10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our 10day Kilimanjaro hiking via the scenic northern circuit route Reach new heights as you conquer Africas tallest peak amidst breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences

Tour Highlights

Day 1
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2
Mti Mkubwa hike to Shira One
Day 3
Shira Camp One hike to Shira Camp Two
Day 4
Shira Camp Two hike to Moir Camp
Day 5
Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp
Day 6
Buffalo Camp hike to Third Cave Camp
Day 7
Third Cave Camp hike to School Hut Camp
Day 8
School Hut Camp to Crater Camp
Day 9
Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Day 10
Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

Tour Features

⏱
Duration 10 Days
🎯
Main Tour Focus -
⛺
Tour Type -
🌟
Special For -
Before your journey

Highlighted Tour Overview

A quick look at the tour style, experiences, travel months and accommodation for this package.

Tour styleConfirm when booking
The tour style has not been specified for this package. Ask the team to confirm the arrangements.
ExperiencesHiking
The experiences selected for 10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route are Hiking. The itinerary describes when they take place.
Travel monthsConfirm your dates
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AccommodationCamps
The accommodation category selected for this package is Camps. Confirm the specific properties and availability when booking.
10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route
10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

10 Days Kilimanjaro hiking via northern circuit route

The 10-day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro hiking is a thrilling and challenging expedition that takes adventurers on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa. This lesser-known route offers a unique and scenic experience as it winds through diverse terrains and pristine wilderness.

Day by day Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

The Northern Circuit Route commences at Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters), which is the same starting point as the Lemosho Route. After registering with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, we drive further up the mountain to the trailhead starting point. The first day's hike is relatively short and takes you through the enchanting rainforest. Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings, as you might be fortunate enough to spot elephants and buffalos along the path. We'll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters), where dinner will be served. Embrace the ambiance of the rainforest and rest well for the following day.

Destination:
Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Overnight:
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa hike to Shira One

Mti Mkubwa hike to Shira One

Today's hike begins with the final stretch through the rainforest before transitioning to the low alpine moorland zone, leading up to the scenic Shira Plateau. The hike is gradual and not too strenuous, concluding at Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters). Enjoy the magnificent views and the unique landscape of the heath habitat. This rewarding day of Hike will leave you eager for what lies ahead.

Destination:
Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp
Overnight:
Shira 1 Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 1 Campsite
Shira 1 Campsite

Day 3: Shira Camp One hike to Shira Camp Two

Shira Camp One hike to Shira Camp Two

As we continue on day three, the hike traverses the picturesque Shira Plateau from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2 via Shira rock peak. The plateau offers awe-inspiring views across the valley below and the majestic Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above. Prepare for a cold night as the plateau is exposed, with temperatures dropping below zero. It's an excellent day for acclimatization, an essential process for your ascent.

Destination:
Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp
Overnight:
Shira 2 Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 4: Shira Camp Two hike to Moir Camp

Shira Camp Two hike to Moir Camp

Embark on a long and adventurous hike, heading east through the captivating 'Garden of the Senesces' and into the high alpine desert zone. As you ascend, you'll reach Lava Tower and the iconic Shark's Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where a well-deserved lunch awaits. Afterward, join the northern circuit and head down to Moir Camp (4,200 meters). This strategic day of high altitude followed by sleeping at a lower elevation aids in the acclimatization process.

Destination:
Shira 1 Camp To Moir Hut Camp
Overnight:
Moir Hut Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite
Moir Hut Campsite

Day 5: Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

Today's journey involves a moderate hike out of Moir Valley, followed by a series of inclines and declines around the northern slopes of Kibo, leading to Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters). From here, marvel at the stunning vistas extending northward to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. After a challenging yet fulfilling day, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and a much-needed rest at Buffalo Camp.

Destination:
Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Overnight:
Buffalo Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Bufallo Campsite
Bufallo Campsite
Bufallo Campsite
Bufallo Campsite

Day 6: Buffalo Camp hike to Third Cave Camp

Buffalo Camp hike to Third Cave Camp

Embark on a hike up the Buffalo ridge and descend into Pofu Camp before continuing east along the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. Today's hike is shorter, allowing you to further acclimate to the altitude. Arrive at the Third Cave in the afternoon, where you can relax and prepare for the next phase of the journey.

