9 Days Northern Circuit Luxury

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp | 6km/4mi

After your breakfast and a briefing, you will proceed to Londorosi Park Gate, approximately a 3-hour drive from Moshi town. From this point, a forest track accessible only by a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades. Traverse forest trails to reach the Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Campsite by evening.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp | 8km/5mi

Following breakfast, our journey persists as the path gradually inclines, entering the expansive heather moorland zone. After traversing numerous streams, we proceed over the Shira Ridge, followed by a gentle descent to reach Shira 1 Camp. This campsite is strategically positioned by a stream on the picturesque Shira Plateau.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira Camp 2 | 8km/5mi

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.

Shira Camp 2 to Moir Camp | 6km/3mi

This day is a long trek heading east which passes through the arden of the Seneciosand then enters the high alpine desert zone. The morning is spent trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark 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 acclimatisation process.

Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp | 12km/7mi

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.

Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave | 8km/5mi

Commencing the day, our journey involves ascending the Buffalo Ridge and descending into Porfu Camp, typically where lunch is enjoyed. The path thereafter advances eastward, encircling the northern slopes and leading to the Rongai Third Cave. This day's trek is shorter than the previous, benefiting from your improved altitude acclimatization. Anticipate reaching the Third Cave by mid-afternoon.

Third Cave to School Hut | 15km/8mi

The day's route comprises a gradual ascent that takes you across the saddle nestled between the summits of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Subsequently, trekkers proceed with a south-westward walk towards School Hut. Upon reaching School Hut, you'll be treated to an early dinner, followed by a period of rest, for shortly before midnight, you'll set out on your summit endeavor. Prior to retiring for the night, ensure all your equipment, such as warm attire, insulated water containers, snacks, headlamp, and camera, is meticulously prepared.

School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp | 17km/9.5mi

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 of 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.

Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel | 10km/6mi

After having breakfast, we'll continue our journey downhill to the Mweka Park Gate, where you'll receive your well-deserved summit certificates. As you descend to lower areas, things might get a bit wet and muddy, so using gaiters and trekking poles can be really helpful. You can likely wear shorts and t-shirts in this warmer environment, but it's good to keep rain gear and some warmer clothing easily accessible.

When you arrive at the Mweka Gate, our Ascend Tanzania vehicle will be ready for you. It will take about 60 minutes to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi, allowing you to relax and reminisce about your