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Grand Traverse Kilimanjaro route is one of the most scenic and rewarding routes to climb Kilimanjaro. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the mountain’s diverse ecosystems and experience its breathtaking beauty from a less-traveled perspective.
The Grand Traverse route is a popular and challenging option for those seeking a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience. It offers stunning views, unique landscapes, and ample time for acclimatization. Here’s a summary of the route:
Scenic beauty: The Grand Traverse Kilimanjaro route offers stunning 360-degree views of the peak and surrounding landscapes, including Tanzania and Kenya.
Circumnavigates the mountain: The Grand Traverse route takes trekkers around the entire base of Kilimanjaro, providing a unique perspective and exploration of different ecosystems.
Multiple volcanic peaks: It traverses the three main volcanic peaks of Kilimanjaro: Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo.
Lesser-traveled trails: This route avoids the crowds and offers a more authentic wilderness experience.
Diverse landscapes: You’ll encounter rainforests, heathers, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
Excellent acclimatization: The route is designed to allow for gradual ascent and proper acclimatization, increasing your chances of summit success.
Shira Plateau: The starting point offers panoramic views and a gentle introduction to the mountain.
Mawenzi Peak: The second-highest peak provides a challenging and rewarding summit attempt with breathtaking vistas.
Kibo Peak: The summit of Kilimanjaro, offering a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring views.
Northern Circuit: The route includes sections of the Northern Circuit, known for its remote beauty and unique trails.
Lemosho Route is a little-used approach route and there is time to enjoy the un-spoilt wilderness and the breathtaking scenery of Shira Plateau before converging with the other Kilimanjaro routes in the later stages of the trip. The adventure returns finally back to Moshi.
The Grand Traverse typically takes 8-10 days to complete the climb, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs of the group.
The Grand Traverse Kilimanjaro route is approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) long. It is one of the longest routes up Kilimanjaro, offering ample acclimatization time and stunning views.
The Grand Traverse is considered challenging, requiring good physical fitness, mental toughness, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, it can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Best time to climb Grand traverse Kilimanjaro route: The dry seasons of December to February and June to August are generally the best times to climb Kilimanjaro.
Overall, the Grand Traverse route offers a truly exceptional Kilimanjaro experience, combining stunning scenery, challenging climbs, and the opportunity to explore the mountain’s diverse ecosystems.
The cost of the Grand Traverse Kilimanjaro route can vary significantly depending on several factors:
Group size: Larger groups might enjoy discounts, while smaller groups could have higher per-person costs.
Level of comfort: Luxury treks with more amenities and services will be pricier than basic camping trips.
Additional services: Optional extras like summit photography, extra porters, or helicopter rescues can increase the cost.
Generally, you can expect to pay between $2,600 and $6,000 USD for a Grand Traverse Kilimanjaro trek. This includes accommodations, meals, guides, porters, and park fees.
Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We will arrange a private transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi, We will gather in the hotel for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check.
Acclimatization Day in Moshi before Climbing Kilimanjaro
Acclimatization is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb, as it helps your body adjust to the high altitude. Spending a day or two in Moshi before your climb is a great way to begin your acclimatization process.
Here are some activities you can consider during your acclimatization day in Moshi:
Relax and rest: After your long journey, it’s important to relax and get a good night’s sleep.
Light hiking or walking: Take a leisurely walk around Moshi or visit a nearby nature trail to get your body moving gently.
Visit local attractions: Explore the town and its surrounding areas. You can visit the Chemka Maji moto Hot springs, Marangu village coffee and Waterfalls tour or Materuni Waterfalls and coffee Tour.
Consult with your guide: Discuss your itinerary and any concerns you may have with your experienced guide.
Hydrate and eat well: Ensure you’re staying hydrated and consuming nutritious food to prepare your body for the climb.
Remember: The goal of acclimatization is to gradually expose your body to higher altitudes. Avoid strenuous activities that could lead to altitude sickness.
After breakfast at your lodge in Moshi, We take a ride straight to Londorossi National Park gate to complete the necessary registration formalities, before driving a short distance on a steep track through farmland and plantations to Morum barrier gate.
