The 10-Day Northern Circuit Route is the longest, most gradual, and one of the most scenic ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its exceptional acclimatization profile, this extended itinerary offers the highest summit success rates on the mountain. Beginning on the remote western slopes, the route traces a full 360-degree journey around Kilimanjaro, offering unrivaled panoramas, solitude, and diverse ecosystems.
This longer version includes added acclimatization time and the rare opportunity to sleep at Crater Camp—a truly unique high-altitude experience close to Kilimanjaro’s glacier formations. Although demanding, the pace is steady, making it ideal for trekkers who prefer a slow, well-supported ascent to maximize comfort and safety.
From dense rainforest and sweeping plateaus to lunar-like alpine deserts and glacier-sculpted landscapes, this 10-day trek is one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.
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Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our team will warmly greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your mountain guide in the evening for a thorough climb briefing and gear check. Rest up, hydrate, and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Your trek begins at Lemosho Gate with registration and a short transfer to the trailhead. Enter a lush montane rainforest alive with birdlife, colobus monkeys, and thick vegetation. The well-shaded trail ascends gradually, making for a comfortable first day of hiking. By late afternoon, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp, nestled beneath towering trees. Enjoy dinner and your first night on Kilimanjaro.
Climb out of the forest zone into heath and moorland, crossing small streams and open terrain. The views begin to widen, revealing glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s upper slopes. The trail ascends steadily toward Shira Ridge before descending gently into Shira 1 Camp on the expansive plateau.
Enjoy a short, gentle trekking day to aid acclimatization. Cross the Shira Plateau with beautiful views of Kibo’s glaciers. Optional acclimatization hikes to Shira Cathedral offer sweeping vistas. Reach Shira 2 Camp by afternoon.
Continue across the high desert toward Moir Hut, a remote camp beneath the Lent Hills. The terrain becomes more rugged and isolated, offering great opportunities for acclimatization hikes in the late afternoon.
Ascend over a steep ridge before traversing the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. This isolated section offers breathtaking views across the Kenyan plains. The rolling terrain leads to Buffalo Camp, known for its tranquility and wide-open vistas.
Follow a series of gradual slopes as you continue eastward across one of the quietest sections of the entire mountain. Reach Third Cave Camp by early afternoon and enjoy a restful evening or a short acclimatization hike.
Altitude: 3,850m → 4,800m
Distance: 6 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Climb steadily into the alpine desert zone toward School Hut, your final base before the summit attempt. The trail is rocky and winds upward toward Kibo’s upper slopes. Arrive early afternoon to rest and prepare for the summit push.
Altitude: 4,800m → 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) → 5,790m (Crater Camp)
Distance: 8 km
Time: 10–12 hours
Begin your summit attempt around midnight. Ascend slowly through switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,681m), then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Capture your achievement with sunrise photos.
After the summit, descend into the crater for an extraordinary night at Crater Camp, surrounded by glaciers and lunar landscapes—one of the world’s highest campsites.
Altitude: 5,790m → 3,100m
Distance: 12 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Descend from the crater, passing Stella Point and reaching Barafu for a brief rest. Continue your long descent through the alpine desert and moorland, eventually reaching the rainforest zone and Mweka Camp. Enjoy a warm dinner and your final night on Kilimanjaro.
Complete the descent through lush rainforest rich with birdlife and monkeys. At Mweka Gate, receive your summit certificate and celebrate your success. You’ll then be transferred back to Moshi for hot showers, a hearty meal, and relaxation.
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If you are continuing on safari or Zanzibar, we will assist with seamless onward arrangements.
Your adventure concludes with pride, accomplishment, and unforgettable memories from the Roof of Africa.
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
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$ 1,473
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$ 2,000
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$ 1,658
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$ 2,350
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$ 2,700
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$ 2,700
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