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Snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro catching the last light above the clouds
Kilimanjaro trek · Private climbFrom Londorossi Gate to Uhuru Peak

9 Days Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit with Crater Camping

The Northern Circuit finished with a night inside the summit crater: the most complete way to climb Kilimanjaro.

Duration9 days
Summit5,895 m
SleepingCamping + Crater Camp
Summit successHighest
Request this climb See the day by day
About this route

Northern Circuit with Crater Camping

The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, circling the quiet northern slopes for nearly 360 degrees of views and the highest summit success rate. This version adds a night at Crater Camp inside the summit crater after reaching Uhuru Peak, with time to explore the Reusch Crater and the glaciers. Fully catered camping throughout.

  • A night at Crater Camp near the summit
  • Quiet, rarely visited northern slopes
  • Nearly 360° of mountain views
  • Highest summit success rate
Climb at a glance
Route
Northern Circuit with Crater Camping
Duration
9 days
Start
Londorossi Gate
Sleeping
Camping + Crater Camp
Acclimatisation
Best of any route
Price
On request
Ask about dates
Day by day

The climb, stage by stage

Day 1

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa

We depart Arusha for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.

7,742 ft to 9,498 ft · 6 km/4 miles · 3-4 hours · Rain Forest
Day 2

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.

9,498 ft to 11,500 ft · 8 km/5 miles · 5-6 hours · Heath
Day 3

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees.

11,500 ft to 12,500 ft · 7 km/4 miles · 3-4 hours · Heath
Day 4

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower

We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

12,500 ft to 15,190 ft · 7 km/4 miles · 3-4 hours · Alpine DesertLava Tower to Moir Hut: 15,190 ft to 13,580 ft · 7 km/4 miles · 2-3 hours · Alpine Desert
Day 5

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.

13,580 ft to 13,200 ft · 12 km/7 miles · 5-7 hours · Alpine Desert
Day 6

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave.

13,200 ft to 12,700 ft · 8 km/5 miles · 5-7 hours · Heath
Day 7

Third Cave to School Hut

We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

12,700 ft to 15,600 ft · 5 km/3 miles · 4-5 hours · Alpine Desert
Day 8

School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Crater Floor

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. We then descend a short distance to Crater Camp, where the rest of the staff will join us to set up camp. There is an option to hike to Reutsch Crater and the ash pit, or simply explore the areas around Furtwangler Glacier. Sleeping at this high altitude can be dangerous. Serious AMS can develop if adequate altitude acclimatization has not been achieved so the guides will monitor you very closely.

15,600 ft to 19,341 ft · 6 km/4 miles · 6-8 hoursUhuru Peak to Crater Camp: 19,341 ft to 18,865 ft · 1 km/.6 miles · 0.5-1 hours · Arctic
Day 9

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Arusha.

10,065 ft to 5,380 ft · 10 km/6 miles · 3-4 hours · Rain Forest
Route profile

Distances, hiking times and habitats

DayStageElevationDistanceHiking timeHabitat
1Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa7,742 ft to 9,498 ft6 km/4 miles3-4 hoursRain Forest
2Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp9,498 ft to 11,500 ft8 km/5 miles5-6 hoursHeath
3Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp11,500 ft to 12,500 ft7 km/4 miles3-4 hoursHeath
4Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower12,500 ft to 15,190 ft7 km/4 miles3-4 hoursAlpine Desert
4Lava Tower to Moir Hut15,190 ft to 13,580 ft7 km/4 miles2-3 hoursAlpine Desert
5Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp13,580 ft to 13,200 ft12 km/7 miles5-7 hoursAlpine Desert
6Buffalo Camp to Third Cave13,200 ft to 12,700 ft8 km/5 miles5-7 hoursHeath
7Third Cave to School Hut12,700 ft to 15,600 ft5 km/3 miles4-5 hoursAlpine Desert
8School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Crater Floor15,600 ft to 19,341 ft6 km/4 miles6-8 hours
8Uhuru Peak to Crater Camp19,341 ft to 18,865 ft1 km/.6 miles0.5-1 hoursArctic
9Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate10,065 ft to 5,380 ft10 km/6 miles3-4 hoursRain Forest

Price on request

The price depends on your group size, dates and whether you add a safari or Zanzibar afterwards. Send us your dates and we will reply with a clear per-person price.

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After the summit

Add a safari or Zanzibar.

Most climbers rest their legs on a northern circuit safari or on a Zanzibar beach. We plan the whole trip as one.

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Reviews

What travellers say

★★★★★ 5.0/5 · 8 verified reviews on SafariBookings
★★★★★

Tony is the Best. 10/10 recommendation plus 5 stars review. He went above and beyond on our trip.