Morum Barrier Gate is the starting point for the Shira Route, one of the popular routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s located at a relatively high altitude, around 3,720 meters (12,205 feet), which means you’ll be starting your ascent at a significant height.
Shira 1 Camp is the first campsite along the Shira Route. It’s typically a short hike from Morum Barrier Gate, taking around 2-3 hours. This initial trek is designed to help you acclimatize to the high altitude and prepare your body for the rest of the climb.
The hike from Morum Barrier Gate to Shira 1 Camp is a relatively easy trek that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the information you need to know:
Starting point: Morum Barrier Gate, located at an altitude of approximately 12,205 feet (3720 meters).
Ending point: Shira 1 Camp, located at an altitude of approximately 11,844 feet (3610 meters).
Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers).
Hiking time: 2-3 hours.
Terrain: The trail is mostly flat and easy to follow, with some gentle slopes.
Climate: The climate at Morum Barrier Gate and Shira 1 Camp is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 to 10 degrees Celsius).
Highlights:
Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape.
Heather and moorland vegetation.
Opportunity to acclimatize to the high altitude.
Tips:
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Wear layers of clothing to adjust to changing temperatures.
Pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Follow your guide’s instructions and pace yourself.
Additional information:
The Shira route is one of the less crowded routes to climb Kilimanjaro.
It is a good option for those who want a more relaxed and scenic climb.
The success rate for summiting Kilimanjaro via the Shira route is high.
The trek from Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut Camp is a beautiful and relatively easy hike that offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau. This leg of the Lemosho Route is typically done on the third day of the climb.
Shira 1 camp 3550m/11,500ft to Moir hut camp Kilimanjaro 4200m/13,779ft Key Details:
Distance: Approximately 5-6 kilometers (3-3.7 miles).
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours.
Elevation Gain: Around 700 meters (2,300 feet).
Terrain: Mostly gradual uphill, with some rocky sections.
Scenery: Lush rainforest, moorland, and panoramic views of the Shira Plateau.
What to Expect:
Beautiful Landscapes: Enjoy stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro’s peaks, the Shira Plateau, and the surrounding valleys.
Gradual Ascent: The hike involves a steady climb, allowing for acclimatization to the higher altitude.
Unique Flora and Fauna: Encounter various plant species, including giant heather and lobelia, as well as potential sightings of wildlife like monkeys and birds.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Moir Hut Camp is a peaceful and secluded spot, providing a tranquil setting for rest and recuperation.
Note: While this hike is generally considered manageable, it’s essential to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
Moir Hut Camp and Buffalo Camp are two key points on the Northern Circuit of Mount Kilimanjaro, a popular route for climbers seeking a unique and challenging ascent. This trek offers stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and a gradual acclimatization process.
Moir hut 4200m/ 13,779ft to Buffalo camp 4000m/13,123ft Key Information:
Distance: Approximately 12 km (7 miles).
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal, as both camps are at similar altitudes.
Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for most trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
What to Expect:
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Shira Plateau, the Western Breach, and the surrounding alpine desert.
Acclimatization: This leg of the trek is designed to help your body adjust to high altitude conditions.
Diverse Terrain: Traverse rocky paths, meadows, and potentially encounter snowfields, depending on the season.
Tips for the Trek:
Pack Appropriately: Bring layers of warm clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Pace Yourself: Take breaks as needed to avoid altitude sickness.
Enjoy the Scenery: Take time to appreciate the breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna.
Note: While the trek from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp is relatively straightforward, it’s essential to consult with your Kilimanjaro guide for specific advice and recommendations based on your fitness level and the current conditions on the mountain.
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp is a popular trek on the Northern Circuit route of Mount Kilimanjaro. This section offers stunning views of the mountain’s peaks and surrounding landscapes. Here’s what you need to know:
Buffalo camp 4000m/13,123ft to Third cave camp 3800m/12,533ft Key Information:
Distance: Approximately 5-7 hours.
Elevation Gain: Around 150-200 meters (490-660 feet).
Terrain: Primarily rocky and scree, with some sections of heath vegetation.
Views: Spectacular panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks, including Mawenzi and Kibo.
