Kilimanjaro (9 Day Northern Circuit)

During this adventure, you will be trekking the 9 Days Northern Circuit. This route gives you the best acclimatisation opportunities possible on Kilimanjaro, and as such, it has the highest summit success rates. 

The Northern Circuit approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, and the first 3.5 days are shared with the Lemosho Route. Starting at Lemosho Gate, you trek through beautiful rainforest looking for Colobus Monkeys on your way to Big Tree and Shira Ridge. You will then cross the Shira Plateau to Moir Hut, before an acclimatisation trek to Lava Tower and back to Moir Hut. 

From Moir Hut, the route turns northward, circling Kibo on the opposite side to the busiest routes of Machame, Marangu and Lemosho. Without the crowds, you can enjoy a peaceful trek through some of Kilimanjaro's most spectacular scenery. 

Most trekkers will opt to summit from School Hut, up the eastern side to Gilman's Point, before an easy descent down the Mweka route. 

Northern Circuit Pros and Cons

Northern Circuit trekking options

10 Day Northern Circuit optional variations

School hut v Kibo Hut

For more information about the different routes on Kilimanjaro, read our blog https://www.adventureoutloud.com.au/blog/what-route-is-best-for-me-when-climbing-mount-kilimanjaro

Since 2015, we've helped 98% of our adventurers SAFELY summit Kilimanjaro and we'd love to help you do the same. With sheer cliff faces, giant towering glaciers and endless panoramic views, Kilimanjaro is a trekkers holy grail. Reaching Kilimanjaro’s highest point is an extreme challenge. Battling multiple long days trekking, freezing conditions and high altitudes, trekkers must leave their comfort zones and push themselves to the limit. 

There may be blisters and tears, but as you stand on top of the “Roof of Africa”, watching the sun rise over Africa’s endless savannahs, you’ll feel a sense of “Freedom”, at one with yourself and with nature, and the euphoria of success. 

With challenging treks, stunning scenery and 5 different ecosystems, it is no wonder Kilimanjaro has been voted “Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction” for the past 3 consecutive years. Here's a sneak peak of what you can expect...

A note about fitness

Most people who can comfortably complete 1 hour of continuous, high-intensity exercise will be fit enough to trek Kilimanjaro. The track is well maintained and in most sections flat or at a gentle incline. Some sections require scrambling, but most people are capable of completing these sections with the help of our guides and if this track was at sea level, most people would comfortably finish it.

Reaching altitudes of almost 6,000m, most people will struggle with altitude sickness at some stage of their trek. We highly recommend you physically and mentally prepare for this adventure, and one of the best ways you can do this is by choosing a 7 - 10 day trek. Read more in our beginners guide to high altitudes.

Our team of high-altitude experts are very experienced and whilst we will push you to the absolute limit, we have a "Safety over Summit" policy and will never risk your life to summit a mountain. A few of the ways we keep you safe included:

• Twice daily altitude scorecard and oxygen checks
• Carrying oxygen tanks for emergencies
• Only selling 7 or more day treks. 

Kilimanjaro will be one of the hardest, yet most rewarding experiences of your life. Take the first step to standing on the Roof of Africa by EXPRESSING INTEREST below.

Here are a few interesting facts about Mt Kilimanjaro:

• Tallest Free-Standing Mountain

  • At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.

  • This means that it is the tallest single mountain in the world. 

  • Not the tallest mountain on the planet, this is Mt Everest. 

• Three Volcanic Cones

  • Kili has three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo (the highest and dormant), Mawenzi (eroded and rugged), and Shira (extinct).

  • If successful, you will be summiting Kibo, to Uhuru ("Freedom") Point.

• World Heritage Site

  • Kilimanjaro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its unique ecosystem and biodiversity.

  • Established in 1973, the park spans more than 1,688 square kilometres.

  • The blue monkey, colobus monkey and the adorable bush baby all make their homes around the mountain, along with many other unique animals.

• Changing Glacier

  • The ice cap and glaciers on Kilimanjaro are rapidly retreating and could disappear in the near future. 

• Five Climate Zones

  • Kilimanjaro features five distinct ecological zones: cultivated farmland, rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and arctic summit.

  • You will pass through each zone during your trek. 

• Highest Point in Africa

  • Kilimanjaro is the highest point on the African continent, earning it the nickname "The Roof of Africa."

  • On a clear day, Kilimanjaro's highest peaks, can be seen from hundreds of kilometres away.

