Kilimanjaro Northern Trek

Safari summary

Our 10 Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, circling the northern slopes and offering climbers a rare chance to experience the mountain in its entirety. Over ten days, you will move gradually through every ecosystem, from the lush rainforest at the base to the alpine desert and finally the icy summit zone. This route provides the perfect balance between challenging trekking and careful acclimatization, giving you the highest chance of reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.
You will begin your journey with a scenic drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where registration and orientation will prepare you for the trek ahead. Stepping into the rainforest, you will hear the rustling of leaves, the songs of birds, and the occasional call of colobus monkeys as the dense foliage envelopes the trail. The first day of walking is gentle, winding along streams, ferns, and moss-covered trees, allowing you to ease into the rhythms of the mountain and become acquainted with your team of guides and porters.
As you ascend, you will move through moorland dotted with giant heathers and lobelias, experiencing cooler air, expansive views, and the stark beauty of Kilimanjaro’s high plateaus. Crossing the Shira Plateau, you will witness dramatic panoramic vistas of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks and distant plains. On Lava Tower day, you will climb high to over 4,600 meters, taking in volcanic rock formations and rugged valleys, before descending to Moir Hut to help your body acclimatize. The “climb high, sleep low” strategy is key to increasing your summit success, and the Northern Circuit route allows for this gradual, safe approach.
Traversing the northern slopes, you will enjoy quiet trails that are rarely visited by other climbers, giving a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature. You will hike across rocky ridges, alpine deserts, and gentle valleys, seeing unique flora, occasional wildlife, and the vast expanse of Tanzanian landscapes. Buffalo Camp and Third Cave Camp provide serene resting points where you can reflect on your journey, watch the shifting clouds, and enjoy the peace of the remote northern ridges.
Summit night is the pinnacle of the adventure. You will wake around midnight, facing the cold and thin air, and slowly ascend step by step toward Gilman’s Point and Stella Point. The sun will rise as you reach the final push to Uhuru Peak, revealing breathtaking glaciers, craters, and valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. Standing atop Africa’s highest point, you will feel a combination of awe, accomplishment, and reverence. The descent to Mweka Camp is long but gentle, giving you time to reflect on your journey and the transformative experience of the mountain.
The final day brings a gentle 3–4-hour descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. You will collect your summit certificate and celebrate the successful completion of the climb before returning to Moshi for a hot shower, a hearty meal, and rest. The entire 10-day itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization, immersion in Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems, and an intimate connection with the mountain’s grandeur.
This climb is more than a physical challenge it is a journey of patience, endurance, and discovery. You will experience the quiet power of nature, the camaraderie of your trekking team, and the lasting sense of accomplishment that comes from standing atop Africa’s roof. Each day is designed to balance exertion and reflection, giving you the opportunity to savor every sunrise, sunset, and moment on this magnificent mountain. By the time you descend, the memories, photographs, and feelings of achievement will stay with you long after you leave Kilimanjaro.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, March, June, July, August, September, October
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Walking safari—with armed guard
• Photography safari—with professional guide
• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Visas