Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route | 9-Day Trek To Africa’s Summit

Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our dedicated representative will warmly greet you, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel. Here, you’ll unwind in cozy, well-appointed rooms, with all the amenities you need to feel at home—hot showers, Wi-Fi, a refreshing swimming pool, and courteous staff ready to assist you. The relaxed atmosphere will help you recover from your journey, and in the evening, we’ll hold a detailed briefing session with our experienced managers to make sure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead. You’ll get last-minute tips on gear, altitude acclimatization, and what to expect on the trail.

Pro Tip: Align your group’s arrival and departure times to save on additional transfer costs. Individual transfers come at an extra charge, so syncing up will help avoid unnecessary expenses.

After breakfast, your experienced guide and support team will meet you for a final briefing before heading out. A scenic 3-4 hour drive will take you through the rugged landscapes of Kilimanjaro National Park to Londorossi Gate, the western entrance to the park, where you’ll complete formalities and receive your climbing permits. Then, the adventure truly kicks off as we drive up to the drop-off point at 3,610 m (11,841 ft), where the jaw-dropping Shira Plateau unfolds before you—an otherworldly landscape of volcanic rock and ancient lava flows.

The trek to Shira 1 Camp is relatively gentle, with only a modest altitude gain. This easy start allows you to acclimatize to the higher elevation gradually, which is key for the days ahead. When you arrive at camp, our team will have everything set up—tents pitched, chairs arranged, and refreshments ready. Enjoy a hot meal as you settle into the surreal beauty of your first night on the mountain.

Altitude Note: You’ll be at a high altitude from this point forward. Stay hydrated by drinking over 4 litres of water daily, and consider altitude medication to help mitigate any symptoms. Our guides will offer advice on managing altitude sickness, but it’s important to listen to your body and communicate with your guide if you feel unwell.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 1 hour | Distance: 4 km

The adventure continues as you trek from Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp, with a modest altitude gain of just 240 m (787 ft). The relatively easy trek means you’ll have plenty of time to soak in Kilimanjaro’s stunning views, from rolling volcanic plains to vibrant patches of unique flora that thrive in this high-altitude environment. If the weather is clear, you might catch breathtaking views of Mount Meru, standing tall on the horizon as Africa’s fifth-highest peak.

After arriving at Shira 2 Camp, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch and a well-deserved rest. Later in the afternoon, you’ll have the option to take an acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower, gaining another 260 m (853 ft) in altitude. This optional hike helps your body adjust to the increasing elevation, improving your chances of a successful summit.

Acclimatization hike:

• Elevation gain: Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m / 12,631 ft) → Lava Tower (4,110 m / 13,484 ft)
• Hiking distance: 2 km | Hiking time: 1-2 hours

• Trekking time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 7 km

This day marks a significant altitude challenge as you leave Shira 2 Camp and ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m / 15,088 ft). The trek is physically demanding, but the panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s upper slopes, with their stark beauty and expansive horizons, make every step worthwhile. The towering Lava Tower, a dramatic rock formation, marks the highest point you’ll reach so far.

After a break for lunch at Lava Tower, your group will descend slightly to Moir Hut Camp, where the landscape becomes even more dramatic and isolated. Moir Hut, nestled on the slopes of Kilimanjaro, offers a quieter, less crowded experience, giving you time to acclimatize and enjoy the solitude of the mountain.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 14 km

Today’s trek is longer but less strenuous, taking you along Kilimanjaro’s northern circuit with spectacular views over Kenya’s Amboseli National Park and the Tsavo Valley. After a steep climb out of the Moir Valley, you’ll enjoy a gentler hike across the northern slopes, where few trekkers venture. This quieter route offers the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Kilimanjaro’s wilderness, away from the more crowded paths.

Though the day involves a mix of uphill and downhill stretches, there are no major altitude gains, making for a relatively easy day. The sense of isolation and the far-reaching views of the African plains below make this a highlight of the trek.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 12 km

On this day, you’ll complete your journey along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, arriving at 3rd Cave Camp in the afternoon. This section of the route reconnects with the classic Rongai Route, but by this point, you will have plenty of time to acclimatize, making the final stretch more comfortable. The trekking today is shorter than the previous day, giving you time to rest and recharge for the days ahead.

At 3,800 m (12,464 ft), the camp’s altitude will feel more manageable after several days of acclimatization, allowing you to fully enjoy the rugged beauty of the landscape.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 4-6 hours | Distance: 8 km

Today, you’ll make your way up to School Hut Summit Camp (4,800 m / 15,744 ft), the final stop before the summit push. The trek itself is relatively moderate, but pacing yourself is crucial to conserving energy for the climb to Uhuru Peak. As you reach the camp, the anticipation builds—this is your last night before the ultimate challenge.

To maximize your chances of reaching the summit, it’s recommended to get an early night, drink plenty of water, and avoid any strenuous activity. The following night will be the most intense, and proper preparation is key to a successful ascent.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 5 km

At midnight, your final ascent to the summit begins under a blanket of stars. With your guides close by, you’ll trek through the darkness, aiming for Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft), the highest point in Africa. Though the climb is not technically difficult, the altitude makes every step more challenging. But as dawn breaks, the reward is unparalleled—standing on the roof of Africa, with sweeping views of glaciers and the vast African plains below.

After celebrating at the summit, you’ll begin your descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch before continuing to Millennium Camp. The descent, though quicker, can be tough on your legs, so it’s important to watch your step to avoid injuries.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 10-13 hours | Distance: 16 km

After a restful night at Millennium Camp, your final day on the mountain involves a descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. The lower altitude makes for an easier trek, and the tropical surroundings are a welcome change after days in the high alpine zone. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and have a chance to celebrate with your team before heading back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Trekking Details:

• Trekking time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 12 km

Relax at your hotel, reflecting on your incredible achievement, before we transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. This is the perfect time to plan your next adventure!