• Accessible to Many

  • Kilimanjaro is considered the "easiest" of the “Seven Summits”.

  • Despite its height, Kilimanjaro is the most accessible and does not require technical climbing skills, making it popular among trekkers of all ages.

  • Most trekkers who train will, AND ALLOW ENOUGH TIME TO ACCLIMATISE, will reach the summit. 

• Marathon at Altitude

  • The Kilimanjaro Marathon, held annually, is one of the most unique races in the world, offering breathtaking views of the mountain as runners tackle high altitudes.

• Records

  • Youngest climber: Coaltan Tanner | U.S.A | 6 years in 2018.
  • Oldest climber: Anne Lorimor | 89 years in 2019.
  • Fastest ascent: Karl Egloff | Ecuador | Umbwe Route: 4 hours, 56 minutes in 2014
  • Fastest round trip: Karl Egloff | Ecuador | 6 hours, 42 minutes.
  • First wheelchair ascent: Bernard Goosen | South Africa | 2003 | He completed the climb using a specially modified wheelchair.
  • First ascent: Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller in 1889.
  • Annual trekkers: approximately 50,000 trekkers.  

Find out more, visit: https://www.adventureoutloud.com.au/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-trekking-mount-kilimanjaro

Introducing Tanzania: The adventure capital of Africa

Tanzania is the best place to experience an African safari. Safe, accessible and populated with large herds of Africa's most exotic wildlife, including the Big Five. Tanzania is best known for:

• The great migration
• Cultural immersions with the Maasai
• Go on a Big 5 Safari in Tanzania's best safari parks
• Climb Mt Kilimanjaro & Mt Meru treks
• Chimpanzee trekking at Gombe Stream National Park
• Zanzibar's historic Stone Town and pristine white beaches
• Swimming with whale sharks on Mafia Island
• Ol Doninyo Lengai volcano
• Visit the life-changing School of St Jude or East Meru Community School (our Tanzanian charity partners)

and much, much more. In our opinion, Tanzania is the adventure capital of Africa. 

About safari in Tanzania

Receiving approximately 1 - 2 million visitors each year, Tanzania is one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is a particular favourite, as it is one of only two places you can witness the Great Migration. The Serengeti has also been voted "The best safari destination in Africa" more times than any other safari park. 

Tanzania’s best safari parks can be split into two regions, the Northern Circuit and the Southern Circuit, and both offer incredible game viewing opportunities. 

1. The Northern Circuit is the most popular and the best place for your first safari.
   • Widely regarded as the best region to spot the BIG 5, huge herds of antelope, elephants and giraffe, and the only area you can spot the great migration, you can't go wrong with a Northern Circuit safari.
   • It’s worth remembering that, as a popular safari destination, large crowds can be expected, especially during the high season from July - September.
2. The Southern Circuit is a great place to experience a unique safari without the crowds.
   • The parks in this regional are less famous, but still offer a unique experience, and the animals tend to be a little more wild as they are less used to tourists.
   • There are fewer lodges in the South, so it is important to talk to an expert to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. 

What is the best time to safari in Tanzania?

The best time to visit Tanzania is between Jan - Mar and Jul - Sep when weather is clear and warm, and wildlife is abundant. Each month has its own pro's and con's though, and below is a breakdown to help you decide which time of year is best for you:

• January to March: Calving season
  • January to March is the best time to go on safari in Tanzania because it is calving season in the Serengeti.
  • At this time of year, the Great Migration herds slow down and mothers give birth to their calves. This is a great time of year to see young animals taking their first steps. Fresh babies also bring a lot of big cats!
• April to May: Big rains
  • The long rains are not an advisable time of year to go on safari, as roads can become flooded and riddled with potholes. Many tours also don’t operate during this time, and some camps and lodges close during this season.
• June: Early river crossings
  • June is a fantastic time to watch the early river crossings in the Western region of the Serengeti around the Grumeti River. 
  • Few tourists, great animal sightings and pre-peak season rates make for a fantastic safari. 
• July to August: Peak season
  • Late June to early August is the peak season for the Northern Circuit, especially in the Serengeti, as this is when the Great Migration occurs.
  • The north-western Serengeti is the best place to be for the beginning of the migration, between late June and July.
  • In August, the migration moves into the northern Serengeti. This is where you can catch a glimpse of herds making the perilous journey across the crocodile-infested Mara River into Kenya.
• September to October
  • The Great Migration moves into Kenya throughout September & October, so wildebeest sightings become less frequent. While you may catch the last of the Great Migration in early September, if you want to go on safari at this time of year, it is usually best to visit the Masai Mara in Kenya.
  • Unless you want to avoid the crowds of the Masai Mara and don't care about the great migration, then September - October is a wonderful time for safari. 
• November to December: Short rains
  • The short rains arrive through November to December, and the herds begin to return to the Serengeti following the Great Migration.
  • This is a good time of year to avoid crowds, but still see plenty of wildlife, as long as you aren't scared of getting a little wet. 

