9 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via the Northern Circuit Route

Day 1: Moshi - Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Your adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration. Afterward, you will proceed to the trailhead at Lemosho Glades. From there, you'll embark on a trek through dense rainforest, where you might spot some wildlife. The hike will lead you to Mti Mkubwa Camp, nestled amidst the lush forest, where you will spend your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Leaving the rainforest behind, the trek continues across the Shira Plateau. The terrain changes dramatically, with expansive views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding plains. You will traverse moorland and heather, eventually arriving at Shira 1 Camp. This camp offers breathtaking views and a chance to acclimatize at a higher altitude.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

The journey across the Shira Plateau continues, providing a relatively easy day of trekking. You will enjoy panoramic vistas and the chance to acclimatize further. The landscape here is characterized by open plains and giant lobelias. The day ends at Shira 2 Camp, set against the stunning backdrop of Kibo Peak.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut via Lava Tower

This day is crucial for acclimatization. You will hike up to the Lava Tower at 4,600 meters, providing a significant altitude gain. The landscape becomes more rugged, with rocky terrain and unique geological formations. After reaching the Lava Tower, you will descend to Moir Hut, which allows your body to adjust to the altitude. This strategy of climbing high and sleeping low is essential for a successful summit attempt.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp

Continuing along the Northern Circuit, you will experience a less-traveled and serene side of Kilimanjaro. The trek takes you through varied terrain, including moorland and alpine desert. The day ends at Pofu Camp, a remote and tranquil campsite that offers solitude and stunning natural beauty.

Day 6: Pofu Camp to Third Cave

The journey to Third Cave involves traversing rocky terrain and crossing the alpine desert. This section of the trek is relatively short, allowing more time for rest and acclimatization. The landscape is stark and beautiful, with views of the rugged mountain terrain and distant plains. Third Cave provides a peaceful campsite as you prepare for the higher altitudes to come.

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut

On this day, you will trek to School Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. The route takes you through a lunar-like landscape, with rocky paths and sparse vegetation. You will arrive at School Hut early in the day, allowing ample time to rest and prepare for the final ascent. The anticipation builds as you get ready for the midnight summit push.

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Summit night begins around midnight. Equipped with headlamps, you will ascend through the darkness, navigating switchbacks and rocky trails. The goal is to reach Gilman’s Point by sunrise, where you will witness a breathtaking dawn over the African plains. From there, the trek continues to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you will begin the descent to Mweka Camp, passing through various ecological zones and enjoying the changing scenery. The day ends with a well-deserved rest at Mweka Camp.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Moshi

The final day involves a descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. This last stretch is a chance to reflect on the incredible journey and the accomplishment of reaching the summit. At Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificates before being driven back to Moshi. Back in Moshi, you can celebrate with a hearty meal and relax, savoring the memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.