Kilimanjaro + Crater Camping

10 days—"Achieve the Unthinkable: Kilimanjaro's Summit and Beyond" - The Less Explored Magnificent Northern Circuit Route

$3615-3874 USD

pp

Safari summary

The enhanced iteration of the Northern Circuit route not only embraces the extraordinary landscapes of Mount Kilimanjaro but also carves out an additional two days for essential acclimatization, paving the way for an unforgettable stay at the renowned Crater Camp. Poised near the summit at an awe-inspiring altitude of 5790 meters, it stands as the pinnacle overnight experience at the equator. We are committed to ensuring your Kilimanjaro ascent is not only comfortable but also etched into your memory as an unparalleled adventure. Gazing upon the celestial wonders from this elevated vantage point is a privilege reserved for the fortunate few. Picture this: Kilimanjaro's majestic glaciers set against the cosmic tapestry of the Milky Way—a spectacle that transcends the ordinary and immerses you in the extraordinary.


About this tour

Tour type Custom, tailor-made, private
Main focus None
Activity level Strenuous activity
Best months All months
Countries
Parks

Fine details

Safari highlights
  • Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
  • Accommodation
  • Airport transfers
  • Laundry
  • Meals
  • Park fees
  • Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Internal flights
  • International flights
  • Premium alcoholic beverages
  • Spa treatments
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Visas

Itinerary

LONDROSSI GATE – MTI MKUBWA CAMP

Kilimanjaro

4.8K /3MI | 3-4 HRS | RAINFOREST Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft Altitude gained: 396m Departing from Moshi a 45-minute drive will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. After issuing permits at the gate, prepare for the journey ahead to enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora, fauna and natural wildlife.

Mti Mkubwa Campsites

MTI MKUBWA CAMP – SHIRA I CAMP

Kilimanjaro

7.9KM/5MI | 4-6HRS | MOORLAND Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3504m/11,496ft Altitude gained: 719m After a good night's sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rainforest and continue on an ascending path, we leave the forest behind now, and the trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Temperatures begin to drop.

Shira Camp

SHIRA I CAMP –SHIRA II CAMP

Kilimanjaro

6.9KM/4MI | 3-4HRS | LOW ALPINE Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft Altitude gained: 391m Our trek crosses the Shira one of the highest plateaus on Earth, from Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp. At Shira II Camp it is worth the extra energy to go a bit higher up the plateau to enjoy the stunning view across the valley below and view the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above. The plateau is exposed so be prepared for a cold night with temperatures getting below zero.

Shira 2 Camp

SHIRA II CAMP- LAVA TOWER – MOIR

Kilimanjaro

17.7KM/11.1MI | 5-7HRS | HIGH ALPINE Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft Altitude gained: 91m Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the Kibo peak before we then continue, South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we descend to Moir Hut for overnight

Mour Campsites

MOIR CAMP – BUFFALO CAMP:

Kilimanjaro

9.2KM/5.7MI | 5-7HRS | HIGH ALPINE ZONE Elevation: 4155m/13,632ft to 4033m/13,232ft We begin with a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. The route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp. Spectacular views of plains north of Kilimanjaro that stretches as far as the eye can see to the Kenyan / Tanzanian border. You will arrive at Buffalo Camp just after midday, where you will have lunch and have time to rest.

Buffalo Camp

BUFFALO CAMP – RONGAI 3RD CAVE

Kilimanjaro

6.8KM /4.3MI | 5-7HRS | ALPINE DESERT Elevation: 4033m/13,232ft to 3936m/12,193ft Altitude lost: 97m Day six starts with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge and down into Pofu Camp where lunch is served. We continue East around the Northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave. Today’s climb is shorter than the day before and you should be feeling better acclimatized to the altitude at this point. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon

Rongai Third Cave

3RD CAVE CAMP TO SCHOOL HUT

Kilimanjaro

On this day you will be trekking to the School Hut Summit Camp (4,800m/15748f). The actual trekking is not very hard, so remember to just choose an appropriate pace in order to keep your strength up for the next day. When you reach the camp, we recommend you sleep well, avoid strenuous activity, and drink as much water as you can, because tomorrow your group will trek into the crater. Distance: 5 km. Trekking time: 4-5 hours

School Hut

SCHOOL HUT TO CRATER CAMP

Kilimanjaro

This day will be one of the toughest on your route. When you awake, you will find a hot breakfast prepared for you to help keep up your energy. Reaching the crater rim requires much dedication, but it is worth it! When you arrive you will be astonished by the ancient glaciers and snow. It is cold at the campsite, and the snow during the night is high. If you are in the crater, you are among an elite few who have conquered the crater and spent the night on the roof of Africa.

Kilimanjaro Crater

CRATER TO UHURU AND TO MILLENIUM

Kilimanjaro

You will wake very early this morning - at around 5:30 am and have a rich breakfast before dawn. There is a good chance of snow, so be prepared to trudge through with warm layers. Technically speaking, this portion of the climb is not difficult. However, the high altitude is a challenge, making even normal activity seem strenuous. Within two hours you will reach Uhuru Peak, where you will see one of the most amazing sunrises from the highest point in Africa.

Millenium Camp

MELLENNIUM CAMP TO MWEKA GATE

Kilimanjaro

When you wake up, you will feel relief from the reduction of the height and the satisfaction of reaching the summit. It is a proper time to tip your crew just after a warm breakfast because afterwards, you will head for the park's exit: Mweka Gate (1,640m/5380f). and After your descent to the gate, we shall proceed to your Hotel for showering, resting and celebration.

Kibo Palace Hotel

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