What do I need to know about travelling to Tanzania? 

• Visa Requirements:

  • Most visitors will need a visa.
  • Australian tourists can get a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa before travel.

• Currency:

  • The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency.
  • US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but carry some Tanzanian Shillings for smaller purchases from local providers.
  • Australian dollars are unlikely to be accepted, and will receive a poor exchange rate from banks. 

• Language:

  • The official language is Swahili.
  • English is commonly spoken in urban and tourist areas.

• Health and Safety:

  • Yellow Fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country with yellow fever (i.e. Kenya, Uganda, and many other countries in Africa).
    •  The yellow fever vaccination is a live vaccine and effective for life.
    • Your doctor may advise you not to have the vaccination if you are:
      • Over 60 years old
      • Have existing medical conditions.
    • Please consult a doctor for more information. 
  • Malaria is present and we recommend taking the necessary precautions, including mosquito repellents and anti-malaria medication.
  • Always drink bottled or filtered water.

• Electricity:

  • Tanzania uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with Type D and Type G plugs (three rectangular pins used in the UK).
  • Bring a travel adapter to ensure your devices stay powered.

• Time Zone:

  • Tanzania operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC+3.

After exploring Tanzania, it is also very easy to visit other East African countries where you can:

• Trek with gorillas, chimps and golden monkeys in Rwanda or Uganda.
• Witness the Great Migration or trek Mt Kenya in Kenya
• White water raft in Uganda
• Explore 4th - 13th century churches, marvel at active volcanoes and eat incredible food in Ethiopia
• And much more.

For more details, please visit our blog: https://www.adventureoutloud.com.au/blog/the-best-safari-parks-in-tanzania-and-when-to-visit

East Africa has a tipping culture that is similar to America and it is appreciated when you tip guides, hotels, restaurants, and other key service providers.

Here are a few notes about tipping:

• Tipping can be in USD or in the local currency. 
• The best way to tip is to roll/fold the money in your hand and shake each persons hand, or present them with an envelope. 
• The best time to tip is at the end of each activity, or at the end of your time with the guide (i.e. tip a safari guide when you say goodbye after X days). 
• Tips recommended below should be split between the group, unless specifically noted as per person.
• Tips should ideally be handed to each ranger/tracker/guide or deposited into the tip boxes at the headquarters/lodge. 
  • Where practical, we do not recommend giving all of the tips to the head guide, as this usually leads to them keeping most of the tip and the rest of the staff missing out. 

Here is a guide to help you with tipping:

• Kilimanjaro
  • See our tipping guide for an estimate of tips. 
• Lodges:
  • We recommend you tip US$5 - $10 per person, per night.  
  • These tips are shared between all of the cleaners, cooks, reception staff, etc. 
  • The best way to tip at lodges is to deposit the tip into the tips box when you check-out. 
• Restaurants:
  • There is no general rule, we usually recommend to round the bill up with a tip or tip approx. 10% of the total bill. 

In the event of an emergency, please contact:

• Our Australian office (first instance)
  • WhatsApp: +61 432 822 652
  • Email: [email protected]
• Our East African office (second instance)
  • WhatsApp
    • Aloyce (Tanzania): +255 624 009 895
    • Jacob (Kenya): +254 726 555 776
  • Email: [email protected]
• The Australian Embassy
  • High Commission of Australia in Kenya (for all East African countries)
    • Address: Limuru Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
    • Phone: +254 204 277 100

Talk to one of our African experts about adding one or more of the following to your adventure:

SAFARI
GORILLAS	CHIMPS
ZANZIBAR	MAFIA ISLAND
VICTORIA FALLS	CAPE TOWN

We have been exploring Africa since 2008, and can help you with all of Africa's big attractions. Simply call us on +61 432 822 652 or email [email protected]