Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro For 8 Days Northern Circuit Route
From $. 2,533USD* / 24/7 service / 10 days
*Price p.p. incl. transfers, accommodation, food, drinks, guides, tents and park fees. Excl. International flight (based on six persons)
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, is a dream for many adventurers. Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it a challenging yet attainable goal for those who are physically fit and mentally prepared. Among the various routes that one can take to reach the summit, the Northern Circuit Route has gained popularity in recent years due to its breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and higher success rates in summit attempts. This is a comprehensive guide through a 9-day itinerary for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route, addressing preparation, daily activities, and what to expect along the way.
Overview of the Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro, typically taking 9 days to complete. This extended duration allows climbers to acclimatize properly, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. The route offers spectacular views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, lush rainforests, and stunning landscapes. The Northern Circuit Route is known for its less crowded trails, giving hikers a more tranquil experience compared to other popular routes.
Advantages of the Northern Circuit
- Acclimatization: The longer duration of the trek provides enough time for climbers to adjust to changing altitudes, increasing the chances of summiting successfully.
- Scenic Diversity: The Northern Circuit encompasses various ecosystems, including rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, offering climbers a chance to experience Kilimanjaro’s incredible biodiversity.
- Less Crowded: Due to its relative newness and length, climbers on the Northern Circuit experience fewer crowds than on other routes like Machame or Marangu.
- Wildlife: The route traverses through different types of flora, and it’s common to spot wildlife such as monkeys and various bird species.
The Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro presents a remarkable climbing experience filled with incredible landscapes and opportunities for wildlife encounters. A 9-day trek allows for thorough acclimatization, enhancing your chances of reaching the summit. With proper preparation, both physically and mentally, along with the right gear, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey that culminates in standing atop Africa’s highest peak. As you conquer Kilimanjaro, not only will you achieve a personal milestone, but you will also create memories that will last a lifetime. Always remember that the journey is just as significant as the destination; embrace every moment on this magnificent mountain.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
After clearing customs and immigration, you will be greeted by your safari guide. Transfer to your accommodation in Arusha to check in and freshen up. We have suggested bellow a comfortable accommodations based on your budget from 3 stars, 4stars or 5stars.
If you arrive in morning time, you will have rest at your hotel and after lunch, take a compliment short tour of Arusha town. Visit the local market for an authentic experience, and if time permits, visit the Arusha Declaration Museum to learn about Tanzania’s history. Experience the local culture by interacting with the friendly locals.
Evening enjoy a welcome dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant to try local dishes like NyamaChoma(grilled meat) or/and Ugali(cornmeal).
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 2: Lemosho Trailhead (2,000 m/6,561 ft) – Big Tree Camp (2,780 m/9,120 ft)
Your adventure starts at your hotel, where your driver picks you up and drives you to Londorossi Gate (on the west side). You then go to Lemosho trailhead for lunch and begin the climb. This easy walk through dense rainforest lasts 3 to 4 hours and offers the chance to spot various animals, including buffalo and monkeys. After a narrow path and a few steep sections, you reach Big Tree Camp, where you spend the night.
Day 3: Big Tree Camp (2,780 m/9,120 ft) – Shira 1 Camp (3,510 m/11,515 ft)
This morning you leave the forest to enter an environment of meadow heather and volcanic rock. You ascend and descend through the lush hills below the Shira Plateau, the third of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic peaks. Upon reaching the edge of the plateau, the long 5-6 hour hike ends, and the trail becomes easier. You then arrive at Shira Camp, where you spend the night enjoying an incredible view of the Kibo summit.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3,510 m/11,515 ft) – Lava Tower (4,630 m/15,190 ft)
Today’s hike lasts 7-8 hours and takes you from Heather into the alpine desert. You pass the Shira Plateau, one of the highest in the world, on the way to the Lava Tower, with an optional visit to the Shira Cathedral. From the Lava Tower, the path continues northwest toward Kibo, the highest peak of Kilimanjaro. Afterwards, you follow a steep trail to Moir Hut Camp, a remote spot with stunning views over the Shira Plateau.
Day 5: Lava Tower (4,630 m/15,190) – Buffalo Camp (3,995 m/13,107 ft)
As you continue the route on the Northern Circuit, you get over a steep ridge along the main path. Today’s hike lasts about 8 to 9 hours, taking you through heathland and alpine desert to Buffalo Camp. In the morning, you have the option to make a quick detour to Little Lent Hill.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp (3,995 m/13,107 ft) – Third Cave Camp (3,930 m/12,893 ft)
On the fifth day on the mountain, you continue across diverse landscapes, including heathland, valleys, and alpine environments. The Northern Circuit route heads eastward and is less frequented, allowing for a peaceful experience of the scenery, wilderness, and stunning mountains. This trek takes approximately 5 to 7 hours.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp (3,930 m/12,893 ft) – School Huts Camp (4,710 m/15,452 ft)
Today involves a 4-5 hour climb to reach the “Saddle”, a stunning lunar landscape between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. From there, you continue to School Hut Camp, arriving in the early afternoon. You have the rest of the day to relax and prepare for the final ascent the following day.
Day 8: School Huts Camp (4,710 m/15,452 ft) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m/19,340 ft) – Millenium Camp (3,820 m/12,532 ft)
The final day begins around midnight as you start the ascent towards Uhuru Peak. The climb to the summit (5,895m) is challenging and can take 6-8 hours.