Difficulty: Moderate, with some challenging sections.
What to Expect:
Scenery: As you ascend, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes, including heathland, alpine deserts, and rocky terrain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and glaciers.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for potential wildlife sightings, such as birds, small mammals, and possibly even some mountain goats.
Acclimatization: This trek is a crucial part of your acclimatization process to the high altitude. Take your time and listen to your body.
Tips for a Successful Trek:
Pack appropriately: Bring layers of clothing, waterproof gear, and comfortable hiking boots.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Pace yourself: Take breaks as needed and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
Enjoy the views: Take time to appreciate the stunning scenery along the way.
The descent from Third Cave Camp to Kikelelwa Camp is a relatively short and easy hike. It takes about 2-3 hours to complete, and the path is well-marked. The descent is gradual, and there are no steep sections. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Third Cave Camp 3800m/12,533ft to Kikelelwa Camp 3600m/11,800ft Key Points:
Distance: Approximately 3-4 kilometers.
Elevation Loss: Around 200 meters Difficulty: Moderate, with some downhill sections.
Terrain: Mostly rocky and uneven, with some sections of moorland.
What to Expect:
Gradual Descent: The descent begins with a gentle slope, allowing for a comfortable pace.
Moorland Terrain: You’ll traverse through the moorland zone, characterized by heather, grasses, and scattered trees.
Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the moorland zone, Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding valleys.
Kikelelwa Camp: The final destination is Kikelelwa Camp, a picturesque campsite nestled in the foothills of Mawenzi.
Tips for the Descent:
Pace Yourself: Take your time and avoid rushing to prevent altitude-related issues.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the descent.
Enjoy the Scenery: Take time to appreciate the stunning views and capture memorable photos.
Listen to Your Guide’s Instructions: Your guide will provide valuable information and ensure your safety.
Use trekking poles: Trekking poles can help to stabilize you on the descent.
Overall, the descent from Third Cave Camp to Kikelelwa Camp is a rewarding experience that offers beautiful views and a chance to acclimatize further. With proper preparation and pacing, you can enjoy this descent and arrive at Kikelelwa Camp feeling refreshed and ready for the next leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
The hike from Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Turn Hut is a significant challenge on the Rongai Route of Mount Kilimanjaro. This leg of the journey involves a steep ascent through a rocky, barren landscape, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Kikelelwa camp 3600m/11,800ft to Mawenzi camp 4330m/14,150ft Key Points:
Distance: Approximately 3.75 kilometers.
Elevation Gain: Around 627 meters.
Terrain: Rocky, with minimal vegetation.
Difficulty: Challenging due to the steepness and altitude.
Time: Typically takes 3-4 hours, depending on fitness and acclimatization.
What to Expect:
Stunning Views: As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding glaciers.
Rocky Terrain: Be prepared for a rocky and uneven path that may require careful footing.
Altitude Sickness: The high altitude can increase the risk of altitude sickness. It’s essential to listen to your body and pace yourself accordingly.
Tips for Success:
Acclimatize: Prioritize acclimatization by taking breaks and resting when needed.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the dry mountain air.
Pack Appropriately: Wear comfortable, layered clothing that can be adjusted to changing weather conditions.
Remember: The journey to Mawenzi Turn Hut is a significant step closer to summiting Kilimanjaro. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and a positive attitude, you can successfully conquer this challenging leg of the climb.
Mawenzi Tarn Hut and School Hut Camp are two crucial points along the Northern Circuit route on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. The trek between these two camps is a challenging one, known for its steep ascent and stunning views.
Mawenzi tarn hut 4330m/14,150ft to school hut 4750m/15,718ft Key Points about the Trek:
Difficulty: Considered moderately challenging due to the steep ascent and high altitude.
Distance: Approximately 3.5 kilometers.
Elevation Gain: Around 400 meters.
Time: Typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.
Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Northern Circuit route, including the glaciers of Kibo Peak.
What to Expect:
Steep ascent: The trail is quite steep, especially in the initial stages.
High altitude: Be prepared for the effects of high altitude, such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
Beautiful scenery: The trek rewards climbers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Rocky terrain: The trail is primarily rocky, so sturdy hiking boots are essential.
