11 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit
Description
11 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit : The Northern Circuit route is the newest route to climb Kilimanjaro. The route is unique as you hike via the quiet, still rather unknown northern side of the mountain. You will see Mount Kilimanjaro from a whole new perspective! The hikes per day on the Northern Circuit route are relatively short. This gives your body enough time to recover. In addition, the Northern Circuit route is good for acclimatization, as it is a relatively long climb (in days). Your body has more time to get used to the daily increase in altitude.
The entire ascent (including descent) via the Northern Circuit Route takes 8 days
Serengeti Trips Offers unique Service through out the Climb:
Climbing Kilimanjaro is the ultimate challenge! Little details can make a world of difference, which is why with us, you climb with professional guides, porters, and a cook. They take care of you during your ascent via the Northern Circuit route, by checking your health twice a day and serving you delicious food. Sounds like a bit much? Not if you want to reach the top! Because we know that altitude sickness can creep up on you unnoticed and that proper nutrition* is essential to keep you going during a strenuous climb.
Besides, we offer a comprehensive information package to help you prepare for your climb via the Northern Circuit. It gives information about Tanzania and Mount Kilimanjaro, how to best prepare and what materials to buy or rent. And did we mention that we are a partner of the Kilimanjaro Responsible Travel Organization (KRTO)? That means we take care of our crew and the mountain during our climb, making sure you can climb with a clear conscience. Are you ready for an unforgettable experience?
*If you would like to see the menu, we can send it in advance.
Itinerary :
Day 1: Arrival and Start of the 11 Days Northern Circuit Route
Begin your incredible 11 days northern circuit route Kilimanjaro trek by arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport. From here, you will be transferred to Londorossi Gate, where your adventure officially begins. The first day of the 11 days northern circuit route leads you through lush rainforest filled with diverse wildlife and bird species. Hiking through this beautiful environment helps your body adjust gradually to the altitude. Your campsite for the night is Mti Mkubwa Camp, set among the giant trees and vibrant forest life. Experienced guides will provide essential safety instructions and trekking tips for the 11 days northern circuit route. Enjoy a peaceful dinner and a restful night in preparation for the days ahead. This gentle start ensures a smooth acclimatization process. The first day sets the tone for your entire journey.
Day 2: Trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit :
On day two of the 11 days northern circuit route, you leave the dense rainforest behind and climb to the open Shira Plateau. This day offers amazing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail gradually ascends, providing excellent opportunities to spot rare alpine plants such as giant lobelias and heathers. Shira 1 Camp sits on a wide plateau that allows for peaceful rest and acclimatization. The 11 days northern circuit route is known for its gradual altitude gain, helping climbers avoid sickness. Your guides will share insights about the unique geology and ecology of Kilimanjaro as you trek. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Shira Camp, where clear skies and cool temperatures prevail. Dinner is served in a cozy dining tent, where fellow trekkers exchange stories. This day deepens your connection to the mountain’s wilderness.
Day 3: Hiking from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit Route
The third day on the 11 days northern circuit route takes you further across the expansive Shira Plateau towards Shira 2 Camp. You will enjoy breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and rugged peaks throughout this journey. The trail is lined with fascinating rock formations and unique alpine flora. Wildlife enthusiasts on the 11 days northern circuit route may spot various bird species and occasional small mammals. Shira 2 Camp provides a comfortable base for rest and continued acclimatization. Your guides will monitor your health carefully to ensure a safe trek. Enjoy a warm meal and relax as the mountain air cools in the evening. This section of the 11 days northern circuit route emphasizes the mountain’s stunning natural beauty. Take time to capture photographs of the serene landscape.
Day 4: Trek from Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit Route:
On day four of the 11 days northern circuit route, you hike towards Moir Hut Camp via the dramatic Western Breach gorge. This part of the trail features breathtaking cliffs and views of ancient glaciers. The terrain becomes more rugged, and the altitude rises steadily. Moir Hut Camp is located at a high elevation and serves as an important acclimatization point on the 11 days northern circuit route. The camp offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s southern glaciers and valleys. Your guides provide crucial advice on maintaining hydration and proper pacing. Enjoy a hearty dinner as you prepare for the challenging days ahead. The peaceful mountain environment offers perfect rest. This day is a significant milestone in your 11 days northern circuit route journey.
