A Day’s Itinerary Of Northern Circuit Route
This section will cover the whole day of a Northern Circuit Route climb, starting from the moment you wake up to when you fall asleep.
6:00 AM - Wake-Up Call:
A Typical Day on the Northern Circuit Route usually starts with a refreshing wake-up call from a guide or porter at around 6:00 am. This is because the days are long and there is a lot of ground to cover. You'll have some time to get dressed, pack your bags, and prepare for the day's hike. The guide will bring you a cup of hot tea or coffee in your tent to help you start the day.
7:00 AM - Breakfast:
After packing up your belongings, you'll head to the mess tent or dining area for breakfast. A typical breakfast on the Northern Circuit Route might include porridge, eggs, bacon, toast, and fruit. You'll also have time to fill up your water bottles and use the restroom before starting the day's hike.
8:00 AM - Hiking:
You'll start climbing for the day, with a target of reaching the next campsite by early afternoon. The terrain and altitude will determine the pace of the climb, which can vary from leisurely to strenuous. Your guide will lead the way, while porters carry your gear and equipment. The hike will take you through a variety of landscapes, including open grasslands, rocky ridges, and an alpine desert. The terrain can be challenging at times, with steep ascents and descents.
12:00 PM - Lunch:
After 4 hours of climbing, you'll stop for a hot lunch and a rest break at around 12.00 pm. The lunch is usually served at a scenic location with a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. Lunch typically includes sandwiches, soup, fruit, and hot drinks.
1:00 PM – Afternoon Climbing:
After lunch, you'll resume hiking toward the next campsite. The afternoon hike can be challenging, especially if you're ascending to higher elevations. Your guide will monitor your health and provide tips for managing altitude sickness.
4:00 PM - Arrival At Camp And Relaxation:
You'll reach the campsite for the night, where you'll be greeted with a hot drink and a snack. Your guide will show you to your tent, which will be set up and ready for you to rest and relax. You'll have time to explore the surroundings, take a shower, and get settled before dinner.
6:00 PM - Dinner:
A hot dinner will be served in the mess tent or dining area, which usually includes soup, meat or vegetarian dishes, rice or pasta, and dessert. You'll have time to socialize with other hikers and reflect on the day's experiences.
7:30 PM - Briefing For The Next Day:
After dinner, your guide will provide a briefing for the next day's hike, including the terrain, altitude, and safety precautions. You'll also have time to ask questions and get any information you need about the hike.
9:00 PM - Bedtime:
After a long day of climbing, you'll retire to your tent for some rest before another day of adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro. The temperature can drop significantly at night, so hikers will need to dress warmly and have a good-quality sleeping bag.
Hence, a Typical Day on the Northern Circuit Route of Kilimanjaro is a challenging but rewarding experience. It offers stunning views, diverse terrain, and a sense of accomplishment for those who complete the climb. With the right preparation, equipment, and guidance, climbers can enjoy a safe and memorable journey up one of the world's most iconic mountains.