Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit & Chemka hotspring

From €2600

11 Days with 9 Days / 8 Nights on the mountain

Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit is the longest route to the summit of Kilimanjaro, spanning around 96 km and 9 days on the mountain. This allows for a gradual and more scenic ascent through diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers. The route offers panoramic views and allows you to explore the most beautiful and less crowded parts of the mountain.

Feel a sense of adventure and exploration as you traverse less-trodden trails of this remote route. This appeals to the adventurers who prefer a more intimate and exclusive experience on their Kilimanjaro climb. This route offgers the highest success rate because your body will get ample time to adjust to the height and the thin air.

The culmination of your ascent is the breathtaking snow-capped peak standing at 5895 m, where you will witness the famous Kilimanjaro glaciers. After the climb, we will unwind and relax with a lovely swim and rope swing in the tranquil Chemka hot springs. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the thrill and beauty of Kilimanjaro firsthand.

Kilimanjaro Climb (Northern Circuit 9 days) & Chemka Hotsprings. Day-by-Day:

Day 0: Arrival to Kilimanjaro

Welcome to the land of adventure! Upon landing at Kilimanjaro Airport, our friendly driver will be there to greet you and whisk you away to your hotel located in the suburbs of Moshi town.

As you settle into your room, take a moment to soak in the views of the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro right outside the hotel gate. With a variety of delicious meals, a clean swimming pool, lush garden, and impeccable service, this cozy accommodation is the perfect place to start your journey.

After a refreshing dip in the pool, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, where you’ll get to know each other. Our guide will brief you on what to expect during your time in Tanzania. And if you need any personal mountain gear, we’ll arrange to have it individually selected just for you (by prior arrangement only). If you arrive early and have some extra time, don’t let it go to waste! Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the cultural village of Marangu on an organic coffee tour, hike to a stunning waterfall, and visit the underground caves and hut of the Chagga tribe (additional cost applies, arranged upon request). With so much to see and do, your adventure in Tanzania starts now!

Overnight: Chanya Lodge
Meal plan: no meals included today (at your own expense)

Day 1: Moshi – Londorosi Gate (2250 m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650 m)

Driving distance / time: 2 hr / 87 km
Walking distance: 6 km
Walking time: 3-4 hours
Altitude gain: 645 m
Max. altitude: 2895 m

Rise early and fuel up with a hearty breakfast before departing from your hotel at approximately 8:30 AM. We’ll provide you with a lunchbox to enjoy on your trek.

We will provide a bus transfer to Londorossi Park Gate where our mountain crew will take care of completing the registration procedures.

The day’s trek will take you through the enchanting rainforest, with a gentle walk that allows you to ease into the journey. Keep an eye out for Black and White Colobus monkeys and small antelopes, as sightings of these animals are common in this area.

In the early afternoon, you will arrive at Mti Mkubwa (“Big Tree”) Camp. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure, preparing for the challenges ahead.

The first day of the Northern Circuit Route offers a smooth start, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the rainforest and settle into the rhythm of the climb.

Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650 m) – Shira-1 Camp (3500 m)

Walking distance: 8 km
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 605 m
Max. altitude: 3500 m

We continue our journey eastwards, which leads us to the majestically beautiful Shira Plateau. The moorland meadow awaits, and as you climb, be prepared to be greeted by sweeping views of Kibo, the summit cone of mighty Mt. Kilimanjaro. Traverse the rocky ridge of the Shira Plateau, where the trail eases, and the journey becomes even more enchanting.

In the afternoon, you will be welcomed into Shira-1 Camp. This is just the beginning of an extraordinary adventure!

Overnight: Shira-1 Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3: Shira-1 Camp (3500 m) – Shira-2 Camp (3850 m)

Walking distance: 14 km
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 350 m
Max. altitude: 3850 m

Today our trek leads us to the summit of Shira Cathedral, an immense rock buttress surrounded by majestic spires and pinnacles. We continue our adventure across the sprawling Shira Plateau towards Shira-2 Campsite. Here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the dramatic glaciers adorning the Western Breach. The hike will last approximately 5 hours, guiding you through the breathtaking scenery until we reach the campsite in the early afternoon.

