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Climbing Kilimanjaro - Northern circuit route

  • 9 Days | 8 Nights
  • Lemosho Park Gate
  • Mti Mkubwa Camp
  • Shira Camp 2
  • Moir Hut
  • Pofu Camp
  • Third Caves Camp
  • Mawenzi Tarn Camp
  • Kibo Hut
  • Millennium Camp
  • Mweka Gate  

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Tour Overview

Embark on a unique adventure climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route, starting with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport and a smooth transfer to your Hotel for your overnight stay. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and breakfast, setting the stage for your trek.

The journey begins with a drive to Lemosho Gate, where you’ll register before hiking through lush forest trails to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Over the coming days, you’ll explore diverse landscapes, including moorlands, alpine deserts, and ridges, with notable stops at Moir Hut, Pofu Camp, and Third Caves Camp.

The trek culminates in a challenging summit attempt to Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit, you’ll descend to Millennium Camp and Mweka Gate, concluding with a return to your Hotel for a well-deserved rest. Optional extensions include safaris and visits to Zanzibar, providing an opportunity to create unforgettable memories in Tanzania.

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

As you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our dedicated driver will be eagerly waiting for you, holding a sign with your name on it to extend a warm welcome. From there, you’ll enjoy a seamless transfer to your Hotel.

Upon arrival, a delicious meal will be served to help you recharge after your journey. Later, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will conduct a pre-trekking briefing. This session is an exciting opportunity to learn about the wonders that await you on your expedition.

During your stay at your Hotel, take advantage of the relaxing environment, which features a swimming pool, a beautiful garden, a bar, and a restaurant. This is the perfect way to unwind before your adventure begins!

Overnight

Sal salinero hotel or similar

Moshi to Lemosho Park Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Altitude:

2,200 m - 2,780 m

Hiking distance:

7 km

Hiking time:

5 hours time

After breakfast and a briefing from your guide at your Hotel, you’ll set off on a 1.5-hour drive to Lemosho Park Gate (2,100m).

Upon arrival at Londorossi Gate, you’ll complete the necessary registration. The trek begins along scenic forest trails, leading you to Mti Mkubwa Campsite (2,750m), which is approximately a 3-hour hike.Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa, the porters will set up your tents, and our chef will prepare a delicious lunch for you to enjoy.

After your meal, take some time to relax and acclimate to the surroundings. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing about the next day’s trek, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 2

Altitude:

2,780 m – 3,840 m

Hiking distance:

12 km

Hiking time:

6–7 hours

Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on your trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp. The trail will take you through diverse landscapes, including moorlands, with stunning views of Kibo Volcano.

You can expect to hike for approximately 5 hours, arriving at Shira Camp 1, where you’ll enjoy a hot lunch prepared by our chef.After your meal, you’ll continue your trek to Shira Camp 2, which is about 2–3 hours away. Located at a higher altitude, Shira Camp 2 offers expansive views of the surrounding landscapes.

Upon arrival, our porters will set up your tents, and you’ll have time to relax and acclimate before dinner. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the following day’s trek, ensuring you are prepared for the adventures ahead.

Shira 2 Camp | Moir Hut

Altitude:

3,500m – 3,840 m

Hiking distance:

8 km

Hiking time:

4–5 hours

Begin your trek with an early breakfast at Shira Camp 2, then set out toward Moir Hut. As you start, the trail gradually steepens, leading you into the giant heather moorland zone while crossing Shira Ridge.

This route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, enriching your trekking experience.By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Moir Hut (4,200 m), where you can take some time to relax and acclimate.

This section of the trek features gentle ascents paired with spectacular vistas, helping prepare you for the more challenging days ahead. The peaceful environment at Moir Hut allows you to recharge and gather your energy for the journey to come.

Moir Hut | Pofu Camp

Altitude:

4,200 m – 4,025 m

Hiking distance:

10 km

Hiking time:

5–7 hours

Start your trek with breakfast at Moir Hut, then proceed out of the moorland and into the alpine desert. Ascend a steep ridge off the main trail, a climb that will take about 5 to 7 hours to reach Pofu Camp (4,025 m).

As you trek, enjoy the magnificent views of Kenya’s wild lands to the north.This challenging section of the journey offers a dramatic contrast to the lush moorland previously experienced, highlighting the stark beauty and vast expanse of the alpine desert.

Arriving at Pofu Camp, you’ll have the opportunity to take in these breathtaking landscapes and prepare for the next stages of your adventure.

Pofu Camp | Third Caves Camp

Altitude:

4,025 m – 3,600 m

Hiking distance:

12 km

Hiking time:

5–7 hours

Begin your trek from Pofu Camp with a hearty breakfast, then continue eastward through valleys and ridges in the alpine desert and moorland.

