From Arusha in Tanzania: 10 Days Group Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route

Lemosho Gate (2,360 meters) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters)

Distance: 5.5km / 3 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Before arriving at Lemosho Gate, you'll pass through varied farmland with expansive views of the plains. Near the start of the trail, a scenic forest clearing provides a perfect place for lunch. After checking in at the gate, the hike starts along a winding path through lush green forest inhabited by wildlife like buffalo. The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp), located at 7,800 feet above sea level.

Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters) to Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters)

Distance: 5.5km / 3 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest

Full Board at Shira One Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Follow the path as it leads you out of the forest and into a savannah scattered with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks covered in lichen. Climb the gently undulating green hills, crossing multiple streams en route, until you reach Shira Ridge. From there, slowly descend to Shira 1 Camp, where a breathtaking panoramic view of Kibo across the plateau awaits you.

Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters) to Shira Camp 2 (3,850 meters)

Distance: 7km / 4 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On the third day, the trek progresses across the beautiful Shira Plateau, traveling from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2, where you will stay overnight and have the chance to meet climbers coming up the Machame Route. From Shira Camp 2, a short hike further along the plateau is suggested to take in breathtaking views of the valley below and the dramatic Western Breach above. Because the Shira Plateau is exposed, expect cold nights with temperatures that may drop below freezing.
Note: You will then head east along the Shira Ridge toward Lava Tower (4,600 meters) before descending along the Northern Circuit to Moir Camp (4,200 meters).

Shira Camp 2 (3,850 meters) to Moir Camp (4,200 meters)

Distance: 14km / 8 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: Low alpine zone / High alpine zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day four, the trek heads east, guiding you through the stunning 'Garden of the Senecios' into the high alpine desert. The morning includes a steady climb up to Lava Tower and the famous Shark’s Tooth rock at 4,600 meters, where lunch is served. Afterwards, the trail descends along the northern circuit to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This day is crucial for acclimatization, allowing you to ascend to higher altitude before descending to rest at a lower level.

Moir Camp (4,200 meters) to Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters)

Distance: 12km / 7 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: High alpine zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day five, the hike begins with a moderately steep ascent from Moir Valley. For those seeking extra adventure, there’s an optional side trip to Little Lent Hill, reaching 4,375 meters, before rejoining the main Northern Circuit path. The journey then proceeds with gentle climbs and descents along Kibo’s northern slopes, providing wide-ranging views of the plains stretching toward the Kenya–Tanzania border. Around midday, you’ll reach Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) for lunch and a deserved rest.

Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) to Rongai Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters)

Distance: 8km / 5 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: High alpine zone and low alpine zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day six, the trek begins with an ascent over Buffalo Ridge, followed by a descent to Pofu Camp for lunch. After lunch, the journey proceeds eastward along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes on the Northern Circuit, heading toward Rongai Third Cave Camp situated at 3,800 meters. This day's hike is shorter than the one before, and by this point, you should be well acclimated to the altitude. You will reach Third Cave Camp by mid-afternoon.

Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters) to School Huts (4,800 meters)

Distance: 15km / 8 miles

Trekking time: 4-5 hours

Zone: High alpine zone and glacial zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day seven, you'll slowly traverse the Saddle, a broad ridge linking Mawenzi Peak to Kibo Huts. The path then heads southwest toward School Huts, situated at 4,800 meters. Once there, you'll enjoy an early dinner and be advised to rest well in preparation for the midnight climb. Be sure to pack all your essentials—warm clothing, insulated water bottles, snacks, a headlamp, and your camera—before settling down for the night.

School Huts (4,800 meters) to Kilimanjaro Crater (5,750 meters)

Unlike other routes that involve climbing at night, this trek offers a daytime ascent to the Kibo crater. With continuous support from your climbing team, you'll maintain a steady pace and reach the Kibo rim before descending briefly into the caldera to arrive at Crater Camp at 5,750 meters. The afternoon is set aside for relaxation, with optional short walks guided by your team.

Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp

After an overnight stay in the crater, you’ll embark on the shortest and final climb to Kilimanjaro’s summit, lasting about an hour. This quick ascent ensures you arrive just in time to experience a stunning sunrise. At the peak, you’ll stand atop the world’s highest freestanding mountain. Later, you’ll descend through the heath zone to Mweka Camp for your last night on the mountain, where you can enjoy the sight of native Proteas frequently visited by colorful Malachite Sunbirds.

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft.

Distance: 10 km.

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.

Habitat: Rain Forest.

Half Board.

After breakfast, begin your descent to Mweka Gate, where you’ll be awarded your summit certificates. The path may be slippery and muddy, so wearing gaiters and using trekking poles is advised for safety. Light clothing such as shorts and T-shirts generally suffices, but be sure to bring rain gear and warmer layers as a precaution. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, an Africa Natural Tours vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your luxury hotel in Moshi.

Moshi to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

This day is set aside for rest after the trek, after which you will be transferred back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).