Overview
Itinerary
Excursion
Equipment
Included
Overview
Starts at: Moshi
Ends at: Moshi
Country: Tanzania
Max Altitude: 5895 M
Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Activity: Sightseeing and High Altitude Trekking
Best Season: January to Mid-March, June, July, August, September, October & December.

Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Overview


Bujo Tours offers the opportunity to experience the most recent route on Kilimanjaro. On an 11 day schedule of Northern Circuit route, not only you would encounter the newest routes but also you would have the opportunity to trek through the most visually diverse routes to summit “Uhuru”:  the Kilimanjaro top. To get at the top you have to hike to the optimal altitude.

 

As a result, the Northern Circuit Route has the best chance of reaching the summit than all routes. The spectacular scenery mixed with the pristine wilderness and desert along the way would mesmerize you. Take a look at our itinerary and read what awaits you on the unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure:

Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to the hotel
  • Day 2: Londorossi Gate (2350m) to MtiMkubwa (2750m) Hiking time: 3 hours, Distance: 7 km,Height gain
  • Day 3: MtiMkubwa (2,750m) to Shira Camp 1 (3,550m) Walking time: 6-7 hours, Distance: 10 km, Height gain
  • Day 4: Shira Camp 1 (3,550m) to Shira Camp 2 (3,840m) Walking time: 3-4 hours, Distance: 8 km, Height gain
  • Day 5: Shira Camp 2 (3840 m) to the Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m) Walking time: 5-7 hours, Distance: 14 km, Height gain
  • Day 6: Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m) to the Buffalo Camp (4020 m) Walking time: 5 – 7 hours, Distance: 12 km, Height loss
  • Day 7: Buffalo Camp (4020 m) to Third Cave (3870 m) Walking time: 5 – 7 hours, Distance: 8 km, Height loss
  • Day 8: Third Cave Camp (3870 m) to School Hut (4,800 m) Hiking time: 4 – 6 hours, Distance: 6 km, Height gain
  • Day 9: School Hut (4,800 m) to Mweka Camp (3060 m) Hiking time: 11 – 15 hours, Distance: 19 km, Height gain:1095m,Heightloss: 2835m
  • Day 10: Mweka Camp (3060 m) to Mweka Gate (1,640 m) to Moshi Walking time: 3 – 4 hours, Distance: 10 km, Height loss
  • Day 11: Moshi to Kilimanjaro airport
Itinerary

Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport to the hotel

You will be warmly welcome at the airport by our driver who will take you to the hotel in Moshi. After reaching the hotel your Kilimanjaro orientation will be done by your guide. Our expert team will discuss with you all the important details of your route and give you final tips for a successful hike. Your hiking equipment will then be thoroughly checked and you may be able to borrow missing equipment. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 2: Londorossi Gate (2350m) to MtiMkubwa (2750m) Hiking time: 3 hours, Distance: 7 km,Height gain:

450m You start early in the day! After breakfast, head to the Londorossi Gate with your mountain team. The three hour drive is a remarkable cultural experience, traversing the fascinating cities of BomaN’gombe and SanyaJuu. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro National Park, the authorities will register you for your trek as our team prepares everything for your ascent. Take the time and get to know all the members of your crew, including your porters and the cook. After registration, continue up the hill to the starting point of your hike. On the first leg of your Kilimanjaro ascent, you’ll wander through untamed wilderness, past ancient and exotic plant species. Black and white colobus monkeys bounce through the lush rainforest, while you may catch a glimpse of larger mammals such as elephants or buffaloes. Your destination for the day is MtiMkubwa Camp (2750 m), where you can relax for the rest of the day.

Day 3: MtiMkubwa (2,750m) to Shira Camp 1 (3,550m) Walking time: 6-7 hours, Distance: 10 km, Height gain:

800m The day starts on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro and you have the longest and most spectacular day ahead of you. You will pass through the last sections of the rainforest before the majestic barren landscape of the Moorland Zone pops up in front of you. Marvel at rare plant species, including the giant purple lobelia and the wild vegetation. Wander through the massive Shira Plateau, the remains of an ancient volcanic crater. You will then cross the Shira Ridge on the slopes of Shira Camp 1 (3,600m) where your crew will pitch up for you.

Day 4: Shira Camp 1 (3,550m) to Shira Camp 2 (3,840m) Walking time: 3-4 hours, Distance: 8 km, Height gain:

290m After a warm breakfast, you will continue your scenic hike through the moorland. Few visitors have frequented this section of Kilimanjaro, allowing you to fully experience its pristine beauty. Along the Shira Plateau, you will be greeted by a truly breathtaking view of the top of Kilimanjaro, before you reach Shira Camp 2 (3810 m). The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the spectacular area, including the iconic Shira Cathedral, a towering volcanic stone formation. Your guide will take you on a short hike to help you get used to the altitude.

