From Moshi in Tanzania: 10 Days Group Mid-Range 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 featuring expansive views of the plains. Near the start of the trail, a scenic forest clearing provides a perfect spot for lunch. After completing registration at the gate, the hike starts on a narrow path winding through a 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 leaves the forest and opens onto a savannah scattered with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks covered in lichen. Climb the rolling green hills and cross a few streams until you reach Shira Ridge, then gently descend to Shira 1 Camp. The sweeping view of Kibo across the plateau is truly breathtaking.

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 picturesque Shira Plateau, moving from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2, where you'll spend the night and have the chance to meet fellow climbers coming up the Machame Route. From Shira Camp 2, a brief hike further along the plateau is recommended to take in breathtaking views of the valley below and the impressive Western Breach above. Since the Shira Plateau is exposed, expect a cold night with temperatures possibly dropping below freezing.

Note: You will travel 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 journey continues eastward with a long trek through the stunning 'Garden of the Senecios,' entering the high alpine desert. The morning includes a steady climb to Lava Tower and the famous Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where lunch is served. Afterwards, the path descends along the northern circuit to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This day is crucial for acclimatization, as you ascend to a higher altitude before resting at a lower elevation.

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 trek begins with a moderately steep ascent from Moir Valley. For those seeking extra adventure, there’s an optional side trip to reach the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before rejoining the main Northern Circuit trail. The journey then proceeds with gentle climbs and descents along Kibo’s northern slopes, providing sweeping views of the vast plains stretching toward the Kenya–Tanzania border. By shortly after midday, you’ll reach Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) to enjoy lunch and a well-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 the sixth day, the trek begins with an ascent over Buffalo Ridge, followed by a descent to Pofu Camp for lunch. Afterward, the journey proceeds eastward along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes via the Northern Circuit route, heading toward Rongai Third Cave Camp at 3,800 meters. This day’s hike is shorter than the day before, and by now, you should be well acclimated to the altitude. You’ll 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 steadily climb across 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 summit push. Be sure to organize all your gear—warm clothing, insulated water bottles, snacks, a headlamp, and camera—before turning in for the night.

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

Unlike other routes that involve a nighttime summit, this trek offers a daytime climb to the Kibo crater. You’ll maintain a steady pace, fully supported by your climbing team, reaching the Kibo rim before descending briefly into the caldera to reach Crater Camp (5,750 meters). The afternoon is dedicated to rest, 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 final ascent to Kilimanjaro’s summit, taking roughly an hour. This quick climb allows you to arrive in time for a stunning sunrise. At the peak, you’ll stand atop the world’s tallest 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 will be awarded your summit certificates. The trail down can be slippery and muddy, so it’s advisable to wear gaiters and use trekking poles. Light clothing such as shorts and T-shirts generally suffice, 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 transfer you back to your mid-range hotel in Moshi.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before we transfer you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).