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What's included
- Unlimited bottled water
- Visa arrangements
10 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
The 10 Days Northern Circuit Route offers one of the most scenic, remote, and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the western Lemosho Gate, this trail gradually ascends through lush rainforest and alpine moorland before curving around the rarely visited northern slopes of the mountain.
Designed for superior acclimatization, this route provides a high summit success rate and a more relaxed pace than many shorter routes. Although it’s one day shorter than the full 11-day version, it still maintains a solid acclimatization profile by combining some trekking days. It’s an excellent choice for climbers who want a quieter, more immersive experience and breathtaking 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro.
Tour Highlights
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Most panoramic route with views from all sides of the mountain
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Remote and less-traveled trail, offering solitude and a peaceful climb
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Excellent acclimatization profile with a high summit success rate
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Rich variety of landscapes, from rainforest to alpine desert
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Full circuit around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes
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Possibility of wildlife sightings on the lower slopes
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Finishes via the Mweka Route for a safe descent
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Ideal for trekkers with slightly limited time who still want a comprehensive experience
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Book Cheap Kilimanjaro Climb Northern circuit Route With KILINGE ADVENTURES
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
- Day 8
- Day 9
- Day 10
Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
Start elevation: 2,100 m (6,890 ft)
End elevation: 2,650 m (8,690 ft)
Distance: ~6 km
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description: After registration at Londorossi Gate, drive to Lemosho Trailhead and begin hiking through lush rainforest. Spotting colobus monkeys is common.
Mti Mkubwa to Shira One Camp
Start elevation: 2,650 m (8,690 ft)
End elevation: 3,610 m (11,840 ft)
Distance: ~8 km
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description: Trek steadily uphill as the forest thins out, entering the moorland zone. Enjoy scenic views of Shira Ridge and Kibo.
Shira One to Shira Two Camp
Start elevation: 3,610 m (11,840 ft)
End elevation: 3,850 m (12,630 ft)
Distance: ~7 km
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description: A short and relatively easy day across the Shira Plateau. You arrive early at Shira Two for acclimatization.
Acclimatization Hike to Lava Tower, Return to Shira Two
Start elevation: 3,850 m (12,630 ft)
Max elevation: 4,630 m (15,190 ft) — Lava Tower
End elevation: 3,850 m (12,630 ft)
Distance: ~12 km
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Description: This is a key acclimatization day. Hike to Lava Tower for altitude exposure and return to Shira Two to sleep low. “Climb high, sleep low” improves your chances of summiting.
Shira Two to Moir Hut
Start elevation: 3,850 m (12,630 ft)
End elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Description: Hike around the northern slopes with fewer crowds. Moir Hut is tucked below Lent Hills—optional acclimatization hike available.
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Start elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
End elevation: 4,020 m (13,190 ft)
Distance: ~12 km
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert and heath
Description: A scenic traverse of the northern circuit. Great views of Kenya’s plains to the north.
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Start elevation: 4,020 m (13,190 ft)
End elevation: 3,870 m (12,700 ft)
Distance: ~8 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Description: Continue circling the mountain with gentle ups and downs. Arrive early to rest and prepare for the higher altitude days ahead.
Third Cave to School Hut (Base Camp)
Start elevation: 3,870 m (12,700 ft)
End elevation: 4,800 m (15,750 ft)
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Description: A short but steep climb to the final camp. Early dinner and sleep before your summit push at midnight.
Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then down to Mweka Camp
Start elevation: 4,800 m (15,750 ft)
Peak elevation: 5,895 m (19,341 ft)
End elevation: 3,100 m (10,170 ft)
Distance: ~6 km ascent + 12 km descent
Hiking time: 12–15 hours
Habitat: Arctic at the summit, then rainforest
Description: Begin before midnight. Trek past Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. Celebrate briefly, then descend to Barafu for brunch and continue down to Mweka Camp for rest.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Start elevation: 3,100 m (10,170 ft)
End elevation: 1,640 m (5,380 ft)
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description: Final descent through lush rainforest. At the gate, receive your summit certificates, then transfer to your hotel.
