10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

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

Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: School Hut Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Kibo Hut

  hut

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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

Accommodation: Mweka Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

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.