{"id":6379,"date":"2025-04-12T21:39:14","date_gmt":"2025-04-12T18:39:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/raptorsafariandtours.co.tz\/?page_id=6379"},"modified":"2025-04-19T20:08:42","modified_gmt":"2025-04-19T17:08:42","slug":"northern-circuit-route","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/raptorsafariandtours.co.tz\/index.php\/mt-kilimanjaro-trekking\/northern-circuit-route\/","title":{"rendered":"Northern Circuit Route"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Mount Kilimanjaro<\/span>Northern Circuit Route 8 & 9 Days<\/span><\/h1>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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The Northern Circuit, at 98 km (61 miles), circles Kilimanjaro\u2019s northern slopes, offering a 95% summit success rate due to its gradual ascent. From rainforest to remote moorlands, it\u2019s the quietest route, with views of Kenya\u2019s plains and Rongai\u2019s rugged beauty. Perfect for those seeking solitude and a comprehensive trek.<\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Difficulty<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span>: <\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Moderate (8 days) to Low-Moderate (9 days)<\/div>
Technical Data<\/span><\/span><\/span>: <\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>
  • 8-Day<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong>:<\/strong> ~12.3 km\/day, 4,900 m (16,076 ft) total elevation gain, max daily gain ~700 m.<\/span><\/span><\/li>
  • 9-Day<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong>: <\/strong>~10.9 km\/day, extra night at Third Cave (3,945 m).
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    Discover the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro with our Northern Circuit Route, offered in both 8-day and 9-day itineraries, each crafted to provide an exceptional trekking experience. This renowned route, traversing the mountain\u2019s scenic northern slopes, balances challenge with optimal acclimatization. The 8-day option delivers a streamlined ascent through diverse terrains, perfect for those seeking an efficient yet rewarding climb to Uhuru Peak. For a more measured journey, the 9-day itinerary includes an additional acclimatization day, enhancing summit success while allowing time to savor the remote beauty.<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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      8 Days Route<\/h3> \n <\/li>\n
    • \n \n <\/i> \n 9 Days Route<\/span> \n <\/li>\n \n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n \n
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      Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp<\/h4>
      • Elevation: 2,100 m (6,890 ft) to 2,750 m (9,022 ft)<\/li>
      • Distance: ~6 km (3.7 miles)<\/li>
      • Duration: 3\u20134 hours<\/li><\/ul>

        Welcome to the wild north side, champ! We kick things off at Londorossi Gate, where you\u2019ll check in with your Discount Treks crew and dive into the lush rainforest. This 3-4 hour stroll to Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2,750 meters is your warm-up\u2014think towering trees, monkey calls, and a cozy tent waiting to kickstart your Kilimanjaro saga.<\/p>

        Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp<\/h4>
        • Elevation: 2,750 m (9,022 ft) to 3,600 m (11,811 ft)<\/li>
        • Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)<\/li>
        • Duration: 5\u20136 hours<\/li><\/ul>

          Say goodbye to the forest as you climb into the moorland zone, where the views explode wide open. This 5-6 hour trek to Shira 1 Camp at 3,600 meters dishes out your first big taste of Kilimanjaro\u2019s majesty, with Kibo Peak teasing you in the distance. Crash here under a sky that\u2019ll make you feel like the adventure\u2019s just begun.<\/p>

          Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp<\/h4>
          • Elevation: 3,600 m (11,811 ft) to 3,850 m (12,631 ft)<\/li>
          • Distance: ~6 km (3.7 miles)<\/li>
          • Duration: 3\u20134 hours<\/li><\/ul>

            Day three\u2019s a chill cruise across the Shira Plateau, a 3-4 hour jaunt to Shira 2 Camp at 3,850 meters. The landscape\u2019s wide and wild, with epic vistas stretching out like a postcard you can\u2019t stop staring at. It\u2019s a short day to ease you into the altitude\u2014perfect for soaking in the vibes and prepping for the northern haul.<\/p>

            Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut<\/h4>
            • Elevation: 3,850 m (12,631 ft) to 4,200 m (13,780 ft)<\/li>
            • Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)<\/li>
            • Duration: 5\u20137 hours<\/li><\/ul>

              Now we\u2019re swinging north! This 5-7 hour trek to Moir Hut at 4,200 meters takes you off the beaten path, skirting the mountain\u2019s wilder side through rugged moorland. The views of Kibo\u2019s northern face are unreal, and the solitude\u2019s a bonus\u2014just you, me, and the mountain. Rest up here; we\u2019re building altitude and grit.<\/p>

              Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp<\/h4>
              • Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) to 4,020 m (13,189 ft)<\/li>
              • Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)<\/li>
              • Duration: 5\u20137 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                Day five\u2019s a 5-7 hour rollercoaster through the northern circuit\u2019s untamed beauty, dropping slightly to Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters. You\u2019ll weave through alpine desert and rocky trails, with the mountain\u2019s vastness hitting you from every angle. It\u2019s remote, it\u2019s raw, and it\u2019s yours\u2014crash here and feel the summit calling.<\/p>

                Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp<\/h4>
                • Elevation: 4,020 m (13,189 ft) to 3,900 m (12,795 ft)<\/li>
                • Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)<\/li>
                • Duration: 4\u20136 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                  We\u2019re looping the north side now, trekking 4-6 hours to Third Cave Camp at 3,900 meters. The trail dips and rolls through stark terrain, giving your body a breather while keeping the acclimatization game strong. This 8 km stretch is all about pacing\u2014pole pole, my friend\u2014and soaking in the quiet majesty of this less-traveled route.<\/p>

                  Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut<\/h4>
                  • Elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 ft) to 4,750 m (15,584 ft)<\/li>
                  • Distance: ~5 km (3.1 miles)<\/li>
                  • Duration: 4\u20135 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                    It\u2019s summit prep day! This 4-5 hour climb to School Hut at 4,750 meters ramps up the altitude, setting you up just below Kibo\u2019s peak. The landscape\u2019s barren and bold, with the summit teasing you closer than ever. Rest early, fuel up, and get psyched\u2014midnight\u2019s when we make our move for the top!<\/p>

                    Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp<\/h4>
                    • Elevation: 4,750 m (15,584 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) to 3,100 m (10,171 ft)<\/li>
                    • Distance: ~22 km (13.7 miles)<\/li>
                    • Duration: 11\u201314 hours (6\u20138 hours ascent, 5\u20136 hours descent)<\/li><\/ul>

                      Summit day\u2019s here\u2014let\u2019s roll! We launch at midnight from School Hut, grinding up 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, catching the sunrise over Africa\u2019s rooftop. After epic pics and a victory cheer, we bomb down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters in one long, 11-14 hour haul. It\u2019s a beast, but you\u2019ll crash in camp buzzing with summit glory!<\/p> <\/div>\n\t\t \n

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                      Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp<\/h4>
                      • Elevation: 2,100 m (6,890 ft) to 2,750 m (9,022 ft)<\/li>
                      • Distance: ~6 km (3.7 miles)<\/li>
                      • Duration: 3\u20134 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                        Here we go, summit seeker! We start at Londorossi Gate, diving into the rainforest for a 3-4 hour trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2,750 meters. The trail\u2019s alive with wildlife and dripping with green\u2014your first taste of the Northern Circuit\u2019s wild charm. Settle in, soak it up, and get ready for the epic ride ahead.<\/p>

                        Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp<\/h4>
                        • Elevation: 2,750 m (9,022 ft) to 3,600 m (11,811 ft)<\/li>
                        • Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)<\/li>
                        • Duration: 5\u20136 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                          Wave bye to the trees as you climb 5-6 hours into the moorland zone, landing at Shira 1 Camp at 3,600 meters. The views crack open wide, with Kibo Peak flexing in the distance like it\u2019s daring you to come closer. This stretch sets the tone for the northern adventure\u2014big, bold, and begging to be conquered.<\/p>

                          Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp<\/h4>
                          • Elevation: 3,600 m (11,811 ft) to 3,850 m (12,631 ft)<\/li>
                          • Distance: ~6 km (3.7 miles)<\/li>
                          • Duration: 3\u20134 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                            Day three\u2019s a breezy 3-4 hour hop across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp at 3,850 meters. The landscape\u2019s a stunner\u2014wide-open and wild, with Kilimanjaro\u2019s northern face stealing the show. It\u2019s a short day to keep you fresh and acclimating, soaking in the vibes before we swing deeper into the circuit.<\/p>

                            Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut<\/h4>
                            • Elevation: 3,850 m (12,631 ft) to 4,200 m (13,780 ft)<\/li>
                            • Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)<\/li>
                            • Duration: 5\u20137 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                              We\u2019re veering north now, trekking 5-7 hours to Moir Hut at 4,200 meters through rugged moorland that feels like Kilimanjaro\u2019s secret backyard. The views of Kibo\u2019s northern slopes are unreal, and the solitude\u2019s pure gold. This stretch builds your altitude game\u2014rest up here and feel the summit buzz growing.<\/p>

