10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit
Trek Kilimanjaro’s longest, quietest route in 10 days with the best acclimatization and a daylight summit of Uhuru Peak. Group prices from USD 3,231 pp.
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest trail and offers the most gradual ascent. It is widely regarded as the best route for acclimatization, with trekkers spending more nights at higher altitudes than on any other path. Over 10 days, climbers experience rainforest, moorland, alpine desert and the arctic summit zone while circling the mountain’s remote northern slopes. Unlike most Kilimanjaro itineraries, where trekkers begin their summit push at midnight, the Northern Circuit allows climbers to reach Uhuru Peak during daylight hours. The longer itinerary and gradual acclimatization give clearer views, safer conditions and a more memorable summit experience. The trek begins at Londorossi Gate (2,100 m) on the western side, rises across the Shira Plateau, then veers north to circle the quiet back of the mountain, with remote camps such as Buffalo and Third Cave. The summit push starts from School Hut (4,750 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), followed by a descent to Barafu Camp. Total distance is approximately 90 km round trip, with a success rate of over 90% for 10 day itineraries.
At a glance
- Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
- Where: Kilimanjaro National Park
- Style: Moderate to Challenging
- Best time: June to October & December to March
- Price from: USD 3,647 per person
Highlights
- Daylight summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) with clear views and safer conditions
- Longest and most gradual route, with the best acclimatization profile
- Remote northern slopes with solitude and views across the Kenyan plains
- Quiet camps at Moir, Buffalo and Third Cave
- Success rate of over 90% on the 10-day itinerary
Day by day itinerary
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro Airport. After transferring to Arusha, you’ll meet your guides for a detailed briefing on the climb. This evening is for rest and preparation.
Stay: Hotel in Arusha. Meals: Dinner.
Day 1: Arusha to Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
A scenic drive through rural Tanzania leads to the trailhead. The trek begins in thick rainforest, alive with wildlife. Big Tree Camp offers a tranquil first night.
Stay: Camping at Big Tree Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp
The trail climbs out of the forest into open moorland. Shira 1 Camp sits on the edge of the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic caldera.
Stay: Camping at Shira 1 Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
A relaxed day across Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic areas. Shira 2 Camp provides excellent acclimatization.
Stay: Camping at Shira 2 Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp
This day takes you off the main trail into a quieter, less traveled area. Moir Camp sits at the base of a volcanic ridge, offering solitude and excellent acclimatization.
Stay: Camping at Moir Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp
A quieter day across the northern circuit, with expansive views into Kenya. Buffalo Camp offers solitude and natural acclimatization.
Stay: Camping at Buffalo Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Another acclimatization day in a quiet setting. Third Cave Camp is sheltered and ideal for rest.
Stay: Camping at Third Cave Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
A steady climb through barren alpine desert leads to School Hut. Trekkers rest early in preparation for the summit push.
Stay: Camping at School Hut. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (Day Summit), Overnight at Barafu
Unlike most itineraries with midnight ascents, this route allows a Day Summit. Trekkers begin at dawn, climbing in daylight to Uhuru Peak. The reward is clear skies, safer conditions, and unforgettable views. After celebrating at the summit, descend carefully past School Hut and continue down to Barafu Camp, where you spend the night to recover.
Stay: Camping at Barafu Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 9: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp
After the summit triumph, trekkers descend steadily from Barafu into lower zones. The trail passes stark alpine terrain before reentering the greenery of Kilimanjaro’s forest. Mweka Camp provides a comfortable final night on the mountain.
Stay: Camping at Mweka Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, Return to Arusha
The final trek winds through Kilimanjaro’s rainforest, where bird calls and fresh air mark the end of the journey. At Mweka Gate, trekkers collect their summit certificates before returning to Arusha for a celebratory dinner.
Stay: Hotel in Arusha. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner.
Price per person by group size
- 1 traveller: USD 4,092 per person
- 2 travellers: USD 3,647 per person
- 3 travellers: USD 3,495 per person
- 4 travellers: USD 3,475 per person
- 5 travellers: USD 3,350 per person
- 6 travellers: USD 3,297 per person
- 7 travellers: USD 3,231 per person
What is included
- All national park entrance fees, camping or hut fees, rescue fees and 18% VAT
- Certified wilderness first responder English-speaking head guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
- High-altitude 4-season mountain tents, foam sleeping pads, mess tent with tables and chairs
- Private chemical flush toilet tent throughout the trek
- All meals on the mountain (breakfasts, hot lunches on trail, dinners and afternoon snacks)
- Emergency oxygen cylinder, pulse oximeter and comprehensive medical first-aid kit
- Clean, purified drinking water provided daily on the trail
- Return airport transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and trailhead transport
- Pre-climb gear inspection, briefing and celebratory post-climb dinner
What is not included
- International and domestic flights
- Entry visa fees for Tanzania
- Tips for the mountain crew (recommended guideline: $250–$350 per trekker total)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, trekking poles, warm apparel — rental available)
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance with high-altitude evacuation up to 6,000m
- Alcoholic beverages and personal items
Frequently asked questions
How much does the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit cost?
The 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit starts from USD 3,647 per person. The final price depends on your group size, travel dates and accommodation level, so send an inquiry with your dates for an exact quote.
How long is the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit and where does it go?
It lasts 10 days and 9 nights and covers Kilimanjaro National Park. The day-by-day itinerary on this page lists each stop.
What is included in the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit?
The price includes all national park entrance fees, camping or hut fees, rescue fees and 18% VAT, certified wilderness first responder English-speaking head guide, assistant guides, cook and porters, high-altitude 4-season mountain tents, foam sleeping pads, mess tent with tables and chairs, private chemical flush toilet tent throughout the trek, all meals on the mountain (breakfasts, hot lunches on trail, dinners and afternoon snacks) and emergency oxygen cylinder, pulse oximeter and comprehensive medical first-aid kit. The "What is included" list on this page has everything.
What is not included in the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit?
Not included: international and domestic flights, entry visa fees for Tanzania, tips for the mountain crew (recommended guideline: $250–$350 per trekker total), personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, trekking poles, warm apparel — rental available), comprehensive travel and medical insurance with high-altitude evacuation up to 6,000m and alcoholic beverages and personal items. The "What is not included" list on this page has everything.
Do I need to be very fit for the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit?
Good general fitness helps, and so does walking regularly before you travel. Longer routes give your body more time to acclimatise, which improves the chance of reaching the summit. Our preparation guide explains training, gear and altitude.
When is the best time for the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit?
The driest and most popular climbing windows are roughly January to March and June to October. Other months can be wetter, with fewer climbers on the mountain.
How do I book the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route, Day Summit?
Press "Book this safari" on this page or send an inquiry with your dates and number of travellers. We confirm availability and the details by email.
Do I need travel insurance for Tanzania?
Yes. Travel insurance is required for travel to Tanzania, and it should cover medical care and evacuation. See our travel insurance guide before you buy a policy.
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