9 DAYS KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT

Over view

The Northern Circuit is the newest route up Kilimanjaro and also the longest. Because of its length, the Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate. The route follows the same as the Lemosho Route for the first two days and then veers off to circle around the quieter northern slopes to the east side of the mountain. Northern Circuit approaches the summit via Gilman's Point before descending on the same route as the Machame and Lemosho.

9 DAYS KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT

9 DAYS KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT
High Light

Duration: 9 days,

After breakfast and briefing, drive to Londorossi Park Gate (about a 3-hour drive). From here a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades. Walk along forest trails to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.

Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft

Distance: 6km/4mi

Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

Habitat: Montane Forest

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.
Meals Planed: DB

After breakfast, we continue as the trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone. After several streams are crossed we continue over the Shira Ridge then gently downwards to Shira 1 camp located by a stream on the Shira Plateau.

Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3500m/11,500ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation:
Meals Planed: restaurant for lunch

After breakfast, a gentle hike across the plateau leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. A variety of hikes are available on the Plateau, making this an excellent acclimatization day.

Elevation: 3500m/11,500ft to 3850m/12,600ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Shira 2 camp
Meals Planed: restaurant for lunch

This day is a long trek heading east which passes through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ and then enters the high alpine desert zone. The morning is spent trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where you will have lunch. After lunch you will join the Northern Circuit heading down to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This is an important day in your trek as you will get to experience high altitude and then sleep low, which is good for the acclimatization process.

Elevation: 3850m/11,500ft to 4200m/13780ft

Distance: 14km/8mi

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Moir camp
Meals Planed: DB

Today, we encountered a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. We can do an optional hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. From here the route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp.

Elevation: 4200m/13,780ft to 4020m/13,188ft

Distance: 12km/7mi

Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: High Alpine

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Moir Valley
Meals Planed: restaurant for lunch

We start the day with a climb up the Buffalo ridge and down into Porfu Camp where lunch is usually served. The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave. The trek is shorter than the day before and by now you should be feeling well acclimated to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.

Elevation: 4020m/13,188ft to 3800m/12,467ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Climbing Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: High Alpine

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Porfu camp
Meals Planed: DB

Today involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Trekkers then continue walking south-west up to School Hut. After arriving at School Hut you will be served an early dinner and then you should get some shut-eye as you will be awoken before midnight to start your summit attempt. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp and camera before going to bed.

Elevation: 3800m/12,467ft to 4800m/15,748ft

Distance: 15km/8mi

Climbing Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: School Hut
Meals Planed: DB

You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness. Your first check-point is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break. The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), which will be around 5-6 hours after departing School Hut.

Take a moment to enjoy the approaching dawn and incredible view out and across to Mawenzi Peak, but remember you still have 2 hours trekking to reach Uhuru Peak so dig deep for the energy. The slope flattens as you head west around the crater rim and you should arrive at the summit at or just after sunrise.

Your stay here will be brief so get as many pictures as you can of the incredible views and surrounding glaciers. You will then retrace your steps back around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters) where you will turn south and head down the heavily screed slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters).

Most trekkers take a short break here before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for your final night on the mountain. In total you will be trekking for 14-16 hours on day eight so it is important to pace yourself, remain hydrated and keep your blood sugar levels up.

Elevation: 4800m/15,748ft to 5895m/19,340ft

Down to 3950m/12,959ft

Distance: 6km/3.5mi up / 11km/6mi down

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down

Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Millennium Camp
Meals Planed: DB

After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).

Monkey Adventures vehicle will be waiting for you at Mweka gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (around 60 minutes).

Elevation: 3950m/12,959ft to 1680m/5500ft

Distance: 10km/6mi

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Forest

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Mweka Gate to Hotel
Meals Planed: Moshi Hotel

Cancelation Procedure

10% Deposit payable upfront for budget camping and 30% for lodge. Remaining balance payable 20days or in arravil days for budget safari prior to trip departure. Free cancellation up to 30 days prior departure. No refund applicable within 10 days of departure..

Hot Information!

Payment Procedure

A deposit of 10% is required when booking this tour. The remaining balance will be charged 20 days prior departure. For any bookings within 2days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking.

