From Arusha in Tanzania: 8 Days Group Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route

Lemosho Gate (2,100 meters) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters)

Distance: 5.5km / 3 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest

The Northern Circuit Route begins at Lemosho Gate, located at an elevation of 2,100 meters. After completing registration with Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, you’ll be driven to the trailhead. There, you’ll have lunch before embarking on a brief hike to Mti Mkubwa Camp, which sits at 2,820 meters. While trekking through the lush rainforest, you may spot impressive wildlife like elephants or buffalo along the way. Upon reaching the camp, a delicious dinner will be ready for you.

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

Distance: 8km / 5 miles

Trekking time: 5-6 hours

Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone

On day two, you start with a one-hour walk through the last part of the rainforest, gradually entering the low alpine moorland zone. This gentle and relatively short hike ends at Shira Camp 1, located at 3,610 meters above sea level.

Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters) to Moir Camp (4,200 meters)

Distance: 14km / 8 miles

Trekking time: 6-8 hours

Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone / High Alpine Zone

On day three, the trek continues across the vast Shira Plateau, progressing from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2, where you’ll stop for lunch. Unlike many climbers who camp at Shira Camp, the 8-day route extends further east, passing through the scenic 'Garden of the Senecios' and entering the rugged high alpine desert. The trail then connects with the northern circuit and descends to Moir Camp, located at 4,200 meters.

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

Distance: 12km / 7 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: High alpine zone

On day four, you'll climb a moderately steep trail leaving Moir Valley, with an optional detour to reach the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters. Returning to the Northern Circuit route, the path curves around Kibo’s northern slopes, gently descending to Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters. Along the journey, take in expansive views of the plains extending toward the Kenya-Tanzania border. You should reach Buffalo Camp just after midday, ready for lunch and a much-needed rest.

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

Distance: 8km / 5 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: High alpine zone and low alpine zone

On day five, the trek starts with a climb up Buffalo Ridge, followed by a descent to Buffalo Camp for lunch. Afterward, the route continues east along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes via the Northern Circuit, making its way to Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. This hike is shorter than the day before, and by this point, you should be well acclimated. Arrival at Third Cave is anticipated by mid-afternoon.

Rongai 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

On day six, you’ll slowly make your way across the Saddle, the broad plateau between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, heading southwest toward School Huts at 4,800 meters. Upon arrival, enjoy an early dinner and rest up for the summit attempt that begins just before midnight. Before going to sleep, make sure all your gear is packed and prepared—warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, a headlamp, and your camera.

School Huts (4,800 meters) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) and then onto Millennium Camp (3,950 meters)

Distance: 6km / 3.5 miles ascent and 10.5km / 6-mile descent

Trekking time: 6-8 hours ascent and then 4–6-hour descent

Zone: Glacial zone and all preceding zones

Around 11:30 PM, you’ll be woken with hot tea and biscuits to start your demanding night climb up Kibo’s slopes. Your first break will be at Hans Meyer Cave. As you ascend, the trail steepens toward Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), which you’ll reach about 5 to 6 hours after leaving School Huts. From there, witness the dawn’s first light and stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. The last two-hour stretch to Uhuru Peak follows a gentler path along the crater rim. Arriving at sunrise, you’ll have a brief moment to take photos and admire the glaciers before descending. The return path leads back along the rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters), then down the rocky Kibo slopes to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters). After a short rest, continue descending to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for your final overnight stay. This challenging trek lasts 14 to 16 hours, so pace yourself, stay hydrated, and conserve energy.

Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters) to Moshi

Distance: 10km / 6.5 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest zone

On the last day, you’ll descend briefly through the rich montane rainforest, trekking from Millennium Camp at 3,950 meters down to Mweka Gate at 1,640 meters. There, you’ll check out with park officials and receive your official certificate—green for reaching Gilman’s Point or gold for reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak. Afterward, an Africa Natural Tours & Safaris driver will transport you back to Moshi Town.

Moshi to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

This day is dedicated to rest and recovery following your trek, giving you time to recharge before heading back to Arusha or catching your flight home. Depending on your itinerary, you may also have the chance to explore Moshi town and shop for souvenirs before departing for Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).