12 Days Tour – 10 Day Trek Northern Circuit Route with Crater Camping
Northern Circuit Route Overview
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering an exceptional trekking experience with the highest acclimatization success rate of all routes. Approaching the mountain from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border, this route is ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter trail, outstanding landscapes, and the best chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
This route begins from the Lemosho side and traverses around the rarely visited northern slopes of the mountain before joining the Rongai route near Kibo. The extended duration allows the body to adapt gradually to altitude, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness while increasing summit success rates.
Along the journey, trekkers pass through diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforest and heathland to alpine desert and glacial zones. The Northern Circuit is renowned for its panoramic views of the Shira Plateau, sweeping valleys, and breathtaking northern perspectives of Kilimanjaro that few climbers ever see.
With fewer crowds, longer acclimatization time, and unmatched scenery, the Northern Circuit Route is considered the most rewarding and comfortable way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is highly recommended for trekkers who prioritize safety, success, and a truly immersive mountain adventure.
Day 1 – Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your lodge in Moshi. The rest of the day is at leisure for a short briefing, final equipment checks, and plenty of rest before your climb begins.
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2 – Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and a briefing, then continue to the trailhead. Begin your trek through lush rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and colorful forest birds, before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night on the mountain.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 – Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
Leave the forest behind as the trail climbs into the heather and moorland zone. The landscape opens up with wider views of the Shira Plateau, and by afternoon you will reach Shira Camp 1, set in a scenic alpine environment ideal for gentle acclimatization.
Accommodation: Shira Camp 1 (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 – Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Continue trekking across the Shira Plateau, a high-altitude desert-like landscape with sweeping panoramas. The day is unhurried and focused on acclimatization as you cross volcanic terrain and gradually make your way to Shira Camp 2 for the night.
Accommodation: Shira Camp 2 (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 – Shira Camp 2 to Moir Hut Camp
A scenic hike leads you toward the quieter northern side of Kilimanjaro, where the route becomes more remote and less crowded. You will trek through rugged alpine terrain toward the Moir Hut area, with excellent acclimatization opportunities and dramatic mountain views along the way.
Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 – Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp
Today you traverse the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, a wide open landscape with big skies and long views stretching toward Kenya and the plains below. The walking is steady and rewarding, ending at Buffalo Camp where you settle in for a peaceful overnight stay.
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 – Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Continue along the remote Northern Circuit trail as the terrain becomes drier and more alpine. The ascent is gradual, allowing your body to adjust as you approach higher elevations. Arrive at Third Cave Camp in the afternoon and rest well for the next day’s climb.
Accommodation: Third Cave Camp (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 – Third Cave Camp to School Hut
A shorter but steeper trek brings you to School Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. The atmosphere feels more serious as the mountain looms closer. After an early dinner, rest and prepare your gear for the midnight wake-up and final ascent.
Accommodation: School Hut (Mountain Hut)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9 – Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Millennium Camp
Around midnight, begin the demanding summit push, climbing steadily toward Gilman’s Point and onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking photos and celebrating your achievement, descend carefully back down past School Hut, then continue to Millennium Camp where you enjoy a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Millennium Camp (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 – Millennium Camp to Moshi (Departure from the Mountain)
Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate where you receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to the mountain crew. You will then transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and a final evening to celebrate your Northern Circuit achievement.
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11 – Moshi
After descending from the mountain, enjoy a relaxed morning in Moshi. This day is reserved for rest, recovery, souvenir shopping, or simply enjoying the views of Mount Kilimanjaro from town after your successful climb.
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12 – Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight home or to your next destination, marking the end of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Price
- 1 Adult: USD 8,023 per person
- 2 Adults: USD 5,837 per person
- 3 Adults: USD 5,093 per person
- 4 Adults: USD 4,713 per person
- 5 Adults: USD 4,585 per person
- 6 Adults: USD 4,382 per person
- 7 Adults: USD 4,271 per person
- 8 Adults: USD 4,140 per person
Day 1 – Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you’ll have time to relax, settle in, and go through a full trekking briefing and final equipment checks before the adventure begins.
Accommodation: Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2 – Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After an early breakfast, you will transfer by road from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration and preparations. From here, you begin your trek as the landscapes transition into the mountain environment. Today is all about starting steadily, settling into the pace, and beginning your acclimatization journey as you reach Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night on the mountain.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 – Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
This morning you continue deeper into the route, climbing steadily as the scenery opens up and the air becomes cooler. The trek leads you toward the Shira Plateau, where wide views begin to dominate the horizon. Arrive at Shira Camp 1 for a well-earned rest, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.
