From Arusha in Tanzania: 9 Days Group Mid-Range Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route

Lemosho Gate (2,360 meters) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters)

Distance: 5.5km / 3 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Before arriving at Lemosho Gate, you’ll pass through varied farmland boasting expansive views of the plains. Near the trailhead, a scenic forest clearing provides a perfect spot for lunch. After completing registration at the gate, the hike begins along a narrow path that winds through lush green forest inhabited by wildlife like buffalo. The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp), located at 7,800 feet elevation.

Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters) to Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters)

Distance: 5.5km / 3 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest

Full Board at Shira One Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Follow the path as it emerges from the forest and opens into a savannah scattered with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks covered in lichen. As you climb through lush, undulating hills and cross multiple streams, you'll reach Shira Ridge, then gently descend to Shira 1 Camp. The sweeping view of Kibo across the plateau is truly breathtaking.

Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters) to Shira Camp 2 (3,850 meters)

Distance: 7km / 4 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day three, the trek continues across the vast Shira Plateau, moving from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2, where you will spend the night and have the chance to meet climbers coming from the Machame Route. It’s highly recommended to take a short acclimatization hike from Shira Camp 2 to soak in breathtaking views of the valley below and the Western Breach above. Due to the plateau’s exposure, expect a cold night with temperatures potentially dropping below freezing.

Note: The route then proceeds east along the Shira Ridge to Lava Tower (4,600 meters), followed by a descent along the Northern Circuit to Moir Camp (4,200 meters).

Shira Camp 2 (3,850 meters) to Moir Camp (4,200 meters)

Distance: 14km / 8 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: Low alpine zone / High alpine zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day four, the journey continues eastward with a long trek through the stunning 'Garden of the Senecios' before entering the high alpine desert. The morning includes a steady climb to Lava Tower and the distinctive Shark’s Tooth formation at 4,600 meters, where you'll pause for lunch. In the afternoon, you'll descend along the northern circuit to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This day is vital for acclimatization—climbing higher during the day and resting at a lower altitude overnight.

Moir Camp (4,200 meters) to Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters)

Distance: 12km / 7 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: High alpine zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day five, the journey proceeds with a moderately steep climb ascending from Moir Valley. Adventurous hikers can take a brief optional detour to reach the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before rejoining the main Northern Circuit path. The trail then winds through gentle ups and downs along Kibo’s northern slopes, showcasing stunning views of the vast plains stretching toward the Kenya–Tanzania border. By early afternoon, you’ll reach Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) to enjoy lunch and a well-deserved rest after the day’s demanding trek.

Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) to Rongai Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters)

Distance: 8km / 5 miles

Trekking time: 5-7 hours

Zone: High alpine zone and low alpine zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On the sixth day, the trek begins with an ascent over Buffalo Ridge, followed by a descent to Pofu Camp for lunch. Afterward, the Northern Circuit route heads east along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, reaching Rongai Third Cave Camp at 3,800 meters. This day’s hike is shorter than the day before, and by now, you should be well acclimated to the altitude. You’ll arrive at Third Cave Camp by mid-afternoon.

Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters) to School Huts (4,800 meters)

Distance: 15km / 8 miles

Trekking time: 4-5 hours

Zone: High alpine zone and glacial zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On day seven, you'll trek steadily uphill across the Saddle, a broad ridge linking Mawenzi Peak to Kibo Huts. The path then heads southwest toward School Huts at 4,800 meters. Once there, you'll enjoy an early dinner and be encouraged to rest early to prepare for the midnight summit push. Be sure to gather all your essential gear—warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera—before going to sleep.

School Huts (4,800 meters) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Millennium Camp (3790m)

Distance: 6km / 3.5 miles ascent and 10.5km / 6-mile descent

Trekking time: 6-8 hours ascent and then 4–6-hour descent

Zone: Glacial zone and all preceding zones

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Around 11:30 PM, you’ll be awakened with hot tea and biscuits to begin your demanding climb up Kibo’s slopes under the cover of darkness. Your first short break will be at Hans Meyer Cave. The path then becomes steeper as you make your way toward Gilman’s Point at 5,681 meters, which you’ll reach about 5 to 6 hours after leaving School Huts. Pause to admire the stunning pre-dawn views and Mawenzi Peak, but keep in mind that Uhuru Peak lies roughly two hours ahead—reserve your energy for the final ascent. The trail then levels out as you follow the crater rim westward, arriving at the summit around sunrise. Take in the breathtaking panorama and snap plenty of photos, though your time at the top will be brief. Afterwards, you’ll descend to Stella Point (5,739 meters), then continue down the loose scree slopes to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters) for a short rest. Finally, you’ll make your way down to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for your last night on the mountain. Day eight requires 14 to 16 hours of trekking, so it’s crucial to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and conserve energy.

Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters)

Distance: 10km / 6.5 miles

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Zone: Rainforest zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

On the final day, you’ll take a short trek descending from Millennium Camp at 3,950 meters through the lush montane rainforest down to Mweka Gate at 1,640 meters. Upon arrival, you’ll complete check-out with park officials and receive your official certificate—green for reaching Gilman’s Point or gold for summiting Uhuru Peak. It’s customary to tip your guide and porters before being transferred back to your mid-range hotel in Moshi.

Moshi to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

The day is reserved for relaxation after the trek, followed by your transfer back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).