11 Days Kilimanjaro
The Northern Circuit
Overview
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m/19,341ft). This 11-day itinerary provides the best acclimatization profile, making it the safest and most successful route with the highest summit success rate. It approaches from the west, crosses the stunning Shira Plateau, and circles around the quieter north side before reaching Uhuru Peak.

Itinerary
Upon landing at the airport, you'll be whisked away to your hotel, marking the start of your Tanzanian adventure. Here, you will meet your guide who will provide a comprehensive briefing on the incredible journey ahead. Afterward, take the time to rest or explore the vibrant city of Arusha, known as the gateway to Tanzania's world-renowned national parks. The hotel staff will be more than happy to recommend exciting activities and hidden gems around the area, ensuring you have a memorable first day in this beautiful country.
Begin your journey on the Northern Circuit Route, an epic guided Kilimanjaro tour that promises more than just a climb. Starting at Lemosho Gate, you step into a world where every path leads to discovery. The trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp is your first taste of the wild beauty Kilimanjaro holds. It's not just a hike; it's an immersion into an ecosystem vibrant with life. This stage sets the tone for an adventure filled with personal achievements and natural wonders. You're not just moving forward; you're ascending towards a dream. Safety and expert guidance ensure your journey is as rewarding as it is thrilling. Embrace the start of a transformative expedition that will redefine your limits and introduce you to the untamed heart of Tanzania.
Progressing from Mti Mkubwa Camp, the route unveils the expansive beauty of the Shira Plateau, leading to Shira 1 Camp. This leg of your Kilimanjaro journey is where the landscape shifts, offering panoramic views that stretch beyond the horizon. The trek to Shira 1 Camp is a testament to the diversity of Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems, transitioning from rainforest to the heath zone. This stage is crucial for further altitude acclimatisation, preparing you for the heights ahead. Our guided Kilimanjaro tours are designed with your safety in mind, ensuring a memorable and enriching trek. As you camp under the stars at Shira 1, you're not just trekking, you're immersing in a world where adventure and tranquility coexist.
Your adventure continues as you ascend from Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp, traversing the vast, open moorland. This stage of your Kilimanjaro hike unveils the raw beauty of the mountain, with every step offering new vistas and challenges. The trek to Shira 2 Camp is a journey through time, revealing ancient volcanic formations and rugged landscapes that tell the story of the earth’s power. Here, altitude acclimatisation is key, as you prepare for the higher elevations ahead. Our expert guides ensure a safe and enriching experience, providing insights into the unique flora and fauna of the region. As you reach Shira 2 Camp, you’re not just closer to Uhuru Peak; you’re experiencing the transformative power of nature, surrounded by the awe-inspiring grandeur of Kilimanjaro
Embarking from Shira 2 Camp, your journey takes a challenging turn as you head towards athe Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic rock formation, before descending to Moir Hut Camp. This leg of your Kilimanjaro expedition is pivotal, testing your endurance and offering a unique high-altitude experience. The climb to the Lava Tower is a critical part of your acclimatisation process, allowing your body to adapt to the increasing elevation. After reaching the Lava Tower, the path to Moir Hut Camp introduces you to a quieter, less trodden path, providing a serene and introspective trekking experience. Here, amidst the shadows of giants, you learn the true meaning of perseverance and strength. Our guided support and expertise ensure your journey is not only safe but also deeply rewarding.
From Moir Hut Camp, your Kilimanjaro adventure takes you through the remote and wild terrain to Buffalo Camp. This stage is a testament to the untamed beauty of Kilimanjaro and offers a path less travelled. On the way to Buffalo Camp you will cross alpine desert landscapes surrounded by the raw beauty of nature's contrasts. This section of your journey is crucial for acclimatisation as you cross different altitudes and prepare your body for the final ascent. The feeling of solitude and vastness at Buffalo Camp provides a deep sense of connection with pristine nature. Our expert guides will ensure your safety and give you insights into the unique ecosystems you are crossing.
After the rugged terrain of Buffalo Camp, your journey on the Northern Circuit Route takes you to the tranquil surroundings of Third Cave Camp. This stage of your Kilimanjaro trek is a mixture of endurance and awe as the landscape transitions into a gentler but equally mesmerising alpine desert. The hike to Third Cave Camp is an important stage for further altitude acclimatisation and prepares you for the challenges of the summit. It offers a moment of reflection amidst the vastness of the Kilimanjaro landscape and allows you to connect deeply with your surroundings. Our experienced mountain guides will lead you safely and expertly along this little-travelled route, ensuring a peaceful and enriching experience.
The journey to the School Hut is the final preparation phase before your summit attempt on Uhuru Peak. This critical phase of your Kilimanjaro trek is all about recovery, acclimatization and mental preparation for the challenge of the summit night ahead.Here you are in the realm of thin air and barren landscape, a world where every breath and every step counts. Our expert guides will brief you on summit strategy and ensure you are fully prepared for the overnight trek to the summit. This stage is crucial as it provides the necessary acclimatization and recovery for the final push. With safety and expertise at the forefront of your mind, you will prepare for the most impressive part of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
The ascent from School Hut to Uhuru Peak is the highlight of your Kilimanjaro expedition, a moment where dreams and the summit come together. This nocturnal journey begins under the cover of darkness, allowing you to ascend in cooler temperatures and witness the stunning sunrise from the summit. While the trail is challenging, it is lit by the moon and your headlamps, giving you a dreamlike experience on the switchbacks that lead to the Roof of Africa. When you reach Uhuru Peak, you'll be greeted by the first rays of sunshine of the day, a panoramic view of Africa below - a reward for your endurance and courage. With our guidance, safety and support, you have achieved something extraordinary: you are standing at 5,895 metres, where the world seems to be at your feet.
Your Kilimanjaro quest concludes as you trek from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. This final leg through verdant rainforest contrasts sharply with the barren, rocky landscapes above. It's a reflective, easier path, leading you back to where your journey began. As you emerge at Mweka Gate, you receive a certificate, a testament to your achievement and perseverance. This isn't just an end; it's a milestone marking newfound resilience and unforgettable memories. With our expert guidance, you've safely navigated this transformative adventure, ready to share your extraordinary story.
Enjoy a last delicious breakfast as the rising sun bathes the surrounding landscape in golden light. Relive the great memories of the past few days. Your driver will transfer you to the airport on time. Please note that this does not have to be the end of your trip. You always have the option to combine your Tanzania trip with another tour. We wish you a pleasant flight and goodbye.
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