Northern Route VIP

The ultimate Kilimanjaro experience

Quick Facts

Overview

The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, offering unmatched acclimatization, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds. This extended trek provides the highest success rate, with time to enjoy every stage of the climb while maximizing safety and comfort.

Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Gran Melia Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where a DKE representative will greet you and assist with transfer to the Gran Melia Hotel. Surrounded by gardens and Mount Meru views, it’s the perfect base to relax and prepare for your adventure.
Accommodation: Gran Melia Hotel, Arusha

Day 2: Acclimatization Excursion – Arusha National Park

Enjoy a guided acclimatization hike in Arusha National Park, featuring Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and Mount Meru forests. Spot giraffes, monkeys, and diverse birdlife while preparing for altitude. Evening briefing with guides and final preparations.
Accommodation: Gran Melia Hotel, Arusha

Day 3: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) – Morum Barrier – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)

Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue to Morum Barrier to begin trekking. A short hike across heathland leads to Shira 1 Camp with views of Kibo Peak.
Distance: ~4 km, 2–3 hours
Accommodation: Camping at Shira 1 Camp

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) to Moir Camp (4,200m)

Cross the expansive Shira Plateau, passing unique shrubs and high-altitude desert terrain. The trail gradually climbs to Moir Camp at the mountain’s base, perfect for acclimatization.
Distance: ~9 km, 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Camping at Moir Camp

Day 5: Moir Camp (4,200m) to Pofu Camp (4,020m)

A moderately steep ascent from Moir Valley, with an optional detour to Little Lent Hill (4,450m). Continue around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes with vast views toward Kenya before reaching Pofu Camp.
Distance: ~12 km, 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camping at Pofu Camp

Day 6: Pofu Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)

Climb over Buffalo Ridge, then descend gradually into the Third Cave campsite. By now, acclimatization is well established. The camp offers superb views of Mawenzi Peak.
Distance: ~10 km, 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Camping at Third Cave Camp

Day 7: Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to School Hut (4,750m)

Trek across the alpine desert and over the Saddle, a stark plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Reach School Hut in time to rest and prepare for summit night.
Distance: ~15 km, 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camping at School Hut

Day 8: School Hut (4,750m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Begin the summit push at midnight, climbing via Gilman’s Point to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Barafu, then continue to Mweka Camp for overnight.
Distance: ~16 km, 12–14 hours
Accommodation: Camping at Mweka Camp

Day 9: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha

Descend through rainforest trails to Mweka Gate for your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha and relax at Gran Melia Hotel with a hot shower and farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Gran Melia Hotel, Arusha

What’s Included

  • All transfers as per the itinerary and government expenses
  • Two nights’ accommodation at Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha
  • All Kilimanjaro National Park fees
  • Pre-hiking acclimatization day at Arusha National Park
  • Extra day on the mountain for proper acclimatization and well-being
  • Trained guides in altitude physiology and Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
  • Top-quality food for the entire climb (three meals daily)
  • Safety equipment including oxygen tank and portable altitude chamber (PAC)
  • High-quality camping equipment including mountain tents and private bathroom facilities
  • Safety communication (satellite phones and mobile phones)
  • Flying Doctors evacuation coverage within the region
  • Day room on the final day at Gran Melia Hotel
  • Sleeping bags, mattresses, and tents
  • Summit certificate

What’s Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Travelers’ insurance
  • Communication charges or other personal items
  • Meals or transfers not included in the itinerary
  • Meals at the hotel (outside specified itinerary)
  • Optional activities or additional transfers
  • Beverages, laundry, personal gear or clothing rental
  • Tipping for guides, porters, and support staff
  • Any charges from an early descent (additional hotels, transfers, etc.)
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