9 Days Grand traverse

For an unparalleled Mount Kilimanjaro experience, the Grand Traverse Route presents an extended and visually stunning ascent. Opting for this trek with Kilibound Adventures allows you to journey through a series of captivating environments, transitioning from verdant rainforests to high-altitude deserts, ultimately culminating at the snow-covered summit of Africa. This path navigates the less-traveled northern flanks, ensuring a more tranquil and isolated expedition compared to typical routes.

Your adventure commences within the verdant Lemosho Glades, gradually ascending to the Shira Plateau and progressing along the Northern Circuit, celebrated for its panoramic vistas and superior acclimatization benefits. In contrast to more frequented trails, the Grand Traverse enables hikers to delve into Kilimanjaro’s pristine wilderness and varied ecological zones. The final push to Uhuru Peak is achieved via the eastern crater rim, with the descent following the Mweka Route.

Lodging during this trek consists of comfortable tent accommodations, expertly established by our dedicated porters, guaranteeing a streamlined and gratifying journey. Essential gear includes a high-quality sleeping bag, layered warm attire, and trekking poles. To enhance your comfort, Kilibound Adventures offers the convenience of revitalizing showers on designated days. This route is perfectly suited for those seeking a demanding yet fulfilling climb, promoting exceptional acclimatization and improved chances of reaching the summit due to its prolonged nature.

Throughout your upward journey, you’ll observe Kilimanjaro’s striking metamorphosis—from thriving rainforests, rich in fauna, to the rugged alpine landscape, featuring unique flora such as giant lobelias and Senecio trees, and finally, the glacial peak. The diverse ecosystems encountered along the Grand Traverse make it an exceptionally memorable and remarkable way to summit Africa’s tallest mountain

The Grand Traverse Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is considered unique for several reasons:

1. Scenic Diversity: This route offers a comprehensive view of Kilimanjaro’s varied landscapes. Trekkers experience lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and the stark, lunar-like landscapes of the summit area. The route traverses the mountain from the west to the east, providing a full spectrum of the mountain’s ecosystems.

2. Less Crowded: Compared to more popular routes like the Machame or Marangu routes, the Grand Traverse is less frequented. This allows for a more solitary and intimate experience with nature, away from the crowds.

3. High Success Rate: The route is designed for better acclimatization due to its longer duration and gradual ascent. This increases the chances of successfully reaching the summit, as trekkers have more time to adjust to the altitude.

4. Unique Summit Approach: The Grand Traverse Route approaches the summit from the east via the Gilman’s Point, which is less common than the western approaches. This provides a different perspective and experience of the summit climb.

5. Extended Duration: Typically, this route takes about 8-9 days, which is longer than most other routes. The extended duration not only aids in acclimatization but also allows trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the experience without rushing.

6. Technical Sections: The route includes some technical sections, particularly the ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, which adds an element of adventure and challenge not found on all routes.

7. Cultural Interaction:Starting on the western side of the mountain, trekkers often have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about the Chagga culture, adding a cultural dimension to the trek.

8. Descent via Different Route: The Grand Traverse often involves descending via the Mweka Route, which is different from the ascent path. This allows trekkers to experience even more of the mountain’s diverse environments.

Overall, the Grand Traverse Route offers a comprehensive, less crowded, and more immersive experience of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a unique choice for those looking to summit Africa’s highest peak.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport
No hiking on this day, just arrival and transfer to a hotel in Arusha.
Day 2: Resting and Acclimatization
No hiking on this day, just rest, acclimatization, and gear check.
Day 3: Mountain Day 1 – Londrosi Gate to Rainforest
Elevation at Londrosi Gate: 7,742 feet (2,350 meters)
 Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km)
 Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
 Elevation at the end of the day: 9,186 feet (2,800 meters)
You'll be hiking through the rainforest, possibly spotting colobus monkeys.
Day 4: Shira One Camp
Elevation at Shira One Camp: 11,500 feet (3,505 meters)
 Distance: 4.3 miles (7 km)
 Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
 You’ll leave the rainforest behind and enter the heather zone.
Day 5: Shira One to Moir Camp
Elevation at Moir Camp: 13,780 feet (4,200 meters)
 Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
 Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
 Hike through the moorland zone, enjoying the spectacular views.
Day 6: Alpine Desert to Pofu Camp
 Elevation at Pofu Camp: 13,780 feet (4,200 meters)
 Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km)
 Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
 Hike through the alpine desert zone, with some steep sections.
Day 7: Pofu Camp to Third Cave
 Elevation at Third Cave: 12,895 feet (3,930 meters)
 Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km)
 Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
 Join the Rongai route on the way to Third Cave.