Day 5: Shira Camp 2 (3840 m) to the Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m) Walking time: 5-7 hours, Distance: 14 km, Height gain:

610m On your fifth day the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route takes you to the High Alps Desert on the east side. Here you join with two of the famous routes such as the Lemosho and the Machame before a lonesome walk. You would have an opportunity to marvel at various desert plant species and the iconic shark-tooth volcanic rock formation on the way to the Lava Tower. The hike to the Lava Tower involves smooth acclimatization to the altitude. The end of the day is in sight as soon as you discover the Moir Camp (4,200 m) behind the magnificent Lent Hills. There you can put your feet up and enjoy a hot meal.

Day 6: Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m) to the Buffalo Camp (4020 m) Walking time: 5 – 7 hours, Distance: 12 km, Height loss:

180m The refreshing mountain air has a revitalizing effect and gives energy for the further ascent. After breakfast, continue your trek from the Moir Valley. Take a short diversion to the top of Lent Hill to admire the view before continuing on the Northern Circuit Trail. You would walk along hilly terrain until you reach the Buffalo Camp. Relax for the night on a breathtaking campsite watching the gigantic views of views of the Kenyan plains.

Day 7: Buffalo Camp (4020 m) to Third Cave (3870 m) Walking time: 5 – 7 hours, Distance: 8 km, Height loss:

150m Your Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit adventure continues with a restful morning up to the top of the Buffalo Ridge, after lunch you will continue to pace eastwards through the Alpine landscape, the vegetation will become increasingly sparse Rongai Third Cave Camp. At this time of your Kilimanjaro climb, you are fully acclimatized.

Day 8: Third Cave Camp (3870 m) to School Hut (4,800 m) Hiking time: 4 – 6 hours, Distance: 6 km, Height gain:

930m This is the last leg of the hike before the final climb to the top of Kilimanjaro. The highlight of the day will be the hike up and over “The Sattle,” a lunar landscape that lies between the Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. You will then travel southwest to School Hut (4,800 m). Your guides will give you a final briefing on the early morning summit hike.

Day 9: School Hut (4,800 m) to Mweka Camp (3060 m) Hiking time: 11 – 15 hours, Distance: 19 km, Height gain:1095m,Heightloss: 2835m

Your last morning on the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route is an early start to the day. You and your mountain guide wander through the darkness of the night towards the main crater rim, to Gilman’s Point. Here you can enjoy a warm cup of tea before relaxing and enjoy the view of the surrounding glaciers. You reach the summit of Kilimanjaro in time to catch the sunrise, one of the most spectacular natural scenery. A feeling of exhilaration will inspire you, you have made it to the highest point of Africa, the Uhuru Peak. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the view before you begin your descent along the crater rim. The Mweka Camp is your last stop of the journey. Fall into a triumphant sleep and admire one last time the starry night sky.

Day 10: Mweka Camp (3060 m) to Mweka Gate (1,640 m) to Moshi Walking time: 3 – 4 hours, Distance: 10 km, Height loss:

1420m The last hike is short and takes you to the Mweka Gate. You will be greeted by your Bujo Tours driver, who will take you back to the property, where you will find a hot shower, soft mattress and a range of clean clothes, as well as the ceremonial handover of your certificate.

Day 11: Moshi to Kilimanjaro airport

Our driver will take you to the airport from where you will take your return flight home. If you have decided on a safari, then start your second adventure, which we also like to take care of.

Excursion

Group Expeditions

The price per person for group expeditions are fixed based on a group size. However, we have optional arrangements for individual private and tailor-made preferences best suited for you, your family and friends.

See Group Booking Discount


SN GROUP SIZE PRICES
1 SOLO (1) Person US$ 3050
2 2 Peoples US$ 2650
3 3 Peoples US$ 2500
4 4 - 5 Peoples US$ 2450
5 6 - 8 Peoples US$ 2399
6 9 - 10 Peoples US$ 2250

Tailor Made Expeditions

Based on individual tour preference, Bujo tours welcomes ideas and all sorts of clients’ options for their expedition. Our consultation team will bring your ideas and options creating an unforgettable trip. For your Tailor booking requests, please Contact Us


 


Private Expeditions

We understand that some clients want their adventure expedition to be a private affair, so that it would enable them to spend some of their memorable moments with their near and dear ones at their own Schedule. Considering this, Bujo Tours organizes private journeys as well. For your private booking requests, please Contact Us

 

Equipment

Proper equipment is real extremely important to the success, comfort and safety of your trip.

