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Start on an epic 9-day journey up Mount Kilimanjaro with this comprehensive itinerary along the Northern Circuit Route. Renowned for its diverse landscapes and gradual ascent, the Northern Circuit Route offers a thorough exploration of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. This route allows ample time for acclimatization, providing climbers with stunning views and a fulfilling climbing experience as they make their way to Africa's highest peak.
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Your adventure begins with a drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and park entry formalities. After completing these, you'll drive to the trailhead and begin your hike to Mti Mkubwa Camp, situated at 2,750 meters (9,022 feet). The trek through lush rainforest takes about 3-4 hours, providing a gentle introduction to the climb. Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, set up your tent, enjoy a hearty meal, and rest for the night.
After breakfast, set off from Mti Mkubwa Camp toward Shira 1 Camp, located at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). This day’s hike, which takes approximately 5-6 hours, traverses moorland with spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. The gradual ascent helps with acclimatization. On arrival at Shira 1 Camp, set up camp, enjoy dinner, and relax for the evening.
Continue your trek from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, situated at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). This hike takes around 4-5 hours across the Shira Plateau, providing impressive vistas of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the surrounding terrain. Shira 2 Camp is an ideal spot for acclimatization. After reaching the camp, set up your tent, have dinner, and prepare for the next day's ascent.
On Day 4, trek from Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower, located at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). The hike, taking approximately 4-5 hours, involves a significant ascent through alpine desert terrain. Lava Tower offers stunning panoramic views and is a critical point for acclimatization. After exploring Lava Tower, descend to a lower altitude, potentially to Moir Hut, to aid with acclimatization.
From Lava Tower, continue your trek to Moir Hut, situated at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). This trek takes around 4-5 hours and involves traversing varied terrain with excellent views of Kilimanjaro. Moir Hut provides a comfortable environment for acclimatization and recovery. After arriving, set up camp, enjoy a meal, and rest.
On Day 6, trek from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp, located at 4,020 meters (13,190 feet). This hike, which takes approximately 5-6 hours, traverses high-altitude terrain with impressive vistas. Buffalo Camp is an excellent spot for resting and further acclimatization. Set up your tent, have dinner, and prepare for the next day’s trek to Third Cave.
Depart from Buffalo Camp and head to Third Cave, located at 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). This descent, taking around 4-5 hours, helps with acclimatization and offers great views of the surrounding landscape. Third Cave provides a strategic location for acclimatization and recovery. After setting up camp, enjoy dinner, and rest for the upcoming ascent to School Hut.
On Day 8, trek from Third Cave to School Hut, situated at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet). This ascent takes about 4-5 hours and positions you close to the summit. After arriving at School Hut, use the afternoon to rest and prepare for the summit attempt. Begin your final climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet) in the early hours of the morning. The trek to the summit involves navigating steep, icy terrain and takes several hours. After reaching Uhuru Peak and celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp, situated at 3,100 meters (10,171 feet), for the night. This descent takes around 6-7 hours.
On the final day, after breakfast at Mweka Camp, begin your trek to Mweka Gate. This descent, taking approximately 3-4 hours, passes through lush rainforest and offers a final opportunity to enjoy Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, complete park exit formalities and receive your summit certificate. Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or your accommodation in Arusha to conclude your memorable Kilimanjaro adventure.
This 9-day Kilimanjaro climbing itinerary via the Northern Circuit Route provides a comprehensive and scenic ascent, with strategic acclimatization and diverse landscapes ensuring a rewarding climb to Africa’s highest peak.
