
overview
“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”
This route avoids the crowds on the southern routes and over 9 days, you have a fantastic journey and a great chance of summiting successfully. The climb begins at Londorossi Gate, at an altitude of 2360 metres, with an approach far to the west of the mountain. It follows the Lemosho route, passing through majestic rainforest where some of the region’s most unique wildlife can often be seen. The route continues up to the mountain’s third summit at Shira Ridge. From there you will cross the famed Shira plateau and see the awe inspiring Shira Cathedral before turning north onto the Northern Circuit proper.
The northern slopes of Kilimanjaro are far more remote and have the benefit of less traffic from other climbers. On a clear day the views stretch over the Amboseli Plains of Kenya. The trail then joins the Rongai and Marangu routes in the east for the final summit ascent via Gillmans Point. After reaching the summit, you will descend by the Mweka trail, rather than retracing your steps along the ascent route.
The Northern Circuit is a good nine day hike for those who have not trekked much at high altitudes, with an effective extra day’s acclimatization, giving a better success rate. Experienced trekkers may opt for the more difficult 8 day ascent along the Northern Circuit.
Day by Day summary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp - Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp - Moir Hut
Day 5: Moir Hut - Pofu Camp
Day 6: Pofu Camp - Third Cave Camp
Day 7: Third Cave Camp - School Hut
Day 8: School Hut - Summit - Millennium Camp
Day 9: Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate

Tailor-made itineraries
Every Pumbaa Expeditions trip is custom-created to your exact travel wishes – no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch with our experts to start creating your bespoke itinerary.
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Kilimanjaro Expedition Highlights
Situated in the Kenyan border in Northern Tanzania; Kilimanjaro is the highest peak of the African continent. Acquiring 5,895m height it’s also the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Being the topmost mountain in Africa, this is a dream for hikers. There are 30,000 trekkers including the experienced to the aspiring one visiting Tanzania for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro Climbing is one of the most incredible experiences for climbers. It's a genuine experience that brings remarkable highs and testing lows. The greatest aspect of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – and what makes is so well known – is that it's available to nearly anybody. With the right planning, a solid ability, and an awesome support group around you, it's entirely possible to reach the summit.
Day-by-day
Itinerary Details
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Arrival Day
A representative of Pumbaa Africa Expeditions will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and escort you to tonight’s accommodations in Moshi. As local Tanzania our guides know the country with unrivaled familiarity, so you’ll be in good hands from the moment you land to the moment you leave.
- Transport: Private transfer (1 hour, 45km)
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
Note: Hotel check-in start at 02:00 PM. In case you need an early check-in we can arrange it for an extra fee.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp
4WD transfer to Londorossi Park Gate for registration. Our porters prepare and pack our supplies and luggage before we start our ascent along the forest trail to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite at 2895m. We will stay here overnight.
- Transport: 1.7 hours, 80 km
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (5 km)
- Ascent: 535 m
- altitude: 2895 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp - Shira 1 Camp
Our journey continues eastwards across the Shira Plateau with spectacular views of Shira Cathedral. We cross moorland meadow to reach Shira 1 Camp for dinner and overnight camping at 3500m. By now we will be able to see the stunning glaciers of the Western Breach. It will be colder tonight than the previous night with temperatures possibly falling below freezing.
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (8 km)
- Ascent: 605 m
- altitude: 3500 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp
Today we walk to the summit of Shira Cathedral, a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles. There is a tangible sense of wilderness here, especially when the afternoon mists roll in. From our camp near Shira Hut, we take in the unforgettable views of Mt Meru.
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (7 km)
- Ascent: 310 m
- altitude: 3810 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp - Moir Hut
We leave the moorland behind now and a gentle grade walk takes us across the high altitude Shira Caldera to Shira Cave with fabulous views of Arrow glacier. We will camp here for the night at 4200m.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (14 km)
- Ascent: 390 m
- altitude: 4200 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Moir Hut - Pofu Camp
We climb out of the Moir Valley and take a short detour to reach the summit of Lent Hills (4700m). After admiring the views we return to the trail and heads eastwards around the Northern Circuit trail. The final section of today’s walk undulates until reaching the location of Pofu Camp.
- Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours (12 km)
- Ascent: 500 m
- Descent: 680 m
- altitude: 4700 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6: Pofu Camp - Third Cave Camp
From Pofu Camp we cross numerous small valleys as the trail continues through a landscape that has increasingly sparse vegetation to eventually reach Third Cave Camp.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (8 km)
- Descent: 60 m
- altitude: 4020 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7: Third Cave Camp - School Hut
Today there is a steady ascent to reach the Saddle, a lunar landscape between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. From here we continue upwards and reach School Hut in the early afternoon. The remainder of the afternoon is spent resting and preparing for the summit day.
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (5 km)
- Ascent: 830 m
- altitude: 4790 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 8: School Hut - Summit - Millennium Camp
We start the final and most demanding part of the climb around 1 am on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point. We rest here for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. We then head on to Uhuru Peak, passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. We retrace our steps along the crater rim to Stella Point and then descend down through Barafu Camp, where our porters will meet us with a packed lunch. We will then continue to descend to reach Millennium Camp.
- Hiking time: 14 – 16 hours (16 km)
- Ascent: 1105 m
- Descent: 2068 m
- altitude: 5895 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 9: Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate
Your final day on the trek. Departing after breakfast, we descend a further 1300m to the Mweka Park Gate to pick up your summit certificates from the Park Headquarters. We will then transfer toy our hotel for a well-earned shower and celebration.
- Transport: Private transfer (0.6 hour, 17 km)
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (12 km)
- Descent: 2027 m
- altitude: 3827 m
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Departure
You will be picked up from the hotel and be transferred to the airport to catch up your flight back home.
- Meals: Breakfast
Note: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee.
Group Discount
The price per person for group expeditions are fixed based on a group size. However, we have optional arrangements for individual private and tailor-made preferences best suited for you, your family and friends.
GROUP SIZE | PRICE PER PERSON |
---|---|
1 Pax | $ 3,176 |
2 Pax | $ 2,892 |
3 Pax | $ 2,671 |
4 Pax | $ 2,619 |
5 Pax | $ 2,606 |
6 Pax | $ 2,593 |
7 Pax | $ 2,580 |
8 Pax | $ 2,554 |