Day 5: From Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit Route
Day five on the 11 days northern circuit route takes you from Moir Hut Camp across alpine moorland to Buffalo Camp. The trail winds through rocky landscapes dotted with rare high-altitude plants and scattered wildlife. Buffalo Camp offers a quiet and sheltered campsite to help your body continue acclimatizing. The atmosphere here is serene and ideal for rest. Your guides will encourage you to stay well-hydrated and energized for the coming days. This stage of the 11 days northern circuit route prepares you for the summit climb. Evening meals provide vital nutrition to maintain your strength. Sleep under a star-studded sky and wake refreshed. The gradual ascent of this day supports your mountain endurance.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Buffalo Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit Route
An essential part of the 11 days northern circuit route is the acclimatization day spent at Buffalo Camp. You will take a short trek to nearby ridges or Lava Tower, helping your body adjust to the altitude without overexertion. This day improves your chances of a successful summit by allowing your body to adapt gradually. The scenic views and fresh mountain air refresh your spirit during the 11 days northern circuit route. After the hike, return to camp for relaxation and nutritious meals. Your guides will discuss the next stages of the trek and review safety protocols. Rest and hydration are critical on this acclimatization day. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and prepare mentally for the challenges ahead. This day is vital for your trekking success.
Day 7: Trek from Buffalo Camp to Barranco Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit
The 11 days northern circuit route continues with a descent into the Barranco Valley on day seven. The trail descends through lush vegetation and offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. Barranco Camp is renowned for its large cliffs and dramatic rock formations, including the famous Barranco Wall. This camp provides excellent facilities and stunning views of the valley below. Your guides prepare you for the upcoming Barranco Wall climb, one of the most challenging parts of the 11 days northern circuit route. Spend the evening sharing stories with fellow trekkers over dinner. Rest well in preparation for the exciting day ahead. The varied terrain keeps the trek engaging. Barranco Camp is a favorite stop for many on this route.
Day 8: Climb Barranco Wall and Trek to Karanga Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit :
Day eight of the 11 days northern circuit route features the famous Barranco Wall climb. Though steep, the climb is manageable with guidance from your experienced team. After conquering the wall, you descend into the Karanga Valley before ascending to Karanga Camp. This camp provides an important resting spot before the final ascent to the summit. Enjoy spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and valleys along the way. Your guides emphasize careful pacing and hydration to maintain your energy. Karanga Camp offers warmth and shelter with great amenities. Dinner is nutritious and filling to prepare you for the next day. The day combines challenge with breathtaking natural beauty.
Day 9: Trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp on the 11 Days Northern Circuit Route
On day nine of the 11 days northern circuit route, you ascend to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit push. The trail is rocky and steep in parts, with sparse vegetation. Barafu Camp sits at approximately 4,600 meters altitude and provides basic shelter before the final climb. At Barafu, your guides will conduct a detailed briefing about the summit day. You will prepare your gear and rest early to begin the summit climb around midnight. The atmosphere at Barafu is a mix of anticipation and excitement for the climax of the 11 days northern circuit route. Enjoy a light dinner and focus on hydration. Rest and mental preparation are key. The next day promises unforgettable views.
Day 10: Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Mweka Camp on the 11 Days Northern :
The highlight of your 11 days northern circuit route is summit day. You start climbing around midnight to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. The climb is strenuous, with cold temperatures and thin air near the summit. Reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 5,895 meters, brings a deep sense of accomplishment. After enjoying panoramic views, you descend to Barafu Camp for rest and refreshments. Then continue your descent to Mweka Camp for an overnight stay. Your guides provide continuous encouragement and support during this exhausting day. Celebrate your success with fellow trekkers at camp. This day marks the culmination of your 11 days northern circuit route adventure. Memories made here last a lifetime.
Day 11: Descend to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi or Arusha
On the final day of the 11 days northern circuit route, you hike down through forest to Mweka Gate. The descent is faster and easier, allowing you to enjoy the lush surroundings. Upon arrival at the gate, you will receive your summit certificates, celebrating your achievement. You will then be transferred back to Moshi or Arusha for relaxation. Reflect on your incredible journey completing the 11 days northern circuit route Kilimanjaro trek. Your guides and porters are thanked for their support and hard work. This marks the end of an unforgettable adventure. Share your experiences with friends and family. Prepare for your next great travel opportunity with Kizza Adventures.
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Frequently Asked Questions / Information / Guide / Activities
None, but previous hiking or climbing experience will help. You need to be fit and healthy and have a good pair of worn-in hiking boots. The fitter you are the more you are likely to enjoy it.
You don’t need mountain climbing gear. You can rent most of the clothing and equipment you need in Tanzania, but bringing your own clothes, well worn-in boots and a good sleeping bag is best. You will need a small day pack with enough space for wind and rain clothes, some first aid, 3 litres of water and snacks.
Warm clothes (fleece, wind and waterproof layers), good polarised sunglasses, sunscreen and a head lamp should be included in your packing list. You might prefer to use walking sticks and gaiters, but these can be rented from your trekking operator. Even thermal underwear and down jackets can be rented from us. If think you do not have the correct clothing and gear, please contact Kilimanjaro-Experience for advice.
There are no bathrooms on Kili. Warm water will be supplied in a bowl and you will be able to wash your face and hands. For the rest you will use wipes. Toilets are simple, hole-in-the-ground types. Portable showers and toilets can be rented at some cost.
There are at least six routes to the top, Uhuru peak. You will hike between 53 and 73km depending on which route you choose.
The shortest and toughest is the 5-day Umbwe route. Allowing extra days will help you to acclimatize better and improve your chances of reaching the summit. The easiest and most popular route is Marangu (can be done in five), but Kilimanjaro-Experience use six days for this route.
Getting to Tanzania and hiking up Kili is not cheap. But the once in a lifetime experience is worth every penny. Costs (usually quoted in USD) will depend on the tour operator and what you need. Luxuries such as portable toilets and glassware will cost more. Land costs should include transport to and from Kili, full board, porters, guides, cooks, national park fees and permits. Do not choose the cheapest operator, choose an operator who discloses all costs and who offers value for money.
From the mountain. Porters collect water from the streams and it is boiled before use. This water will be used to fill your water canisters. You don’t need to use purification tablets, but it is recommended. Some operators offer bottled water – at extra cost as porters have to carry this up the mountain.
No person younger than 10 years is allowed according to Kilimanjaro National Park authorities’ rules. If 10 or older, they may only proceed as high as Horombo Huts (3700m) or Shira Camp (3900m) if they are accompanied by one of their parents. Kilimanjaro-Experience prefers its climbers to be 14 years and older when they attempt the summit. Climbers older than 70 years are required to show a medical certificate.
The oldest person on the mountain was Richard Byerley (84) of Washington State. He trained by climbing mountains, running and cycling. His tip? ‘Just go.’ Kilimanjaro Experience’s oldest guest was 79 years and 9 months and was from the Czech Republic.
A good level of fitness and a positive, determined attitude will ensure success. Also, you will need good support and the right gear.
You have a 50% chance – to make it or not. Of the 40 000 visitors Kili attracts each year, between 50 and 75% turn back before reaching the summit according a report by the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation. The main reason for this is cold, dehydration and altitude sickness. You will increase your chances by choosing the right route, allow an extra day for acclimatising to the height, good protection against cold and good guides to help you acclimatise and pace yourself.
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William Amon
From the thrill of reaching Uhuru Peak to the camaraderie built along the trails, each trek is a unique adventure.
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Location / Contacts
- Address : Arusha, Arusha, Tanzania
- Phone : +255687590560
- Mail : info@serengetitrips.com
- Website : http://serengetitrips.com/
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