Recommended clothing has four features;
Manages moisture
 – Wicks perspiration from your skin, use for the base layers.
Should be a durable – comfortable, insulating, breathable, soft fabrics are polarity wind, Gore-Tex wind stopper.
Windproof – waterproof and breathable like Gore-Tex or similar (outer layers)
Insulating material – should be down fill or synthetic-fill and fit cover all layers like, down, prim aloft and polar guard.

For sleeping:

3-4 season sleeping bag and silk liner(optional), on the mountain temperature can get down to zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18° C) at night, so bring a warm bag.
Sleeping pad, a closed cell form camping mattress is OK; an inflatable Thermo-Rest is more comfortable.

For the head and face:

  • Pile or a wool hat-Bring one that covers ears, a balaclava
  • Shade hat or cap and scarf to cover your neck
  • Dark sunglasses with strong UV protection (glacier glasses)
  • Sunscreen-30 SPF
  • Lip salve
  • Head torch(flashlight) with spare batteries

For the upper body:

  • T-shirts-Synthetics are the best approx 4.
  • Upper body layers-long sleeved thermal tops, a fleece/warm jumper (thick winter fleece) and a pile jacket.
  • Rain gear-Bring a good of Gore-tax or waterproof clothes.
  • Wind stopper (optional you can use rain gear)
  • Gloves for summit night (e.g. ski gloves with silk liner or down Mittens are ideal)
  • 25-35 liters day sack/rucksack with good waist strap to carry water, camera, snacks etc.

For the legs:

  • Quick dry hiking short.
  • Long underwear bottoms
  • Warm trousers/for the evening and summit day
  • Rain paints and wind paint as well.
  • Undergarment (enough for duration of the trek)

For the feet: 

  • Thin socks-Three pair of synthetic socks.
  • Thick socks-3/4 pairs of specialist trekking socks, one warm pair for summit day.
  • Hiking boot (one pair medium weight)
  • Gaiters-To keep dirt, scree and snow out of your boots.
  • Tennis shoes (to wear in the camp after a day of hiking)

For hydration:

  • Water bottles(minimum 2 liters) Camel back packs(with dust cup) Nalgene bottles, aluminum Sigg, Ideally one bottle should be able to contain hot liquids(optional)
  • Water treatment-Bring a water treatment. We will filtrate the water before you use.
  • Water flavoring (optional)

Additional Items:

  • Trekking poles
  • Camera/film or memory card, extra batteries
  • Casual clothes for traveling, spare day and celebration dinner.
  • Isotonic drink powder or tablets (optional)
  • Energy bars/chocolate/nuts or energy tablets
  • Plastic bags (to protect clothes from rain, for dirty washing, etc)
  • Sunglasses (spare)
  • Swiss army knife (optional)
  • Credit card (in case of emergencies) – let your credit card company know you are traveling to Tanzania
  • Money belt to be worn inside trousers or skirt
  • If you wear contact lenses it is advisable to also bring your glasses
  • Playing cards, reading material etc.

Health and Hygiene

  • High-factor sun cream (30SPF) and lip salve (mountain sun can be very strong)
  • Wet wipes
  • Antibacterial hand gel
  • Biodegradable nappy sacks (optional, but useful to store rubbish)
  • Personal toiletries (please only bring biodegradable products)
  • Earplugs (in case of snorers!)
  • Toilet paper (will be provided)
  • Lightweight trekking towel
  • Vaseline/talcum powder

Small Medical Kit

Although you will have a team Medically Trained Guide in your trip, it is advisable bring along a small personal medical kit.

  • Dimox (Accetomalozide) for altitude adjustment

Dexemethasone (Emergence medicine)

  • Antiseptic cream
  • Plasters (band-aids)
  • Lint wound dressing
  • Knee support
  • Crepe bandage
  • Safety pins
  • Pain killers (Paracetamol and ibuprofen)
  • Insect repellent
  • Deep heat ointment
  • Diareze/Imodium, Cipro and Pepto-Bismol
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Compeed blister plasters (Moleskin)
  • Malaria tablets /Malaron

Note: Malaron, Dimox and Dexamethasone are prescription medicine we highly recommending you to discuss with your Doctor. We are not carrying this medicine in our First Aid Kit.
Hiring any additional clothing upon booking we will provide equipment hiring price list, upon arrival in Moshi we will check over any clothing/equipment you have.
COTTON clothing must be avoided, because its dries very slowly, choose wool or synthetic fabrics that wicks the sweat and moisture from your skin.