Tips for Success:
Acclimatize properly: Ensure you’ve acclimatized to the high altitude before attempting this trek.
Pack appropriately: Bring layers of warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration at high altitudes.
Listen to your body: If you experience severe altitude sickness, it’s important to descend.
Note: While the School Hut Camp is less frequently used than other camps on Kilimanjaro, it offers a unique experience for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.
School Hut Camp and Crater Camp are two crucial stages on the Northern Circuit route to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. This trek is considered the most challenging and remote of all the routes, but it also offers unparalleled views and experiences.
The Trek from School Hut to Crater Camp:
Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles).
Elevation Gain: Around 1,100 meters (3,600 feet).
Hiking Time: Typically 6-8 hours.
Difficulty: Challenging due to high altitude and steep terrain.
School hut camp 4750m/15,718ft to Crater Camp Kilimanjaro 5650m Key Points:
Early Start: The trek usually begins before dawn to ensure you reach the summit of Uhuru Peak before noon, when the weather is typically more stable.
Steep Ascent: The initial portion of the trek is steep, climbing through loose volcanic scree.
Gilman’s Point: You’ll pass through Gilman’s Point, a crucial landmark on the route, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and ice fields.
Crater Camp: Upon reaching the crater rim, you’ll descend into the volcanic crater to Crater Camp, the highest permanent camp on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Note: The exact route and duration may vary depending on your trekking group, weather conditions, and individual pace.
Essential Considerations:
Acclimatization: It’s crucial to have adequately acclimatized before attempting this challenging ascent.
Physical Fitness: A good level of physical fitness is essential for this trek.
Proper Gear: Ensure you have the necessary equipment, including warm clothing, sturdy boots, and a backpack with essentials.
The journey from Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp is a challenging descent, often considered the most physically demanding part of climbing Kilimanjaro. This is due to the steep terrain, the altitude, and the fact that you’re descending after a long and arduous ascent.
Uhuru peak to Millennium camp Kilimanjaro Key Points:
Distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers (6-7 miles).
Time: Typically takes 4-6 hours.
Terrain: Steep, rocky, and sometimes icy.
Altitude: You’ll descend from Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) to Millennium Camp (3,800 meters).
What to Expect:
Physical demands: The descent can be hard on your knees and ankles due to the steepness.
Altitude sickness: Although you’re descending, the risk of altitude sickness is still present. Proper acclimatization and hydration are crucial.
Stunning views: Despite the physical challenges, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the glaciers, the summit, and the surrounding landscape.
Celebration: Many climbers celebrate their achievement at Uhuru Peak before beginning the descent.
Tips for the Descent:
Pace yourself: Take your time and listen to your body.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Proper gear: Wear appropriate hiking boots and layers of clothing to stay warm.
Mind your knees: Use trekking poles to help support your knees.
Enjoy the views: Take a moment to appreciate the incredible scenery.
Remember: The descent to Millennium Camp is a significant accomplishment, and it’s a chance to reflect on your journey and celebrate your success.
The final leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
The trek from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate marks the end of your Kilimanjaro climb. This descent is typically a rewarding experience, filled with a sense of accomplishment and relief.
Millennium Camp 3720m/12,205ft to Mweka Gate 1640m/5,380ft Key point:
Distance: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles).
Duration: 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and physical condition.
Difficulty: Moderate descent, with potential for steep sections.
Scenery: You’ll pass through diverse landscapes, including rainforest and cultivated fields.
What to expect:
Descent: The initial part of the descent is relatively steep, but it gradually becomes more moderate.
Scenery: Enjoy the changing views as you descend from the alpine zone into the rainforest.
Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species and potentially monkeys.
Mweka Gate: At the end of the trek, you’ll reach Mweka Gate, where you’ll complete park formalities and receive your summit certificate.
Tips:
Pace yourself: Take your time and enjoy the descent.
Hydrate: Stay hydrated throughout the trek.
Protect yourself: Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
Celebrate: Celebrate your achievement at Mweka Gate!
Transfer to Moshi for overnight.
Transfer from moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) Private departure transfer is included.
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