Climbing in the dark using headlamps, follow your guides closely while taking breaks as needed. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, rejoice in your accomplishment, take photographs, and savor the moment.
After the summit, begin your descent via the Mweka Route. This portion can be grueling as your legs tire, but the focus shifts to safely returning to lower elevations. It usually takes about 4-6 hours to reach Mweka Camp, where you can celebrate your achievement with your team.
Day 9: Millenium Camp (3,820 m/12,532 ft) – Mweka Gate (1,640 m/5,380 ft) – Hotel
Finally, you appreciate the drop in altitude. After breakfast, you walk to the national park’s exit. Following the descent, the group gathers to congratulate each other. Your driver takes you back to the hotel, where you enjoy a shower, a delicious dinner, and a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 10: Departure:
Late morning breakfast, them you will have city tour and have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in local craft shops.
Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or proceed with safari tour or flight to Zanzibar.
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Kilimanjaro Mountain Packing List
Communal equipment (tents, food, utensils, etc.) is provided. You are responsible for bringing the required, recommended and optional personal gear and equipment listed below. The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack. Be selective in what you take with you. Our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs. (15 kgs) of your personal belongings.
Clothing:
- 4-5 Pairs of underwear
- Top and bottom base layer – Icebreaker (Women) or SmartWool (Men)
- 3-4 Short sleeve and 1-2 long sleeve trekking shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of hiking trousers
- 1 Fleece jacket – Helly Hansen (Men) or The North Face (Women)
- 1 Insulated winter jacket – Arc’Teryx Atom (Men) or North Face Nuptse (Women)
- 1 Insulated trekking trousers
- 1 Hardshell jacket – North Face Resolve Resolve (Men) and North Face Venture 2 (Women)
- Lightweight raingear
Headgear:
- Sun hat, ideally with a neck cover
- Warm beanie or fleece headband
- Bandana or neck gaiter
- Headlamp – PETZL Tikka
- Sunglasses
Hands and Walking:
- Lightweight inner gloves – New Balance Lightweight Gloves
- Warm outer gloves/mitts – Gore-Tex Gloves (Men) or Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (Women)
- Adjustable trekking poles – Black Diamond Alpine
Footwear:
- Mid-weight hiking boots – Salomon Quest (Women) or KEEN Targhee (Men)
- Camp trainers (Men) / Trekking sandals (Women)
- 4-5 Pairs of trekking socks – SmartWool or Bridgedale
- 1 Pair of warm/thick trekking socks
- Bags and Daypack (click for details)
- 80-90L Waterproof duffle bag – North Face Base Camp
- 20-30L Daypack – Osprey Talon 22
- Daypack raincover
- Travel bag organisers (optional)
Sleeping Accessories:
- 4-Season sleeping bag – Marmot Trestles or Hyke & Byke Unisex
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
General Accessories:
- Large volume water bottle or hydration bladder – Platypus Hydration Bladder for backpack
- Water Purification Tablets
- Baby wipes
- Sweat-resistant suncream
- Blister plasters
- Insect repellant
- General medications (Paracetamol, Imodium)
- Pee bottle (optional)
Technology:
- Camera
- GoPro (optional)
- Solar Backpack Charger (optional)
- Spare batteries and camera memory card
- Kindle with backlight (optional)
Other Bits and Bobs
- Energy bars
- Energy drink supplement
- Ziplock bags for important possessions (passport, money, phone, etc.)
- Trekking towel
- Toiletries, including one roll of toilet paper
- Passport, visa, insurance, yellow fever card (if applicable)
- Small lock for your duffle bag.
Important Information’s to know:
- Children under 10 years are not allowed to Summit Kilimanjaro.
- The duration of transfers/walking are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions and customers fitness.
- A Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory when enters Tanzania.
- Visas are available on arrival. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Preparation for the Climb
Physical Preparation
Getting in shape for the Kilimanjaro climb is crucial. Engage in a well-rounded fitness program, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking practice. Aim for at least three to six months of preparation:
- Cardio Training: Engage in activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. Gradually increase your duration and intensity.
- Strength Training: Focus on building strength in your legs, back, and core to ease the physical demands of the trek. Squats, lunges, and leg presses are beneficial.
- Hiking Practice: Go on regular hikes, both on flat and inclined terrains, to prepare your body for the conditions you will encounter on Kilimanjaro.
Mental Preparation
Climbing Kilimanjaro can be as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Preparing mentally involves:
- Researching the Climb: Understand the route, what to expect in terms of altitude sickness, and the physical demands.
- Setting Realistic Goals: Know your limits and be prepared for the possibility of needing to descend if necessary.
- Practicing Mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mental resilience, such as meditation or yoga, to prepare for the mental aspect of high-altitude trekking.
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Spotted in Serengeti Safaris has been helping travelers from around the world to make their travel Matter as they journey with a sense of purpose, knowing their travel will help have a positive impact on the planet, people, and wildlife.
We are honored to have been awarded multiple Travelers’ Choice Awards for being among the best tour operators in Tanzania. These accolades demonstrate our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences for our guests and we are proud to be acknowledged as a leading tour company in the region. We look forward to taking you on one of our award-winning adventures.
