Mt Kilimanjaro Trekking (The Northern Circuit Route)

Set out on a truly remarkable adventure with the Mt Kilimanjaro Trekking experience via the Northern Circuit Route. This captivating 9-day trek, offered by Pinnacle Adventures & Safaris Ltd, takes adventurers through a diverse range of landscapes – from lush rainforests to breathtaking alpine deserts – before reaching the summit of Africa’s highest peak. With a dedicated team of experienced guides and comprehensive support, participants can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey, ensuring stunning panoramic views and the thrill of conquering this iconic mountain. Discover why this trek is a must-do for any avid explorer seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• The Northern Circuit Route is a less-trafficked path leading to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro.
• The 9-day trek offers diverse landscapes, from rainforests to alpine deserts, with stunning views on the Shira Plateau and exploration of the remote Karanga Valley.
• The trek is operated by PINNACLE ADVENTURES & SAFARIS LTD., a highly-rated company based in Moshi, Tanzania with a 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor.
• The package includes airport transfers, hotel accommodation, emergency medical support, and a dedicated team of experienced guides, assistant guides, porters, and a cook.
• A moderate fitness level is required due to the high altitudes, demanding terrain, and significant elevation gain of nearly 5,895 meters over approximately 60 kilometers.

Overview and Details

This Mt Kilimanjaro trekking experience, operated by PINNACLE ADVENTURES & SAFARIS LTD, takes adventurers on the Northern Circuit Route to summit the highest mountain in Africa.

Located in Moshi, Tanzania, this activity has received excellent reviews, with a 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Priced from €3,740.07, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Highlights include return airport transfers, hotel stay with breakfast, emergency medical support, and all necessary camping and meal provisions during the trek.

With a moderate fitness level required, this private group activity operates daily from 3:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Inclusions

The Mt Kilimanjaro trekking package includes a range of amenities and services to support adventurers throughout their journey. These inclusions cover essential aspects like airport transfers, accommodation, safety equipment, and a team of qualified guides and staff.

Specifically, the package provides:

1. Return transfers between Kilimanjaro airport and Moshi, ensuring a seamless start and end to the trek.

2. Hotel stay before and after the climb, including breakfast, for added comfort.

3. Emergency oxygen and a basic first aid kit, prioritizing the safety and well-being of trekkers.

4. A dedicated team of experienced guides, assistant guides, porters, and a cook, to handle all logistical and support needs during the trek.

These comprehensive inclusions contribute to a well-rounded and supported Mt Kilimanjaro trekking experience.

Exclusions

While the Mt Kilimanjaro trekking package includes a wealth of amenities, certain items and expenses remain the responsibility of the adventurer.

Visas and flights, for instance, are excluded from the package price and must be arranged independently. Plus, travelers are required to secure their own travel and health insurances, including a compulsory yellow fever vaccination.

Gratuities for the guides, porters, and cook are also not included. Hikers will need to bring their own personal gear, such as hiking equipment, which can be rented in Moshi.

Participants may also choose to bring personal medicine and water purifying tablets. An optional portable toilet is available for an additional cost.

Meeting and Pickup

Participants in the Mt Kilimanjaro trekking experience can expect a seamless meeting and pickup process, with the tour operator providing convenient options to suit their needs.

The team will greet you at the Moshi urban area with a name sign, making it easy to identify them. You can choose to be picked up directly from the meeting point or request a pickup service. This flexibility ensures a stress-free start to your adventure. The operator also provides airport transfers, seamlessly connecting your journey from Kilimanjaro airport to Moshi.

The key meeting and pickup details include:

1. Designated meeting point in Moshi urban area

2. Option for pickup directly from the meeting point

3. Kilimanjaro airport transfers available

4. Team with name sign to facilitate easy identification

Important Information

Confirmation of booking is provided upon completion, ensuring travelers have a record of their reservation.

Wheelchair accessibility isn’t available for this trekking experience, which is also not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems and serious medical conditions.

A moderate fitness level is required to undertake the challenging Mt Kilimanjaro trek, as it involves strenuous physical activity.

This is a private group tour, with only participants from the same party taking part.

The activity operates daily, with a schedule spanning from 3:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Travelers should be prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking and ensure they’ve the necessary hiking gear and personal items to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure on the slopes of Africa’s highest mountain.

What to Expect

Trekkers can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey as they conquer the iconic slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route, a less-trafficked path that promises a more immersive and scenic experience.

This 9-day trek takes adventurers through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak.

Along the way, they’ll:

1. Traverse through the Shira Plateau, where they’ll be treated to stunning views of the mountain’s western face.

2. Explore the remote Karanga Valley, known for its unique flora and fauna.

3. Ascend the Barafu Hike, a grueling but thrilling final push to the summit.

4. Descend via the Mweka Route, a scenic and less demanding path back to the base.

Difficulty and Fitness

Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route demands a moderate fitness level, as the high altitudes and demanding terrain pose significant physical challenges.

The hike covers approximately 60 kilometers over the course of 8 days, with an elevation gain of nearly 5,895 meters. Climbers must be prepared to tackle steep, rocky inclines, navigate through diverse ecosystems, and cope with the effects of altitude, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and potential altitude sickness.

While the trek isn’t technical, it requires a good level of cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, and mental fortitude.

Proper training, equipment, and pacing are essential to successfully summit this iconic African peak.

Cancelation and Refund Policy

What’s the cancellation and refund policy for this Mt Kilimanjaro trekking experience? The tour operator allows free cancellations up to 24 hours before the start of the trek. This provides flexibility for travelers in case their plans change unexpectedly.

Here are a few key things to know about the cancellation and refund policy:

1. Full refund for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the trek start.

2. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the trek start.

3. Rescheduling is permitted with at least 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability.

4. Travel insurance is recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances that may require cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Trek Kilimanjaro?

The best time to trek Kilimanjaro is typically during the dry seasons of January to March and June to October. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions and higher chances of successful summit attempts.

How Long Does the Northern Circuit Route Take to Complete?

The Northern Circuit Route on Mt. Kilimanjaro typically takes 8-10 days to complete, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs of the trekkers. This longer route allows for a more gradual ascent, improving the chances of reaching the summit.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Trek?

The average group size for this trek varies, but it is typically a private tour with only your group participating. The exact group size depends on the number of people in your party.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trek?

There are no specific age restrictions for this trek, though it requires a moderate fitness level. The tour provider recommends the trek is not suitable for young children or those with serious medical conditions.

Can I Rent Gear in Moshi Instead of Bringing My Own?

Yes, you can rent hiking gear in Moshi instead of bringing your own. The activity provider notes that hiking gear is available for rent in Moshi, so you don’t necessarily need to bring all your own equipment.

The Sum Up

The Mt Kilimanjaro Trekking experience via the Northern Circuit Route offers an unforgettable adventure.

Participants will embark on a challenging yet rewarding 9-day trek, traversing diverse landscapes and culminating in the summit of Africa’s highest peak.

With experienced guides and comprehensive support, adventurers can expect stunning views and the thrill of conquering this iconic mountain.