Kilimanjaro: Northern Circuit
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The Northern Circuit is the longest route to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, offering unparalleled panoramic views, diverse landscapes, and a high success rate due to its extended acclimatization period. This route circumnavigates the mountain, allowing trekkers to experience the northern, less-traveled slopes before approaching the summit from the east.​​​​
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All Stunning Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours are private and fully guided, featuring a full-board meal planwith three nutritious meals per day.​ Flexible start dates are available all year round (subject to availability).​​​​
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​Londorossi Gate, the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park.
10 days, with 8 nights on Mount Kilimanjaro.
68 km ascending, 22 km descending.
3,645 meters from the starting point to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters – the roof of Africa!
The best acclimatization opportunities, but one of the most demanding routes, due to its longer duration, several steep ascents and remote, rugged terrain.
The longest route, which is suitable for trekkers in good physical condition and prepared for high-altitude trekking, and seeking both solitude and scenery.
​High quality tents (per 2 persons), mattresses and private portable toilets.
​*All estimated prices are per person, based on a 2 person trek.
Estimated Price:
Details Kilimanjaro Trekking via the Northern Circuit
Starting from $ 3,149.00​​​​*
​The Northern Circuit is the longest route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers a more remote and less crowded experience. With its excellent acclimatization opportunities, it ensures a high success rate while providing spectacular views and a diverse range of ecosystems.​​
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The Northern Circuit
Londorossi Gate & Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Shira I Camp, The Shira Plateau & Shira II Camp.
The Lava Tower & Moir Hut.
Buffalo Camp, Third Cave Camp & School Hut.
Gilman's Point & Uhuru Peak.​​​​​
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Key Highlights
Kilimanjaro: Day-to-Day Itinerary
Keep in mind that these itineraries are just a starting point to help you plan your Stunning Kilimanjaro adventure. We specialize in creating tailor-made tours and personalized adventures and holidays, fully customized to match your personal preferences.​
- Day 1 -
The Start of the Ultimate Trekking Challenge
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Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you'll be warmly greeted by our team and taken to your hotel in Arusha.
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This vibrant city will be your base before embarking on the Northern Circuit, Kilimanjaro’s longest route with the most unreal scenery.
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In the evening, you’ll meet your experienced guide for a pre-climb briefing and a thorough gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared for the days ahead.
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After dinner, take time to rest and recharge—your adventure to the Roof of Africa begins tomorrow!
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From Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
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After an early breakfast, you’ll set off on a scenic drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m), located on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro.
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After completing the registration process and securing your permits, your trek officially begins!
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The first leg of your hike takes you through the lush rainforest zone.
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Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and exotic birds as you make your way to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m).
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This part of the trail may be damp, so ensure to pack a raincoat.
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By the time you reach camp, your mountain crew will have everything set up, including a warm meal to end your first day on the mountain.
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Altitude: 2,250 m - 2,650 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
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From Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp
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Your journey continues as you leave the rainforest behind and transition into the unique moorland zone.
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Upon reaching Shira I Camp (3,610 m), take a moment to appreciate your first view of Kibo Peak.
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The wide-open landscape offers breathtaking views that stretch across the plateau.
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You’ll spend the night under the stars, with a hearty dinner prepared by your support team.
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Altitude: 2,650 m - 3,610 m
Hiking distance: 7 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours​
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From Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp
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After breakfast, you’ll set off across the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic caldera.
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The terrain is relatively flat, at an altitude of about 3,800 m, making today an easy day of hiking.
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Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s iconic peaks and the vast plains below.
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By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at Shira II Camp (3,850 m), where you can take an optional acclimatization hike to a nearby ridge.​
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Acclimatization hikes are light treks with gradual altitude gains and are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro climb. These hikes help your body adjust to the reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Taking the time to complete these hikes not only improves your physical readiness but also boosts your mental resilience. Prioritizing acclimatization will significantly increase your chances of a successful, safe, and enjoyable climb to the Roof of Africa.​
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Altitude: 3,610 m - 3,850 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours​​​​​​​​
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- Day 4 -
- Day 5 -
The Lava Tower
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After a nourishing breakfast, you depart from Shira II Camp (3,850 m) and head towards the iconic Lava Tower (4,600 m), a significant milestone in your acclimatization process.
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As you trek through the alpine desert landscape, you notice the vegetation becoming scarcer and the terrain more rugged.
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Upon reaching the Lava Tower, you take a break to rest, recharge your energy, and enjoy lunch.
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This is an excellent opportunity to capture beautiful photos of this impressive natural phenomenon and the rugged surroundings.
