9-Day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climbing

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Meet your professional mountain guide for a trek briefing and equipment check. Any missing gear can be rented in town.

Register with Kilimanjaro National Park at Londorossi Gate. From there, drive to the trailhead (2,360m) and begin your trek through lush rainforest. Wildlife sightings may include monkeys, buffalo, or elephants. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Climb out of the forest and into moorland, enjoying panoramic views across the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, one of the most beautiful spots on the mountain.

Cross the high-altitude Shira Plateau to reach Shira 2 Camp, where trekkers from the Machame Route converge. Optional short hikes to higher viewpoints help improve acclimatization.

Ascend to Lava Tower, a key acclimatization point, then descend to Moir Camp through alpine desert landscapes. This “climb high, sleep low” day is essential for preparing your body for summit night.

Hike out of the Moir Valley, optionally summit Little Lent Hill (4,375m), and continue around Kilimanjaro’s northern flanks. Enjoy views of the Kenyan plains as you reach Buffalo Camp.

Continue east across ridges and valleys to Third Cave Camp. By now, your body should be well adapted to the altitude, increasing your chances for a successful summit.

Cross the Saddle, a dramatic high-altitude desert between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Reach School Hut by early afternoon. Rest, hydrate, and prepare gear for the summit push.

Summit Day! Wake at 11:30 PM for hot tea and begin your ascent under the stars. Pass Gilman’s Point (5,681m) and Stella Point (5,739m) before reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak around sunrise. After celebration photos, descend to Millennium Camp via Barafu for a well-earned rest.

A final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate (gold for Uhuru Peak). Return to Arusha for a hot shower and celebration dinner.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or extend your adventure with a Zanzibar beach escape or safari to Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.