                              Day 5: Moir Hut \u2013 Acclimatization Day<\/h4>
                              • Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) \u2013 no significant change<\/li>
                              • Distance: Optional hike (~4-6 km \/ 2.5-3.7 miles round trip)<\/li>
                              • Duration: Rest day, optional 2\u20133 hours trekking<\/li><\/ul>

                                Here\u2019s your ace in the hole\u2014an acclimatization day at Moir Hut! Chill at 4,200 meters, letting your body sync with the altitude, or join me for an optional 2-3 hour hike to stretch your legs and scope the northern wilds. This extra day\u2019s your ticket to summit success, wrapped in a high-altitude chill session.<\/p>

                                Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp<\/h4>
                                • Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) to 4,020 m (13,189 ft)<\/li>
                                • Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)<\/li>
                                • Duration: 5\u20137 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                                  Day six is a 5-7 hour trek through the northern circuit\u2019s untamed heart, dipping to Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters. The trail\u2019s a wild mix of alpine desert and rocky paths, with Kilimanjaro\u2019s vastness hitting you from every side. It\u2019s remote, raw, and totally yours\u2014crash here and let the summit fever build.<\/p>

                                  Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp<\/h4>
                                  • Elevation: 4,020 m (13,189 ft) to 3,900 m (12,795 ft)<\/li>
                                  • Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)<\/li>
                                  • Duration: 4\u20136 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                                    We\u2019re circling the north side, trekking 4-6 hours to Third Cave Camp at 3,900 meters. The trail weaves through stark terrain, giving your body a gentle break while keeping the acclimatization on point. This 8 km stretch is all about pacing\u2014slow and steady wins the race\u2014and soaking in the northern route\u2019s quiet, rugged charm.<\/p>

                                    Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut<\/h4>
                                    • Elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 ft) to 4,750 m (15,584 ft)<\/li>
                                    • Distance: ~5 km (3.1 miles)<\/li>
                                    • Duration: 4\u20135 hours<\/li><\/ul>

                                      Summit\u2019s in sight! This 4-5 hour climb to School Hut at 4,750 meters cranks up the altitude, parking you just below Kibo\u2019s peak. The landscape\u2019s barren and bold, with the summit daring you to make your move. Rest early, chow down, and get pumped\u2014midnight\u2019s when we storm the top!<\/p>

                                      Day 9: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp<\/h4>
                                      • Elevation: 4,750 m (15,584 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) to 3,100 m (10,171 ft)<\/li>
                                      • Distance: ~22 km (13.7 miles)<\/li>
                                      • Duration: 11\u201314 hours (6\u20138 hours ascent, 5\u20136 hours descent)<\/li><\/ul>

                                        It\u2019s go time, legend! We blast off at midnight from School Hut, powering up 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, nailing the sunrise over Africa\u2019s crown. After summit selfies and a victory roar, we drop down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters in one epic 11-14 hour push. It\u2019s a grind, but you\u2019ll hit the sack buzzing with top-of-the-world vibes!<\/p> <\/div>\n\t\t <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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                                        • Two nights accommodation in Hotel<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Private transport to \/ from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel in Moshi<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Qualified guides with mountain crew<\/span><\/li>
                                        • National park fees<\/span><\/li>
                                        • 18% VAT on tour fees and services<\/span><\/li>
                                        • All camping equipment; mountain tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Transport<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Rescue fees<\/span><\/li>
                                        • All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch and dinner)<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Guides and porters\u2019 accommodations and their entry fees on the mountain<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Pulse oximeter<\/span><\/li>
                                        • First aid kit<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Emergence oxygen<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Clean filtered water through the trek<\/span><\/li>
                                        • Fair wages to guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                          • Flights<\/span><\/li>
                                          • Visa<\/span><\/li>
                                          • Insurance<\/span><\/li>
                                          • Tips to mountain crew<\/span><\/li>
                                          • Personal Items<\/span><\/li>
                                          • Laundry services (available at the hotel for cost)<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                            Deposit Payment<\/strong><\/h3>
                                            • Deposit is 20% of the total booking amount.<\/li>
                                            • Deposit can be paid via an online card payment or through bank transfer.<\/li>
                                            • Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.<\/li><\/ul>

                                              Balance Payment<\/strong><\/h3>
                                              • Balance can be paid via online card payment, bank transfer or with cash.<\/li>
                                              • Card Payment or bank transfer can be done 7 days prior to the tour date (recommended 14 days prior).<\/li>
                                              • Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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                                                ENQUIRE THIS TOUR<\/h5>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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