The 10-Day Northern Circuit Route with Crater Camp begins at Lemosho Gate and leads trekkers through one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and diverse paths. On the first day, you’ll hike through lush montane forest to reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, setting the tone for a remote and rewarding journey around the mountain’s northern slopes. This trail is celebrated not only for its stunning vistas and varied ecological zones but also for offering unmatched solitude and an exceptional acclimatization profile.
As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit allows you to circle nearly the entire mountain, moving from the western flank toward the remote northern wilderness. This gradual ascent provides ample time for your body to adjust to the altitude, dramatically improving summit success rates. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views stretching across both Tanzania and Kenya, with very few trekkers sharing the trail making it an intimate and peaceful high-altitude experience.
A unique highlight of this trek is the overnight stay at Crater Camp (5,790 meters), nestled just beneath the summit of Uhuru Peak. As one of the highest campsites on Earth, Crater Camp gives you the rare opportunity to explore the stunning Rebmann Glacier and the eerie Ash Pit inside the volcanic crater. Though this part of the trek demands resilience due to extreme altitude, it transforms a Kilimanjaro climb into an unforgettable expedition for seasoned adventurers.
Can start any day
10 Days
Challenging
Private Tour
Customizable
Itinerary
Toyota Hiace
Minivans / Bus
Breakfast, Lunch
& Dinner
Kilimanjaro Int.
Airport
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our friendly team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, the gateway to Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed climb briefing and gear check. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for your adventure. Overnight stay in Moshi.
Tulivu has always been in our hearts, even though opening a boutique hotel wasn’t something we initially envisioned. Our passion for hosting family and friends, creating unforgettable experiences, and sharing fine dining brought us so much joy over the years. Eventually, we realized this warmth and hospitality could be shared with others. That’s when the idea for Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat and Campsite was born.
Altitude: 2,360 m to 2,820 m
Distance: 6 km | Time: 3–4 hours
Begin your Kilimanjaro adventure with registration at Lemosho Gate, followed by a short drive to the trailhead. The hike starts through dense montane rainforest, where towering trees, colorful birds, and playful colobus monkeys welcome you to the wilderness. The trail ascends gently under the forest canopy, allowing for a gradual introduction to the altitude. After 3–4 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp), tucked away in the forest. Here, you’ll unwind with a hearty dinner and prepare for the journey ahead.
Altitude: 2,820m to 3,610m
Distance: 8 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Today the landscape changes from dense forest to heath and moorland. You’ll ascend steadily, with stunning views of the Shira Plateau opening up. The trail becomes more rugged as you climb over volcanic ridges. Lunch is served en route, with the chance to see giant lobelias. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, set in an open area with expansive views. You’ll begin to feel the drop in temperature at night as you climb higher.
Altitude: 3,610m to 3,850m
Distance: 7 km | Time: 4–5 hours
This is a relatively short day to allow for acclimatization. Cross the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. The trail is gentle and offers incredible views of Kibo’s snow-capped peak. You may explore the Shira Cathedral for extra acclimatization and scenery. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon for rest, dinner, and overnight. Expect chilly temperatures and vast alpine views.
Altitude: 3,850m to 4,200m
Distance: 9 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Today is a scenic and peaceful trek heading north toward Moir Hut, a seldom-visited campsite at the base of Lava Tower. The trail climbs gradually with excellent views across the plateau. In the afternoon, you can take an optional acclimatization hike to the Lent Hills. This camp is extremely quiet, offering a special wilderness experience on Kilimanjaro. Perfect for rest and deepening your acclimatization.
Altitude: 4,200m to 4,020m
Distance: 12 km | Time: 5–7 hours
The trail rises steeply over a ridge before dropping into the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. This portion of the trek is known for its solitude, with few trekkers and breathtaking vistas across the Kenyan plains. Continue along rolling terrain with gradual ascents and descents before arriving at Buffalo Camp. Enjoy the serenity and wild beauty of Kilimanjaro’s quietest side.
Altitude: 4,020m to 3,870m
Distance: 8 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Today’s trail traverses the northern side of the mountain, winding through alpine desert landscapes. It’s a relatively easy day in terms of terrain, allowing your body to further adjust to the altitude. You’ll enjoy views of Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest summit. Arrive at Third Cave Camp for a restful evening under a sky full of stars.
Altitude: 3,870m to 4,800m
Distance: 6 km | Time: 4–5 hours
Climb gradually toward the high-altitude alpine zone. Today’s trail is steeper, with rocky terrain as you make your way to School Hut, the final staging point before your summit attempt. Arrive in the early afternoon to rest, hydrate, and prepare your gear. Early dinner and early bedtime are essential to conserve energy for the midnight ascent to the summit.
Altitude: 4,800m to 5,895m (Uhuru) to 5,790m
Distance: 6 km ascent, 1.5 km descent | Time: 8–10 hours
Wake before midnight to begin your summit push. The trail to Gilman’s Point is steep and demanding, with switchbacks over scree. From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking in the views, descend briefly into the Crater Camp, where you’ll spend a once-in-a-lifetime night surrounded by glaciers and near the Rebmann Glacier. Explore the crater floor and rest at high altitude.
Altitude: 5,790m to 3,100m
Distance: 12 km | Time: 6–7 hours
Descend steeply from Crater Camp back past Stella Point and down to Barafu Camp, where you’ll rest briefly. Continue the long descent through alpine desert and moorland to reach Mweka Camp in the forest zone. The increased oxygen and warmer air will feel refreshing. Celebrate your achievement over dinner and enjoy your final night on the mountain.
Altitude: 3,100m to 1,800m
Distance: 10 km | Time: 3–4 hours
Today you’ll complete your descent through the beautiful rainforest. The trail is often muddy but rewarding, with sightings of monkeys and lush scenery. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, receive your certificate of achievement and meet the vehicle waiting to take you back to Moshi. Enjoy a hot shower, a hearty meal, and well-earned rest at your lodge.
Tulivu has always been in our hearts, even though opening a boutique hotel wasn’t something we initially envisioned. Our passion for hosting family and friends, creating unforgettable experiences, and sharing fine dining brought us so much joy over the years. Eventually, we realized this warmth and hospitality could be shared with others. That’s when the idea for Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat and Campsite was born.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey. Alternatively, you can choose to unwind with a Zanzibar beach escape or embark on a wildlife safari to Serengeti or Ngorongoro. Depart with memories of triumph and breathtaking beauty at the top of Africa.
Private Toilet – $150 per trip
Enjoy added privacy and comfort with a personal portable toilet for your group.
Private Tent – $5 per day
Perfect for solo climbers or those who prefer not to share sleeping space.
Kailas X3 III Alpine Tent with Vestibule – $10 per day
A high-performance alpine tent offering extra space and weather protection. (Click here for specifications)
Thicker Sleeping Mattress – $10 per mattress
Upgrade to a thicker foam mattress for improved sleep and insulation.
Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pad – $15 per pad
A premium self-inflating pad for maximum comfort and warmth on the mountain.
