9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Route

Experience a 9-day Kilimanjaro trek via the Northern Circuit Route with Kilimanjaro Raven Company. Starting from Moshi, this route navigates diverse terrains—from lush rainforests to alpine deserts—culminating in a midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, and a rewarding descent through beautiful landscapes, offering a comprehensive Kilimanjaro adventure.

Itinerary

  • Day 0: Arrival in Moshi, Tanzania

    Air Tanzania

    Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with your arrival in Moshi, Tanzania. Kilimanjaro Raven Company will arrange your transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel in Moshi. Once you check in, you will have the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, there will be a pre-trek briefing where you will meet your guide and fellow trekkers. The guide will provide an overview of the trekking itinerary, review essential gear, and answer any last-minute questions. Dinner will be at the hotel, giving you a chance to enjoy a restful night before the trek begins.

  • Day 1: Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

    Elevation: 1,400m to 2,650m
    Distance Covered: 6 km
    Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

    After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to the Londorossi Gate (1,400m), where you will complete the necessary park registration and paperwork. From there, you will drive to the trailhead and begin your trek. The initial part of the trek takes you through lush montane forest, gradually ascending to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m). The hike is relatively short and allows you to acclimatize gradually. After setting up camp, enjoy dinner and relax for the evening.

  • Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

    Elevation: 2,650m to 3,610m
    Distance Covered: 8 km
    Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

    After breakfast at Mti Mkubwa Camp, you will continue your ascent through the rainforest and into the moorland zone. The trail becomes more exposed, and you will begin to see stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You will reach Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) by early afternoon. The camp is situated on the Shira Plateau, offering expansive views of the plateau and distant peaks. Enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon acclimatizing. Dinner will be served at the camp, where you can relax and prepare for the following day's trek.

  • Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

    Elevation: 3,610m to 3,850m
    Distance Covered: 7 km
    Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

    After breakfast, you will continue trekking across the Shira Plateau towards Shira 2 Camp (3,850m). This is a relatively short and pleasant hike with stunning views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscape. Shira 2 Camp is situated in a beautiful location with excellent views of Mount Kilimanjaro. After setting up camp and having lunch, you will have the afternoon to explore the area or relax. Dinner will be served at the camp.

  • Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp

    Elevation: 3,850m to 4,200m
    Distance Covered: 10 km
    Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

    After breakfast at Shira 2 Camp, you will trek towards Moir Camp (4,200m). The trail takes you through the high-altitude desert, offering impressive views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes. The hike is moderate and allows for good acclimatization. Moir Camp is situated in a remote and scenic area, providing excellent views of the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. After arriving at Moir Camp, you will have lunch and some time to rest and acclimatize. Dinner will be served at the camp.

  • Day 5: Moir Camp to Barranco Camp

    Elevation: 4,200m to 3,950m
    Distance Covered: 12 km
    Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

    After breakfast, you will continue your trek, descending slightly towards the Barranco Valley. This part of the route includes traversing rugged terrain and enjoying spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the surrounding landscape. You will arrive at Barranco Camp (3,950m) by late afternoon. The camp is well-sheltered and provides excellent views of the Barranco Wall. After setting up camp, enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon acclimatizing. Dinner will be served at the camp.

  • Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

    Elevation: 3,950m to 4,035m
    Distance Covered: 5 km
    Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

    After breakfast, you will tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the top, you will continue through the alpine desert and descend into the Karanga Valley. The final part of the hike involves a short climb to Karanga Camp (4,035m). This camp offers fantastic views and is well-positioned for acclimatization. After lunch and some rest, you can explore the area or relax. Dinner will be served at the camp.

  • Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

    Elevation: 4,035m to 4,673m
    Distance Covered: 4 km
    Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

    After breakfast, you will trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m). The trail traverses rocky and barren terrain, gradually ascending to the high camp. By early afternoon, you will reach Barafu Camp, where you will rest and prepare for the summit attempt. Enjoy a light lunch and an early dinner, as you will need to wake up early for the summit climb. Ensure you get a good rest in preparation for the demanding summit day ahead.

  • Day 8: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

    Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m (Mweka Camp)
    Distance Covered: 6 km ascent to Uhuru Peak, 12 km descent to Mweka Camp
    Hiking Time: 10-14 hours

    Summit day begins with a pre-dawn wake-up call, a light meal, and preparations for the climb. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) starts around midnight. The climb is strenuous, passing through the arctic zone. You will ascend to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Reaching the summit at sunrise is a remarkable experience. After celebrating at the summit and taking photos, you will descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest and breakfast. You will then continue your descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m), where you will have dinner and spend the night, reflecting on your successful climb.

  • Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

    Elevation: 3,100m to 1,860m
    Distance Covered: 10 km
    Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

    After breakfast at Mweka Camp, you will descend to Mweka Gate. The trail takes you through the lush rainforest, offering a final opportunity to enjoy the flora and possibly spot some wildlife. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you will complete the exit formalities and receive your summit certificates. A vehicle will be ready to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi. After checking in and freshening up, you can enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking team, celebrating the completion of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Inclusion

  • Transfers: All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel.
  • Guides and Staff: Professional, experienced mountain guides, and salaries and park fees for guides, porters, and cook.
  • Accommodation: Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on a twin-sharing basis) and sleeping mattress.
  • Emergency Support: Emergency oxygen cylinder.
  • Meals: All meals while on the mountain, large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food.
  • Mess Equipment: Quality mess tents with table and chairs.
  • Water: Clean, purified drinking water.
  • Park Fees: Conservation fees, camping or hut fees, rescue fees.
  • Taxes: VAT (18% charged by the Government).
  • Certificate: Kilimanjaro summit certificate.

Not Included

  • Visas: Tanzania visa.
  • Flights: International and domestic flights.
  • Hotel: Available as an optional addon.
  • Transfers: Available as an optional addon.
  • Personal Equipment: Such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes (available for renting).
  • Tips: Tips and gratuities.
  • Insurance: Travel insurance.
  • Personal Expenses: Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.).
  • Meals: Meals not listed in the itinerary.
  • Beverages: Liquors, beers, and bottled beverages.
  • Payment Surcharge: Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment).

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Discover the unforgettable experiences shared by our satisfied adventurers at Kilimanjaro Raven Company. From exhilarating wildlife safaris to awe-inspiring treks, our travelers consistently highlight the exceptional service, expertise, and personalized care they received during their journeys. Whether exploring Tanzania’s vast landscapes or immersing themselves in the rich culture, our guests rave about the unique adventures we offer and the memories that last a lifetime.

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