KILIMANJARO - NORTHERN CIRCUIT

PAMOJA SAFARIS

TRIP ITINERARY OVERVIEW

The Northern Circuit route is the longest path on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique and less-traveled route that wraps around the quieter northern slopes. This extended journey allows for maximum acclimatization time, making it one of the routes with the highest success rates to Uhuru Peak. Typically, the Northern Circuit takes 8 to 9 days to complete.

NORTHERN CIRCUIT

DAY 01

ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA

Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you’ll be met by a Pamoja Safaris guide and taken to your lodge in Arusha.
Lodging: Serena Arusha Lodge & Spa, Arusha or similar
DAY 02

PREPARATION DAY

After breakfast at your lodge in Arusha, your guide will join you in making preparations for the climb, including talking over the plans for the days ahead, a gear check, and grabbing any rental equipment necessary. Dinner will be at your lodge that evening.
Lodging: Serena Arusha Lodge & Spa, Arusha or similar
DAY 03

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

The journey starts at Londorossi Gate, where trekkers register and begin their hike. The path leads through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp for the first night, offering a gentle introduction to the trek.
Distance: 6 km/3.7 mi
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
DAY 04
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Exiting the rainforest, the trail transitions into the heath and moorland zone, providing expansive views and a chance to spot Kilimanjaro’s unique flora. The day ends at Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau.
Distance: 8 km/5 mi
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
DAY 05
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
This is a relatively easy day meant for acclimatization. Trekkers hike across the Shira Plateau, one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world, to Shira 2 Camp. The day offers gentle walking and stunning landscapes.
Distance: 7 km/4.4 mi
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
DAY 06
Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
The route diverges from the more commonly trodden paths to Lava Tower and then to Moir Hut, nestled at the base of Lent Hills. This variation introduces trekkers to the less-visited and scenic northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.
Distance: 14 km/8.7 mi
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
DAY 07
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Trekking from Moir Hut, the path circles around the northern slopes to Buffalo Camp. The day’s trek is characterized by its remote and wild feel, offering views of the plains stretching toward Kenya.
Distance: 12 km/7.5 mi
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
DAY 08
Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave
The route continues around the northern circuit, gradually descending to Rongai Third Cave. This segment of the trek is notable for its tranquility and the opportunity to enjoy Kilimanjaro’s solitude away from the crowds.
Distance: 8 km/5 mi
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
DAY 09
Rongai Third Cave to School Hut
Ascending again, the path leads to School Hut, where trekkers prepare for the summit attempt. This day is crucial for rest and final acclimatization before the push to Uhuru Peak.
Distance: 15 km/9.3 mi
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
DAY 10
School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
The summit bid starts around midnight, aiming for Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point. The challenging night trek is rewarded with a sunrise at Stella Point, followed by the final push to the summit. After reaching the top, the descent follows the Mweka route to Mweka Camp for the final night.
Distance: 6 km/3.7 mi ascent + 12 km/7.5 mi descent
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours ascent + 4-6 hours descent
DAY 11
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The last day involves a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where trekkers receive their summit certificates. Afterward, a vehicle transports the group back to their lodging, marking the end of the adventure.
Distance: 10 km/6.2 mi
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
DAY 12
DEPARTURE
Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until your flight back. You’ll be transferred by the hotel to the airport (15 minutes drive) approximately 2.5 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart.
Departure

EQUIPMENT & SUPPORT

Premium Tents

High End Sleeping Pads & Bags

Experienced Guides

Price includes

$ 5900+
- start price (depending on group size & season)
  • All domestic transport
  • Fees & Taxes
  • All meals (as specified per day)
  • Base gratuity for all staff

Price excludes

-
a 30% deposit is required to book
  • International Travel
  • Private room (available for extra charge)
  • International Airfare and Visa
  •  

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