8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Climbing Itinerary
Discover the Adventure of a Lifetime with Lyimo Expeditions: 8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Climbing Itinerary
Welcome adventurous souls to Lyimo Expeditions, your premier tour operator for unforgettable Tanzania tours and safaris! Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Tanzania is home to an array of natural wonders, but none quite as iconic as Mount Kilimanjaro. Towering majestically at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), this dormant volcano is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. The Northern Circuit route offers an extended adventure, giving you ample time to acclimatize and soak in the stunning landscapes. Ready to climb? Let’s dive into our meticulously crafted 8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Climbing Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Moshi
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our friendly Lyimo Expeditions team will warmly greet you. We’ll whisk you away to your comfortable hotel in Moshi, where you’ll have the chance to settle in, relax, and prepare for the upcoming adventure. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner and a comprehensive briefing from your experienced mountain guide. They’ll go over the itinerary, check your gear, and answer any last-minute questions.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Dinner Included
Day 2: Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) to 2,650 meters (8,692 feet)
Distance: 6 km (4 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
After a nutritious breakfast, we’ll embark on a picturesque drive to Londorossi Gate, situated in the western part of Kilimanjaro National Park. Here, we’ll handle the necessary park registration before heading to the Lemosho Glades. Your trek begins through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of Colobus monkeys and a plethora of bird species. The journey today is relatively short and perfect for acclimatizing.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,650 meters (8,692 feet) to 3,610 meters (11,847 feet)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Rise and shine! Today, the trail leads us through the last vestiges of the rainforest before transitioning into the heath and moorland zone. The trail meanders across the Shira Plateau, presenting breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s twin peaks, Kibo and Mawenzi. Keep your camera handy!
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Elevation: 3,610 meters (11,847 feet) to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
Distance: 14 km (9 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Continuing across the Shira Plateau, today’s trek is a visual feast. We’ll traverse the rocky landscape, and you might even spot the iconic groundsel and senecio plants that are unique to this region. Our destination is Moir Hut, located at the base of a towering lava flow. This camp is less frequented, offering a peaceful spot to rest and acclimatize.
Accommodation: Moir Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Elevation: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) to 4,020 meters (13,188 feet)
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Our journey today takes us along the Northern Circuit’s remote and less-traveled paths. As we contour the northern slopes of Kibo, panoramic vistas of the Kenyan plains unfold before us. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as eland and buffalo, which occasionally roam these high altitudes.
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Elevation: 4,020 meters (13,188 feet) to 3,870 meters (12,697 feet)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Today’s trek offers a relatively gentle descent, winding through valleys and across ridges. We reach Third Cave, a serene campsite set against the rugged beauty of Kilimanjaro’s northern flanks. Take this opportunity to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the upcoming ascent.
Accommodation: Third Cave
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut
Elevation: 3,870 meters (12,697 feet) to 4,800 meters (15,748 feet)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
As we climb higher, the landscape becomes more austere, with sparse vegetation and stunning rock formations. School Hut, our base camp for the summit push, offers a sense of anticipation and excitement. The air is thin here, so it’s crucial to continue acclimatizing and rest well. An early dinner and early bedtime are essential as we prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Accommodation: School Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) to 3,100 meters (10,170 feet)
Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
Summit day is finally here! We’ll start our ascent around midnight under a canopy of stars. The climb is challenging, but the experience of witnessing the sunrise from Stella Point will invigorate your spirit. From there, it’s a short but steep climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa! Take in the otherworldly views and snap some unforgettable photos before beginning the descent to Mweka Camp.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi
Elevation: 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) to 1,640 meters (5,380 feet)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, we’ll descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, we’ll complete the necessary check-out procedures and receive your summit certificate—a token of your incredible achievement! Our vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Moshi, where a hot shower and celebratory dinner await.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Departure
After a restful night, it’s time to bid Tanzania farewell. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to explore Moshi or relax at the hotel. Our team will ensure a smooth transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Why Choose Lyimo Expeditions?
At Lyimo Expeditions, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized, high-quality adventures that cater to your needs and preferences. Here’s why you should book your Tanzania tours and safaris with us:
Expertise and Experience
Our seasoned guides are well-versed in Kilimanjaro’s terrain, weather conditions, and safety protocols. They’re not just guides; they’re storytellers, mentors, and your biggest cheerleaders throughout the climb.
Safety First
Your safety is our top priority. We carry comprehensive first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and portable altitude chambers. Regular health checks are conducted to monitor your acclimatization process, ensuring a safe and successful summit.
Sustainable Tourism
We are committed to preserving Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Our eco-friendly practices and ethical guidelines ensure minimal environmental impact and support local communities.
Customized Itineraries
Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a first-time hiker, we offer tailor-made itineraries to suit your skill level and interests. Flexibility and personalization are at the heart of our services.
Exceptional Support
From the moment you inquire to the end of your journey, our dedicated team is here to assist you. Have questions? Need recommendations? We’re just an email or phone call away.
Book Your Adventure Today!
Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro and create memories that will last a lifetime? Don’t wait! Book your 8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Climbing adventure with Lyimo Expeditions today.
Contact Us:
Email: info@lyimoexpeditionskilimanjaro.com
Phone: +255718442953
Join us for an unforgettable journey to the roof of Africa. Your adventure begins with Lyimo Expeditions!