Page: 10-day Northern Circuit Route
Overview
The epic 10-day Northern Circuit circumnavigates Kilimanjaro for the highest summit success rates. With extra days to acclimatize as we circle Kili’s quieter northern slopes, the route rambles through otherworldly lava flows, glacier-carved valleys and vibrant rainforests alive with wildlife.
Day By Day Itinerary
Starting on the remote west side, we hike gradually through jungle to reach Lemosho Glades Camp (9,000 ft). Our first night grants front-row sunset views across the Shira Plateau’s stark ridges and Lava Tower.
A steady ascent via the lush Lemosho Glades trail brings us above the clouds. Giant lobelias dot the high-altitude Shira 1 Camp, where we overnight at 12,500 ft. An acclimatizing hike caps our day before dinner under the stars.
Skirting massive calderas, we traverse the moon-like Shira Plateau toward Moir Hut (13,700 ft). The trail’s volcanic obsidian rock glitters with views of Shira Cathedral’s stone spires. After arriving, we hike the ridgelines for exercise and panoramas.
We navigate a disused road through the expansive Shira Caldera’s Martian landscape en route to idyllic Buffalo Camp (14,100 ft). Sheltered near crystal clear springs, this site lets us interact with the friendly Chagga porters sharing our expedition.
A trek around Kilimanjaro’s quiet northeast face brings us to Third Cave Camp at 15,100 ft, nestled dramatically below towering Mawenzi Peak. We settle in with sweeping vistas of Kibo’s glaciers floating above the clouds at sunset.
After crossing the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi, we make our way up the jagged cliffs to School Hut perched at 16,300 ft. Bunk beds with mattresses provide comfort before our midnight summit departure under a dazzling blanket of stars.
We leave camp well before dawn to start the final ascent. Reaching Uhuru summit (19,341 ft) as day breaks over glaciers and clouds makes each lung-busting step worthwhile! We descend to Horombo for celebrations.
Retracing our steps down through moorland and rainforest ecosystems, we complete the full circuit after 8 spectacular days on Kilimanjaro’s seldom-seen northern slopes.
We finish with a lush forest hike back to busy Marangu Gate, ready to treat ourselves after an incredible adventure!
End of tour
- Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
- You’ll be dropped off at the airport.
Why Adva Travel
Attempting the longer 10-day Northern Circuit requires experienced guides to steer groups safely through myriad complex landscapes and altitude changes. Adva Travel recruits only the best local experts, putting them through intense training to pass stringent climbing qualification tests. Their cooks deliver nutrition-packed meals to fuel the extra summit days too. From fair wages to trail conservation, choosing this eco-conscious company gives back.
