THE ADVENTURE, AT A GLANCE
Make room for
something remarkable.
Trek Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit over 9 days, immersing yourself in breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. This scenic route offers an incredible opportunity to experience varied landscapes, from dense rainforests to stark alpine zones. The journey is designed for optimal acclimatization, providing a gradual ascent that culminates in the rewarding experience of reaching the summit. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery and the exhilaration of standing atop Africa’s highest peak!
Your journey.
Day by day.
Day 1 - Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft Distance: 6 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site
Day 2 - Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft Distance: 8 km/5 miles Hiking Time 5-6 hours Habitat: Heath We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau
Day 3 - Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft Distance: 7 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Heath We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees
Day 4 - Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft Distance: 7 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Lava Tower to Moir Hut Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,580 ft Distance: 7 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 2-3 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth
Day 5 - Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Elevation: 13,580 ft to 13,200 ft Distance: 12 km/7 miles Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border
Day 6 - Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Elevation: 13,200 ft to 12,700 ft Distance: 8 km/5 miles Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Heath As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave
Day 7 - Third Cave to School Hut
Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft Distance: 5 km/3 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day
Day 8 - School Hut to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,600 ft to 19,341 ft Distance: 6 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 Distance: 12 km/7 miles Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Artic Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep
Day 9 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft Distance: 10 km/6 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi
This is a suggested route. Your written proposal confirms the final schedule, stays and arrangements. On mountain trips, ask us to confirm arrival and departure nights separately from trekking days.
The practical
part of the adventure.
What the itinerary covers
- Professional, experienced mountain guides and porters
- All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Accommodation before and after the climb (if applicable)
- High-quality camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats, and dining tents
- Nutritious meals prepared by experienced mountain chefs
- Clean drinking water throughout the trek
- Comprehensive medical kit and emergency oxygen
- Portable toilet facilities
- All government taxes and VAT
Plan for separately
- Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Tanzania are not included
- Visa Fees: Entry visa fees for Tanzania are the responsibility of the traveller
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and evacuation is not included but highly recommended
- Personal Gear: Climbing equipment such as hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are not provided
- Tips: Gratuity for guides, porters, and other staff is not included but appreciated
- Additional Meals: Meals not specified in the itinerary, including snacks and beverages, are excluded
- Personal Expenses: Any expenses of a personal nature, such as souvenirs, laundry, or phone calls, are not covered
- Optional Activities: Optional excursions or activities outside of the planned itinerary are not included
- Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses incurred during the climb, including medications and treatment, are the responsibility of the traveller
- Airport Transfers: Airport transfers outside of the designated meeting points are not included
Inclusions can depend on your selected arrangements. Confirm the exact meal plan, accommodation, transfers and optional activities with Kwesa before booking.
A few good questions.
Can I make this trip my own?
Share your travel dates, party size and preferred pace. The Kwesa team will explain which arrangements can be adapted and prepare a personal proposal.
How much will my trip cost?
Ask for a current quote for your dates and group. Your proposal should state the currency, per-person or group basis, inclusions, exclusions and payment conditions.
What happens after I enquire?
Your enquiry starts a conversation with our team. We confirm your preferences, propose the arrangements and explain the booking conditions before you commit.
Read the booking terms ↗
