Itinerary
Overview
The Long Way to the Top
Come along for the trek on the Northern Circuit, the longest and most jaw-dropping route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. This 10-day trek takes you off the beaten path along the northern side, serving up killer views of the mountain and beyond. With a slow-and-steady climb and extra time to acclimate, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a chill pace with a better shot at the top. What’s got you hooked—the scenery or that summit edge?
Itinerary
Day by day
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi and Transfer to Lemosho Gate
Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport and roll into Moshi town, your launchpad to Mount Kilimanjaro. Spend the day chilling at the hotel, wandering the streets, and gearing up for the climb. In the afternoon, head to Lemosho Gate (2,100m/6,890ft) to check in and get sorted—meeting your guides and porters while you’re at it. Pause to soak in the wild beauty around you, with the massive mountain looming overhead.
Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m/9,020ft)
Begin the climb through the lush rainforest, passing through the village of Lemosho, where you'll get a glimpse into the lives of the local Chagga people. The trail winds its way through the forest, with the sounds of birds and monkeys filling the air. As you ascend, the forest gives way to heather and moorland, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you'll spend the night under the stars.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m/11,483ft)
Continue ascending through the moorland zone, with breathtaking views of the Kibo peak. The trail takes you through a scenic valley, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, where you'll spend the night and enjoy the sunset over the surrounding landscape.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m/12,795ft)
Take a gentle hike across the Shira Plateau, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail takes you through a scenic valley, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, where you'll spend the night and enjoy the sunset over the surrounding landscape.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (4,200m/13,780ft)
Continue ascending through the alpine desert zone, with unique vegetation and stunning views. The trail takes you through a scenic valley, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys. Arrive at Moir Hut, where you'll spend the night and enjoy the sunset over the surrounding landscape.
Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,000m/13,124ft)
Take a gentle hike through the alpine desert zone, with unique vegetation and stunning views. The trail takes you through a scenic valley, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys. Arrive at Buffalo Camp, where you'll spend the night and enjoy the sunset over the surrounding landscape.
Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Rongai 3 Camp (4,300m/14,108ft)
Continue ascending through the alpine desert zone, with unique vegetation and stunning views. The trail takes you through a scenic valley, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys. Arrive at Rongai 3 Camp, where you'll spend the night and prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 8: Rongai 3 Camp to School Hut (4,700m/15,420ft)
Take a gentle hike through the alpine desert zone, with unique vegetation and stunning views. The trail takes you through a scenic valley, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys. Arrive at School Hut, where you'll spend the night and prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 9: Summit Day!
Begin the final ascent to the summit (5,895m/19,341ft) at midnight, under the stars. Watch the sunrise from the summit and take in the breathtaking views. Descend to the Kibo Hut (4,700m/15,420ft), where you'll rest and enjoy a hot meal.
Day 10: Kibo Hut to Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft)
Drop down from Kibo Hut to Mweka Gate, where you’ll toast your triumph and snag your completion certificate. Then, head back to Moshi town for the night—time to kick back and enjoy some hard-earned rest.
What's Included?
- 10-day climb with experienced guides and porters
- Transportation from Moshi to Lemosho Gate and back to Moshi
- Accommodation in Moshi and on the mountain
- Meals and snacks on the mountain
- Park fees and permits
- Camping equipment and supplies
What's Excluded?
- Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and porters
- Visa fees
Rates
Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently