Northern Circuit Route

10 Days Northern Circuit Route

Tanzania
10 days

Overview

The Northern Circuit of Kilimanjaro offers a distinct trekking experience, bypassing the more common southern routes. This path encircles the mountain’s tranquil northern slopes, providing near-panoramic vistas from high elevations. As Kilimanjaro’s most extended route, it allows for superior altitude acclimatization, significantly boosting the likelihood of a successful summit.

Duration

10 days

Places to Visit

Stunning view of Gilman's Point, Mount Kilimanjaro showcasing rugged landscapes and rocky peaks.

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Day by Day Itinerary

You will be picked up by the staff of African Traits from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and driven to your accommodation in Arusha. Participants will be given a short briefing for the climb the next day. Kits and the necessary equipment will be checked as well.

Accommodation: Sg Resort
Meals: Dinner

Elevation (ft): 7,800ft to 9,500ft
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

We depart Arusha for Londorossi Gate (2 hours), where you will complete entry formalities. We then drive to the Lemosho trailhead and arrive in time for lunch. Afterwards, we walk through undisturbed forest, which winds to the first campsite.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Elevation (ft): 9,500ft to 11,500ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

We continue on the trail leading out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 camp. Here you will have an amazing view of Kibo from across the plateau.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800 ft •Distance: 14 km •Hiking Time: 5-7 hours• Habitat: Moorland

We explore Shira plateau for a full day, one of the highest plateaus on earth. It is a gentle walk towards Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau, which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Elevation: 4,200m
Distance: 14 km
Hiking 5-7 hours

Today, we trek in high altitude and sleep in a low altitude, which is good for the acclimatization process. We spent the morning trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters where you will have lunch. After, we head down to the northern circuit to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Elevation: 4,020m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking 5-7 hours

We leave Moir Valley and take a short walk to reach the summit of Little Lent hill at 4,375 meters with amazing views. After, we return to the trail and head eastwards throughout the northern circuit path to Buffalo Camp. Here, you will be welcomed with a vast space of Kenyan plains stretch out far below to the north.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Elevation: 4,020m-3,800m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking 5-6 hours

Today, the trek will be shorter and you should be feeling well acclimatized to the altitude. We climb up the Buffalo ridge and down into Porfu Camp where lunch will be served. The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.From the Mweka Gate you will continue down into the Mweka village, normally a muddy 3 km (1 hour) hike. In the Mweka village, you will be served a delicious hot lunch. Afterwards, we drive back to Arusha for a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebration.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Elevation: 4,800m
Distance: 15 km
Hiking 4-5 hours

After breakfast, we ascend to The Saddler, lunar panorama between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Afterwards, we proceed upwards and arrive at School Hut Campsite early in the afternoon. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing and preparing for the summit day.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

We’ll start our ascent by midnight and use a torchlight so that we can reach the Crater rim by daybreak. It will be a steep climb for about 5 or 6 hours over unfastened volcanic scree up to Gilmans stage (5,685 m). We shall rest there for a a while admiring the daybreak over Mawenzi. The trail leads west alongside the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that additionally occupy quite a lot of the summit area. We then retrace our steps alongside the crater rim to Stella Stage. Afterwards, we descend down to Barafu Camp stopping at Barafu for lunch. Here you might need gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Elevation 3,950 to 1640m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy so Gaiters and trekking poles will help. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village where our vehicle awaits to driveus back to the Hotel in Arusha.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Inclusions

Full board accommodation whilst on safari in the above-mentioned Public Camps
Private safari guide
Maasai Experience tour
Extended Toyota Land Cruiser
Private 4 x 4 safari jeep with pop-up roof for game viewing
Transfers in both directions between the International Airport and Moshi.
All entrance Park fees
Ngorongoro Crater fees
18% VAT to our entrance fees.
All meals while on safari.

Exclusions

Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD 100
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed above
Optional Tours (balloon rides USD. 540 per person)
Tips and any items of personal nature

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Included and Excluded in Every Tour?

The inclusions and exclusions vary by tour. Each tour has its specific set of inclusions and exclusions. Please refer to the individual tour page to see what is specifically included in that tour.

What Are Your Cancellation Terms?

Our cancellation terms are standard within the industry. For more information on our cancellation policy, please visit the designated page.

What Vaccines and Health Requirements Are Needed?

The requirements vary depending on the country and nationality. For the most accurate information, please visit the page specific to your destination and consult the corresponding embassy page for the latest information.

Can I Choose Other Accommodation Than What’s Specified?

Yes, if you have a special preference, let us know, and we will offer alternatives from our vast network of company-owned and partner accommodations. Booking with us allows you to enjoy discounted rates as we have special agreements with our partners.

Will My Mobile/Cellular Phone Work During the Tour?

Yes, though signal strength may vary in different areas.

What Activities Can My Kids Do While on a Safari?

A safari offers an enriching experience for children, allowing them to observe animals in their natural habitat. Some camps and lodges offer amenities for children, such as playrooms and pools, though these are not universally available. We suggest bringing activities that your children enjoy.

What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

We accept various payment methods, including card payments. For more information on acceptable payment methods, please visit our payment information page.

What If I Have Special Needs or Requirements?

We strive to cater to all requirements, such as providing wheelchair-friendly accommodation or rooms on the first floor if stairs are a challenge. Please communicate with us in advance about your needs.

What Are the Road Conditions Like?

Most safari parks have bumpy but manageable roads, with some roads being paved. Generally, guests do not view this as a problem.

Is Electricity Available 24 Hours in the Lodges and Camps?

Most standard camps and lodges are equipped with generators, so electricity is generally available 24 hours. However, some interruptions may occur but are typically not a significant concern for guests.

What About My Special Diet and Food Preferences?

We cater to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, among others. Please inform us in advance about your dietary preferences.

Is Tipping Required?

Tipping is not required but is recommended. The amount varies by country, but you should tip according to what you feel is appropriate.

Begin your ultimate safari adventure and witness the untamed beauty of nature now!

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