African Majestic Adventures
10 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – Northern Circuit Route
Kilimanjaro Climbs

10 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – Northern Circuit Route

10 days · Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania · Northern Circuit Route · Strenuous (excellent acclimatization schedule)

Tour Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is considered the most scenically diverse route on Kilimanjaro. It passes through rainforest, moorland and heath, lava fields and alpine desert landscapes. With 10 days you have plenty of time for slow acclimatization, to enjoy the nature and wildlife, and to maximize your chances of reaching the summit. The route also offers spectacular 360-degree views throughout the climb.

Tour Highlights

What makes this trip special

Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa's highest point
KPAP-certified guides and fairly-paid, fairly-treated porters
The longest route around the mountain, built for the best acclimatization and summit success
10-day itinerary with a proper acclimatization schedule for a higher summit success rate

Elevation Profile

How the altitude climbs, day by day

Day-by-Day Elevation Profile Northern Circuit Route
5,895 m Peak Altitude
1,000 m 2,000 m 3,000 m 4,000 m 5,000 m 6,000 m Uhuru Peak 5,895 m 5,895 m Day 1 Day 3 Day 5 Day 7 Day 9 metres above sea level
Start: 1,800 m Summit: 5,895 m Finish: 1,650 m

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Your trip, day by day

D1

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi or Arusha

Hotel in Moshi/Arusha

Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) or Arusha, transfer to your hotel. Preparation for the upcoming trek, briefing and equipment check.

D2

Day 2: Londorossi Gate – Big Tree Camp (approx. 2,700m)

Big Tree Camp

The tour begins in the morning at Londorossi Gate. The ascent leads through dense rainforest. You will pass monkeys and bird species while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. In the afternoon you reach Big Tree Camp, where you spend the night.

D3

Day 3: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp (approx. 3,500m)

Shira 1 Camp

The hike leads through moorland and heath vegetation, past impressive lava formations. Shira 1 Camp sits on a wide plateau, ideal for acclimatization and photos.

D4

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (approx. 3,850m)

Shira 2 Camp

Today you continue hiking through the alpine desert landscape, enjoying wide views of Kilimanjaro and the Shira Plateau. You spend the night at Shira 2 Camp.

D5

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Moir Hut (approx. 4,200m)

Moir Hut

The climb to Moir Hut aids acclimatization. Along the way you'll experience impressive landscapes, rock formations and your first views of the alpine desert region.

D6

Day 6: Moir Hut – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp (approx. 3,960m)

Barranco Camp

You continue via the Lava Tower for acclimatization and photo stops. Afterwards, descend to Barranco Camp at the foot of the Barranco Wall.

D7

Day 7: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (approx. 4,035m)

Karanga Camp

Today you climb the famous Barranco Wall, a moderate scramble with spectacular views. Afterwards, continue on to Karanga Camp, a smaller, quiet camp.

D8

Day 8: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (approx. 4,640m)

Barafu Camp

The climb leads to Barafu Camp, base camp for summit day. In the afternoon, rest, dinner and preparation for the night ascent.

D9

Day 9: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (approx. 3,100m)

Mweka Camp

Early morning start for the summit. The climb takes about 6–8 hours. From Uhuru Peak you enjoy spectacular sunrise views over Africa. Afterwards, descend to Mweka Camp to recover.

D10

Day 10: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha & Departure

Return to Moshi/Arusha

After breakfast you descend through forest back to Mweka Gate. Official certificate presentation and transfer back to your accommodation or the airport. Highlights of the 10-Day Northern Circuit Route: • Gentle ascent through rainforest, moorland and heath • Lava Tower and Barranco Wall as acclimatization points • Breathtaking 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro, Arusha National Park and surroundings • Ample time for acclimatization, boosting summit chances • Wildlife and nature viewing in the lower forest zones • Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers

What's Included & Excluded

Know exactly what your package covers

Included

  • Kilimanjaro National Park entry & camping/hut fees
  • KPAP-certified mountain guides, cooks and porters
  • All meals on the mountain (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner, hot drinks)
  • Mountain camping equipment or hut accommodation (route-dependent)
  • Treated drinking water throughout the climb
  • Government rescue fees
  • Airport transfer on arrival/departure
  • Pre-climb briefing and equipment check

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Tanzania visa
  • Travel & medical evacuation insurance
  • Tips for guides, cooks and porters
  • Personal climbing gear (boots, jacket, sleeping bag)
  • Alcoholic drinks and snacks
  • Hotel accommodation before/after the climb (unless stated)

Best Time to Travel

The clearest, driest climbing conditions fall in two windows: late June through October, and January to mid-March. Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the short and long rains (November, and April-May) bring wetter trails and lower summit visibility.

Camping (mountain tents, full trekking crew)

Full board on the mountain, prepared by our mountain cooks

What to Pack

Suggested gear for this trip

Waterproof hiking boots (broken in before the trip)
Insulated waterproof jacket and trousers
Moisture-wicking base layers
Fleece or down mid-layer
Warm hat, gloves and neck gaiter
Headlamp with spare batteries
Trekking poles
4-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
Sunglasses (UV protection) and high-SPF sunscreen
First-aid kit and personal medication
Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
Daypack (25-35L) for daily essentials

Get a Free Quote

Tell us about your trip and we'll get back to you within 24 hours — or message us on WhatsApp for a faster reply.

Translate Page