9-Day Northern Circuit Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to a comfortable hotel in Moshi. Your trekking guide will meet you for a briefing about the upcoming adventure, ensuring all your gear is ready for the climb. You will have the evening to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,785m)

The adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate, where registration takes place before entering the lush rainforest. The trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp is relatively short but rewarding, offering sightings of black and white Colobus monkeys and other wildlife. The night is spent under the canopy of towering trees, providing a true wilderness experience.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,785m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,505m)

Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends into the heather and moorland zone. The hike involves crossing the Shira Ridge, where trekkers get their first stunning views of Kibo Peak. Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, the expansive Shira Plateau unfolds, offering a vast and scenic high-altitude landscape.

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3,505m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

This day involves a gradual trek across the Shira Plateau, allowing for a relaxed pace to aid acclimatization. The open terrain offers magnificent views of Mount Meru and the Kibo summit in the distance. Shira 2 Camp provides a serene environment where trekkers can witness a mesmerizing sunset over the plains of Tanzania.

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Moir Hut (4,200m)

This crucial acclimatization day takes trekkers up to Lava Tower at 4,630m before descending to Moir Hut. The landscape changes dramatically to a rugged alpine desert, with strange plant species and stunning rock formations. Spending time at high altitude before sleeping at a lower elevation helps the body adapt to the thin air, increasing the chances of a successful summit.

Day 6: Moir Hut (4,200m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)

The journey continues along the remote northern circuit, offering breathtaking views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. The trail includes a moderate ascent before descending towards Buffalo Camp, where trekkers enjoy the solitude and tranquility of the less-traveled side of Kilimanjaro. This section is known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views.

Day 7: Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)

The trek continues across the northern slopes with gradual ascents and descents, providing an easier hiking day. The route offers vast open landscapes with distant views of the Kenyan plains. Upon arrival at Third Cave Camp, trekkers rest in preparation for the challenging climb ahead.

Day 8: Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to School Hut (4,800m)

This is the final day before the summit push. The hike to School Hut is steep and challenging, with increasing altitude making every step feel harder. Once at camp, an early dinner is served before resting in preparation for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Day 9: School Hut (4,800m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

The summit push begins just after midnight, with trekkers navigating the steep slopes of Kibo under the moonlight. The journey to Stella Point is strenuous, but reaching the crater rim is a rewarding moment. From there, the final stretch to Uhuru Peak offers breathtaking sunrise views, marking the ultimate achievement. After celebrating at Africa’s highest point, the descent to Mweka Camp follows, where trekkers rest after an exhausting but unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) and Departure

The final descent through the lush rainforest leads to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. A short transfer takes you back to Moshi for a well-earned shower and celebration dinner. Depending on your schedule, you can explore Moshi town or relax before heading to the airport for your departure.