Tour Overview

The 12-day Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s most scenic, remote, and well-paced adventure—perfect for trekkers who want to fully embrace the journey. With extra acclimatization days, your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak are greatly increased. 

You’ll circle the mountain’s quiet northern slopes, far from the crowds, taking in diverse landscapes, from rainforest to alpine desert. This route isn’t just about the summit—it’s about the beauty and stillness.

Highlights

  • Londorossi Gate – Begin your journey through lush rainforest, spotting wildlife and soaking in nature’s calm.
  • Shira Plateau – Trek across wide-open highlands with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.
  • Moir Hut – A peaceful, less-visited camp ideal for acclimatization and stargazing.
  • Extra acclimatization – Making your journey safer and more enjoyable.
  • Uhuru Peak – Reach the Roof of Africa at 5,895m—an awe-inspiring, emotional high point.

Day By Day

Day 1: A Warm Welcome to Kilimanjaro
As you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our representative will be there to greet you. Prepare to be whisked away to a delightful hotel with cozy rooms, hot water, a sparkling swimming pool, and Internet access, ensuring a comfortable stay from the very start. In the evening, our expert managers will brief you, ensuring you are fully geared up for the epic climb ahead.
Day 2: From Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp – Delve into the Enchanting Rainforest Realm
As the sun rises, anticipation fills the air. After a comprehensive briefing at your hotel, our seasoned guides and climbing team gather, ready to kick-start your extraordinary ascent. Embark on a captivating 3-4 hour drive to the western gateway of Kilimanjaro National Park – the iconic Londorossi Gate (2,200m/7218ft).

Stepping into the realm of Kilimanjaro, you will acquire essential climbing permits and engage with the search and rescue service. The journey commences as you embark on a trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780m/9121ft). Raincoats or ponchos are your companions on this venture through the lush tropical forest, where refreshing showers may bless your path.

Upon arrival at the camp, our proficient mountain crew orchestrates an oasis of relaxation. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance as they set up tents and craft a delectable lunch. Post-feast, an acclimatization hike beckons you towards Shira 1 Camp, enhancing your preparation for the summit. A sumptuous dinner under the starry African sky crowns your day.