Mountain medication (A few drugs that help AMS)

Note: Malaron and Dimox are prescription medicine we highly recommending you to discuss with your Doctor. We are not carrying this medicine in our First Aid Kit

Included

Price includes;

  • Park fees, camping fees, Hut fees & rescue fees
  • Twice a day medical health checkup, monitoring with pulse-oximeter and stethoscope with basic first kit
  • Oxygen Cylinder
  • Orientation meeting in Moshi and gear check as well.
  • 18% Value Added Tax on tour fees & services
  • Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mat, camp chairs, camp tables, mess tent & cutlery for meals) and 3 Season mountain tents
  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • Transportation to & from the mountain gate
  • Medically qualified mountain guides, cooks and porters
  • 3 Meals while on the mountain + evening tea with popcorn or peanuts.
  • Hot water for washing up daily and treated water for drink while climbing.
  • Pre & Post Trek accommodation in Moshi. Bed & Breakfast Basis with storage facilities for excess luggage during hikes.
  • Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
  • 3-4 porters per climber, which includes porters to carry up to 30 lbs of your personal gear.
  • Kilimanjaro certificate for your successful summit attempt.

Price excludes;

  • Flights
  • Tips to mountain crew
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Laundry Services
  • Entry visa for Tanzania

Bujo Tours and Safaris LTD lead your dream to the roof of Africa

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How much weight of equipment will I carry?

You are expected to carry your own day pack, with only things which should be able to sustain you until you reach the next camp at the end of the day. You do not need to carry your personal backpack/ duffel pack – It will be carried by our porters.

What if I am slower than the other trekkers?

No worries about that – this is a common concern. It is much better for your body if you proceed slowly and guides will permanently remind you about this (“pole-pole” – which means “slowly slowly”). By walking slowly, your body will much better acclimatize to high altitude. There is plenty of time allocated each day for the treks, even for those who like to go very slowly.

What if I cannot make it to the top?

Some climbers may fall short of reaching the summit, but not at the expense of their overall experience. Even for those who never reached the top, the experience of the wonders of Kilimanjaro is very rewarding. If one or more members of the group decide they cannot continue, or if a guide deems it unsafe for an individual (or a group) to continue, they are escorted to the most convenient campsite or Hut. Our guides intimately know the network of shortcuts to escort climbers to safety, and they are trained to act quickly and calmly under any circumstance.

What happens if someone in my group needs to descend?

We bring multiple guides on every climb so that when a climber needs to descend, it does not affect the rest of the party.

What is the accommodation like during trekking?

On the Marangu Route, there are simple basic Huts. The first 2 Huts sleep four people each and the last Hut is a dome-style with bunk beds. On all the other routes, you will sleep in 3 dome-style Tents, two people each. The Tents are modern and have an outer flysheet and large vestibules keep equipment from the elements. They are set up, broken down and carried- along with everything else- by our porters. There are public toilets set up at every campsite, but portable toilets are available upon request at the cost of $ 100 per group for the whole tour. Hot water is provided for each person every morning but no showers during trek. There will be dining tents with chairs and tables where all meals will be served. Before any meal, we will provide soap and hot water for washing your hands.

What is the food like on the mountain?

For each trek on the Mount a dedicated cook will be part of the logistical team. They are professional chefs and have the ability to prepare different kinds of dishes. Please see a sample page for Dietary Menu.

Evacuation on Mountain Treks

For those Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru should be rest assured of their safety. Kilimanjaro National Park has a general rescue platform that matches providing the necessities required for ground first response to safety or hospital that is compulsory payable and inclusive on the package.

However, on our circular work basis, Bujo Tours uses Kilimanjaro Search and Rescue Helicopter service for evacuation. Just a point to note, Kilimanjaro Search and Rescue is not an insurance company and they don't provide any insurance policy but rather work with different insurance service providers to ease their rescue missions for their clients on Mt. Kilimanjaro and Meru in Tanzania.

 

Requirement for a Helicopter Evacuation

For a successful helicopter evacuation on Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, one should acquire a travel insurance that covers medical evacuation up to 6000 meters above sea level. For Safari goers any travel insurance is applicable.

Bujo tours recommends and request all Clients who have a confirmed booking to send in a copy of their insurance policy to our travel experts before arrival dates to Tanzania. It helps us incorporate all the confirmations smoothly for a quick and immediate response with our service providers and experts.

Full Moon

When the peak of Kilimanjaro and magnificent glaciers are lit up by the full moon, the view is absolutely stunning. For this reason it is getting big in demand to plan your climb of Kilimanjaro so that you summit around the time of full moon. However a practical reason of summiting on or soon after full moon helps illuminate the landscape without using headlamps, a bright moon along with a clear sky will improve your visibility throughout your climb, and most importantly, during the summit attempt. It is very beautiful, but certainly not necessary for summiting the mountain. To summit on a full moon, you will need to start a 6 day trek four days before the full moon or three days if doing a five day trek.

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USD $ 2,650 Per Person

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