9 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Northern Circuit Route

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our representative meets you and transfers you to your lodge in Moshi. The day is reserved for rest and preparation. Your lead guide will meet you for a full briefing, equipment check, and introduction to the crew. Spend the evening relaxing, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and preparing for the climb ahead. Dinner and overnight in Moshi.

After breakfast in Moshi, drive to the western side of Kilimanjaro for registration at the Lemosho Gate. Begin your trek through the lush rainforest, where sunlight filters through tall trees and the sounds of tropical birds fill the air. The trail climbs gently, winding through thick undergrowth and moss-covered trees. You may spot blue monkeys or colobus monkeys leaping between branches. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa, or “Big Tree” Camp, by late afternoon. Dinner and overnight surrounded by forest sounds.

Trek time: 3–4 hours

Today, the trail ascends out of the forest and into moorland. The landscape opens wide, with rolling hills and sweeping views of the Shira Ridge ahead. The air is cooler and drier, and vegetation shifts to heather and wildflowers. The climb is steady but comfortable, offering time to enjoy the expanding scenery. By mid-afternoon, reach Shira 1 Camp, located on the edge of the vast Shira Plateau. Enjoy lunch, rest, and a beautiful sunset over the western slopes.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

A short and gentle day for acclimatization, the route crosses the open Shira Plateau — a vast volcanic plain with striking rock formations. The trail is easy and scenic, offering magnificent views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp by early afternoon, where you can rest or take short hikes to explore the surrounding landscape. As night falls, the sky glows with countless stars, creating one of the most beautiful nights on the mountain.

Trek time: 4–5 hours

Today’s trek follows the “climb high, sleep low” approach to improve acclimatization. The trail climbs gradually toward Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic formation where you’ll stop for lunch. After a rest, descend into a secluded valley leading to Moir Hut, set beneath the rocky slopes of Lent Hills. The remote setting offers silence and expansive views of the upper mountain. Spend the afternoon relaxing or taking a short acclimatization walk before dinner and overnight at camp.

Trek time: 6–7 hours

Start your summit push around midnight, guided by headlamps under a sky filled with stars. The path to Stella Point (5,739 m) is steep and slow, but reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise is an unforgettable moment. Celebrate at the summit before descending to Barafu for a short rest and continuing to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Trek time: 10–12 hours

Today’s trek follows a rolling path across ridges and shallow valleys on the mountain’s northern face. The day is quieter and less steep, allowing your body to continue adjusting to altitude. You’ll reach Third Cave Camp in the afternoon, a peaceful site offering distant views of the plains stretching toward Kenya. Enjoy a warm meal and rest early to prepare for the climb toward the base of Kibo.

Trek time: 4–5 hours

After breakfast, the trail continues through high alpine desert, a barren landscape of volcanic rock and wind-sculpted ridges. The air is thin and cool as you approach School Hut, your base for the summit attempt. Arrive by early afternoon to rest and prepare your gear for the climb. After an early dinner, your guides will brief you on the summit push before you sleep a few hours ahead of the midnight ascent.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Wake around midnight and begin your summit push under a sky filled with stars. The path climbs steadily to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then continues to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. As the sun rises, the glaciers shimmer gold and the horizon stretches endlessly. After celebrating your achievement, descend carefully to Barafu Camp for a short rest and meal, then continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Trek time: 10–13 hours

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest, enjoying the change in scenery as you return to the green canopy below. The air becomes warmer and filled with birdsong as you approach Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your mountain crew. Your driver will take you back to Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower, dinner, and a well-earned rest.

Trek time: 3–4 hours