Norbert Safaris - Logo

9

DAYS

8

NIGHTS

Northern Circuit Route

9 Days Northern Circuit Route

meru climb

Route Overview

Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed using one of six well-known routes: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, and Umbwe. All three routes—Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe—advance from the mountain’s southern side. The west is where the Lemosho and Shira paths approach from. The Rongai route travels close to Kenya from the north. All routes descend via Mweka, excluding Marangu and Rongai.

One of the best routes on Kilimanjaro is the Northern Circuit, which offers nearly 360 degrees of breathtaking scenery, including the secluded, little traveled northern slopes. The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, allowing for the best acclimatization time and having the highest summit success rate.

The journey begins with a lengthy drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate as it makes its way toward Mount Kilimanjaro from the west. The first two days are spent making the trek from there through the rain forest to Shira Ridge and then across the Shira Plateau. The route then turns north and makes a clockwise loop from School Hut to Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp before ascending from the east.

Day to Day Iternerary

Day 1: Arrival Day

Kilimanjaro International Airport - Accommodation

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet a Norbert safaris representative, and transfer to the hotel under the rate. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening there will be a briefing with our managers, who will also make sure you are ready to trek Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route for 8 days.

Day 2: First Day Trekking

Londrosi Gate - Mti Mkubwa

The Kilimanjaro National Park Gate is a 45-minute drive from Moshi, passing through hospitable mountainside villages. We will wait patiently for the issuance of our permits while observing the flurry of activity as numerous crews get ready for the journey ahead. As your guide explains the local flora, fauna, and wildlife to you, take in the stunning rainforest scenery and winding trails. At these lower altitudes, the trail can be quite muddy and hazardous. Gaiters and trekking poles are highly advised here.

Day 3: Second Day Trekking

Mti Mkubwa - Shira 1 Camp

After a sound night’s sleep and a filling breakfast, we leave the rain forest and continue on an ascending path. The trail climbs steadily with expansive views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. The temperature starts to fall.

Day 4: Third Day Trekking

Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp

From Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp, we cross the Shira, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Along with climbers ascending via the Machame Route, nine-day climbs will spend the night at Shira II Camp. It is worth the extra effort to ascend a little further on the plateau at Shira II Camp to take in the breathtaking view of the valley below and the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above. Since the plateau is exposed, be ready for a chilly night with lows below zero. Keep in mind that 8 Day Climbs continue to the East to the Shira Plateau Ridge to Lava Tower (4,600 meters), then descend to Moir Camp (4,200 meters)

Day 5: Fourth Day Trekking

Shira 2 - Barranco Camp

This day is crucial for acclimatization even though you end it at a similar elevation to where you started. After leaving the Shira Plateau, we head east along a ridge, passing the turnoff for the Kibo peak, before heading south-east toward the “Shark’s Tooth” lava tower (4650m/15,250ft). We reach a second intersection, which leads to the Arrow Glacier, not far from the tower. We then keep descending to Barranco Camp for the night.

Day 6: Fifth Day Trekking

Barranco Camp - Buffalo Camp

Out of Moir Valley, we start with a moderately steep climb. You can make a short detour from the Northern Circuit trail here to Little Lent Hill’s 4,375-meter summit if you’d like. Buffalo Camp is reached by taking a series of inclinations and descents that skirt the northern slopes of Kibo. Views of the plains north of Mount Kilimanjaro that are breathtakingly beautiful and extend as far as the eye can see to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. Just after noon, you will arrive at Buffalo Camp, where you can have lunch and rest.

Day 7: Sixths Day Trekking

Buffalo Camp - Rongai 3rd Cave

On day six, the ascent up Buffalo Ridge is followed by a descent into Pofu Camp, where lunch is provided. To reach the Rongai Third Cave, we keep moving eastward around the northern slopes. Your acclimatization to the altitude should be improving by now, and today’s climb is shorter than the one from yesterday. You will reach the Third Cave just before midday.

Day 8: Sevenths Day Trekking

Rongai 3rd Cave - School Hut

steadily upward and over the saddle that connects Kibo Peak and Mawenzi Peak. Continue southwest to School Hut, where you will be given an early dinner and the rest before starting your summit attempt just before midnight. Before turning in for the night, don’t forget to set up your equipment, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, a headlamp, and a camera.