Include

  • - Full board accommodation on the climbs and BB in Arusha
  • - All park entry fees, hut fees, rescue fees, Guide and porter's fees.
  • - Knowledgeable Mountain Guide and porters on climbs for professional trekking.
  • - Transport to and from the mountain gates.
  • - Cook and all kitchen utensils on the climb
  • - Service of an English speaking mountain guide (Tanzanian)
  • - Crew allowances and park entry fees - Government taxes
  • - Pickup and dropoff
  • - Drinking water and soft drinks

Exclude

  • -Flights
  • - Mountain Gears, (available for hire, $10@ item per trip)
  • - Visa, Travel Insurance and Intl. flights
  • - Extras i.e. laundry, telephone and internet
  • - Tips to the Crew (highly recommended)

Traveler Fq

What is included in your prices?
Our prices include hotel accommodations before and after the climb, transportation from the hotel to the trail and back, transportation from the airport to the hotel and back, Government tax, all park entry fees, 18% VAT on tour fees & services, Guide, porters and cook salaries, Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees, equipment like tents and chairs and tables, and meals on the mountain. Prices do not include flights, lunch, dinner or beverages at the hotel before &after climb, personal gear and equipment, or tips. Our prices are listed in US Dollars.
How many people are in a group climb?
Our group limit for climb is 10 people for those who book different to form a group.
Can you explain the dates of your group climbs?
If you are not spending any extra days before or after the climb, you should book your flight to land on the “Arrival Date” and leave on the “Departure Date”. The “Arrival Date” is the day before the climb begins. It represents the latest date you should be in Moshi. We have our trip briefings at 6:00pm at your hotel on this day, though we can schedule a personal trip briefing for you later in the evening or the next morning if you arrive late. The “Departure Date” is the day after you climb ends, after spending the night at the hotel.
What routes do you offer for group climbs?
We have group climbs on the 8 day Lemosho route, 7 day Rongai route, and 7 day Machame route. We specialize in Lemosho and Machame route so most of our group climbs are on these routes.
What is the difference between a group climb and private climb?
With a group climb, you will be in a party of up to10 climbers who have booked with us separately. Group climbs are scheduled for set dates on set routes. In a private climb, you will be in a party of people you specifically booked with (friends, family, etc.). Private climbs can be scheduled on any date you choose and on any route. There is no maximum number of climbers for a private climb. The service on the mountain is exactly the same.
Which routes do you recommend?
We recommend the 9 day Northern Circuit, 8 day Lemosho, and 7 day Rongai routes. These routes offer the best balance of high success rates, beautiful scenery and smaller crowds. 7 day Machame is a nice route as well, but has a lot of other climbers on it.
What is the best way to increase my chance of making it to the top, before the trip?
First and foremost, choose a longer route. 7 days should be the minimum and 8 or 9 days is even better. Next, put effort into your training and do it for at least two months, incorporating some long hikes if possible. Third, assemble the right gear for your climb. Lastly, consider using a high altitude training system to pre-acclimatize

What is high altitude training system?

Altitude training systems work by simulating the high altitudes found on Mount Kilimanjaro. The altitude training system reduces the percentage of oxygen in the air you breathe. Through regular use, the body undergoes physiological changes to cope with the lower oxygen level.

Without pre-acclimatization, as climbers ascend on Kilimanjaro, their bodies respond with short-termadaptations. These quick-response adaptations are meant primarily to prevent sickness and allow for some semblance of normal cardiovascular and muscular performance in an oxygen deprived environment.

Pre-acclimatization through altitude training systems produces long-term adaptations, such as an increase in red blood cells, blood volume, and efficiency of oxygen absorption. These adaptations help:

Increase recovery on the mountain. Breathing rates and oxygen intake decreases when the body is asleep. In an oxygen deficient environment, many people have difficulty sleeping. Pre-acclimatization enables people to sleep well, and thus, recover after physical activity.

Increase performance on the mountain. Pre-acclimatization significantly improves the body’s mechanisms for delivering oxygen to the muscles. The result is increased aerobic and anaerobic performance on Kilimanjaro, such as hiking strength and endurance.

Reduce the Incidence of Acute Mountain Sickness. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the main reason climbers fail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Most people will experience some symptoms of AMS. Pre-acclimatization can reduce or eliminate symptoms of AMS.

