The Grand Traverse
The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It circles the quiet northern slopes, offering trekkers nearly 360 degrees of incredible scenery, including views into Kenya. Because it is a 9-day trek, it offers the best acclimatization of any route, resulting in the highest success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak.
Registration at Londorossi Gate followed by a drive to the Lemosho glades. We begin hiking through the lush rainforest. The trail is often wet and muddy, but teeming with wildlife and exotic flora.
We leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone. You will cross the Shira Ridge and enjoy expansive views of the plateau before dropping into Shira 1 Camp for the evening.
A steady walk across the Shira Plateau. We pass the "Cathedral" rock formations and explore the high-altitude moorland. This gentle day is excellent for your body's adjustment to the altitude.
The trek heads north toward the Lent Group and the jagged peaks of Moir Hut. This area is rarely visited by other trekkers. Optional afternoon walks to the Lent Hills provide great acclimatization.
A climb out of the Moir Valley followed by a series of moderate inclines and declines. We traverse the northern slopes with spectacular views of the Kenyan plains below until we reach Buffalo Camp.
Continuing through the high-altitude desert, we head toward the Third Cave. The route feels very remote and quiet compared to the southern side of the mountain. The air is crisp and the vistas are wide.
A steady ascent to School Hut, located at the base of the Kibo peak. We spend the afternoon resting and preparing our summit gear. Early dinner and sleep before the midnight push.
Summit bid starts at midnight. We reach Gilman's Point at dawn, then follow the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. After standing on the highest point in Africa, we descend to Mweka Camp for our final night.
Final descent through the tropical rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificates and meet your driver for the transfer back to Arusha for celebration.