At Shira-2 Campsite the night brings colder temperatures, often dipping well below zero. It’s a reminder of the challenges and rewards that await us on this remarkable journey.

Overnight: Shira-2 Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4: Shira-2 Camp (3850 m) – Moir Hut Camp (4200 m)

Walking distance: 14 km
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Altitude gain: 350 m
Max. altitude: 4200 m

Leave the moorland behind and venture across the higher altitude, treated to stunning views of Arrow Glacier. Continue your ascent towards the impressive Lava Tower, standing tall at 4600 m above sea level. Take in the panoramic views as you traverse the expansive ridgeline of Shira. Opt for climb to the top of the tower with our mountain guide.

After lunch, continue your journey to Moir Hut Camp, a secluded oasis that offers breathtaking vistas of the Shira Plateau. This acclimatization day is crucial for your journey.

Overnight: Moir Hut Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5: Moir Hut Camp (4200 m) – Buffalo/Pofu Camp (4025 m)

Walking distance: 12 km
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Descend: 175 m
Max. altitude: 4200 m

Today’s adventure takes you beyond the moorland zone, venturing into the captivating alpine desert. Traverse a steep ridge connecting the Lemosho Route to the Northern Circuit Route, treating yourself to panoramic vistas of the Kilimanjaro plains to the north. Though some sections are steep, the trail presents a variety of ups and downs as you journey towards Pofu, also known as Buffalo Camp located at 4025 m above sea level, where you will spend the night.

Overnight: Buffalo/Pofu Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6: Buffalo/Pofu Camp (4025 m) – Third Cave Camp (3800 m)

Walking distance: 8 km
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Descend: 225 m
Max. altitude: 4025 m

Leaving Pofu Camp behind, we traverse numerous small valleys, until we reach the tranquil Third Cave Camp. Today, we employ the “hike high, sleep low” strategy to aid acclimatization.

Ascending Buffalo Ridge, you’ll witness a transformation in scenery, as the terrain becomes more barren. The journey rewards you with the possibility of spotting African buffaloes along the way. Our today’s destination, Third Cave Camp, will be welcoming us at an altitude 3800 m above sea level.

Overnight: Third Cave Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7: Third Cave Camp (3800 m) – School Hut Camp (4750 m)

Walking distance: 5 km
Walking time: 4-6 hours
Altitude gain: 950 m
Max. altitude: 470 m

The trail leads you steadily from Third Cave Camp to the remarkable Saddle region, an expanse of barren land connecting the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Traverse the high-altitude desert, immersing yourself in this otherworldly terrain.

After a 4 to 6 hours climb, you will arrive at School Hut Camp, situated at an elevation of 4750 m. Take this opportunity to rest and gather your strength for the monumental challenge awaiting you on the summit day.

Prepare yourself mentally and physically, ensuring you catch some sleep during the afternoon. A long night lies ahead, and with determination and perseverance, you will conquer Kilimanjaro’s summit along with our dedicated and supportive mountain crew.

Overnight: School Hut Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8: School Hut Camp (4750 m) – Gillman’s Point (5685 m) – Uhuru Peak (5895 m) – Stella Point (5756 m) – Millenium Camp (3820 m)

Walking distance: 16 km
Walking time: 12-16 hours
Altitude gain: 1145 m
Descend: 2075 m
Max. altitude: 5895 m

Tonight is the night when you’ll achieve one of the greatest accomplishments of your life. Climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is no small feat, but with your strength and willpower, you will make it to the top and feel a sense of pride like never before. The journey begins around midnight, after a light breakfast. This stage of the climb is where the true challenge begins, the climb becomes much more tough. Night temperatures can range from -7° to -29°C. Climbers are advised to carry as little as possible at this part of the climb.

As the clock strikes 1 am, we commence our ascent. Every step brings us closer to the crater rim, reaching Gillman’s Point (5685 m). Take a moment to rest and relish the breathtaking spectacle of the sunrise painting the sky above Mawenzi.