What is the best way to increase my chance of making it to the top, during the trip?
Avoiding altitude sickness is key. Do this by walking slowly. Drink lots of water and eat enough food. Go on all optional acclimatization hikes. Consider taking Diamox. Also prevent other illnesses by disinfecting your hands after every time you use the bathroom and before any meals.
What gear do I need for my climb?
There is a variety of technical clothing and equipment you will need for your climb as shown blow;
  • Technical Clothing
    1 – Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
    1 – Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
    1 – Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
    2 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
    1 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
    1 – Waterproof Pants, breathable (side-zipper recommended)
    2 – Hiking Pants (convertible to shorts recommended)
    1 – Fleece Pants
    1 – Shorts (optional)
    1 – Long Underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
    3 – Underwear, briefs (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
    2 – Sport Bra (women)

 

 

  • Headwear
    1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
    1 – Knit Hat, for warmth
    1 – Balaclava, for face coverage (optional)
    1 – Bandana (optional)

 

  • Handwear
    1 – Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)
    1 – Glove Liners, thin, synthetic, worn under gloves for added warmth (optional)

 

  • Footwear
    1 – Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces
    1 – Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
    3 – Socks, thick, wool or synthetic
    3 – Sock Liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (optional)
    1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)

 

  • Accessories
    1 – Sunglasses or Goggles
    1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
    1 – Poncho, during rainy season (optional)
    1 – Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz. recommended

1 – Water Bladder, Camelbak type (recommended)
1 – Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
Stuff Sacks or Plastic Bags, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate

 

  • Equipment
    1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons
    1 – Sleeping Bag Liner, for added warmth (optional)
    1 – Trekking Poles (recommended)
    1 – Head lamp, with extra batteries
    1 – Duffel bag, (waterproof recommended) for porters to carry your equipment.
    1 – Daypack, for you to carry your personal gear

Other
Toiletries
Prescriptions
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Insect Repellent, containing DEET

How much of my gear can my porter carry for me?
The weight limit is 20kgs .The sleeping bag is included in the limit. Porters will carry your duffel bag in a waterproof bag.
How much should my day pack weigh?
Try to keep it under 20 lbs. In fact, try to keep all of your belongings to under 40 lbs.
How should I dress for Kilimanjaro?

You should follow the layering principle when you dress. Layering is a systematic, logical approach to wearing multiple layers of clothing. The layers you will have are: base layer, mid layer, and outer shell.

What are those layers?

Base Layer

  • 2 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
  • 1 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
  • 1 – Long Underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
  • 3 – Underwear, briefs (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
  • 1 – Bandana (optional)
  • 1 – Balaclava
  • 3 – Sock liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn underneath to prevent blisters
  • 1 – Gloves, light, thin, synthetic, worn underneath for added warmth (optional)
  • 1 – Arm Warmers, synthetic (optional)

Mid Layer

  • 1 – Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
  • 1 – Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
  • 1 – Fleece Pants
  • 3 – Socks, thick, wool or synthetic
  • 2 – Hiking Pants* (convertible to shorts recommended)
  • 1 – Shorts* (optional) *considered mid layers simply because they are worn on top of the base layer (underwear).

