9 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

Our thrilling expedition begins after a hearty breakfast and a briefing on our exciting trek ahead. We set out from the hotel and make our way to Londorossi Park Gate, a journey of about 3 hours. The rugged forest track requires a 4WD vehicle, leading us to the enchanting Lemosho Glades. Our first hike takes us through the mesmerizing Montane Forest trails, where we'll finally reach the Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.

After a satisfying breakfast, our journey continues with a gradual steepening of the trail, as we venture into the giant heather moorland zone. Crossing several streams, we trek over the Shira Ridge and gently descend to Shira 1 camp, located by a tranquil stream on the stunning Shira Plateau.

Today, we embark on a gentle hike across the picturesque plateau, leading us to Shira 2 camp, surrounded by moorland meadows and a serene stream. This day offers a wonderful opportunity for acclimatization, with various HIKING options available on the Plateau.

A significant day on our trek awaits! We set forth on a long trek heading east, passing through the enchanting 'Garden of the Senecios' and entering the high alpine desert zone. The morning is dedicated to hiking up to Lava Tower, where the iconic Shark's Tooth rock formation stands at 4,600 meters, and we pause here for lunch. Afterward, we join the Northern Circuit, heading down to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This strategic day allows us to experience high altitude and then sleep at a lower elevation, facilitating our acclimatization process

Today's journey involves a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. For the adventurous souls, an optional hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters awaits before rejoining the Northern Circuit trail. The route leads us around the northern slopes of Kibo, with several inclines and declines, guiding us to Buffalo Camp.

Today begins with a climb up the Buffalo ridge, followed by a descent into Porfu Camp for lunch. We then continue east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave, reaching our destination by mid-afternoon. By now, we should be well acclimated to the altitude, making this day's trek even more enjoyable.

We set out on a steady incline today, crossing the Saddle that lies between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Our route continues southwest, leading us to School Hut. Upon arriving, we will have an early dinner and prepare for the summit attempt, which will begin before midnight. It's essential to ensure that all gear, including warm clothing, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera, are ready before resting for the night.

Awoken around 11:30 PM with hot tea and biscuits, we commence the steep ascent up the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness. Our first checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave, where we take a brief break. The climb steepens as we approach Gilman's Point (5,681 meters), and after 5-6 hours of trekking, we are rewarded with breathtaking views and the approaching dawn. The slope eases as we head west around the crater rim, and finally, the moment we've been waiting for arrives – we reach the summit at or just after sunrise!

The slope eases as we head west around the crater rim, and finally, the moment we've been waiting for arrives – we reach the summit at or just after sunrise!