9 Days Northern Circuit Route – Fronny Expeditions

Northern Circuit Route

Mount Kilimanjaro

Route Overview

The Northern Circuit route is one of the trekking on Kilimanjaro because it is one of the newest routes. Also, it is offering nearly 360 degrees of beautiful scenery and landscape including the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit also has the most acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate. Thus saying, the Northern Circuit route is highly recommended.

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge, before crossing the Shira Plateau. The route then heads north and circles clockwise from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp to School Hut, before summiting from the east. Descend is made via the Mweka route.

Full Itinerary

DAY 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa

Departing from Arusha / Moshi heading west towards the Londorossi Gate, which takes about 3 hours’ drive, where you will complete entry formalities at the Park’s gate. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, you will begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site (Mti Mkubwa).

DAY 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

You continue on the trail that leads out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As the ascend heads through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, and reaching the Shira Ridge before descending gently down towards Shira 1 Camp. Here you will have first full glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.

DAY 3 Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Explore the Shira Plateau on a gentle walk eastwards on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and the unique giant Senecio trees.

DAY 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower

The trek continues to the east upwards a ridge and then heads southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

DAY 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Trekking out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.

DAY 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

As you head up towards Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled and will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. Trekking through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until you arrive at Third Cave.

DAY 7: Third Cave to School Hut

Climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. Heading on towards the camp, School Hut, once here you rest for few hours before enjoying an early dinner and to prepare for the summit night attempt.

DAY 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak

Very early in the morning (around midnight), begin to push upwards to the summit attempt. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. Then, the ascent continues into the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, arriving at Uhuru Peak – the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the rooftop of Africa.

From the summit, the descent continues straight down to the Mweka hut camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful for most of the descent. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, the chef will prepare well-earned last supper on the mountain.

DAY 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

On this last day on the mountain, you will continue the descent down to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and collect your certificate if made it to the summit. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka Gate to drive you back to the hotel in Moshi / Arusha ~ for a well-deserved shower and drinks to celebrate your achievement.

What an exciting breathtaking trip of a life time!

Includes

Tanzania VAT on tourism activities and Park fees
Transport to and from mountain’s gate
1 Night hotel accommodation before and after the climb
All Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees and climbing permit
Kilimanjaro rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Rescue Team)
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder (for use in emergencies only – not as summiting aid)
Basic first aid kit (for use in emergencies only)
Camping equipment’s (tents, chairs and tables)
Qualified mountain guides, assistant guides, porters and chef
Salaries for mountain crew as per guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Park
Large portion of fresh, health and nutrition food based on three meals per day
Acclimatization walk and coffee tour before the actual climb
Water for washing up daily
Airport pick up

Not Includes

International flights
Tips, drinks and food in Moshi / Arusha town and all items personal nature
South African passport holders do not require a visa for Tanzania, however, most other Nationalities require a visa for Tanzania
Health requirements (yellow Fever Compulsory if traveling to Tanzania recommended)
Highly recommended travel and medical insurance
All mountain gears (winter closes) we can also arrange for hiring

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