Destination:
Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Overnight:
Third Cave Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite
Third Cave Campsite

Day 7: Third Cave Camp hike to School Hut Camp

Third Cave Camp hike to School Hut Camp

Day seven entails a steady incline over the Saddle, which lies between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Hikers will then head southwest, arriving at School Hut (4,800 meters). After an early dinner, rest up as you'll be awoken before midnight to begin your summit attempt. Make sure all your gear is ready for the challenging ascent.

Destination:
Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Overnight:
School Hut Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 8: School Hut Camp to Crater Camp

School Hut Camp to Crater Camp

Today marks the summit day, where you'll begin your ascent before sunrise. After approximately 4-5 hours, you'll reach Gilman's Point (5,681 meters) and experience breathtaking views across to Mawenzi Peak. Continue to the crater bowl of Mt. Kilimanjaro and enjoy your lunch there. Explore the unique crater and ashpit area before settling into Crater Camp for the night.

Destination:
School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Millenium (High) camp
Overnight:
Kibo Hut
  hut
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut

Day 9: Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Around 5:00 am, with hot tea and biscuits, you'll begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, reaching the summit just after sunrise. Capture as many photos as possible of the awe-inspiring views and surrounding glaciers. Descend around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters) and then head down the slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters). After a brief break, continue to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for your last night on the mountain.

Destination:
School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Millenium (High) camp
Overnight:
Mweka Campsite
  public camp site
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 10: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

The final day of the hike involves a short hike through the dense montane rainforest from Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters). At the gate, you'll sign-out with the authorities and receive your well-deserved certificates – a green certificate for those who made it to Gilman's Point and a gold certificate for those who reached Uhuru Peak. Show your appreciation to your guide and porter with tips before being driven back to your hotel in Moshi.

Destination:
Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Overnight:
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel
  budget 2 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Dinner, Drinking water
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation
Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Tour Cost

    Pricing Notice: No activities or park fees were found for this itinerary (ID: 965). Please check the admin panel and ensure fees are selected and saved.

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  • ✓ All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  • ✓ All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  • ✓ All Taxes/VAT
  • ✓ All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  • ✓ Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
  • ✓ Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  • ✓ Rental vehicle
  • ✓ Rescue fee
  • ✓ Sleeping bag or bed linen
  • ✓ Tips: tipping guideline
  • Exclusions
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  All flights during the tour
  •  Bath towels
  •  Climbing gear
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Personal items
  •  Roundtrip airport transfer
  • The Booking Form

    Tour Map

    Follow the journey from Start to End. Numbers show the order of destinations and arrows show the direction of travel. Lines connect approximate locations, not actual driving or flight paths.

    1. Start
    2. Londorossi Gate ↗Day 1 · Open location search
    3. Lemosho Gate ↗Day 1 · Open location search
    4. Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp ↗Day 1, Day 2 · Open location search
    5. Shira 1 Camp ↗Day 2, Day 3 · Open location search
    6. Shira 2 Camp ↗Day 3 · Open location search
    7. Shira 1 Camp ↗Day 4 · Open location search
    8. Moir Hut Camp ↗Day 4, Day 5 · Open location search
    9. Buffalo Camp ↗Day 5, Day 6 · Open location search
    10. Pofu Camp ↗Day 6 · Open location search
    11. Third Cave Camp ↗Day 7 · Open location search
    12. School Hut Camp ↗Day 7, Day 8 · Open location search
    13. Day 8
    14. Millenium (High) camp ↗Day 8 · Open location search
    15. School Hut Camp ↗Day 9 · Open location search
    16. Day 9
    17. Millenium (High) camp ↗Day 9 · Open location search
    18. Day 10
    19. Day 10
    20. End

    Loading map…

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    Before you book

    FAQs about 10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

    How long is the 10-day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro hiking?

    The hike spans 10 days, covering approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) in distance.

    Is the Northern Circuit Route suitable for beginners?

    The Northern Circuit Route is considered more suitable for experienced hikers due to its extended duration and higher altitude challenges.