Day 3: From Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp – A Glimpse of Kilimanjaro's Majestic Beauty
Embrace the dawn of a new adventure as you rise to a hearty breakfast. The day unfolds with a gradual ascent to 3,500 meters (11,482 feet), treating you to mesmerizing vistas of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Volcano. Traverse from Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m/11843ft) over 5-6 hours, savoring every step as you acclimatize, a vital cornerstone to conquering Kilimanjaro's Crater Camp. The camp welcomes you with a warm lunch, inviting you to unwind amidst breathtaking panoramas.
Day 4: From Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp – A Trek Amidst Kilimanjaro's Unique Flora
Embark on an enchanting journey from Shira 1 Camp (3,610m/11843ft) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m/12631ft). The path unfurls before you, revealing Africa's splendor and the endemic flora of Kilimanjaro. Behold the mighty Mount Meru in all its glory – a sight to cherish, weather permitting. Lunch offers respite, followed by an invigorating acclimatization hike to Lava Tower Camp, where vistas from above will steal your breath away.
Day 5: From Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut – Conquer Challenges, Revel in Triumphs
Lace up for an exhilarating day ahead, departing Shira 2 Camp (3,850m/12631ft) to Lava Tower (4,630m/15190ft). Traverse terrains that challenge your spirit, ascend inclines, and descend with courage. Rest atop Lava Tower, recharging for the next leg of your journey. Journey towards Moir Hut, embracing the northern face of Kilimanjaro, as Tsavo and Amboseli Valleys unveil their grandeur.
Day 6: From Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp – A Tranquil Trek with Panoramic Rewards
A serene yet captivating day awaits as you ascend from Moir Hut to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The landscape dances with undulating terrains, offering panoramic views of the Tsavo and Amboseli Valleys. Your steady steps guide you to Buffalo Camp, an expedition marked by tranquility and captivating vistas.
Day 7: From Buffalo Camp to 3rd Cave Camp – Exploring the Northern Slopes
Experience the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, trekking towards the Rongai route's traditional path. Revel in the picturesque landscapes as you make your way to 3rd Cave Camp, where your altitude acclimatization flourishes, ensuring your comfort and well-being at 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).
Day 8: From 3rd Cave Camp to School Hut – Preparing for the Summit Push
Embark on a trek that leads you to the School Hut Summit Camp (4,800m/15748ft). The journey is spirited yet manageable, allowing you to conserve energy for the challenge ahead. School Hut beckons you to rest, hydrate, and gather your strength, for tomorrow marks your ascent into the crater's embrace.
Day 9: From School Hut to Crater Camp – Triumph at the Crater Rim
Rise early, nourish your body, and embark on a demanding ascent. With perseverance, reach the fabled crater rim, where ancient glaciers and snow unfurl before you. Behold the mesmerizing vistas, perhaps venturing to the Ash Pit for an even more sublime view. Cold yet invigorated, you'll spend the night on the roof of Africa, surrounded by an elite few who have conquered the crater.
Day 10: From Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak and Millennium Camp – Conquer the Summit, Revel in Victory
Dawn breaks with a sense of purpose. The challenge is high, but your spirit is unwavering. With determination, reach Uhuru Peak, where the sunrise crowns your triumph. Descent leads you to the Millennium Camp, a journey through Barafu that punctuates your victorious climb.
Day 11: From Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate – A Joyful Descent, a Triumphal Return
Your descent begins, guiding you through the lush tropical rainforest. Rejoice in the reduction of altitude, savor the summit's satisfaction, and embrace the camaraderie of your fellow climbers. As you reach Mweka Gate, a celebration awaits, where certificates and memories are shared, cementing this journey as a monumental achievement.
Day 12: Departure
Take a day of rest at the hotel, cherishing the unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure. When it's time, we'll provide a seamless transfer to the airport, bidding farewell to an extraordinary journey. Relish the sense of achievement and carry the spirit of Kilimanjaro in your heart forever!

Include

  • Round-trip airport transfers
  • Park Fees: All Park fees collected by Kilimanjaro National Park (conservation fees, camping fees,crew
  • Accommodation one night before and one night after the expedition.
  • For all routes except Marangu: Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (modern,comfortable 4-season tents).
  • Special for Marangu route: Accommodation in huts. The allocation of huts is ruled by the rangers of the national park. We will do our best to arrange separate huts for our groups, but during busy months, you are likely to share huts with climbers from other groups.
  • Please note that, by default, you will share a room and a tent with your travel companion. If you travel solo on a group expedition, we will room you with a same-sex participant. Single supplement is available upon request.
  • Breakfast in the hotel before and after the hike.
  • All meals on the hike. You will find delicious, energy-rich meals on our mountain menus. Our professional chefs will prepare assorted soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables. Vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost.
  • All drinks on the hike (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water).
  • Hiking and safety equipment:
  • 4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats.
  • All group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery, and cutlery).
  • Oxygen cylinders and oximeters.
  • Complete medical kits.
  • Professional guides licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. All guides are holders of Wilderness
  • First Responder certification. All of them have 5+ years of successful experience.
  • Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).
  • Taxes: 18% VAT, 1% TDL, and 0.3% Service Levy.

Exclude

  • International flights.
  • Tips (250-300 USD per climber for the whole mountain crew).
  • Visa fee (100 USD for American citizens and 50 USD for all others).
  • Personal gear rentals.
  • Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the climb).
  • Portable toilets (if required – 250 USD per unit, one can be shared between 3 people). Portable toilets are not available on the Marangu route.
  • Mountaineering insurance. You’ll need special insurance for climbing Kilimanjaro that covers

Gallery

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