An overview for 8 days Northern Circuit kilimanjaro climbing
Discover one of Africa's top climbing experiences by joining Kizza Adventures on an exciting 8-day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro hike in 2024, 2025, and 2026. This extensive journey traverses a variety of landscapes, such as verdant rainforests, rocky mountains, and striking alpine deserts, providing a remarkable chance for acclimatization and a high summit success rate. In addition to increasing your chances of reaching the summit, the Northern Circuit Route gives you plenty of time to explore and take in the breathtaking views of the peak.
You will start your journey at the Londorossi Gate, where you will climb the Shira Ridge and climb the western slopes of Kilimanjaro, passing through colorful rainforests. The rich biodiversity of the mountain is introduced to you during this first stage, which also gets you ready for the more difficult parts that lie ahead.
Proceeding north in a circular route, you will traverse the vast Shira Plateau after leaving the Shira Ridge. As you progressively make your way around the mountain, you'll stop at Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, and School Hut, each of which offers distinctive views and experiences.
The route ultimately guides you on a nearly complete circle around Kilimanjaro, culminating in a summit attempt from the east. This well-planned circuit maximizes your exposure to the mountain's varied environments and ensures a memorable and successful climb to Uhuru Peak.
Northern Circuit Route 8 Days day by day Itinerary for 2024, 2025 and 2026
Day 0:Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and begin your adventure with a warm welcome to Tanzania. This bustling gateway serves as the starting point for your Kilimanjaro trek, where you’ll be greeted by our experienced team. From here, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to explore Africa’s iconic peak.
Day 1: Arusha to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Travel from Arusha to the Londorossi Gate, the formal start of your trek, on the first day of your Kilimanjaro experience. Travel through verdant rainforest scenery on your way to Mti Mkubwa Camp. This first section prepares you for the thrilling journey ahead and introduces you to Kilimanjaro's abundant biodiversity. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp and spend the night there.
Hiking time:4-5 hours.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
On Day Two, trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp, ascending through the captivating moorland zone and scenic alpine terrain. Enjoy panoramic views as you climb towards the Shira Ridge, offering breathtaking vistas of Kilimanjaro’s expansive landscape. This stage of your journey sets you up perfectly for further acclimatization and exploration of the mountain's diverse ecosystems.
Reach Shira 1 Camp for overnight.
Hiking time;6-9 hours.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
As part of the "Northern Circuit Route 8 days," hike across the alpine desert zone on this day, passing through the breathtaking, lunar-like desert terrain of Kilimanjaro. As you adjust to higher elevations, take in the untamed, unearthly landscape before arriving at Moir Hut for the night. In addition to providing breathtaking views, this strenuous five to six-hour climb will help you get ready for the next phases of this incredible Kilimanjaro adventure.
Hiking: 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp
On the "Northern Circuit Route 8 days," a vital part of this difficult journey, ascend to Lava Tower for essential acclimatization. This climb offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's untamed terrain while allowing you to acclimate to higher elevations. Ascend to Pofu Camp to gain a deeper understanding of Kilimanjaro's varied ecosystems while witnessing the striking change from the bleak alpine desert to verdant glacier valleys. You can recuperate and get ready for the next leg of your amazing trek by spending the night at Pofu Camp.
Overnight at Pofu Camp.
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Day 5: Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp
Traverse the rugged rocky terrain and dramatic ridges, a vital segment of the "Northern Circuit Route 8 days," immersing yourself in the challenging yet exhilarating landscape of Kilimanjaro. As you navigate this rugged path, take in the stunning vistas of the Lent Hills, showcasing the mountain's diverse topography. Arrive at Third Cave Camp for an overnight stay, where you can rest amidst breathtaking scenery and prepare for the next exciting phase of your climb.
Day 6: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
Continue your trek with a steady ascent, advancing further on the "Northern Circuit Route 8 days" as you make significant progress towards your ultimate goal. Arrive at School Hut, strategically positioned as the crucial base for your final summit push. Use this time to rest, acclimatize, and meticulously prepare for the challenging summit attempt, ensuring you're fully equipped and ready for the exhilarating climb to Uhuru Peak.
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Day 7: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
A exciting highlight of the "Northern Circuit Route 8 days," the summit climb starts at midnight and is a difficult but worthwhile trek. Witness the stunning sunrise at Africa's highest point, Uhuru Peak, which provides breath-taking panoramic views of the continent, as you make your way towards the summit. Once you've celebrated reaching the summit, head down to Mweka Camp for a well-earned night's sleep, where you can take stock of your incredible experience and get ready to leave Kilimanjaro.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Departure
Bring your "Northern Circuit Route 8 days" experience to a picturesque and fulfilling end by descending through the beautiful, green jungle. When you arrive at Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificate, which will serve as a reminder of your incredible accomplishment and tenacity. After that, return to Arusha and spend some time at your hotel resting, thinking back on your incredible ascent, and getting ready to leave with a renewed sense of accomplishment.
Departure Transfer to the Kilimanjaro Airport.
