Mount Kilimanjaro: Northern Circuit Route (9 Days) – “The Ultimate Experience”
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience. This route provides the best acclimatization and a 360° view of the mountain, making it ideal for those who want to take their time and enjoy every aspect of this iconic climb. With the highest success rate and minimal crowds, the Northern Circuit guarantees an unforgettable adventure.
What’s Unique about the Northern Circuit Route?
- Longest Route with the Best Acclimatization: The Northern Circuit is the longest route, giving trekkers more time to adjust to the altitude. The gradual ascent and multiple acclimatization opportunities ensure a higher chance of success.
- Least Crowded with a 360° Kilimanjaro Experience: The Northern Circuit is the least crowded of all the routes, providing a more peaceful trekking experience. It also offers the opportunity to see Kilimanjaro from every angle, delivering stunning 360° views of the mountain.
- Highest Success Rate: Due to the extended duration and gradual ascent, the Northern Circuit boasts one of the highest success rates for summit attempts, over 90%. This makes it the best option for trekkers focused on reaching the summit.
For those seeking the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience, the Northern Circuit provides the best acclimatization, most scenic views, and a quieter, more serene climb, making it the perfect route for a memorable and successful adventure.
Details
Day 1: Londorosi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira Camp 1 (3,500m)
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,900m)
Day 4: Shira 2 – Moir Hut (4,200m)
Day 5: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Day 6: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave (3,870m)
Day 7: Third Cave – School Hut (4,800m)
Day 8: School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
Our adventure begins at the Londorosi Gate, where we’ll check in and begin our trek through the lush rainforests. As we make our way up, we can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and spot some local wildlife. By evening, we’ll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, where we’ll set up camp and get some rest for the days ahead.
We leave the rainforest behind and trek through the moorland zone. This part of the journey offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. As we ascend, we head to Shira Camp 1, situated at a higher altitude on the Shira Plateau, where we’ll rest and take in the incredible views of Kilimanjaro.
The day continues with an easy walk across the Shira Plateau, allowing us time for acclimatization while enjoying the expansive views. By reaching Shira Camp 2, we will be at a higher altitude, helping our bodies adjust to the increasing elevation. The camp provides a fantastic view of the surrounding plains and valleys.
Today, we hike toward Moir Hut, nestled beneath the striking Mawenzi Peak. The terrain is rocky, and the landscape becomes increasingly alpine. This remote location provides a peaceful atmosphere for trekkers to enjoy and further acclimatize to the altitude.
Our trek continues with stunning views as we head toward Buffalo Camp. The landscape remains rugged, and we pass through open moorland, offering glimpses of Kilimanjaro's northern slopes. Buffalo Camp is at a slightly lower altitude, making it a perfect place for further acclimatization.
We continue our climb toward Third Cave, which is one of the quieter and more isolated camps on the mountain. The hike will take us through alpine desert terrain, and we’ll gain a better perspective of the entire mountain as we approach higher elevations. Third Cave offers an excellent opportunity to rest and adjust to the altitude.
Today, we trek toward School Hut, located near the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. This spot offers panoramic views of both peaks. As we prepare for the summit attempt, we rest at School Hut, ensuring we’re well-rested and ready for the challenging final ascent.
The summit day begins with an early start around midnight. The climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is long and challenging, but reaching the summit just as the sun rises is an unforgettable experience. After spending some time at the peak, we descend to Mweka Camp, where we’ll rest and celebrate our success.
On the final day, we descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. The path offers beautiful views and an opportunity to reflect on the journey. Once we reach the gate, we complete our trek and receive certificates to commemorate our achievement.
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