9 Days Northern Circuit

Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
• Distance: 6 km
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest
Departing from Moshi, we drive to Lemosho Gate, approximately a four-hour journey, for entry formalities. Our trek begins through pristine rainforest, where we may encounter unique flora and fauna, leading us to our first campsite.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

• Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Heath
Today, we leave the rainforest behind and enter a scenic savannah with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped in lichen. We cross the Shira Ridge, taking in panoramic views of Kibo, before descending gently to Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut

• Elevation: 11,500 ft to 13,800 ft
• Distance: 11 km
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Heath
We traverse the expansive Shira Plateau, one of the world’s highest plateaus, before reaching Moir Hut. This location offers excellent acclimatization with optional hikes around the area, allowing us to adapt to the altitude gradually.

Day 4: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

• Elevation: 13,580 ft to 13,200 ft
• Distance: 12 km
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
We leave Moir Valley, climbing towards Lent Hills for spectacular views. Crossing rock-strewn fields, the trail leads to Buffalo Camp, with views stretching across the plains to the Kenya-Tanzania border.

Day 5: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

• Elevation: 13,200 ft to 12,700 ft
• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Heath
Our route takes us up Buffalo Ridge and into an untouched wilderness on Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. This seldom-traveled path provides a sense of seclusion and rugged beauty as we approach Third Cave.

Day 6: Third Cave to School Hut

• Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft
• Distance: 5 km
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s climb leads us over the iconic Saddle, a high-altitude desert between Kibo and Mawenzi. Arriving at School Hut, we rest and prepare for the following day’s summit attempt.

Day 7: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (Summit) and Descent to Barafu Camp

• Elevation Gain: 15,600 ft to 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak)
• Distance to Uhuru: 6 km (plus 6 km descent to Barafu Camp)
• Summit Hiking Time: 6-8 hours to the peak, 3 hours descent
• Habitat: Arctic
Our summit day begins with an early start. Unlike the typical midnight ascent, our daylight summit allows you to climb in optimal light, witnessing the awe-inspiring landscapes at their best. Reaching Gilman’s Point, we enjoy an energizing break before our final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, we descend to Barafu Camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 8: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 15,331 ft to 10,000 ft
• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Habitat: Heather
Following a rewarding night, we continue our descent to Mweka Camp. Reflecting on our accomplishments, we’ll share stories and celebrate with a team gathering in the afternoon.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation: 10,065 ft to 6,000 ft
• Distance: 10 km
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest
Our final descent leads us back through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where certificates of achievement are awarded. A celebratory lunch and scenic drive back to Arusha conclude this unforgettable adventure.

The Advantages of a Daytime Summit
Opting for a daytime summit on Kilimanjaro offers substantial advantages over the traditional midnight ascent. Daylight allows the body to perform at its best, minimizing physical strain and ensuring peak energy levels. The stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, valleys, and far-reaching landscapes are fully visible, creating an unforgettable experience. Additionally, daylight temperatures are warmer, enhancing comfort and safety throughout the ascent.

With our experienced team, this daytime summit experience is designed for both safety and inspiration, letting you savor the wonder of Kilimanjaro under the full beauty of daylight. Join us to experience the top of Africa as few ever do