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Altitude: 3,850 m - 4,600 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours
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Descending to Moir Hut
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After your break at the Lava Tower, you descend towards Moir Hut (4,200 m).
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The route to Moir Hut offers a sense of tranquility and seclusion, as this part of the mountain is rarely visited by other climbers.
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Upon arrival at Moir Hut, your team will have a warm meal ready and the necessary preparations for your overnight stay.
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This is an ideal place to relax and prepare for the following day.
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Altitude: 4,600 m - 4,200 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking duration: 2-3 hours​​​​​​​​
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From Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
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Leaving Moir Hut (4,200 m), you’ll venture off the main trail toward Kilimanjaro’s quieter northern slopes.
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This section of the Northern Circuit offers a unique sense of solitude and wilderness, with fewer climbers on the path.
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The trail gently climbs over ridges with expansive views of the Kenyan plains.
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By afternoon, you’ll reach Buffalo Camp (4,020 m), where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodations.​​​
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Altitude: 4,200 m - 4,020 m
Hiking distance: 12 km
Hiking duration: 5-7 hours
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From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
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Today’s trek takes you from Buffalo Camp (4,020 m) to Third Cave Camp (3,800 m).
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The trail remains relatively gentle, offering incredible sightings of Kilimanjaro’s rugged northern landscapes and of the surrounding area.
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Upon arrival at Third Cave Camp, you’ll have time to rest and acclimate further.
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The gradual ascent and multiple acclimatization days play a key role in your overall summit success.
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Altitude: 4,020 m - 3,800 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking duration: 4-6 hours
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From Third Cave Camp to School Hut
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As you climb higher, the air becomes thinner, and the terrain more barren.
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Today’s goal is to reach School Hut (4,800 m), the final camp before your summit push.
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The trail is steeper, but the steady pace and acclimatization process will help you adjust to the altitude.
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Upon reaching School Hut, you’ll rest and prepare for the challenging summit night ahead.
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Altitude: 3,800 m - 4,800 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours
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The Final Stage: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
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Your summit attempt begins around midnight.
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The trail is steep and rocky, leading you to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim just as the sun rises.
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From there, it’s a challenging yet rewarding trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
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Standing at 5,895 meters, you’ll savor the incredible sense of achievement and the breathtaking views of the glaciers around you and the plains below.
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After capturing your summit photos and celebrating your success, you’ll begin your descent to Barafu Camp (4,673 m).
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Altitude: 4,800 m - 5,685 m - 5,895 m
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking duration: 6-8 hours
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The Descent Back to Mweka Camp
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After arrival at Barafu Camp (4,673 m) it's time for refreshments and a short break after an exciting night and strenuous morning.
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You’ll then continue descending to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for dinner and overnight.
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The descent speeds up, but the trail is still steep and strenuous, especially after the long hike earlier in the day. Be mindful of your pace to conserve energy.
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Altitude: 5,895 m - 4,673 m - 3,100 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours​​​​​​​​ (2 hours of rest at Barafu Camp excluded)
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The Final Descent to Mweka Gate
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Your final day on the mountain takes you through lush rainforests to Mweka Gate (1,640 m), where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro Certificate of Achievement.
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From the gate, a transfer will take you back to your hotel in Arusha.
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Here, you can enjoy a refreshing shower, a celebratory dinner, and a well-deserved rest.
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Depending on your plans, your unforgettable Stunning Kilimanjaro journey ends with memories to last a lifetime.
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Altitude: 3,100 m - 1,640 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
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- Day 10 -
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- Day 13 -
The Ultimate Tanzania Experience
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Your Kilimanjaro trekking has been unforgettable, but there’s still time to explore more of Tanzania, East Africa's adventure paradise.
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Consider a safari extension for the opportunity to see lions, elephants, and the Great Migration in action, or unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
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You've Made It!
You have completed the Northern Circuit, the longest route to Kilimanjaro’s Summit.
Included
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All entrance fees including government taxes.
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All activities (unless indicated as optional).
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All accommodations as mentioned in the itinerary.
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A professional driver and mountain guide, including expert guidance and informative commentary.
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3 meals per day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Unlimited bottles of drinking water.
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Transportation to and from the base of the mountain.
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Pick-up and drop-off at the airport.
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Camping equipment and porter services.​
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Official certificates issued by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA).
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Excluded
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International and/or domestic flights.
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Tips (read Additional Advice).
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Visa (50 USD for Tanzania)
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Medical and/or travel insurance.
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Local SIM card.
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Personal expenses, such as souvenirs.
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Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and meals not specified as included.​
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Climbing gear (can be rented upon request).
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Medical evacuation by helicopter.
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Increases in taxes or park fees initiated by the government or other official authorities.​​​​​
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