Day 9: Summit Day

School Hut - Summit

Departure from School Hut at night and the start of summiting Kilimanjaro: Uhuru Peak. Technically the climb is relatively simple; however, the most challenging part is the high altitude. Each pair of climbers will get a personal guide for the entire ascent to monitor your physical and mental conditions. After your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak – the top of Mount Kilimanjaro and the last point of the climb, Opportunity for Pictures and Celebrations. Then you will return to Barafu Camp and after a 2-hour rest continue to Mweka Camp for Dinner and Overnight

Day 10: Departure Date

From Moshi Town to Kilimanjaro International Airport

Today is your departure date, You Checkout is at 11:00 Am and according to your departure Time you can decide to book a addon Cultural Activity, Which are plenty in this Town. You can choose a Coffee Cultural Tour, Htspring relaxing Tour, Day Trip to Nearby National Parks or simply choose a Town Tour

Included

Excluded

Guest's Reviews

Nakul S
Nakul S
2022-12-13
Verified
Once in a lifetime experience Tanzania was a fantastic experience. We had an amazing time at all and were well taken care of by Norbert and his team even going the extra mile to assist us with our onward travels. He was very professional and kind and made the whole holiday stress free and wonderful. I would 100% recommend. Special thanks to Gabby as well for making sure we were safe and saw all the animals.
Anne Robin
Anne Robin
2022-12-04
Verified
Stepping into the savanna at Tarangire. The whole day at Tarangire, which is famous for its elephants and baobabs, was fantastic. It s hard to say what I liked best! It started early and as we drove from Arusha to Tarangire, I was able to ask Norbert, Ibasea and Philippe questions about Tanzania, their childhood and education and their lives today. As we got closer to the park, it was interesting to note how present in the region the Masai tribe is. We arrived early and until lunchtime hardly saw another car. Being so close to the animals, especially the elephants and the monkeys, but also the zebras, the impalas and the giraffes was an amazing experience. I also very much enjoyed listening to Philippe who shared his in-depth knowledge of the park, its animals, its trees and plants. Driving through the park was an amazing experience, vast expanses of land before us and in the horizon blue mountains. We stopped for lunch and out of the hamper came out the most delicious fish curry I d eaten in all the five weeks I’d been in Tanzania. Along with it came rice and tasty vegetables, wine and beer and fresh fruit. I can testify that out of the fifteen or twenty tables around us we had the most refined lunch! After lunch, we drove on and spotted a leopard, lazily sleeping under a tree. Finally we stopped near an ancient baobab, wide and beautiful, imposing and welcoming. We stepped into its insides and looking up I could not help to think of a cathedral. More beautiful. Majestic and ancient. The day ended towards the end of the afternoon and a week on I’m still processing the experience. It was a wonderful day and I look forward to exploring another park with Norbert s team in the future.
E W
E W
2022-10-15
Verified
Once in a lifetime experience šŸ™‚ We had an amazing time with Norbert safaris and can happily recommend the experience! Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater were breathtakingly beautiful and we got to see many animals (elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalos, hippos, zebras and many more!). Before, during and even days after the safari, Norbert was very attentive and caring. He is a lovely person and very professional. Because there weren't enough tourists for the tour dates we wanted to do, he arranged for us to go with a different tour operator. The evening before, he invited us to a wonderful meal and made us feel very comfortable. Thank you for this amazing experience! Asante sana šŸ™‚
Beatriz C
Beatriz C
2022-08-04
Verified
Un acierto seguro Un equipo de profesionales que harƔn que disfrutes de una gran aventura. Repetirƭa sin dudarlo. Gracias por hacer inolvidable la visita a las Materuni Waterfalls. Puntualidad,compromiso y calidad.
Mel Bertrand
Mel Bertrand
2022-07-07
Verified
An amazing adventure with the animals I went on Norbert’s safaris with my wife and three children with the youngest just graduating from high school. We went for 7 days at the end of June 2022. The trip was amazing. We went to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro crater and did a one day hike up the first leg of Mt Kilimanjaro where you go through a lush, mossy rain forest. We were in a land cruiser and saw so many animals up close. We saw a lot of lions in fact we saw two male lions in a tree and were no more than 20 feet away! We had one lion bump up against the vehicle. We also had a cheetah come very close to the car and got some great pics of him. Lots of hippos, zebras, elephants, giraffes, and many other animals. Even saw some crocs, rhinos, and two puff adders on the