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.

10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

Price $2464 pp

Book this tour

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.

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

Day 1 : 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.

Accommodation for day 1

Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 2 : 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.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : 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.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : 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.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : 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.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : 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.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : 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.

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : 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.

Accommodation for day 8

Kibo Hut

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 9 : 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.

Accommodation for day 9

Mweka Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 10 : 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.

Accommodation for day 10

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

Costs for 10 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking via Northern Circuit Route

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax
$ 2539	$ 2514	$ 2514	$ 2514	$ 2489	$ 2464	$ 2464	$ 2464	$ 2464	$ 2464

Tour activities

Game drive tours

Getting around/Walking

Hotel resting

Photographs

Tour features and style

Private tour
You can do safari privately for solo, couple, family, or in group.

Group tour
Join a group with your fellow tourists through this tour.

Budget tour
You can compute the price for budget for the whole tour

Customizable
You can customize the itinerary, price inclusions, accommodations, and also the price.

First aid/Rescue
First aid and rescue during the tour is assured.

Price inclusions

Sleeping bag or bed linen

Rental vehicle

Rescue fee

All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)

Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Tips: tipping guideline

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Climbing gear

Roundtrip airport transfer

All flights during the tour

International flights to/from the start/end of the tour

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

Clever Wild Adventures

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website www.cleverwildadventures.com

we are one of the Top Tanzania Group Joining Private safari tour operators and the finest Africa Tour Operator Specializing in East Africa as holiday destination. Our services are East Africa holiday, Kenya tour packages, Tanzania tour holiday, Uganda and Rwanda gorilla Tours, we are enthusiastic about our growing list of exciting and personalized Tanzania Safari Tour packages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I encounter dangerous animals?

Your guide will know how to handle such situations. Follow their instructions.

Is there a chance to see cultural performances?

Some lodges might offer cultural performances in the evenings.

Can I bring pets on the Camping Group Join Safari?

Pets are usually not allowed due to park regulations and wildlife safety.

Can I bring my own alcohol to the campsites?

Some lodges might allow limited alcohol, but it's best to check beforehand.

How do I handle wildlife encounters in the campsite?

Campsites are usually fenced, but listen to your guide's safety instructions.

Can I rent camera e uipment?

Some operators might offer camera e uipment rentals. In uire in advance.

What's the policy for smoking during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Smoking might be restricted in vehicles and certain areas due to fire risks.

Are there opportunities for stargazing during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Some campsites offer clear skies for stargazing, offering a uni ue perspective of the night sky.

Can I bring my own camping gear if I prefer?

Some tour operators allow participants to bring their own gear. In uire about arrangements.

Can I request specific wildlife sightings during the Camping Group Join Safari?

While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, guides do their best to spot diverse species.

What's the best way to prevent mosquito bites?

Wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets.