11 day climbing adventure Northern circuit route

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your accommodation in Moshi. Spend the night at Salinero Hotel or a similar establishment, where you'll meet your head guide for a detailed briefing, gear check, and equipment hire if needed.

Note: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM

Start your adventure with an early breakfast before driving to Londorossi Gate. After securing your permits, begin your hike through the lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so prepare accordingly. The initial trek is a gradual but steep ascent out of the jungle and into the moorland ecosystem, characterized by Giant Heathers, grasses, and wildflowers.

**Note: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously.

**At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness.

• Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft

• Distance: 4.8km/3mi

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

Continue your journey with a trek through moorland, passing several streams as you make your way to Shira Ridge. Here, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Volcano for the first time. The hike to Shira 1 Camp is relatively easy, allowing for gradual acclimatization—crucial for a successful climb.

Upon reaching Shira 1 Camp (3505m), your expert team will prepare a delicious lunch. Afterward, you can relax in your tent or explore the surrounding area, taking in the stunning landscapes and beginning your acclimatization process in earnest.

• Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3505m/11,496ft

• Distance: 7.9km/5mi

• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

Emerge from the rainforest and ascend to the stunning Shira Plateau, where you can enjoy expansive views and a noticeable drop in temperature. Departing from Shira 1 Camp (3,505m), embark on a gentle trek to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m). This relatively easy hike allows you to take in the spectacular moorland meadows and surrounding landscapes.

Shira 2 Camp is an excellent spot to catch a glimpse of Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak, weather permitting. The day offers ample time to explore the rich flora and fauna of the plateau. Participate in an acclimatization hike to help your body adjust to the altitude, ensuring you are well-prepared for the journey ahead. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Shira Plateau, making the most of this day of exploration and adaptation.

• Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft

• Distance: 6.9km/4mi

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Low Alpine

After a hearty breakfast, we'll depart from Shira II Camp (3,900m) and trek along the eastern ridge to the iconic Lava Tower (4,630m). The journey across the Shira Plateau offers breathtaking views and is a highlight of the expedition. Upon reaching the Lava Tower, we'll pause for a 2-hour rest and enjoy lunch, allowing ample time for proper acclimatization.

Following our break, we continue our descent to Moir Hut (4,139m), situated at the base of Lent Hills. This less-frequented campsite provides a serene setting and excellent acclimatization opportunities, with various short walking trails to explore. As evening falls, prepare for a cold night with temperatures dipping below zero, ensuring a restful sleep under the clear, starlit sky.

• Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft

• Distance: 17.7km/11.1mi

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: High Alpine

After breakfast, embark on a scenic trek out of the Moir Valley towards the summit of Little Lent Hill, reaching an elevation of 4,375 meters. This challenging ascent rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Kenyan/Tanzanian border, a sight that will leave a lasting impression.

Upon reaching Buffalo Camp around midday, take the opportunity to relax and unwind. Spend the afternoon soaking in the stunning landscape, reflecting on the day's adventure, and preparing for the days ahead. As night falls, be ready for temperatures to drop below zero, making it essential to bundle up and stay warm.

• Elevation: 4155m/13,632ft to 4033m/13,232ft

• Distance: 9.2km/5.7mi

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: High Alpine Zone

After breakfast, begin your climb up the scenic Buffalo Ridge. Enjoy the striking views as you make your way to Pofu Camp, where a hearty lunch awaits. This route joins the less-traveled Rongai Route, offering a tranquil experience through remote valleys. The day's hike is relatively short, making it ideal for acclimatization. This slower pace allows you to adjust to the altitude and fully appreciate the stunning, untouched landscapes. After lunch, continue your trek to the Rongai Third Cave, arriving by mid-afternoon for some well-deserved rest.

• Elevation: 4033m/13,232ft to 3936m/12,913ft

• Distance: 6.8km/4.3mi

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today's journey involves a steady climb up and over the "Saddle," the expansive area between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. You'll trek southwest to School Hut, situated at 4,800 meters. The ascent is manageable but be sure to pace yourself and stay hydrated.

Upon arrival at School Hut, you'll enjoy an early dinner and then rest, as the summit attempt begins just before midnight. Prepare all your gear in advance, including warm clothing, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera. This preparation is crucial for the final push to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, the highest point in Africa.

• Elevation: 3936m/12,913ft to 4717m/15,476ft

• Distance: 4.8km/3mi

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Glacial Zone

Begin your final ascent between midnight and 2 a.m. for the most exhilarating part of your Kilimanjaro adventure. With an early wake-up, you'll start the climb with a personal guide assigned to each pair of climbers, ensuring your safety and monitoring your physical and mental condition throughout the journey.

After 5-6 hours of challenging but rewarding climbing, you'll arrive at Gilman's Point (5,681 meters). Here, you'll witness a stunning sunrise, a truly magical experience. For those feeling strong, it's just another 2 hours to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent.

Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, you'll be rewarded with an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and breathtaking panoramic views. Congratulations! You've conquered the Northern Circuit and stood atop the roof of Africa.

After celebrating and taking in the spectacular scenery, you'll begin your descent. Head back down to Barafu Camp for a much-needed rest and a warm lunch. Once rejuvenated, continue your descent to Millennium Camp, where you'll spend the night and reflect on your incredible achievement.

• Elevation: 4717m/15,476ft to 5895m/19,341ft

• Distance: 5-6 hours ascent, 3-4 hours descent

• Habitat: Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit

The final day of your Kilimanjaro expedition is a rewarding and reflective journey. You'll embark on a short hike through the dense Montana rainforest, descending from Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters). This trek offers a serene and scenic walk, allowing you to soak in the lush surroundings one last time.

Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you'll sign out with the park authorities and receive your official summit certificates. Those who reached Gilman's Point will be awarded a green certificate, while those who made it to Uhuru Peak will receive a prestigious gold certificate, marking your incredible achievement.

After the certificate ceremony, a vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you'll debrief with your crew, sharing stories and celebrating your successful climb. Enjoy a well-deserved rest, reflecting on your remarkable journey to the roof of Africa.

• Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft

• Distance: 9.1km/6mi

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

As your adventure comes to an end, it's time to say goodbye. Check out of your accommodation by 11 am, and enjoy a seamless transfer to the airport provided by one of our friendly Morning Glory team members. We hope you had an unforgettable experience and look forward to welcoming you back soon! Safe travels!