6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb - Marangu Route
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Experience an extraordinary Mount Kilimanjaro adventure on the Northern Circuit Route with an unforgettable night at Crater Camp—the highest campsite on Kilimanjaro, just 340 feet below the summit at Uhuru Peak. This 10-day journey combines the best of Kilimanjaro's breathtaking landscapes and a rare opportunity to camp in the crater itself.
Our Crater Camp option on the Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes allows for optimal acclimatization, as we reach the summit during daylight hours and descend to the crater for a unique overnight stay. Staying at Crater Camp is a truly rare experience, as only a few climbers have the chance to explore this volcanic marvel. This route includes an optional one-hour hike to the Reusch Crater and an exploration of the impressive Furtwangler Glacier.
Unlike other Mount Kilimanjaro routes, where the crew remains at a lower high camp like Barafu, this itinerary requires the entire team to ascend 4,000 feet higher, bringing essential equipment and supplies. This added effort provides climbers with a fully supported and safe experience in Kilimanjaro’s most secluded areas, making this route both exclusive and uniquely adventurous.
While camping at such an altitude presents challenges and demands proper acclimatization, it offers an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and unforgettable views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic features. For those seeking the ultimate Mount Kilimanjaro journey with a taste of the unknown, the 10-day Northern Circuit with Crater Camp is the ultimate choice. Join us for a truly exceptional Kilimanjaro experience and create memories that last a lifetime.
ARRIVAL DAY
On the arrival day, you will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town; you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented on this day.
DAY 1: LONDOROSSI GATE TO MTI MKUBWA
We depart Moshi 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.
Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Mti Mkubwa
DAY 2: MTI MKUBWA - SHIRA HUT 1
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.
Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Shira Hut 1
DAY 3: SHIRA HUT 1 - SHIRA HUT 2
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.
Elevation: 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Shira Hut 2
DAY 4: SHIRA 2 CAMP TO LAVA TOWER THEN MOIR HUT
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. Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,580 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Moir Hut
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.
Elevation: 13,580 ft to 13,200 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Buffalo Camp
DAY 6: BUFFALO CAMP TO THIRD CAVE
As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely traveled 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.
Elevation: 13,200 ft to 12,700 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Third Cave
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.
Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at School Hut
DAY 8: SCHOOL HUT TO UHURU PEAK TO CRATER CAMP
During normal morning hours, we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. We ascend for several hours at a slow but steady pace while taking frequent, but short, breaks. The trail turns into heavy scree as we make the steep climb to the crater rim. At Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft), we see the summit sign in the distance. We continue the around the crater rim until 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.
Elevation: 15,600 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic Uhuru Peak to Crater Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 18,865 ft
Distance: 1 km
Hiking Time: 0.5-1 hours
Habitat: Artic
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Crater Camp
DAY 9: CRATER CAMP TO MWEKA CAMP
From Crater Camp, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Elevation: 18,865 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Artic
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Mweka Camp
DAY 10: MWEKA CAMP TO MOSHI
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 Moshi.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch.
Accommodation: Your Hotel
DEPARTURE DAY
The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Wildlife Safari tour, Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
$4000 per person when 1 person travels alone
$3600 per person when 2 – 4 persons travel together
$3400 per person when 5 – 7 persons travel together
$3200 per person when 8 – 15 persons travel together
For a tailored estimate, reach out to us directly to discuss your unique itinerary, group size, and desired comfort level. By understanding your specific needs and budget, we can provide a detailed, customized quote that aligns with your Kilimanjaro adventure goals. Let us help you plan the perfect climb with transparent pricing and options suited just for you!
Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi for a seamless start and finish.
Comfortable Accommodation: Two nights in Moshi—one night before your climb and one night after—designed for rest and relaxation.
Transportation: Reliable transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, ensuring timely access to the trail.
All Necessary Fees: Coverage of Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees for your peace of mind.
High-Quality Gear:
>Four-Season Mountain Tents: Durable and weatherproof tents to keep you safe and comfortable in all conditions.
>Double-Layered Sleeping Mats: Extra comfort and insulation for restful nights on the mountain.
Professional Support Team: Knowledgeable and experienced mountain guides, a skilled cook, and hardworking porters to support your journey.
Daily Hot Meals: Nutritious, freshly prepared hot meals served three times daily to keep you energized.(We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or requests.)
Clean Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of treated and filtered water to keep you hydrated throughout your climb.
Hot Water for Washing: Daily provision of hot water for washing, ensuring you stay refreshed during your adventure.
Ethical Treatment of Crew: We prioritize the fair treatment and proper payment of our guides, cooks, and porters, ensuring a motivated and supportive team.
Enhanced Safety Measures:
>Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter to monitor your health and oxygen levels during the climb.
>A fully equipped emergency first-aid kit for any unexpected situations.
Private Toilet Facilities: Enjoy a portable flush toilet with its own privacy tent for added convenience on the mountain.
Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the climb are not covered.
Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.
Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing