Embark on a 9-day adventure through Tanzania's stunning wilderness, where every step brings new challenges and rewards. From rugged mountain passes to lush forests and sprawling plains, this journey is the ultimate test of endurance and determination. Join us on the Northern Circuit trek and experience the beauty and majesty of nature in its purest form.
I will meet you at the appointed place, and then we need to check in at Chanya Lodge B&B in Moshi. Later, our group will hold a meeting at which we will answer all your questions and outline the main organizational points.
Day 1:
We're leaving Moshi and driving for about 45 minutes to reach Kilimanjaro National Park. We'll pass through numerous small settlements and villages on the way.
Once we arrive, we'll need to wait for our group to be allowed to climb as there will be a lot of people attempting to conquer Kilimanjaro.
During the journey, I'll share interesting information about the local flora, fauna, rare animals, and wildlife. It can be very slippery and muddy at higher elevations
Day 2:
After a good night's sleep, we will have a hearty breakfast before leaving the tropical jungle and continuing our ascent. The trail starts to incline as we make our way to the edge ofthe Shira Plateau, where we can enjoy breathtaking views. During this section, the temperature gradually drops.
Day 3:
On this day, we conquer one of the highest plateaus in the world, by hiking from Camp Shira I to Camp Shira II.
While the climb requires some effort, the reward is a breathtaking view of the valley and the western fault of Kilimanjaro. Expect even lower temperatures on the plateau.
Day 4:
After breakfast we will start our day. Although we'll be at the same altitude as the previous day, it's important to follow all the steps of our team for smoother acclimatization.
We're now moving east from the Shira Plateau, crossing the Kibo Peak fork and heading southeast towards the Lava Tower. From there, we'll descend to the Barranco camp where we'll rest and spend the night.
Day 5:
On the 5th day, we will face a steep ascent in the Moir Valley. Those interested can extend the route to climb at the altitude of 4375m.
We then return to the Northern Rangetrail, where the path includes several ups and downs before reaching the Buffalo camp. Throughout the journey, we'll have stunning views of the plains north of Kilimanjaro, stretching all the way to the Kenyan-Tanzanian border.
We'll arrive at the Buffalo camp around noon, where we'll have lunch and rest.
Day 6:
A new day means new challenges: we climb the Buffalo Range before heading to Pofu camp for a hearty lunch.
By day 6, you'll have acclimatized quite well, making the ascent easier from here on out.
Day 7:
We'll needto climb through two mountain peaks – Mavenzi and Kibo.
Today, we'll head southwest towards the School Hut, where we'll have an earlier dinner and rest.
As we'll begin our ascent at night, it's essential to prepare everything in advance, including water bottles, clothes, food, flashlights, and other equipment.
Day 8:
This is the most challenging and crucial day of our ascent. We'll start climbing at midnight, passing between two glaciers and heading northwest towards the Stella Point. A short rest at the top will give us the chance to witness the breathtaking sunrise, and if we're quick enough, we may even catch it from the summit.
Only an hour left until we conquer Uhuru Peak, where the temperature is freezing and the snow is everywhere. After that, we'll have a long descent to the Mweka camp, stopping for lunch at Barafu.
This is our final night in the high mountains, spent resting at the Mweka camp.
Day 9:
After breakfast and a team ceremony, we descend to the Mweka Gate to receive a climbing certificate. The trail becomes slippery, so we use leggings and trekking poles.
A car will take us to the hotel in Moshi in about 30 minutes. Enjoy the comforts of civilization, hot showers, and rest at the B&B at Chanya Lodge. You can choose to either go home or on a new tour to Zanzibar!
Departure day:
The journey comes to an end; you will be escorted to the Kilimanjaro airport or any other place you need.
Included in the trekking package: lead guide, assistant guides, english speaking & wilderness first responder trained cook, porters, equipment; sleeping mat, 2-inch foam pillow, walk-in dining tent and table backed chairs, wash basins with hot water each morning and evening; three meals per day & afternoon snack during the trek, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free upon request, treated drinking water (minimum of 3L per day while trekking with additional water available at camp), coffee and tea during the trek, pulse oximeter, first aid kit, emergency oxygen; Kilimanjaro National Park fees and VAT, camping/hut, rescue, conservation and taxes; pre-trek briefing with your guide; accommodation (please contact me about the type of accommodation at each hotel or any other questions related to it), transfer.
Excluded: gratuities/tips, personal trekking gear such as sleeping bag and clothing, favored beverages (soda and alcohol at hotels, additional accommodation or meals resulting from early descent, Tanzania entry visa, travel insurance, flights, expenses of a personal nature.
Tipping is customary on Mount Kilimanjaro for all members of your mountain crew. They receive a fair wage, they rely on tips for a total fair compensation. Tips for the team (guide, assistant guide, cook and porters). Industry recommendations are $20 a day to the guide, $15 a day to your assistance guide and cook, $8 a day to each of your porters divided by everyone in trip.
If you have any health problems and are in doubt about whether you can do this route, please contact our team and we will consult you.