From here, we push forward to Uhuru Peak, which stands at a towering 5895 m above sea level, making it the highest point on the African continent. Wow, you are standing at the Roof of Africa now!

Eventually we descent to Stella Point (5756 m). Continuing our descent through Barafu Camp, our dedicated porters await us with a nourishing packed lunch. Then we push ourselves a little bit more to continue our downward journey, ultimately reaching the tranquil Millennium Camp.

Overnight: Millennium Camp
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 9: Millennium Camp (3820 m) – Mweka Gate (1640 m) – Chemka hot springs – Moshi

Driving distance / time: 3 hr 10 min / 103 km
Walking distance: 12 km
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Descend: 2180 m
Max. altitude: 3820 m

On the final day of your journey, you will begin your descent from Millenium Camp to the base. The descent will take approximately 5-6 hours, and you will typically arrive to Mweka Gate by noon. Upon reaching the gate, you will receive certificates as a proof of your successful climb to Mount Kilimanjaro, a testament to your perseverance and determination. Congratulations!

But the adventure doesn’t end there. After the climb, we will treat you with a bonus trip and take you to the enchanting oasis of Chemka hot springs, nestled amidst a lush jungle. Here, you will immerse in the warm waters of the hot springs and experience the thrill of jumping into a crystal-clear lake from a bungee. A local picnic lunch will be served here. Savor the moment and take in the serene beauty of your surroundings.

After lunch, it’s time to head back to your hotel in Moshi town, where you can finally indulge in a long-awaited hot shower. As the day draws to a close, you will enjoy a scrumptious dinner before retiring to your soft bed, basking in the memories of your unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Overnight: Chanya Lodge
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch

Day 10: Departure to the airport or continue your adventures on safari (additionally)

After breakfast, your driver will be ready to take to Kilimanjaro airport those of you who are flying to Zanzibar or to a home country. For the rest of the travelers, an exciting safari through the best national parks in Africa awaits!

Get ready to embark on a exciting safari adventure exploring the beauty of the African wilderness. Witness majestic animals in their natural habitat, from elephants and lions to giraffes and zebras. Experience the thrill of spotting rare and exotic species and capture stunning photographs to cherish forever.

For animal lovers and horseback riding enthusiasts, we also offer an exclusive holiday at the sanctuary for wild animals situated at the foot of Kilimanjaro, boasting breathtaking views of the mountain from your veranda. Immerse yourself in nature and wildlife, as you ride majestic horses through the landscapes around Kilimanjaro.

This is your chance to create unforgettable memories and discover the best of Africa’s wildlife and natural wonders. So lose no time to explore, experience and embrace the adventure that will stay with you forever!

Meal plan: breakfast

What’s included:

Meet and greet at Kilimanjaro airport and transfer to Moshi town
2 nights in a hotel in Moshi (before and after the climb) in twin/double rooms with breakfast included
9-day climb with camping accommodation in 2- or 3-sleeper tents
High-quality camping equipment, including sleeping bags
All entrance fees to Kilimanjaro National Park
All camping fees in mountain campsites
Professional licensed mountain guide
3 hearty freshly prepared meals per day during the climb, chef’s services
Porter wages
Group first aid kit, oxygen cylinder, pulse oximeter
Emergency assistance and evacuation if necessary
Transfers to and from the park gates
All government taxes and fees
Bonus trip to Chemka with picnic lunch
Full-time informational support of a tour leader before and during the climb

What’s not included:

Personal gear (clothing, footwear, and accessories) – you can bring your own or rent it from us (upon prior agreement). We’ll send you a list of necessary equipment in advance
Tipping for the mountain crew (recommended amount of € 200-250 for the entire climbing program)
Visa ($ 50 on arrival or online at (https://visa.immigration.go.tz/), medical insurance

Please note that these items are not included in the package. However, we can assist you with arranging them if needed. Tipping the mountain crew is a common practice and shows appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
Finally, obtaining a visa and medical insurance is your responsibility, but we are happy to guide you also through these processes, and make it as smooth as possible.

Number of travellers	Price per person
1 person	€2850
2 people	€2790
3 people	€2750
4 people	€2690
5 people	€2650
6 people	€2600