9 Days Northern Circuit Route
Tour Overview
Embarking on the Northern Circuit Route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro promises an extraordinary adventure, offering unparalleled views of Africa’s highest peak, Uhuru Peak, towering at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Renowned for its stunning scenery and sparse crowds, the Northern Circuit Route ensures a unique and unforgettable journey. Below is a detailed overview of your Kilimanjaro expedition, encompassing arrival, a 9-day itinerary, and departure arrangements.
Day 1: Arrival at JRO
Your Kilimanjaro expedition begins upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon landing, our experienced team will extend a warm welcome, marking the initiation of your Tanzanian adventure. We’ll ensure a smooth transfer to your accommodation in Arusha. This arrival day is crucial for rest, acclimatization, and a thorough pre-climb briefing to ready you for the ascent.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,250m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Your Kilimanjaro adventure starts at Londorossi Gate (2,250 meters or 7,382 feet). On the first day, you’ll register, meet your experienced guides, and begin an exciting hike through the lush rainforests. The trail is rich with unique flora and fauna. Your first overnight stay will be at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters or 9,252 feet).
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
On Day 2, you’ll continue your ascent from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp. The hike, lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours, will lead you through the rainforests and onto the vast Shira Plateau. Shira 1 Camp, located at an elevation of 3,610 meters (11,844 feet), will be your overnight accommodation.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
On Day 3, you’ll encounter captivating landscapes as you trek from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp. This portion of the journey provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll ascend to an elevation of 3,850 meters (12,631 feet) and spend the night at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (4,640m) and Barranco Camp (3,960m)
On Day 4, the adventure intensifies as you ascend to Lava Tower, reaching an elevation of 4,640 meters (15,223 feet). This challenging day serves as a crucial part of the acclimatization process. Following this ascent, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, situated at 3,960 meters (12,992 feet), where you’ll spend the night.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Day 5 starts with an exciting rock scramble up the Barranco Wall. Negotiating through rocky terrain, you’ll ascend to Karanga Camp, positioned at an elevation of 4,035 meters (13,238 feet). Expect a hiking duration of about 4 to 5 hours on this leg of the journey.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Day 6 is designated for acclimatization at Karanga Camp. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area or take short hikes to higher elevations. This day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude, a crucial step for summit success.
Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,680m)
Start Day 7 by leaving Karanga Camp and ascending towards Barafu Camp, your last base camp before the summit push. Situated at an elevation of 4,680 meters (15,354 feet), Barafu Camp provides a strategic position for the summit attempt. Anticipate a 4 to 5-hour hike on this day.
Day 8: Summit Day - Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Day 8 marks the climax of your adventure as you embark on the summit attempt. You’ll either begin late on Day 8 or early the next day, depending on your pace. The climb will lead you through challenging scree slopes and past Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters or 18,638 feet) on the crater rim. Finally, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters or 19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa, where you’ll celebrate your remarkable achievement. Afterwards, you’ll start the descent to Mweka Camp (3,100 meters or 10,170 feet).
Day 9: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
The last stretch of your remarkable journey will take you from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters or 5,381 feet). At the gate, your achievement will be honored with a summit certificate, acknowledging your unwavering determination and spirit.
Day 10: Departure
The journey concludes with a transfer back to Arusha, where you can contemplate your triumph on Kilimanjaro before departing from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This experience will engrave the magnificence of Mount Kilimanjaro into the fabric of your life, leaving an unforgettable impression.
