10-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit
The 10-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit via the Shira Route is a breathtaking adventure to Africa’s highest peak, combining scenic landscapes, gradual acclimatization, and the thrill of summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). This route takes trekkers through diverse ecological zones, including lush rainforests, high-altitude moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, offering some of the most stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
Over 10 days, climbers traverse key camps such as Mti Mkubwa, Shira 1, Shira 2, Moirhut, School Hut, Third Cave, Barafu, and Mweka, allowing a steady ascent that increases the likelihood of a successful summit. The trek starts and ends in Arusha, with comfortable pre- and post-trek accommodations at Njiro Climax Hotel.
Supported by experienced guides, porters, and cooks, the 10-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit ensures safety, comfort, and an unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking the ultimate high-altitude trekking challenge.
Included/Exclude
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Mountain crew (cook & porters)
- Overnight stays in hotels and mountain tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc.)
- Meals according to the itinerary and clean Drinking water
- All national park fees.
- Oxygen bottle and first aid kit.
- All mentioned transfer
- 1 Night in Arusha.
- Sleeping bag
- Flights
- Alcoholic
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
Overview: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, where you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to Njiro Climax Hotel. Spend the day resting, acclimatizing to the altitude, and attending a pre-trek briefing. Your guide will review the trek route, distribute equipment, and answer any questions to prepare you for the adventure ahead.
Elevation: 1,400 m
Meals: Breakfast
Overview: After breakfast, drive approximately 2–3 hours to Londorossi Gate, the starting point of your trek. Register at the park, meet your porters, and begin trekking through lush rainforest filled with giant ferns and moss-covered trees. Enjoy spotting unique flora and birds as you ascend gradually to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, your first overnight on the mountain.
Elevation: 2,100 – 2,850 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Leave the dense rainforest behind and enter the open Shira Plateau, a high-altitude moorland with stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The terrain is rocky with scattered giant heathers, and the pace is moderate to allow for acclimatization. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp, enjoying a peaceful setting and spectacular sunsets over the plateau.
Elevation: 2,850 – 3,500 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Trek across the plateau toward Shira 2 Camp, passing through dramatic volcanic landscapes and small streams. This is a relatively gentle day designed to further aid acclimatization. Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding highlands as you approach your camp, which offers excellent spots for photography and rest.
Elevation: 3,500 – 3,840 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Cross the Shira Plateau on a gradual ascent to Moirhut Camp, a scenic and less-crowded campsite ideal for acclimatization. On the way, you will see unique alpine vegetation and expansive views of Kibo and Mawenzi. This day allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude while enjoying the serene high-altitude environment.
Elevation: 3,840 – 4,000 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Trek through the rugged alpine desert toward School Hut, a small camp situated beneath Kibo Peak. The terrain becomes rockier, with sparse vegetation and dramatic mountain views. Overnight here helps prepare your body for the demanding summit attempt, and you’ll have time to rest and hydrate.
Elevation: 4,000 – 4,750 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Continue trekking across the alpine desert to Third Cave Camp, gaining more altitude and experiencing the stark, high-altitude environment of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy the sense of remoteness and spectacular views of the glaciers and Kibo Peak. This camp allows further acclimatization, essential for a successful summit attempt.
Elevation: 4,750 – 4,900 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Trek to Barafu Camp, the final base before your summit climb. The landscape is rocky and barren, with panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi. Spend the evening resting, hydrating, and preparing for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak. This is a crucial day to conserve energy for the climb.
Elevation: 4,900 – 4,640 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Begin a midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via Stella Point (5,756 m). Witness the sunrise from the roof of Africa, an unforgettable experience. After reaching the summit, descend carefully to Mweka Camp, passing through alpine desert and rainforest zones. Overnight at Mweka allows you to rest after the demanding climb.
Elevation: 4,640 – 5,895 – 3,100 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overview: Complete the descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport for onward travel. This day is relaxed, reflecting on your achievement and enjoying the final views of the mountain.
Elevation: 1,640 – 1,400 m
Meals: Breakfast
