9 Days Northern Route Kilimanjaro Trekking
9 Days Northern Route Kilimanjaro Trekking
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the best acclimatization and highest summit success rate. This route takes you around the quieter northern slopes, providing breathtaking views and a truly immersive wilderness experience. With a gradual ascent and less crowded trails, trekkers have a better chance to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) while enjoying diverse landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
9 Days Northern Route Kilimanjaro Trekking
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to a comfortable hotel in Arusha. Your trekking guide will meet you for a briefing about the upcoming adventure, ensuring all your gear is ready for the climb. You will have the evening to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) to Shira Camp 1 (3,610m)
The adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where registration takes place before entering the lush rainforest. The trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp is relatively short but rewarding, offering sightings of black and white Colobus monkeys and other wildlife. The night is spent under the canopy of towering trees, providing a true wilderness experience.
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 (3,610m) to Shira Camp 2 (3,850m)
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends into the heather and moorland zone. The hike involves crossing the Shira Ridge, where trekkers get their first stunning views of Kibo Peak. Upon arrival at Shira Camp 2, the expansive Shira Plateau unfolds, offering a vast and scenic high-altitude landscape.
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 (3,850m) to Moir Camp (4,200m)
This crucial acclimatization day takes trekkers up to Lava Tower at 4,630m before descending to Moir Hut. The landscape changes dramatically to a rugged alpine desert, with strange plant species and stunning rock formations. Spending time at high altitude before sleeping at a lower elevation helps the body adapt to the thin air, increasing the chances of a successful summit.
Day 5: Moir Camp (4,200m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
The journey continues along the remote northern circuit, offering breathtaking views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. The trail includes a moderate ascent before descending towards Buffalo Camp, where trekkers enjoy the solitude and tranquility of the less-traveled side of Kilimanjaro. This section is known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
The trek continues across the northern slopes with gradual ascents and descents, providing an easier hiking day. The route offers vast open landscapes with distant views of the Kenyan plains. Upon arrival at Third Cave Camp, trekkers rest in preparation for the challenging climb ahead.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to School Hut (4,800m)
This is the final day before the summit push. The hike to School Hut is steep and challenging, with increasing altitude making every step feel harder. Once at camp, an early dinner is served before resting in preparation for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Day 8: School Hut (4,800m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
The summit push begins just after midnight, with trekkers navigating the steep slopes of Kibo under the moonlight. The journey to Stella Point is strenuous, but reaching the crater rim is a rewarding moment. From there, the final stretch to Uhuru Peak offers breathtaking sunrise views, marking the ultimate achievement. After celebrating at Africa’s highest point, the descent to Mweka Camp follows, where trekkers rest after an exhausting but unforgettable experience.
Day 9: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) and Departure
The final descent through the lush rainforest leads to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. A short transfer takes you back to Moshi for a well-earned shower and celebration dinner. Depending on your schedule, you can explore Moshi town or relax before heading to the airport for your departure.
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Trekking Inclusive & Exclusive
Trekking Includes
- High quality mountain sleeping tents
- 2 Nights accommodation
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides:
- All Park fees
- Rescue fees
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Arrival and Departure transfers
- Quality Mess tents with table and chairs:
- Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food:
- Clean, purified drinking water:
- Crisis management and safety procedures:
- Fair and ethical treatment of porters:
- Sleeping Mattress
Trekking Excludes
- Tanzania Visa: $50 / $100 (American residents) per person on arrival at airport
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Meals not listed above
- Optional Tours (short safari after your climb etc)
- Tips and any items of personal nature.
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