From
9 Days
Trekking
Airport
The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, allowing for excellent acclimatization and spectacular views. This itinerary includes an acclimatization day, enhancing your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where our guides will discuss essential details about the trek, conduct a gear check, and answer any questions. It’s a day to relax and prepare for the adventure.
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate (2,100m/6,890ft) for registration. Start your trek through the rainforest, covering 8 kilometers (5 miles) over 4 to 5 hours to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m/9,022ft). Experience the beauty of the lush forest and the diverse wildlife.
Trek 8 kilometers (5 miles) over 5 to 6 hours to Shira 1 Camp (3,600m/11,811ft). The trail leads through the moorland zone, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
Today, trek 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) over 4 to 5 hours to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m/12,631ft). The route offers stunning views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak, making it a scenic day of trekking.
Trek 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over 6 to 7 hours to Barranco Camp (3,960m/12,992ft). The trail traverses through the alpine desert zone, and you’ll enjoy stunning views as you approach the Barranco Wall.
Spend a day acclimatizing at Barranco Camp. You can take a hike to the top of Barranco Wall, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This day is essential for acclimatization, helping you prepare for the summit.
After breakfast, climb the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding ascent. Trek 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) over 4 to 5 hours to Karanga Camp (4,035m/13,238ft), enjoying panoramic views along the way.
Trek 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) over 3 to 4 hours to Barafu Camp (4,640m/15,223ft). This section of the trek offers spectacular views of Kibo and the surrounding landscape. Arrive at Barafu, where you can rest and prepare for the summit push.
Begin your summit ascent around midnight. Trek to Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft), then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft). After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp (3,110m/10,204ft). This challenging day covers approximately 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) over 12 to 15 hours.
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, covering 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over 3 to 4 hours. At the gate, collect your summit certificate before returning to Arusha for a celebration dinner.
After breakfast, prepare for your departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories made during your trek.