Moshi - Tanzania

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NORTHERN CIRCUIT 9 DAYS - KILIMANJARO CLIMB

NORTHERN CIRCUIT 9 DAYS - DESCRIPTION

This is known both as the Northern Circuit or Grand Traverse Route. This route starts on the western side of the mountain then winds around the north side before ascending up to Uhuru Peak from the east. The descent is down the Mweka Route. We look for this route to become increasingly popular with its good opportunity for acclimatization and scenic beauty. Right now this route is not crowded.

FULL ITINERARY

FULL ITINERARY

Our driver will meet you at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) and take you to your hotel in Moshi. Do not worry if you are slow clearing customs, our driver will be waiting for as long as necessary. After you settle in at your hotel, we will go through an equipment check with you. If any items are lacking, they can be rented at this time. Your guide will meet you for a thorough pre-climb briefing where all questions will be answered. For night time arrivals these things can be done the early the next morning.

  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Moshi
  • Travel Time: 45 minutes drive to Moshi
  • Meals: None
  • Elevation: 7,381 ft / 2,250 m → 9,498 ft / 2,895 m
  • Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

After registering at Londorossi Gate, you’ll drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Your hike begins through thick rainforest, filled with colobus monkeys, colorful birds, and rich flora. This introductory hike gently ascends through ancient vegetation and brings you to Mti Mkubwa Camp, located beneath the forest canopy.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Mti Mkubwa Camp

  • Elevation: 9,498 ft / 2,895 m → 11,483 ft / 3,505 m
  • Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland

Leaving the forest, you enter moorland with expansive views. The trail climbs steadily, passing unique flora like giant heathers and lobelias. After crossing ridgelines and open meadows, you arrive at Shira 1 Camp on the edge of the Shira Plateau with views of Kibo Peak.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Shira 1 Camp

  • Elevation: 11,483 ft / 3,505 m → 12,628 ft / 3,850 m
  • Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek is relatively short, ideal for acclimatization. You’ll cross the Shira Plateau—a high-altitude desert—with clear views of Kilimanjaro’s summit cone. Shira 2 Camp offers expansive skies and an excellent opportunity for evening stargazing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Shira 2 Camp

  • Elevation: 12,628 ft / 3,850 m → 15,190 ft / 4,630 m → 13,779 ft / 4,200 m
  • Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

A major acclimatization day. You ascend to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation, then descend into the remote northern slopes. Moir Hut is peaceful and less crowded, making it a favorite acclimatization stop. The route follows the “climb high, sleep low” strategy to prepare for higher altitudes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Moir Hut

  • Elevation: 13,779 ft / 4,200 m → 13,123 ft / 4,000 m
  • Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert to Heath

A scenic trek across the northern slopes, rarely used by other trekkers. The path climbs out of Moir Valley and follows the northern circuit trail with views over the Kenyan plains. Arriving at Buffalo Camp, you’ll enjoy the quietness and solitude of this remote section.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Buffalo Camp

  • Elevation: 13,123 ft / 4,000 m → 12,700 ft / 3,870 m
  • Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
  • Habitat: Heath

The trail continues eastward through gentle ridges and alpine moorland. The path is less steep and perfect for gradual acclimatization. You arrive at Third Cave Camp, located in a serene valley beneath Kibo’s eastern glaciers.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Third Cave Camp

  • Elevation: 12,700 ft / 3,870 m → 15,518 ft / 4,730 m
  • Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

A short but steep hike up the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The trail is rocky and windswept, and the air thinner. School Hut serves as your base for the summit attempt. Prepare gear and rest for your midnight departure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at School Hut

  • Elevation: 15,518 ft / 4,730 m → 19,341 ft / 5,895 m → 12,532 ft / 3,820 m
  • Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles (5 km / 3.1 miles ascent, 10 km / 6.2 miles descent)
  • Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
  • Habitat: Arctic to Moorland

Your summit push begins before midnight under starlight. After reaching Gilman’s Point at dawn, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. Celebrate briefly before descending via Barafu route to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Millennium Camp

  • Elevation: 12,532 ft / 3,820 m → 5,380 ft / 1,640 m
  • Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

The final descent is through lush forest trails where you might see blue monkeys and exotic birds. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel for a well-earned celebration and warm shower.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel is included in the climb package. Our driver will be available at any time to take you to Kilimanjaro Airport. If you have booked a safari, we typically will leave just after breakfast. Checkout time at the hotel is 10am. If you have a flight departing later in the day, we will try to obtain a late checkout for you or arrange for a day room if you desire.

  • Travel Time: 45 minutes drive to Kilimanjaro Airport
  • Meals: Breakfast

NORTHERN CIRCUIT PRICES

We do not compromise on safety and quality, so our prices are not the cheapest. However, it is also not as high as other companies. We take great pride in the value for money we provide to every customer.

The per person prices below are based on the number of people booking the trip together.

Included in cost:

The price does not include:

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