Northern Circuit

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).

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.

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.

The trek continue 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 continue 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.

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..!