Day 8: Third Cave to Kibo Hut (Base Camp)
Elevation at Kibo Hut: 15,430 feet (4,700 meters)
 Distance: 3.1 miles (5 km)
 Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
 Final stretch before summit day, reaching the base camp.
Day 9: Summit Day
 Elevation at Kibo Hut: 15,430 feet (4,700 meters)
Distance to Summit (Uhuru Peak): 5.5 miles (8.9 km) one way
Hiking Time to Summit: 6-8 hours (early start at 3:00 AM)
 Elevation at Summit (Uhuru Peak): 19,341 feet (5,895 meters)
 After summiting, descend to Barafu Camp (14,929 feet / 4,573 meters)
 Distance to Barafu Camp: 5.5 miles (8.9 km)
 Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Day 10: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp
 Elevation at Mweka Camp: 10,170 feet (3,100 meters)
 Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km)
 Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
 Descend through the moorland and rainforest zones to Mweka Camp.
Day 11: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
 Elevation at Mweka Gate: 5,380 feet (1,640 meters)
 Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km)
 Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
 Final descent to Mweka Gate and completion of the trek.

This gives you the total distance, elevation, and approximate hiking times for each day. The hike
will take you through a wide range of landscapes, with significant elevation gains, so
acclimatization is key to succeeding.

1. What is the Grand Traverse Route on Mount Kilimanjaro?
The Grand Traverse Route is a less-traveled and scenic path that crosses Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. It offers a quieter trekking experience with excellent acclimatization, increasing the chances of reaching the summit successfully.

2. How many days does the Grand Traverse Route take?
This route typically takes between 8 and 10 days, allowing climbers to gradually adjust to the altitude while exploring diverse landscapes along the way.

3. How challenging is the Grand Traverse Route?
While the trek is longer, the gradual ascent makes it one of the more accessible routes on Kilimanjaro. However, a good level of fitness and endurance is still necessary.

4. How does the Grand Traverse Route differ from other Kilimanjaro routes?
Unlike popular routes such as Machame or Marangu, this trail follows a quieter northern circuit, providing stunning panoramic views and a more immersive wilderness experience.

5. What landscapes will I encounter on this route?
Trekkers will pass through a variety of ecosystems, including lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, making it a visually captivating and rewarding journey.

 6.What is the Grand Traverse Route?

The Grand Traverse is a longer and more challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro that crosses from the western side of the mountain to the southern slopes. It is considered a more scenic and remote option, providing an opportunity to experience the mountain uniquely, traversing multiple ecosystems, and taking you to different parts of the mountain.

7.How long is the Grand Traverse Route?

Typically, the Grand Traverse takes about 7 to 9 days to complete, which is longer than other routes like Marangu (5 days) or Machame (6 days). This longer duration helps with acclimatization and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

8.How does the Grand Traverse compare to other Kilimanjaro routes?

Unlike popular routes like Machame or Marangu, the Grand Traverse is much less crowded and offers a more private, off-the-beaten-path experience. The route provides stunning views from different angles of the mountain, crosses diverse ecosystems, and gives trekkers the feeling of being among the first to explore the mountain.

9.What are the major highlights of the Grand Traverse Route?

• Stunning views from multiple angles of Kilimanjaro.
• Traversing through various ecosystems: rainforests, heathlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
• Remote, quiet trekking with fewer people.
• A more challenging experience with varied terrains.
• Increased opportunities for acclimatization due to the longer trek.

10.Do I need special training for the Grand Traverse Route?

Yes, you should have a good level of fitness and stamina. The Grand Traverse involves extended hiking days at high altitudes, so it’s crucial to train for long hikes, especially uphill, and to prepare your body for the high-altitude conditions.

11.What is the best time to hike the Grand Traverse?

The best times to trek the Grand Traverse are during the dry seasons of Kilimanjaro: January to March and June to October. These months offer clearer skies, better visibility, and milder weather conditions.

12.What type of gear is needed for the Grand Traverse Route?

You’ll need high-quality trekking gear suitable for a variety of weather conditions:

• Warm clothes for cold temperatures at high altitudes.
• Light layers for the tropical rainforest and heathlands.
• A good pair of hiking boots.
• Rain gear (as weather can be unpredictable).
• Headlamp, sunscreen, and high-quality sleeping bag.

13.How much does it cost to hike the Grand Traverse?

The cost of trekking the Grand Traverse can be higher than standard routes due to its longer duration, remoteness, and special requirements. Prices can range from $2,500 to USD 7,000, depending on the tour operator, permits, and additional services provided.

14.What is the success rate for summiting via the Grand Traverse Route?

The success rate for summiting Kilimanjaro on the Grand Traverse is typically high, often over 80%. This is due to the longer trek, which provides ample time for acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

15.Are there any hazards on the Grand Traverse Route?

Like all high-altitude treks, the main hazards include altitude sickness, extreme weather, and difficult terrain. The remote nature of the Grand Traverse means you may be farther from emergency help, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared and go with experienced guides.

16.Do I need a guide or can I hike the Grand Traverse solo?

You are required to have a licensed guide to trek Mount Kilimanjaro, including the Grand Traverse. The guides will also help with logistics, safety, and acclimatization.

17.What is the altitude range on the Grand Traverse?

The Grand Traverse starts at around 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) and goes up to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) at Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. This altitude range is part of what makes the trek challenging, especially in terms of acclimatization.

18.Can I combine the Grand Traverse with a safari?

Yes, many trekkers combine their Kilimanjaro trek with a safari in Tanzania’s famous national parks, like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire. Some tour operators offer packages that combine the Grand Traverse with a safari experience.

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON ARUSHA HOTEL