    What is the best time of year to embark on this hike?

    The best time for the Northern Circuit Route is during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October, to enjoy stable weather conditions and clear views.

    How high is the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via this route?

    The summit, Uhuru Peak, stands at an impressive 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

    Are there age restrictions for this hike?

    Most tour operators recommend a minimum age of 16-18 years, and participants should be in excellent physical condition.

    What kind of accommodation can be expected during the hike?

    Hikers will stay in tents provided by the tour operators at designated campsites along the route.

    Are there any safety measures in place during the hike?

    Yes, trained guides and porters accompany hikers to ensure their safety, and they adhere to strict safety protocols throughout the journey.

    Do I need special permits to undertake this route?

    Yes, permits are required for all Kilimanjaro hikes, and they are usually arranged by the tour operators as part of the package.

    How physically demanding is the Northern Circuit Route?

    The route is challenging, with longer daily hiking hours and higher altitude gains, demanding excellent fitness and acclimatization.

    Can I expect to see wildlife during the hike?

    While the Northern Circuit Route is less frequented, it offers a chance to encounter some wildlife like birds, monkeys, and unique plant species, especially in the lower altitude regions.

    REVIEWS FOR 10 Days Kilimanjaro hiking via northern circuit route

    Write a Review

    A Perfect Kilimanjaro Adventure with Burigi Chato Safaris

    5/5

    Climbing Kilimanjaro on the 10-day Northern Circuit was one of the best experiences of my life. Burigi Chato Safaris provided everything I needed—professional guides, hardworking porters, and excellent food. The route itself was stunning, less crowded, and gave us time to acclimatize properly. Every day brought new scenery and challenges, but the...
    ... Read more

    By: mauro vigorito
    From: Flag IT

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    Unforgettable Northern Circuit Trek with Burigi Chato Safaris

    5/5

    The Northern Circuit route is long but absolutely worth it. Over 10 days, we saw every side of Kilimanjaro, from rainforests to glaciers. Burigi Chato Safaris took care of every detail—the guides checked our health daily, the porters worked tirelessly, and the cooks provided hot and delicious meals. The summit night was tough, but the encourageme...
    ... Read more

    By: nikola cavlina
    From: Flag HR

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    Safe and Scenic Journey to Uhuru Peak with Burigi Chato Safaris

    5/5

    I wanted a route that offered great acclimatization, and the Northern Circuit was perfect. The 10 days allowed us to adjust gradually to the altitude. Burigi Chato Safaris impressed me with their professionalism—guides who motivated us, porters who always smiled, and cooks who made mealtimes enjoyable. The scenery was breathtaking every day, and ...
    ... Read more

    By: stefan posch
    From: Flag AU

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    Professional, Caring, and Reliable—Burigi Chato Safaris Made It Possible

    5/5

    This climb was challenging, but Burigi Chato Safaris made it achievable. The guides were experienced and supportive, always giving us confidence. Campsites were well-organized, meals were hearty, and the porters worked incredibly hard behind the scenes. The Northern Circuit’s landscapes were spectacular, and the extra days helped us adapt well. R...
    ... Read more

    By: Theresia hojndoe
    From: Flag US

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    A Life-Changing Adventure with Burigi Chato Safaris

    5/5

    My 10-day climb via the Northern Circuit was not just a trek—it was a life-changing adventure. Burigi Chato Safaris went above and beyond with their care and organization. The guides encouraged us when the journey got tough, and the support staff made the experience comfortable. The beauty of the route, combined with the team’s dedication, made t...
    ... Read more

    By: bernal curbas
    From: Flag ES

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    The Adventure of a Lifetime with Burigi Chato Safaris on Kilimanjaro

    5/5

    I cannot imagine a better way to climb Kilimanjaro than with Burigi Chato Safaris. The 10-day Northern Circuit route offered stunning views, fewer crowds, and the best acclimatization. From the very beginning, the team was organized, friendly, and professional. The food was excellent, the tents were always ready, and the guides kept us safe. The ...
    ... Read more

    By: mesut khusanov
    From: Flag DE

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