Northern Circuit Route

Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Distance: 6 km | 4 miles

Habitat: Rain Forest

We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.

We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.

We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.

As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave.

We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we make camp, rest and enjoy dinner while preparing for the summit day.

A gentle walk takes us down through the rain forest to Mweka gate where successful climbers will receive their summit certificates. After lunch we drive back to Arusha and meet our team for feedback of your trekking. Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate: 3-5 hours walking.

We make our descent going straight down to Mweka Camp, which is situated in the upper forest. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Later in the evening, we have our last dinner on the mountain.

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. A vehicle takes us back to the hotel in Moshi, where we receive our summit certificates.

Today after breakfast your transfer driver will pick you up and drive to Kilimanjaro airport for your return flight, Breakfast.