road. And yes, you are safe from the animals at all times. The driver made the trip so interesting. He answered all of our questions (we had a lot!) and knew all about the animals, the history, and the culture. He catered the trip to our needs and was fabulous at making special stops for us, getting us close to the animals, and showing much respect for the animals. He was like a family member. Most of the roads are not paved to keep the environment natural and not disturb the animals. So the safari will be bumpy, but the hotel accommodations make up for it. The people and service was off the charts. The food is very tasty and very similar to a Indian food. Not hot, but tasty with its spices. Lots of good tasting fruit. Best pineapple I ever had anywhere. In general, Tanzanians are wonderful people. They are very polite and kind. Even strangers are friendly and treat you so well. All the people have a great attitude and the place is very safe. My wife and daughter felt safe the entire time in Tanzania. No worries. It’s the best kept secret. So many travelers and tour people say that if you go on a safari, go to Tanzania because it is the best place to see the most animals and be with the nicest people. Being with Norbert safaris makes it that much better. Norbert and his team are really patient and good communicators. We planned trip for 2020, but had to delay it for two years due to Covid. Norbert communicated with me the whole time and even helped with accommodations separate from the safari and with the visa process. Definitely went above and beyond in helping. It’s not just a business, they really take good care of you start to finish. I highly recommend Norbert’s safari and even hope to bring other family members in the future. It was an unforgettable experience
Anton H
Anton H
2022-05-16
Verified
Unique moments Norbert Safaris & Adventures offers an excellent service. The team assisted me in all the necessary organization when it came to transport and lodging and is very helpful and kind. The Safari itself was marvelous. We had luck with the weather and saw almost all of the big five in two days in Tarangire and Ngorongoro National Park. But travelers should also keep in mind that animal watching is also a matter of luck and that it cannot be guaranteed by the team to see all the animals they want.
All in all, I spent a great time with Norbert Safaris & Adventures. I recommend to book a tour with them.
CharlzBerlin
CharlzBerlin
2022-01-10
Verified
One day Tarangire Trip Perfect organized. Very experienced Guide, who knew many details about all the animals. Great food! Would always go again with this agency.
Malosha
Malosha
2021-12-02
Verified
Awesome 🤩 We enjoyed our day trip in general, the service and communication between us and Norbert’s officers was real good. There were on time, serving delicious lunch šŸ˜‹ also brief from guide was good šŸ‘ He bring us to our expectations about day trip in mountain Kilimanjaro.
We are looking forward to come back to visit other parks in future šŸ˜šŸ˜šŸ˜
Scarlett T
Scarlett T
2021-11-08
Verified
Best Safari Ever! My mom and I traveled and did a 7 day safari with Norbert Safaris. Everything was amazing. Even after the safari was over they made sure we landed in Zanzibar ok and helped us with questions with covid testing to get back into the US. The safari itself was amazing our guide, Gabriel, was super knowledgeable about animals and managed to show us every animal on our list including a black rhino! Norbert stayed in contact with us the whole time even though he had a family emergency he still made sure to check in and see how things are going through the safari. They even provided us a reusable coffee cup and water bottle so we can reduce waste and stay hydrated and caffeinated throughout the safari. All the lodges and tented camp were beautiful and luxurious. My recommendation to any travelers is to pack in layers because the mornings can be chilly and then it heats up through the day. I also would recommend wearing comfortable closed toe shoes that are easy to take on and off because you are not going to be doing a lot of hiking but you will want to take them off in the Range Rover so you can stand in the seats to look at animals. The food was always good and they even would set up the picnic with a table cloth so we always felt like we were dinning luxuriously. They went the extra mile with ever detail and I had amazing time and would highly recommend Norbert Safaris.
Дергей М
Дергей М
2021-01-04
Verified
Эмоции Šø Š²Š¾ŃŠæŠ¾Š¼ŠøŠ½Š°Š½ŠøŃ на Š²ŃŃŽ жизнь! Š’ послеГний Гень гоГа)) Ń€ŠµŃˆŠøŠ»Šø ŠæŠ¾Š“Š½ŃŃ‚ŃŒŃŃ в базовый Š»Š°Š³ŠµŃ€ŃŒ ŠšŠøŠ»ŠøŠ¼Š°Š½Š“Š¶Š°Ń€Š¾ - высота 2,8 км, Глина Š¼Š°Ń€ŃˆŃ€ŃƒŃ‚а - 8 км. Это не забываемые ŃŠ¼Š¾Ń†ŠøŠø с оГной стороны Šø Š“Š¾ŃŃ‚Š¾Š¹Š½Š°Ń проверка ŃŠµŠ±Ń с Š“Ń€ŃƒŠ³Š¾Š¹! Š ŠµŠ±ŃŃ‚Š° портеры Š¾Ń‡ŠµŠ½ŃŒ приветливые, воспитанные, ŠæŃ€Š¾Ń„ŠµŃŃŠøŠ¾Š½Š°Š»ŃŒŠ½Ń‹Šµ Šø с ŠøŃŠŗŠ»ŃŽŃ‡ŠøŃ‚ŠµŠ»ŃŒŠ½Ń‹Š¼ Ń‡ŃƒŠ²ŃŃ‚Š²Š¾Š¼ ŃŽŠ¼Š¾Ń€Š°šŸ‘ заГумались о полноценном восхожГении Šø если все таки Ń€ŠµŃˆŠøŠ¼ŃŃ - ŃŃ‚Š¾ Š±ŃƒŠ“ŠµŃ‚ Ń‚Š¾Š»ŃŒŠŗŠ¾ с Š½ŠøŠ¼ŠøšŸ’Ŗ

Our Top Travel Deals