11 Days Northern Circuit (Kilimanjaro)

We will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer you to your lodge. Upon arrival, you’ll have the chance to meet your experienced mountain crew and fellow trekkers. Relax, unwind, and bond over a delicious dinner. In the evening, your lead guide will provide a detailed briefing, ensuring you’re fully prepared and informed about the upcoming trek.

Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft | Altitude gained: 396m Journey to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate Departing from Kaliwa Lodge, a 45-minute drive takes you through charming mountain villages. Offering a glimpse into local life and culture. Along the way, we’ll make our way to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Where we will patiently wait for permits while observing the busy preparations of other trekking crews. In the meantime, enjoy the stunning rainforest scenery. Characterized by lush greenery and winding trails. Moreover, your guide will share insights about this region’s unique flora, fauna, and natural wildlife. As we proceed, be prepared for muddy and slippery conditions at lower elevations, so we highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for added stability and comfort. Ultimately, this journey marks the beginning of your incredible adventure on Kilimanjaro. Finally, take in the beauty of the rainforest as you prepare to start your trek.

Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3504m/11,496ft Altitude gained: 719m Ascending to the Shira Plateau After a restful night and a nourishing breakfast, we emerge from the dense rainforest and begin our ascent on a steady, scenic trail. The forest slowly fades away, allowing open landscapes and expansive views. The trail continues to climb steadily, leading us to the rim of the Shira Plateau. As we gain altitude, temperatures drop, signalling the environmental change. The breathtaking vistas and wide-open spaces make this trek section unforgettable.

Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft Altitude gained: 391m Shira Plateau Trek: Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp Our trek crosses the Shira, one of the highest plateaus on Earth, from Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp. Nine-day climbs will stay the night at Shira II Camp, joining climbers ascending from the Machame Route. At Shira II Camp, the extra energy to go a bit higher up the plateau to enjoy the stunning view across the valley below and the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above is worth the additional effort. The plateau is exposed, so be prepared for a cold night below zero. Note: The 8-day Climbs continue East to Shira Plateau Ridge, reaching Lava Tower (4,600 meters) and descending to Moir Camp (4,200 meters).

Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft Altitude gained: 91m Shira Plateau to Barranco Camp Although you end the day at roughly the same elevation as when you began. This day is crucial for acclimatization. Firstly, from the Shira Plateau, we ascend east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo Peak. Before heading southeast towards Lava Tower (4,650 meters / 15,250 feet), also known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” Afterward, we reach a second junction leading to the Arrow Glacier. Following a brief stop, we continue our descent to Barranco Camp, where we rest and prepare for the next day’s ascent. This process helps acclimatize to higher altitudes, which is crucial for summit success. Ultimately, this gradual approach maximizes your chances of reaching the summit.

Elevation: 4155m/13,632ft to 4033m/13,232ft Altitude loss: 122m Moir Valley to Buffalo Camp We begin with a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. If you wish, take a slight detour here to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. The route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp. Spectacular views of the plains north of Kilimanjaro stretch as far as the eye can see, reaching the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. You will arrive at Buffalo Camp just after midday, where you will have lunch and have time to rest.

Buffalo Ridge to Rongai Third Cave Day seven starts with climbing up the Buffalo Ridge and descending into Pofu Camp, where lunch is served. Afterwards, we continue to the Rongai Third Cave east around the northern slopes. Today’s climb is shorter than the day before, and you should feel better acclimatized to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon, allowing you time to rest and prepare for the next trek stage.

Elevation: 3936m/12,913ft to 4717m/15,476ft Altitude gained: 781m Saddle to School Hut and Summit Preparation A steady ascent over the Saddle sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Continue southwest to School Hut, where you will be served an early dinner and have time to rest before beginning your summit attempt. Today’s climb is an essential part of acclimatizing for the final push to the summit. You will start your ascent just before midnight, so prepare all your gear before bed. This includes warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamps, and cameras, as you’ll need them for the long, cold trek ahead.

Elevation: 4717m/15,476ft to 5895m/19,341ft Altitude gained: 1178m Descent to 3106m/10,190ft Altitude lost:2789m Summit Day: From Midnight to Uhuru Peak Excitement builds as we begin the most mentally and physically challenging part of the trek, starting between midnight and 2 a.m. The route ascends through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim, offering a magnificent sunrise. Faster hikers may reach the summit in time for the sunrise. A final 1-hour ascent from Stella Point leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa. After celebrating, we descend steeply to Mweka Camp, with a lunch stop at Barafu. A well-deserved rest awaits at Mweka Camp for the night.

Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft Altitude lost: 1473m Descent to Mweka Park Gate and Departure After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony with your crew. It’s time to say goodbye. Next, we continue descending to the Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. The weather here is much warmer, and the terrain becomes wet, muddy, and steep, so therefore, gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. A vehicle will meet you at the gate in Mweka Village, and we’ll drive back to Arusha. Finally, once there, enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and a celebratory dinner to commemorate your incredible achievement. Hiking: 3-5 hours Driving Distance: 135 km (2 hours)

Departure and End of Adventure Our representative will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight departure. Take with you the memories, the sense of accomplishment, and the everlasting bond with the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. If you choose to extend your adventure with a Tanzania Safari, that’s a separate journey, and we’ll take care of all the details for you. As a result, your Kilimanjaro climb can be the perfect gateway to exploring more of Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.