9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Tour Overview

The Northern Circuit Route climb of Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible experience that provides a unique viewpoint of Africa’s highest peak, Uhuru Peak, which rises magnificently to 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level. Trekkers can experience an incredible journey over the Northern Circuit Route, which is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and sparse population. This is a detailed itinerary that covers every aspect of your Kilimanjaro journey, including arrival, departure, and a 9-day schedule.

Day to Day Itinerary

Arrival at JRO

When you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your Kilimanjaro adventure officially begins. Your Tanzanian adventure will begin when you land and are greeted with warmth by our knowledgeable staff. We’ll make sure your transfer to your Arusha lodging goes well. This arrival day provides an essential opportunity for relaxation, acclimatisation, and a thorough pre-climb briefing to get you ready for the climb.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,250m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

Londorossi Gate is where your Kilimanjaro adventure starts (2,250 metres or 7,382 ft). After registering and getting to know your knowledgeable guides, you’ll start an exciting walk through the verdant rainforests on Day 1. The route is abundant in rare plants and animals. You will stay at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 metres or 9,252 feet) for the first night.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)

Proceed with your ascent to Shira 1 Camp from Mti Mkubwa Camp on Day 2. After four to five hours of hiking, you’ll emerge from the rainforest into the vast Shira Plateau. Located at an elevation of 3,610 metres (11,844 feet), Shira 1 Camp is ready to host you for the night.

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

Day 3 takes you from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp via breathtaking scenery. Beautiful views of the surrounding peaks may be seen during this portion of the hike. You will arrive at Shira 2 Camp, which is 3,850 metres (12,631 ft) above sea level.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (4,640m) and Barranco Camp (3,960m)

On Day 4, the journey reaches new heights as you climb to 4,640 metres (15,223 ft) above sea level to reach Lava Tower. This difficult day facilitates acclimatisation. After that, make your way down to Barranco Camp (12,992 feet/ 3,960 metres) to spend the night. 

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

A exciting rock climb up the Barranco Wall starts Day 5. You’ll climb to 4,035 metres (13,238 feet) at Karanga Camp as you pass through rugged terrain. This day’s walk should take four to five hours.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Karanga Camp (4,035m)

At Karanga Camp, Day 6 is devoted to acclimatisation. You’ll be able to go on short hikes to higher altitudes or explore the neighbourhood. Your body needs this day to acclimatise to the rising altitude, which is essential for summit achievement.

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,680m)

Head out of Karanga Camp on Day 7 and climb up to Barafu Camp, your last base camp before the summit assault. Barafu Camp, at 4,680 metres (15,354 feet) above sea level, provides a prime location for the attempt at the summit. This day’s walk should take four to five hours.

Day 8: Summit Day - Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Mweka Camp (3,100m)

The culmination of your journey occurs on Day 8, when you embark on the summit attempt. Depending on how quickly you’re going, you can wake up late on Day 8 or early the following day. You will ascend along difficult scree slopes and beyond Gilman’s Point, which is situated on the crater rim at 5,681 metres (18,638 ft). At last, you will arrive at Africa’s highest point, Uhuru Peak (5,895 metres or 19,341 ft), where you can celebrate your incredible accomplishment. Then start downhill to Mweka Camp, which is 3,100 metres (10,170 feet) above sea level.

Day 9: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)

You will go from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640 metres or 5,381 ft) on the last stage of your amazing adventure. A summit certificate, a symbol of your unwavering spirit, will be presented to you at the gate as a reward for your achievement.

After a transfer back to Arusha, the adventure comes to an end. Before departing from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you can take stock of your achievement on Mount Kilimanjaro. This adventure will permanently inscribe the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro into your life’s fabric.

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