9 days Northern Circuit Route

Difficulty

The Northern Circuit is the longest and most remote route available. Its extended duration offers an excellent acclimatization profile, allowing you to naturally follow the “walk high, sleep low” principle, which is crucial for adjusting to altitude.

While this route avoids the Great Barranco Wall, the summit night via Gilman’s Point remains demanding. Expect long hours of trekking, so a solid level of fitness and endurance is essential.

Food & Drink

Staying nourished during your climb is critical, especially when altitude conditions may suppress your appetite. To combat this, our head chef has crafted menus that are both appealing and packed with the energy needed to reach the summit. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a daily staple, and fresh meat is provided during the initial part of the trek. On southern routes, we restock supplies at Karanga Camp.

As a post-summit treat, you’ll be greeted with an “All Day English Breakfast” upon returning to Base Camp—just let our cook know your egg preference! Before descending, you’ll also have the chance to savor local Tanzanian dishes like Njegere and Machalari.

• Breakfast
  Expect a hearty breakfast featuring porridge, sausage, eggs, toast with marmalade or jam, and a choice of hot drinks like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. If you’re still hungry, let your guide know—our cooks always prepare extra to ensure everyone is well-fed.
• Lunch
  Lunch is either packed for you to carry or served hot, depending on your itinerary. A typical packed lunch includes a boiled egg, sandwiches, chicken, crisps, a snack bar, fresh fruit, and a drink.
• Afternoon Tea
  After a day of trekking, afternoon tea awaits at camp. Along with hot drinks, enjoy peanuts, popcorn, biscuits, and other snacks to replenish your energy.
• Dinner
  Dinners are substantial, starting with a hearty soup followed by a main course like chicken curry, spaghetti bolognese, or fresh vegetables with rice, pasta, or potatoes. Desserts such as pancakes or banana fritters with maple syrup or Nutella add a sweet finish.

Accommodation

Your itinerary details hotel stays and meal plans. Pre- and post-climb accommodations are based in Moshi. If you’re on safari beforehand, we’ll arrange a hotel in Arusha to minimize travel time.

Tanzania’s infrastructure can be unpredictable, with occasional water and electricity outages. While hotels do their best to assist, these issues are beyond their control.

On the mountain, we use high-quality Mountain Hardwear Trango 3 tents, designed for extreme conditions. These tents are warm, dry, and durable, though space is limited. A separate mess tent provides a comfortable dining area with tables, chairs, and ample headroom. A toilet tent with toilet paper is also provided.

Transport

We prioritize high-standard vehicles and drivers for all transfers. Note that rear seatbelts are not always available in Tanzania. If you have concerns about the vehicle or driving, inform the driver or our local office immediately. Police checks on drivers are common and should not cause alarm.

Luggage

Kilimanjaro National Park enforces a strict 15kg limit per porter for your main bag, including your sleeping bag. Additional porters can be hired at $25 per day.

Tanzania has banned single-use plastic bags since June 2019. Please use sustainable alternatives like packing cubes or dry bags. Zip-lock bags for liquids in cabin baggage are still permitted.

Getting There

For UK or US climbers, flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is ideal. KLM offers flights from major UK and US airports, with a transfer in Amsterdam. Moshi, the gateway to Kilimanjaro, is a 45-minute drive from JRO.

While some climbers fly into Nairobi, we don’t recommend it due to potential delays and baggage issues. Turkish Airlines, Air Emirates, and Qatar also serve JRO, with better experiences reported by US travelers.

For those exploring beyond Kilimanjaro, Vayama offers flights to East Africa, and many climbers enjoy a post-trek beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Sustainable Travel

At Kandoo, we’re committed to sustainability. Starting in 2025, we’ll offset carbon emissions for all trips from arrival to departure. Flights are excluded, so we provide an eC02 calculator for you to offset your air travel.

Fitness & Training

Our Kilimanjaro Training Guide offers valuable tips to prepare physically for the climb.

Budget & Currency

The Tanzanian Shilling is a closed currency, so bring US Dollars (new, crisp bills). ATMs and currency exchanges are available, but notify your bank of international card use. Not all hotels accept cards, so cash is often necessary.

