Nano Africa Safaris

Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route – Crater Camping (11 Days)

Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Crater Camping (11 Days)

The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, offering 360° panoramic views, including vistas of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, Kibo Crater, and Mount Meru. This route is perfect for climbers who want a gradual ascent for better acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful summit.

By following the northern and less-traveled slopes, you will experience remote wilderness, unique flora, and abundant wildlife, all while enjoying peaceful campsites and spectacular crater views.

11 Days & 10 Nights

Lodges / Tented Camps

Private, Group Tour

4x4 WD Land Cruiser

Itinerary

Upon arrival, a Nano Africa Safaris representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy a comfortable stay with cozy rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool.

Attend a briefing session in the evening to review your itinerary, gear, and preparations for the climb.

Important Notes:

  • Shared airport transfers included for group packages

  • Extra individual transfers may incur additional fees

  • Hotel check-in starts at 2:00 PM

Drive 3–4 hours to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m / 7,380 ft). Complete permits and registration before beginning your trek through dense rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.

After lunch, take a short acclimatization hike towards Shira 1 Camp (3,095 m / 10,154 ft) and return for dinner.

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Acclimatization Hike: 1 hour, 2 km (1.2 miles)

Tips:

  • Drink at least 4 liters of water daily

  • Consider high-altitude medication

  • Report any altitude sickness symptoms to your guide

Begin early with breakfast and enjoy a gradual ascent through scenic trails to Shira 1 Camp. Stop to admire Kibo Volcano and the Shira Plateau along the way.

Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Trek a gentle route to Shira 2 Camp, enjoying panoramic views and Kilimanjaro’s endemic flora. After lunch, take an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower (4,110 m / 13,484 ft), then return to camp.

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Acclimatization Hike: 1–2 hours, 2 km (1.2 miles)

Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m / 15,088 ft) for lunch and acclimatization. Afterward, descend gently to Moir Hut to continue your northern trek.

Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)

Begin with a short climb out of Moir Valley, then continue along the northern slopes with moderate ups and downs. Enjoy views of Tsavo and Amboseli Valleys before reaching Buffalo Camp.

Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)

Continue trekking the northern slopes, linking up with the Rongai Route, and spend the night at 3rd Cave Camp. By now, your body should be well-acclimatized to the high altitude.

Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 8 km (4.9 miles)

Trek to School Hut, your summit camp. Take it easy, rest well, and stay hydrated to prepare for the crater summit attempt the next day.

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Depart at midnight and climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft). Enjoy the sunrise and panoramic views, explore nearby glaciers, then descend to Crater Camp. Optional trek to Ash Pit (90-minute hike).

Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Depending on your energy, you may make a second summit attempt or descend towards Barafu Summit Camp, continuing down to Millennium Camp. Optional exploration of the Ash Pit and Reusch Crater.

Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles)

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,379 ft). Celebrate your achievement, share memories, receive your summit certificate, and transfer back to your hotel.

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.

Important Note:

  • Hotel check-out is 11:00 AM

  • Late check-out available for an additional fee

WHAT'S INCLUDES & Excludes

INCLUDED

EXCLUDED

Package Highlights