9 Day Northern Circuit Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking

As you exit the Montane Forest and enter the Hagenia zone, the landscape changes significantly, offering you the first glimpses of the majestic Kibo peak and more expansive vistas. The forest's dense canopy gives way to a sparser moorland environment, characterized by distinctive flora such as Hagenia trees. This section is excellent for acclimatization, as you traverse numerous ridges, ascending and descending multiple times. The trail's undulations help our bodies progressively adapt to the altitude. We will reach the day's highest point at 11,500 feet before descending gradually to our campsite. The hike, lasting between 6 and 9 hours, will be challenging but rewarding with breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, culminating in an overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau.

On Day 3, you will hike through the heath zone of the Shira Plateau, known for its resilient vegetation. The path ascends, offering expansive views of the plateau and surrounding landscapes. As you climb the western slope of the Kibo Massif, the landscape becomes more rugged with scattered volcanic rocks and boulders. The air becomes thinner and the temperature cooler, making the trek more challenging yet exhilarating. You will stop for a picnic lunch at Scott Fisher's memorial camp, dedicated to the known Mount Everest guide who died in the 1996 Mountain Everest disaster. After lunch, you will continue to ascent into the upper heath zone, reaching Moir Camp at the base of a high ridge on the western slopes of Kibo. We will set up tents and rest, with optional acclimatization hikes in the late afternoon, enjoying the cool and serene environment at approximately 13,580 feet.

On Day 4, we will embark on a 5-7-hour trek from Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp, beginning with a challenging ridge climb. Starting slowly helps us adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. The ridge provides expansive views of the landscape, with volcanic rocks and sparse vegetation typical of the alpine desert zone. The trail features varied terrain with several ascents and descents for acclimatization, following the "climb high, sleep low" strategy. Regular breaks will allow us to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. After reaching Buffalo Camp, a flat and sheltered area with stunning views of Kilimanjaro, we may take additional short hikes for further acclimatization, followed by a warm meal and sharing stories from the day.

On Day 5, we will continue with your journey around Mount Kilimanjaro, heading towards Third Cave Camp. The trail begins with a scenic alpine desert, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a sense of solitude with gentle ascents and descents aiding in acclimatization. We will take regular breaks to rest, hydrate, enjoy snacks, and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region. After a picnic lunch and more varied terrain, we arrive at Third Cave Camp, situated at an altitude of around 12,700 feet, offering a flat area for tents and shelter from the wind. Upon arrival, you will set up camp and have time for a short acclimatization hike before gathering for a hearty dinner and enjoying spectacular stargazing opportunities. We will spend the night at Third Cave Camp, resting and recharging for the next stage of our journey towards the summit.

On Day 6, we will embark on a challenging 4-5 hour trek to our highest elevation camp, School Hut, to prepare for the night-time summit ascent. The trail ascends gradually, with thinner air and rugged terrain, and offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Regular breaks are essential to rest, hydrate, and acclimatize to the higher altitude. At School Hut, situated at approximately 15,600 feet, you will set up camp and prepare your gear, including warm clothing, headlamps, snacks, and water, for the night ascent starting around midnight. This timing allows us to reach Gilman's Point by dawn, continuing through Stella Point to Uhuru Peak as the sun rises, making the cold and demanding climb a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a sense of accomplishment and breathtaking views.

Summit Day: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (19,341 feet) and Descent to Mweka Camp. Overnight Altitude: 10,065 feet. The summit day begins around 11:00 PM or midnight, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak (19,341 feet) at sunrise. Using headlamps (with extra lithium batteries for the cold), you will ascend to Gilman's Point, traverse the Crater Rim to Stella Point, and then continue for 1-2 hours to reach the summit. After celebrating and taking photos at Uhuru Peak, we will descend to Barafu Camp for lunch, then continue to Mweka Camp for the night. Alternatively, you may stay at Millennium Camp, located at approximately 12,000 feet, for a lower descent today and a higher descent tomorrow. The entire hike, both ascent and descent, typically takes 13-17 hours.

Today, we will descend from Mweka Camp to the trailhead at Mweka Gate, a trek that will take approximately 3-5 hours. The path leads us through lush rainforest, and the descent is generally easier than the previous days but can be slippery. Upon reaching the trailhead, you will have lunch and bid farewell to our mountain crew. After completing the necessary formalities and receiving our summit certificates, you will depart Mount Kilimanjaro. We will typically arrive at your lodge between 3 and 5 p.m., where you can rest and reflect on your incredible journey.

After a restful night's sleep at your hotel, you will enjoy brunch in preparation for your scheduled check-out at 11:00 a.m. If you wish to stay at the hotel during the day, please inform us when booking your journey. We can arrange a "day room" for an additional cost, allowing you to remain in your room until 6:00 p.m. This option ensures you have a comfortable place to relax before your departure. We will handle the reservation and provide you with the cost details.