Tipping

We follow the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project’s tipping guidelines: $6-10/dayperporter,$20/day for guides, $12-15/dayforassistantguides,and$12-15/day for cooks. Tips are per group, not per climber.

On summit night, some porters may assist the group—consider an extra $20 tip for their support. Tips are distributed at the hotel after the climb, with envelopes provided for ease.

Passport Requirements
All travelers must possess a passport valid for at least six months beyond their stay in Tanzania. Additionally, you’ll need proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds for your visit. It’s your responsibility to ensure your passport and visa requirements are in order. If you don’t have a passport, apply early, and if you do, check its expiration date well in advance.

Visa Information
A tourist visa is required for citizens of the UK, Australia, New Zealand, India, the US, Canada, and most EU countries. The cost is typically USD 50, though US citizens may pay more. Visas are valid for three months from the date of issue.

Application Process
Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), but delays are common. To avoid long waits, it’s strongly recommended to secure your visa beforehand. Online applications are now available—be sure to review the guidelines carefully.

Where to Apply

• Tanzanian Embassies or High Commissions
• Tanzania Immigration Services website
• At entry points, including international airports
• In Dar es Salaam at the Director of Immigration Services office
• In Zanzibar at the Principal Immigration Officer’s office

Travel requirements can change, so always verify the latest information or consider using a visa agency like www.thevisacompany.com.

Vaccinations
Consult your GP or a travel clinic for up-to-date advice. General recommendations include:

Strongly Recommended:

• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus
• Typhoid
• Diphtheria
• Yellow Fever (if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk)

Sometimes Recommended:

• Hepatitis B
• Rabies
• Tuberculosis
• Cholera
• Measles

Insurance
Climbing Kilimanjaro involves inherent risks, so comprehensive medical and accident insurance is essential. Ensure your policy covers:

• Helicopter evacuation
• Costs for missed flights due to health or other issues
• Coverage up to 6,000 meters
• Standard travel risks like lost baggage

We recommend World Nomads for insurance, specifying ‘hiking up to 6,000m’. Always read the policy details thoroughly.

Health Tips
Malaria and Mosquitoes:
Risk exists below 3,000 meters. Use anti-malarial medication, wear long clothing, and apply DEET-based repellent.

Avoiding Diarrhoea:
Practice good hygiene, avoid untreated water, raw vegetables, and ice. On the trek, we ensure food and water safety. If diarrhoea occurs, stay hydrated and consider rehydration solutions or antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin (consult your doctor).

Preventing Dehydration:
Drink at least 3 liters of water daily, increasing intake during the summit push. Monitor hydration through urine color and skin elasticity.

Sunburn and UV Protection:
Use SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. UV intensity increases at higher altitudes.

Eating Well:
Appetite loss at altitude is common. Focus on carbohydrate-rich foods to maintain energy, especially during the summit attempt. Carry light snacks for quick energy.

Body Temperature Management:
Layer your clothing to adapt to Kilimanjaro’s varying climate. Invest in high-quality, waterproof, and breathable gear.

Altitude Sickness (AMS):
AMS can occur above 2,400 meters. To reduce risk:

• Follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle for acclimatization.
• Maintain a steady pace to avoid overexertion.
• Stay hydrated.
• Consider Diamox (consult your doctor).

Medication
While your guide carries a first aid kit, bring personal items such as:

• Painkillers
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Blister prevention and treatment supplies
• Sunscreen for skin and lips
• After-sun cream
• Any personal medications

Proper preparation is key to tackling the unique challenges of high-altitude climbing.

Personal Equipment Overview:

Every Tranquil Kilimanjaro climbing program includes a detailed list of personal gear, thoughtfully compiled with considerations like seasonality, route conditions, weather, altitude, and more. This list is comprehensive and adaptable, aiming to prepare you thoroughly without recommending unnecessary items.

Gear Rental:

• Most of the gear listed can be rented or purchased from Moshi or Arusha, See this article with gear rental suggestions.

