Exploring Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit: Route Map
Overview of Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit
Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit is a less traveled route that offers a more remote and less crowded experience for climbers looking to summit Africa’s highest peak. This route is known for its stunning views and diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and barren lunar landscapes near the summit.
The Northern Circuit is one of the longest routes up Kilimanjaro, typically taking around nine to ten days to complete. This extended itinerary allows climbers to acclimatize slowly and increase their chances of reaching the summit successfully. The route also offers a higher summit success rate compared to some of the more popular routes due to its gradual ascent profile.
Detailed Route Map and Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
The climb begins at the Londorossi Gate, where climbers will register before starting their trek through the lush rainforest zone. The first day’s hike is relatively easy, taking climbers to the Mti Mkubwa Camp at an elevation of 9,000 feet.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Climbers will continue their ascent through the rainforest and into the heather moorland zone. The trail offers stunning views of the Shira Plateau before reaching the Shira 1 Camp at 11,500 feet.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Today’s trek takes climbers through the alpine desert zone, with panoramic views of the Western Breach and Mount Meru in the distance. The Moir Hut, located at an elevation of 13,800 feet, offers a peaceful overnight stop.
Day 4: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp
Climbers will continue their ascent towards the Lava Tower, a striking rock formation at 15,000 feet. The trail then descends into the Barranco Valley before reaching the Pofu Camp at 12,500 feet.
Day 5: Pofu Camp to Buffalo Camp
The climb continues along the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking views of the Northern Icefields. Climbers will reach the Buffalo Camp at an elevation of 13,000 feet.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to School Hut
Today’s trek takes climbers through the alpine desert zone, with views of the Eastern Icefields and the summit cone. The School Hut, located at 15,500 feet, is the final camp before the summit push.
Day 7: School Hut to Uhuru Peak
The summit push begins in the early hours of the morning, with climbers navigating steep scree slopes and rocky terrain. After a challenging ascent, climbers will reach the summit of Uhuru Peak at 19,341 feet, the highest point on Kilimanjaro.
Day 8: Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
After celebrating their summit success, climbers will begin their descent down the Mweka Route. The trail passes through the rainforest zone before reaching the Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day of the trek takes climbers back through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate, where they will receive their summit certificates and celebrate their accomplishment.
For those interested in exploring Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit with Sunset Africa Safari, please contact info@sunsetafricasafari.com for booking inquiries. This remote and challenging route offers a unique and unforgettable climbing experience for those looking to conquer Africa’s highest peak.
