11 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb via the Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the highest summit success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile. Beginning on the western slopes, this route circles the quieter northern side of the mountain before joining the summit approach from School Hut. Along the way, climbers experience diverse landscapes, breathtaking panoramic views, and a true wilderness adventure with fewer crowds than any other route. It is the ideal choice for those seeking a gradual ascent, outstanding scenery, and the best possible chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Package Includes
- Return airport transfers and transfers to and from Londorossi Gate.
- Two nights’ accommodation in Arusha on a bed and breakfast basis.
- Nine day Northern Circuit Route climb.
- All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping fees and government taxes.
- Professional English-speaking Mountain guide, assistant guides, porters, and cook.
- Three freshly prepared meals daily on the mountain, including hot drinks.
- Daily washing water.
- Porter service for one duffel bag (maximum 15 kg).
- Basic emergency first aid kit.
- Official Kilimanjaro National Park summit certificate.
Package Excludes
- International and Domestic flights.
- Tanzania visa fees.
- Travel and medical insurance (strongly recommended).
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
- Sleeping bag (unless rented separately).
- Personal expenses, including laundry, beverages, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Any services not specifically mentioned under Package Includes.
Details
11- Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb via the Northern Circuit Route
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha, approximately a 1½-hour drive away. After check-in, meet your head mountain guide for a comprehensive climb briefing, equipment inspection, and an opportunity to ask any questions before your adventure begins. Enjoy dinner and overnight at
Villa Maua Arusha (BB)
After breakfast, depart for Londorossi Gate where park registration formalities are completed before beginning your trek. The trail leads through lush montane rainforest, home to black-and-white colobus monkeys and a variety of birdlife, before arriving at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp.
Elevation: 2,100 m – 2,750 m
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Leave the rainforest behind as you ascend through rolling moorland covered with giant heather and volcanic rock formations. Cross several streams before reaching the expansive Shira Plateau, where magnificent views of Kibo Peak await. Dinner and overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Elevation: 2,750 m – 3,840 m
Distance: 15 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Today's gentle trek crosses the scenic Shira Plateau beneath Kilimanjaro's Northern Ice Fields. The gradual ascent provides an excellent acclimatization opportunity while showcasing one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Dinner and overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Elevation: 3,540 m – 3,840 m
Distance: 15 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Continue ascending into the alpine desert towards the impressive Lava Tower (4,600 m), where you will stop for lunch and acclimatization. Afterwards, leave the main trail and descend slightly to the peaceful Moir Hut, located beneath the Lent Hills in one of Kilimanjaro's least-visited camps.
Elevation: 3,840 m – 4,600 m – 4,200 m
Distance: 15 km
Hiking Time: 7 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert
Today's route follows the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Climbers have the option of ascending Little Lent Hill (4,700 m) for additional acclimatization before continuing across open alpine terrain to Buffalo Camp.
Enjoy spectacular views stretching across northern Tanzania to Kenya's Amboseli National Park.
Elevation: 4,200 m – 4,000 m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Continue trekking across Kilimanjaro's remote northern circuit, following quiet trails through sparse alpine vegetation. The route offers breathtaking panoramic views and a true sense of wilderness before arriving at Rongai Third Cave.
Elevation: 4,000 m – 3,800 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Heath
Gradually climb across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, traversing a dramatic high-altitude desert landscape before reaching School Hut, your final base camp before the summit attempt. After an early dinner, your guide will conduct a detailed summit briefing before you rest for the midnight ascent.
Elevation: 3,800 m – 4,800 m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Shortly after midnight, begin your summit attempt beneath a star filled sky. Ascend steadily over scree and rocky trails to the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement and taking photographs, descend to Barafu Camp for a well earned lunch before continuing to Millennium Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 4,800 m – 5,895 m – 3,850 m
Distance: 6 km ascent / 10 km descent
Hiking Time: 8 hours ascent / 6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic Summit
After breakfast, celebrate your successful climb with the mountain crew before descending through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate.
Your driver will then transfer you back to Arusha for your final overnight stay at
Villa Maua Arusha (BB)
Elevation: 3,850 m – 1,980 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of standing on the Roof of Africa.