This Past year we visited Tanzania , let me tell you how it went. From the moment our plane touched down, every aspect of our trip was meticulously managed. The airport transfers were seamless, and the selection of hotels and safari lodges provided truly top-tier comfort and amenities. Each accommodation was not only luxurious and well-appointed but also strategically chosen to enhance our overall experience. Tony our guide, consistently went above and beyond to ensure our family felt completely safe, comfortable and well cared for. His extensive knowledge of the wildlife, local culture and terrain was captivating, enriching every game drive and interactions. The entire expedition, from the breathtaking wildlife encounters to the impeccable logistical arrangements, was nothing short of spectacular. We wholeheartedly RECOMMEND Tony and BigfiveTrails to anyone seeking a truly unparalleled and profoundly memorable Tanzanian Safari experience. They deliver excellence in every detail.

NeEma BrostromUnited States · Visited December 2025
★★★★★

A very intelligent, very funny person who loves animals.

The safari experience with Tony is fantastic; he is a highly intelligent and knowledgeable person who loves and respects animals—and he conveys that passion throughout the trip. He is very patient in explaining animal behavior and the surrounding vegetation in great detail, taking the time to point out every little thing. He always keeps a smile on his face, ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is enjoying the safari. His vehicle is comfortable, clean, and equipped with air conditioning. Safaris are great, but with Tony, they are something truly special. We are very grateful to Tony.

ElizabethUruguay · Visited September 2026
★★★★★

An unforgettable Tanzania safari with an incredible guide

Our trip to Tanzania with Big Five Trails was absolutely amazing and exceeded our expectations. The itinerary was very well organized and allowed us to experience some of the most beautiful places in the country, with incredible wildlife sightings and unforgettable landscapes. A huge part of what made the trip so special was our guide, Tony. He was simply incredible: professional, friendly, patient and extremely knowledgeable about the animals, nature and Tanzania. He is also an exceptional tracker — it honestly felt as if he had some kind of direct communication with the animals! He had an incredible ability to spot wildlife from a distance, read tracks and signs, and somehow always seemed to know where the animals were going to appear. Thanks to him, we were able to see an amazing variety of wildlife and enjoy some truly unforgettable encounters. He made every safari drive exciting and interesting, and was always attentive to the group, making us feel comfortable and safe throughout the whole trip. Everything was well coordinated, communication was easy, and the overall experience felt very personal rather than like a standard organized tour. Tanzania was already an incredible destination, but Tony and the team made the experience even better. I would absolutely recommend Big Five Trails to anyone planning a safari in Tanzania, and I would especially recommend asking for Tony as your guide. I would travel with them again without hesitation!

Dolores BAndorra · Visited November 2025
Personal planning

Planning your climb?

Tell us your dates, group size and any altitude experience. We will confirm the best route and send a full proposal.

  1. Share dates, travellers and the feeling you want the journey to hold.
  2. We shape an itinerary with routing logic, lodge fit and a calmer sense of luxury.
  3. You receive a clear proposal with prices per person, inclusions and lodge options.
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Included with every booking

The BigFiveTrails Promise

Six things you can count on, whichever safari you choose.

Free date changes

Move your dates free of charge up to 60 days before arrival.

No hidden costs

Park fees, taxes, private vehicle, guide and drinking water are in your price.

Met at the airport

Airport pickup and drop-off included on every safari.

Lodges we know

Every lodge and camp hand-picked by our team in Arusha.

24/7 on WhatsApp

Our Arusha team answers you every day of your trip, day or night.

Your own guide

Private vehicle and guide – no strangers, no fixed schedule.

Book with confidence

Clear terms, real people, no surprises.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 on SafariBookings by verified travellers. Planned and run from our base in Arusha.

How booking works

  • 30% deposit to confirm your booking
  • Balance due 60 days before arrival
  • Written confirmation of every lodge and park permit
  • Licensed Tanzanian tour operator based in Arusha

Ways to pay

  • Bank transfer (USD)
  • Visa / Mastercard (card fee may apply)
  • Wise transfer

While you travel

  • Your own private vehicle and guide
  • WhatsApp support from our Arusha team every day of your trip
  • Park fees and taxes included and paid in advance
If you cancelCancellation charge
More than 60 days before arrivalDeposit retained, or moved to new dates within 12 months
59 to 30 days before arrival50% of the total trip price
29 to 15 days before arrival75% of the total trip price
Less than 15 days before arrival100% of the total trip price

Park fees and flights already paid to third parties may be non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers cancellation. Full refund policy

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