9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Odyssey
9 Days Desert to Glacier Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Odyssey
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro is a testament to the diverse and awe-inspiring beauty that the mountain offers. This journey takes you through varied ecosystems, from the dry and dusty terrains to the frozen glaciers at Uhuru Peak. Each day unfolds a new chapter, presenting trekkers with challenges, triumphs, and the sheer marvel of nature's wonders. Embark on an unparalleled 9-day journey through Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit,
Travel Highlights
- Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1: Moshi Londorossi Gate Big Tree Camp
- Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3: Shira 1 Camp Shira 2 Camp
- Day 4: Shira 2 Camp Lava Tower Moir Hut
- Day 5: Moir Hut Buffalo Camp
- Day 6: Buffalo Camp Third Cave
- Day 7: Third Cave School Hut
- Day 8: School Hut Uhuru Peak (Summit Point) Mweka Camp
- Day 9: Mweka Camp Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Distance: Approximately 15 km Hours: 6-8 hours Temperature: 20°C Landscape: Start the trek through lush rainforests, passing the Londorossi Gate and ascending to Big Tree Camp. Witness the transition from urban to wilderness.
Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 8 km Hours: 5-7 hours Temperature: 18°C Landscape: Traverse the giant heather zone and reach Shira 1 Camp, surrounded by stunning vistas of the Shira Plateau.
Destination: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 10 km Hours: 4-6 hours Temperature: 15°C Landscape: Ascend to Shira 2 Camp, crossing the Shira Ridge with panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 14 km Hours: 7-9 hours Temperature: 10°C Landscape: Reach the Lava Tower, a volcanic formation, and continue to Moir Hut through alpine desert landscapes.
Destination: Shira 2 Camp To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 12 km Hours: 6-8 hours Temperature: 8°C Landscape: Trek through the moorland zone, encountering unique flora, and arrive at Buffalo Camp nestled under the towering Ratzel Glacier.
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 15 km Hours: 7-9 hours Temperature: 5°C Landscape: Descend into the Barranco Valley, witness the iconic Barranco Wall, and reach Third Cave, surrounded by senecio forests.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 10 km Hours: 4-6 hours Temperature: 0°C Landscape: Ascend through the lunar desert to School Hut, the last camp before the summit, with a spectacular view of the glaciers.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 21 km Hours: 12-16 hours Temperature: -5°C to -15°C Landscape: Summit night! Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and descend to Mweka Camp through the glacial landscapes.
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Distance: 10 km Hours: 3-5 hours Temperature: 10°C Landscape: Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, concluding the adventure and returning to Moshi or Arusha.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
What's Included
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- Bath towels
- Climbing gear
- All flights during the tour
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual ascent help minimize the risk.
Warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a good backpack, and a sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures are crucial
Basic toilet facilities are available at campsites, but are prepared for primitive conditions.
The summit night is physically demanding. Mental resilience and proper preparation are key to overcoming the challenges.
While Kilimanjaro is not known for wildlife, you may encounter various bird species and unique flora.
Yes, hiring a porter is common and advisable, allowing you to focus on the trek.
The dry season from January to March and June to October offers the best trekking conditions.
Experienced trekking companies provide nutritious meals, with dietary preferences accommodated with prior notice.
While possible, it's recommended to use reputable trekking companies for safety and logistical support.
Group sizes vary but are typically small to ensure personalized attention and safety.
Reviews for 9 Days Desert to Glacier Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Odyssey
By John Doe
Visited: July 2023
The Northern Circuit trek was a transformative experience. The landscapes were diverse, and the support from the trekking team was exceptional. A challenging yet rewarding journey that I will cherish forever."
By Emma Smith
Visited: August 2020
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a testament to nature's grandeur. Our guide's knowledge and the team's commitment to responsible trekking made this adventure not only memorable but also environmentally conscious."
By Raj Patel
Visited: September 2022
From the lush rainforests to the snow-covered summit, each day brought new wonders. The guides were not only experts but also passionate about preserving Kilimanjaro's beauty. An extraordinary trek!"
By Elena Rodriguez
Visited: September 2023
I was in awe of Kilimanjaro's contrasts from the hot desert to the frozen peak. The team's commitment to eco-friendly practices and responsible tourism added a deeper layer to this unforgettable journey."
By Kim Chang
Visited: December 2023
The 9-day trek was both challenging and exhilarating. The responsible approach of the trekking company towards the environment and local communities resonated with me. An adventure with a purpose!"
By Maria Silva
Visited: July 2019
Nature's extremes unfold on the Northern Circuit. The guides were not just leaders but storytellers, sharing the rich history of Kilimanjaro. An emotionally and physically fulfilling experience."
By Oscar Müller
Visited: October 2019
I appreciated the attention to detail in ensuring a low environmental impact. The trek was demanding, but the support and camaraderie among fellow trekkers and guides made it an unforgettable adventure
By Anya Ivanova
Visited: November 2023
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit offered a unique blend of challenges and beauty. The guides' expertise, coupled with a commitment to minimizing our ecological footprint, made this trek exceptional.
By Javier Morales
Visited: December 2020
The frozen finale at Uhuru Peak was worth every step. The guides' dedication to responsible trekking and the stunning landscapes make this a must-do for adventure seekers."