Equipment List:

Pack & Travel:

• Duffel Bags: 2 x 120+ liters, made from sturdy material with robust zippers. One for trek gear handled by our staff; the other for extra items at the hotel.
  • Guide Pick: North Face Base Camp Duffel 132L
• Luggage Locks: Bring as needed, ensure they are TSA-compliant.
  • Guide Pick: Anvil TSA Luggage Lock (4 Pack)
• Backpack: 35+ liters for carrying essentials on the trail, excluding items handled by staff. Also suitable for travel or sightseeing.
  • Guide Picks: Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 35L, Osprey Mutant 38L
• Pack Cover: To keep your backpack dry during rain.
  • Guide Pick: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil
• Day Pack (Optional): 25+ liters for sightseeing or as carry-on, not for the trek.
  • Guide Pick: Black Diamond Speed 30

Sleeping Bag & Pad:

• Sleeping Bag: Rated between 20° to 0° F, we suggest down for its warmth and compressibility.
  • Guide Picks: Mountain Hardwear Lamina 15°, Women’s Mountain Hardwear Lamina 15°, Mountain Hardwear Phantom 15°
• Compression Stuff Sack: For compact packing of your sleeping bag.
  • Guide Picks: Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Bag, Sea to Summit Ultra Sil Compression Sack
• Inflatable Sleeping Pad: Full-length for comfort.
  • Guide Picks: Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, Therm-A-Rest ProLite Plus, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT
• Closed Foam Sleeping Pad: Additional insulation, used with the inflatable pad.
  • Guide Pick: Exped FlexMat

Technical Gear:

• Trekking Poles: Lightweight, collapsible for support.
  • Guide Picks: Black Diamond Expedition 3 Poles, Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Poles, Women’s Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles

Head:

• Warm Hat: Wool or synthetic for warmth.
  • Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Power Stretch Beanie
• Ball Cap or Sun Hat: For sun protection.
  • Guide Picks: Tranquil Kilimanjaro Patch Hat, Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat
• Buff: Versatile protection for head and neck.
  • Guide Picks: Original Ecostretch Buff, Merino Lightweight Buff
• Headlamp: With fresh batteries and spares for the trip’s duration.
  • Guide Picks: Petzl Actik Core Headlamp, Black Diamond Spot 400, Black Diamond Storm 450
• Glacier Glasses: Full coverage for UV protection.
  • Guide Picks: Julbo Shield, Women’s Julbo Monterosa, Julbo Explorer 2.0

Hands:

• Light Weight Gloves: For UV protection and warmth.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves, Black Diamond Softshell Glove, Black Diamond Crag Gloves
• Medium Weight Gloves: Insulated for colder weather.
  • Guide Picks: Black Diamond Patrol Glove, Rab Pivot GTX Glove, Women’s Outdoor Research Arete II GTX Glove
• Heavy Weight Gloves or Mittens: For extreme cold or as emergency backup.
  • Guide Picks: Black Diamond Mercury Mitt, Men’s Black Diamond Guide Glove, Women’s Black Diamond Guide Glove, Men’s Outdoor Research Alti II GTX Mitts

Upper Body:

• A system of at least five layers, with two insulating layers (light and medium).
• Light Weight Baselayer or Sun Hoody: For sun protection.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoodie, Women’s Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoodie, Men’s Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie, Women’s Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie
• Light Weight Insulating Layer: Slightly heavier than a baselayer.
  • Guide Picks: Women’s Patagonia R1 Full-Zip Hoody, Men’s Patagonia R1 Air FZ Hoody
• Medium Weight Insulating Layer: For added warmth.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Arc’Teryx Atom LT Hoody, Women’s Arc’teryx Atom Hoody, Men’s Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody, Women’s Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody
• Rain Jacket (Hard Shell): Waterproof with hood.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket, Women’s Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket
• Insulated Parka with Hood: Heavy for summit day or emergencies.
  • Guide Picks: Phantom Belay Down Parka, Women’s Phantom Belay Down Parka
• Sports Bra: Moisture-wicking for women.
  • Guide Pick: Women’s Patagonia Switchback Sports Bra

Lower Body:

• Four layers for flexibility in warmth and protection.
• Underwear: 2-3 pairs, non-cotton.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Patagonia Sender Boxer Brief, Men’s Smartwool Merino 150 Boxer Brief, Women’s Smartwool Seamless Bikini
• Light Weight Baselayer: Synthetic or wool.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Bottom, Men’s Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms, Women’s Capilene Midweight Bottoms
• Softshell Climbing Pants: Versatile for varying conditions.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Outdoor Research Cirque II Pant, Women’s Outdoor Research Cirque II Pant, Men’s Black Diamond Alpine Pant, Women’s Black Diamond Alpine Pant
• Rain Pants with Full-Length Side Zippers (Hard Shell): Waterproof with zippers for ease.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Rab Kangri GORE-TEX Pants, Women’s Rab Kangri GORE-TEX Pants, Men’s Black Diamond Stormline Stretch FZ Rain Pants, Women’s Stormline Stretch Full Zip Rain Pants
• Light Weight Trekking Pants or Shorts: For lower, warmer sections of the trek.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Kuhl Renegade Pants, Women’s PrAna Halle Pant II

Feet:

• Hiking Boots: Lightweight, waterproof, mid-top for support.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots, Women’s Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots, Men’s Merrell Moab Speed Mid GORE-TEX, Women’s Merrell Moab Speed Mid GORE-TEX
• Casual Shoes: For travel and camp.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s La Sportiva Mutant, Women’s La Sportiva TX Guide
• Gaiters (Optional): For protection against mud and snow.
  • Guide Pick: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hybrid Gaiters
• Socks: 4 pairs, your preferred combination of wool or synthetic.
  • Guide Picks: Men’s Smartwool Mountaineer Classic Edition, Men’s Smartwool Hike Light Crew Sock, Women’s Smartwool Mountaineer Classic Edition

First Aid & Medications:

• Medications: Consult your doctor. Required:
  • Antibiotics: For infections (Azithromycin).
  • Dexamethasone: For altitude illness.
  • Acetazolamide (Diamox): For AMS prevention/treatment.
  • Nifedipine: For HAPE prevention/treatment.
  • Anti-malarial (Recommended):
• First Aid Kit: Keep it small and light.
  • Guide Pick: Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Day Tripper

Personal Items:

• Meals & Snacks: Refer to the Food tab for details.
• Water Bottles: 2 x one-liter, BPA-free.
  • Guide Pick: Nalgene
• Stuff Sacks: For organizing gear.
  • Guide Pick: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Stuff Sack
• Reading Material/Journal (Optional):
• Personal Toiletries & Bag: Essentials for personal hygiene.
• Sunscreen: SPF 30+ for face and body.
  • Guide Pick: Z Blok Sunscreen SPF 45
• Lip Balm: SPF 15+.
  • Guide Pick: Joshua Tree Lip Balm
• Insect Repellent:
  • Guide Pick: Ben’s Tick Repellent
• Ear Plugs:
• Spare Contact Lenses/Eyeglasses (Optional):
• Chemical Toe and Hand Warmers: For warmth.
  • Guide Pick: Ignik Hand Warmer
• Pee Funnel (For Women): For convenience.
  • Guide Pick: Women’s Freshette Funnel
• Pee Bottle (Optional): For overnight use.
  • Guide Pick: Metolius G-Whiz Pee Bottle
• Small Hand Towel:
• Camera (Optional): For capturing your adventure.
• Power Bank (Optional): To charge devices.
  • Guide Pick: Goal Zero Flip 24 Power Bank
• Travel Power Adapter: For international use.
• Binoculars:

Travel Clothes:

• Clothing for travel, sightseeing, and dining.
• Sunglasses, Swimsuit, Sandals/Flip Flops:

Travel Documents:

• Passport: Valid for six months beyond your return.
• Copy of Passport: First two pages.
• Copy of Flight Itinerary:
• Extra Passport Photos: 2 photos.
• Immunization Record:

Pre-Trip Checklist:

• Purchase travel insurance.
• Purchase airplane tickets.
• Reserve rental equipment.
• Get in the best shape possible.

Provided Equipment:

• Tranquil Kilimanjaro supplies sleeping tents, dining tents, cooking equipment, fuel, tables, chairs, and a private biological toilet at each camp. Guides carry rescue equipment, first aid kits, two-way radios, and a satellite phone for emergencies.