Outer Layer

  • 1 – Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
  • 1 – Waterproof Pants, breathable (side-zipper recommended)
  • 1 – Knit Hat, for warmth
  • 1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
  • 1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)
  • 1 – Hiking Boots, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces
  • 1 – Gym shoes, to wear at camp
  • 1 – Gloves (waterproof recommended)
What rental gear is available?
We have all trekking gear and equipment for rent. You do not have to reserve them. You can acquire your rentals and pay for them at the trip briefing.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro is best climbed when the weather is dry. There are two rainy seasons in Tanzania. The long rainy season is from mid-March to early June. The short rainy season is from November to early December. Therefore the best times to climb Kilimanajro are mid-December to early-March, and mid-June to end of October.
If I climb during the dry season, do I need rain gear?
Yes. It can rain and snow all year round. The base of the mountain is in the rainforest. A quality waterproof jacket and pants is 100% must.
How cold does it get on the mountain?
In general, expect to sleep in temperatures as low as 20F and to hike in temperatures as low as -20F. It can be even colder. Be prepared.
What kind of food is prepared on the mountain?
We serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, which consist of western style meals.
Can you cater to special diets?
We can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets. For more specific requirements, we will try our best but please contact us to discuss.
How do I use the bathroom on the mountain?
Each campsite has public “long drop” toilets. If you need to use the bathroom on the trail, find a spot behind a tree or rock. We recommend bringing pee bottles so that you do not have to leave your tent multiple times during the night to urinate. Also we do arrange private toilet tent, which contains a plastic toilet for extra charges $ 70 if requested
How do I shower on the mountain?
You don’t. You can use wet wipes if you like to towel off. We also provide wash bins with soap for you to wash your hands and face.
What safety measures are taken by the staff?
Our guides are highly experienced to manage altitude sickness, which is the biggest obstacle on the mountain. They are certified Wilderness First Responders. They conduct twice daily health checks to measure your oxygen saturation and pulse. A rescue plan is in place in the event of an emergency. Bottled oxygen, Ox-meter and a first aid kit are carried on every climb.
What happens if someone in my group needs to descend? Does the entire party also have to descend?
No. We bring multiple guides on every climb so that when a climber needs to descend, it does not affect the rest of the party.
If I have to descend early, are the additional nights at the hotel covered?
Additional hotel stays are not covered and must be paid in country.
What do I need to enter Tanzania?
You will need a passport that is valid for at least six more months. You will also need a flight card which you will receive on the plane. Finally you need a Tanzanian visa.
Can I obtain my visa at the airport?
USA, Canadian, British and most European citizens can obtain their visas upon arrival at Kilimanjaro National Airport. The cost is $100 for USA passport holders and $50 for others. If you are a citizen of a different country, please check with your embassy whether you can obtain a visa upon arrival.
What vaccinations or immunizations do I need?

What vaccinations or immunizations do I need?

Nothing is required but many are recommended. A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Tanzania when arriving from countries where yellow fever is present.

The following vaccines may be recommended for your travel to East Africa. Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

  • Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG). Transmission of hepatitis A virus can occur through direct person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested in contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and that were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling.
  • Hepatitis B, especially if you might be exposed to blood or body fluids (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11-12 years who did not receive the series as infants.
  • Malaria: your risk of malaria may be high in all countries in East Africa, including cities. See your health care provider for a prescription antimalarial drug.
  • Meningococcal (meningitis) if you plan to visit countries in this region that experience epidemics of meningococcal disease during December through June.
  • Rabies, pre-exposure vaccination, if you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural areas, such as might occur during camping, hiking, or bicycling, or engaging in certain occupational activities.
  • Typhoid vaccine. Typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated drinking water or food, or by eating food or drinking beverages that have been handled by a person who is infected. Large outbreaks are most often related to fecal contamination of water supplies or foods sold by street vendors
  • Yellow fever, a viral disease that occurs primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America, is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus is also present in Panama and Trinidad and Tobago. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers to endemic areas and may be required to cross certain international borders (For country specific requirements, see Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirements and Information on Malaria Risk and Prophylaxis, by Country.). Vaccination should be given 10 days before travel and at 10 year intervals if there is on-going risk. · As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria, measles, and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.
Where do I fly into?
Our climbs begin and end in Moshi. Moshi is about 25 miles from Kilimanjaro National Airport (JRO). You should fly into Kilimanjaro National Airport and we can arrange for pick up.
Can I book a safari on the spot?
No, we must make preparations for your safari before your trip begins. All safaris must be pre-booked.
What gear do I need for the safari?
The only additional item you need for the safari is perhaps binoculars. Other than that, the clothing you have for your climb is sufficient.
When is the best time to see the migration?
The best time to see the migration in Tanzania is often January-March and June-August. In the Kenya, it is often best September-October. These are also the most popular times to go, so you will need to book well in advance. You will see an abundance of wildlife all year round.
What type of vehicles do you provide?
We use 4 or 6passengers, 4×4-wheel-drive Land Cruisers, all with viewing roofs for the safaris.
What is there to do in Moshi? Is it safe to walk around on my own?
It is safe to walk around the main area of town during the day with valuables well hidden, but it not advised to be walk around at night for your own safety.
Do your Tanzania trips include any transfer for those arriving in Nairobi, Kenya?
No, but we can schedule your transfer from Nairobi either by land or air for an additional charge.
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