9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trekking

9 Days to the Summit: An Overview of Your Trek

The 9-Day Northern Circuit Route offers an exceptional and immersive trekking experience, allowing ample time for acclimatization while trekking through diverse ecosystems. From lush rainforests to the alpine desert, the Northern Circuit is known for its scenic beauty and less crowded path, providing a perfect route to summit Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) safely and with confidence.

You will be guided by experienced professionals and supported by porters and a chef to ensure your comfort and success on this unforgettable journey. The route includes well-rested stops at comfortable camps along the way.

Scenic and Gradual Ascent: The Northern Circuit Route is known for its breathtaking landscapes and gradual ascent. Spanning 9 days, it offers ample time for acclimatization, making it one of the best options for a safer and more scenic trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Camping Experience: Like the Machame Route, the Northern Circuit requires camping, providing a more immersive wilderness experience. Campsites are strategically placed in picturesque locations and offer basic facilities to ensure a comfortable stay during the trek.

Diverse Ecological Zones: The route takes trekkers through a range of ecological zones, including lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and rocky landscapes near the summit. This variety of ecosystems makes for a unique and diverse trekking experience.

Least Crowded Route: The Northern Circuit is the least crowded of the popular Kilimanjaro routes, offering a more tranquil and peaceful journey with fewer trekkers. This allows for a more serene experience on the mountain, especially in comparison to busier routes like Machame or Marangu.

Journey

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha to Lemosho Gate (Start of Trek)

Trek Start: Begin your trek from Lemosho Gate, trekking through lush rainforest.
Distance: 6 km (4 miles)
Elevation Gain: 600 meters (1,968 feet)
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira Camp 1

Trek Start: Continue through the rainforest and transition to the heath zone.
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,100 meters (3,609 feet)
Overnight: Shira Camp 1.

Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2

Trek Start: Trek across the Shira Plateau, gaining elevation and enjoying panoramic views.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation Gain: 800 meters (2,625 feet)
Overnight: Shira Camp 2.

Day 4: Shira Camp 2 to Moir Hut

Trek Start: Trek across the Shira Plateau towards Moir Hut with views of Kibo Peak.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)
Overnight: Moir Hut.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp

Trek Start: Continue the journey through the alpine desert landscape towards Pofu Camp, enjoying views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 500 meters (1,640 feet)
Overnight: Pofu Camp.

Day 6: Pofu Camp to Third Camp

Trek Start: Continue the trek through the alpine desert, gaining more elevation as you head towards Third Camp, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Elevation Gain: 600 meters (1,969 feet)
Overnight: Third Camp.

Day 7: Third Camp to Kibo Hut

Trek Start: Ascend to Kibo Hut, the last camp before summit day.
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,100 meters (3,609 feet)
Overnight: Kibo Hut.

Day 8: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Trek Start: Start around midnight for the summit attempt, reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.
Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,295 meters (4,249 feet) to the summit, followed by a descent of 2,895 meters (9,500 feet) to Mweka Camp.
Overnight: Mweka Camp.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation Loss: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)
End of Trek: Collect your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel or the airport.

9 Days Northern Circuit Price

1 pax	2-4 pax	5-9 pax	10+ pax
USD 3,555	USD 3,225	USD 3,110	USD 2,875

What's Included

Accommodation: Hut accommodations throughout the trek.

Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).

Guides and Support Team: Professional guides, porters, and a chef.

Park Fees: Includes entry fees to Kilimanjaro National Park.

Transfers: Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Medical Support: Emergency oxygen and medical kit.

Trekking Equipment: Trekking poles, rain gear, and other necessary equipment.

Certificate: Summit certificate for successful trekkers.

How to Prepare for Your Kilimanjaro Trek

Fitness Preparation: It’s important to train for the trek by doing cardiovascular and strength exercises. Long hikes or walks with a weighted backpack can help improve your stamina.

Altitude Considerations: Acclimatization is crucial, so be sure to follow the pace set by your guides. Hydration and proper rest are key to avoiding altitude sickness.

Packing: Bring layered clothing suitable for both warm and cold weather. Essential items include a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, a hat, gloves, and a sleeping bag.

Mental Preparation: Be mentally prepared for long days of trekking and possible challenges. Stay positive and focus on your goal: reaching the summit!

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