This trek, which takes approximately 5 to 7 hours, rewards you with expansive views of the vast mountain wilderness. As you progress, the rugged terrain and panoramic vistas provide a dramatic backdrop to your journey.

Upon arrival at Third Caves Camp (3,600 m), you’ll have ample time to rest and acclimate, soaking in the serene surroundings. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you prepare for the next day’s adventure, and savor a well-deserved dinner amidst the stunning landscapes.

Third Caves Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Altitude:

3,600 m - 4,315 m

Hiking distance:

8 km

Hiking time:

3–5 hours

Trek steadily upward to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,315 meters, nestled at the base of the steep and dramatic ridges of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second highest peak.

This segment of the trek takes you through rugged terrain, and as you climb, the landscape becomes increasingly majestic.Upon arrival at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the tranquil tarn that adds to the camp’s serene atmosphere.

The peaceful setting provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and acclimatization, allowing you to fully appreciate the grandeur of your surroundings and prepare for the next leg of your journey. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner while taking in the stunning scenery and discussing plans for the following day with your guide.

Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut

Altitude:

4,315 meters (14,157 feet) – 4,720 meters (15,486 feet)

Hiking distance:

7 km

Hiking time:

5 to 6 hours

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a trek across the vast, barren lunar landscape known as the “Saddle,” which stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

This unique terrain, while desolate, is mesmerizing, featuring rugged vistas with the summit of Kilimanjaro looming in the distance. The trail, though long, maintains a gentle incline, allowing for a steady pace as you approach this final stage of your journey.Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll have the opportunity to rest and enjoy an early dinner, conserving energy for the summit attempt later that night.

Your guide will provide a detailed briefing to prepare you for the ascent to Uhuru Peak, which begins shortly after midnight. This final climb will challenge your endurance and determination, but reaching the summit will be a rewarding experience that you’ll cherish forever

Kibo Camp | Uhuru Peak | Millennium Camp

Altitude:

4,700 m – 5,895 m – 3,110 m

Hiking distance:

17 km

Hiking & descending time:

15+ hours

Wake up around midnight to start your summit trek. Begin hiking at 1 AM, navigating switchbacks and loose rock as you ascend to Gillman’s Point (5,685 m). This initial section will test your endurance and determination as you face the steep challenges ahead.

From Gillman’s Point, continue the final stretch to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views and capture unforgettable moments at the summit.After taking in the magnificent scenery, begin your descent to Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to rest for the night.

The challenging climb to the summit, followed by the descent, will be both physically demanding and rewarding, making the evening’s rest at Millennium Camp a well-deserved reprieve. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment as you reflect on your incredible journey on Kilimanjaro.

Millennium Camp | Mweka Gate

Altitude:

3,110 m – 1,830 m

Hiking distance:

10 km

Descending time:

2-3 hours

Descend from Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to Mweka Gate (1,830 m) in approximately 2 to 3 hours. Once at the gate, you’ll receive your climbing certificate to commemorate your achievement.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to the Hotel for your overnight stay. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel, reflecting on your incredible journey and the accomplishment of your climb.

If you have booked a safari, our safari coordinator will meet with you in the afternoon to provide a pre-briefing and discuss your upcoming adventure. For more details about the safari options, please visit our Safari page.

Overnight

Sal salinero hotel or similar

Departure Day

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. If you wish to extend your adventure, consider adding a day trip to explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in local culture. For more details, we invite you to visit our Day Trip page.

Alternatively, you can continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you’re looking for relaxation on pristine beaches or eager to delve into the island’s rich culture, Zanzibar has something for everyone. Explore our Zanzibar page to discover the perfect package for your next excursion.

If you’re interested in adding a safari experience, please visit our Safari page for more information on our exciting safari options.

Climbing Kilimanjaro - Northern circuit route (9 days hike) | Price per Person

1 Pax

$ 2712

2 Pax

$ 2522

3 Pax

$ 2522

4 Pax

$ 2522

5 Pax

$ 2522

6 Pax

$ 2453

Included

Two nights accommodation at the hotel (before and after the climb)

-First night includes breakfast
-Last night includes dinner and breakfast

Qualified guides and mountain crew
Kilimanjaro National park fees
Hut/camping fees and tents
Tents, foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and eating utensils (cutlery/crockery)
Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
Pulse oximeters
First aid kit
Salaries for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport - JRO)
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, waiter, and cook on the mountain

Excluded

Single room supplement at Hotel
Tips for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
Personal mountain equipment (e.g., sleeping bags)

- Some equipment is available for rent; see our rental price list

Personal expenses and items of personal nature
Emergency oxygen
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Extra activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit)
Visa fees and travel insurance
Flight tickets

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