Accommodation: Shira Camp 1 (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 – Shira Camp 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Today is a scenic and important acclimatization day as you trek across the Shira Plateau. The route is generally gradual, allowing your body to adapt while you enjoy panoramic views across the highlands and toward Kibo Peak. By afternoon, you will arrive at Shira 2 Camp, a classic camp location with incredible sunset viewpoints.
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp (Camping)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 – Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Camp
A quieter and more remote section of the mountain awaits as you move toward Moir Hut Camp. The trail offers wide-open alpine scenery and fewer crowds, making it one of the most peaceful parts of the Northern Circuit. The day is designed to support strong acclimatization, with a steady pace and time to rest upon arrival.
Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 – Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp
Continue trekking across the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, where the route feels wild and open with expansive views. The terrain gradually climbs as you traverse ridgelines and valleys, keeping the pace steady to support acclimatization. Reach Buffalo Camp in the afternoon and enjoy a calm evening in this quieter zone of the mountain.
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp (Mt Kilimanjaro)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 – Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Today’s route continues along the Northern Circuit with a steady climb and more dramatic mountain views. The environment becomes increasingly alpine, and the air thinner, so the focus remains on walking slowly and maintaining a comfortable rhythm. You arrive at Third Cave Camp later in the day, where you’ll rest and prepare for the higher camps ahead.
Accommodation: Third Cave Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 – Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp
A shorter but more direct climb brings you to School Hut Camp, positioned higher on the mountain and used as a key base before summit plans. After arriving, you will have time to rest, hydrate, and prepare mentally and physically for the demanding high-altitude section ahead. An early dinner and early sleep are strongly recommended.
Accommodation: School Hut Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9 – Summit Day to Crater Camp
Around midnight, you begin the summit push as you ascend toward the roof of Africa. This is the most challenging part of the trek, but also the most rewarding. After reaching the summit and taking in the incredible views, you begin your descent back toward the crater area. You will continue with a controlled pace, focusing on safety, hydration, and recovery, before settling at Crater Camp for the night.
Accommodation: Crater Camp (Mt Kilimanjaro)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 – Crater Camp to Millennium Camp
After breakfast, you begin your descent from the higher camps, gradually moving into lower altitude zones where breathing becomes easier and energy returns. The trail leads you down through changing landscapes as you continue toward Millennium Camp. By afternoon, you’ll arrive and rest comfortably after the intense summit phase.
Accommodation: Millennium Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11 – Millennium Camp to Moshi
Today you complete the final descent through the lush rainforest zone. At the park gate, you will receive your trekking certificates and celebrate the completion of your Kilimanjaro journey. You will then transfer by road back to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and a comfortable overnight at your hotel.
Accommodation: Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12 – Departure (Kilimanjaro Airport)
After breakfast, you will be transferred by road to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. This marks the end of your Northern Circuit Route adventure, filled with unforgettable landscapes, achievement, and lifelong memories.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Price
- 1 Adult: USD 14,509 per person
- 2 Adults: USD 9,785 per person
- 3 Adults: USD 8,978 per person
- 4 Adults: USD 8,530 per person
- 5 Adults: USD 8,319 per person
- 6 Adults: USD 8,031 per person
- 7 Adults: USD 7,573 per person
- 8 Adults: USD 7,380 per person
BOOK THIS TREK
Price Inclusions
- Transfers to and from the mountain and your hotel in Moshi
- Professional and experienced mountain guides
- Salaries for guides, porters, and cooks, as well as park fees
- High-quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (shared)
- Sleeping mattress
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
- All meals during your trek
- Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
- Generous portions of fresh, healthy, and nutritious food
- Clean, purified drinking water
- Conservation fees (included in park fees)
- Camping or hut fees (included in park fees)
- Rescue fees (included in park fees)
- VAT (18% as mandated by the government)
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Price Inclusions
- Tanzania visa
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel accommodation (optional add-on)
- Transfers (optional add-on)
- Personal trekking gear such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothing, etc. (available for rent)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls, beverages, etc.)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages, including liquor, beer, and bottled drinks
- Online payment surcharge for advance and balance (3.5% per payment)