we'll conduct an in-depth pre-trek briefing, review your gear, and arrange any necessary equipment rentals.

  • Meals: On your own
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi

After breakfast, we depart for Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Upon receiving permits, we begin our trek through the enchanting rainforest, encountering diverse flora and fauna along the way. The trail can be muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended.

  • Distance: 4.8km/3mi
  • Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Elevation Gain: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Mti Mkubwa after breakfast, we ascend steadily through the moorland zone, enjoying panoramic views. The trail leads to the Shira Ridge, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Distance: 7.9km/5mi
  • Time: 4-6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Elevation Gain: 2785m/9137ft to 3504m/11,496ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today's trek crosses the expansive Shira Plateau, showcasing the unique alpine desert environment. As we reach Shira II Camp, take in the magnificent views of Kilimanjaro's peaks and the vastness of the plateau.

  • Distance: 6.9km/4mi
  • Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Low Alpine
  • Elevation Gain: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today's trek takes us through diverse landscapes, from the rocky terrain near Lava Tower to the scenic surroundings of Moir Camp. The altitude variation provides excellent acclimatization opportunities.

  • Distance: 17.7km/11.1mi
  • Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: High Alpine
  • Elevation Gain: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today's trek from Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp offers stunning views of the high alpine zone. The descent provides a change in scenery and a chance to acclimatize further before continuing the ascent.

  • Distance: 9.2km/5.7mi
  • Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: High Alpine Zone
  • Elevation Loss: 4155m/13,632ft to 4033m/13,232ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The trek from Buffalo Camp to Rongai 3rd Cave takes you through the picturesque alpine desert landscape. This segment of the journey provides a unique experience of Kilimanjaro's diverse habitats.

  • Distance: 6.8km/4.3mi
  • Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Elevation Loss: 4033m/13,232ft to 3936m/12,193ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

From Rongai 3rd Cave, we ascend steadily towards the School Hut, passing through the glacial zone. This leg of the journey prepares us for the summit bid, with awe-inspiring views along the way.

  • Distance: 4.8km/3mi
  • Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: Glacial Zone
  • Elevation Gain: 3936m/12,913ft to 4717m/15,476ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Summit day begins with an early start as we aim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trek is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views and a profound sense of achievement.

  • Summit Distance: 5.9km/3.7mi (up)
  • Summit Time: 6-8 hours
  • Descent to Mweka Camp: 13km/8mi
  • Descent Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit
  • Altitude Gain: 1178m
  • Altitude Loss: 2789m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The final descent from Mweka Camp takes us through the lush rainforest, offering a stark contrast to the summit experience. After receiving summit certificates at Mweka Gate, we transfer back to Moshi for celebrations and well-deserved rest.

  • Distance: 9.1km/6mi
  • Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Elevation Loss: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

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Destination:
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Route:
Northern Circuit
Duration:
9 Days / 8 Nights
Elevation Gain:
4,990 meters (16,371 feet) from Lemosho Gate to Uhuru Peak
Starting Point:
Lemosho Gate (2,100 meters / 6,890 feet)
Language:
English, French, and Swahili
Currency:
USD ($) / Euro (€)