Inquiry This Tour
Group bookings: For groups of 20 or more please contact info@pumbaaexpeditions.com or call us on +255 (0) 784 759 796
MOUNTAIN HIKING PACKING LIST

- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (We have rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
- Puffy down jacket (We have rental jackets available for an additional USD 35)
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
- Sun hat or cap
- Knitted hat
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Neck gaiter
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Technical fabric short (2) and long sleeve (2) shirts
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Hiking pants (2)
- Comfortable pants for inside the teahouses
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Hiking shorts
- Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
- Hard-shell outer gloves (insulated for colder months)
- Wool or technical fabric warm socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks (optional such as silk)
- Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Ice Cleats/Micro Spikes (recommended to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.)
- Casual shoes
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy for snow in colder months)
Note: The quantity of each article of clothing can be adjusted to suit the preferences of each participant.
- Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
- Sports bras (women)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes
(Note: Guides carry medications and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Ointment
Once in Nepal, if you have the time, you can purchase supplies and gear for hiking. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, is home to many shops where you can get a variety of reasonably priced trekking equipment.
- Power bank or extra batteries
- Cameras and mobile phone
- Cards/book
- Binoculars
- Trekking poles
- Whistle
- Thermos for hot water
Includes & Excludes
Airport pick-up and drop-off
2 nights hotel accommodation before and after you’re a climb on bed & breakfast basis
Transfers to and from the mountain
National Park entry, huts and climbing fees
Rescue fees
A fully supported climb (average ratio of support staff to climbers is 4:1)
All meals and drinking water on the mountain
Access to first aid kit and emergency oxygen
A certificate documenting your summit ascent
NB: Depending on the availability, hotels of the same standard can be substituted
International flights and visas
Tips for your guide and crew
Travel insurance (you must be insured for trekking up to 6000m)
Visa fees
Your personal trekking gears
Snacks on the mountain
Meals and drinks not on the mountain
Speak to an Expert
Get advice and suggestions to make this your perfect trip.

Words From Our Clients
Don’t take our word for it
We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and Pumbaa Expeditions is rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.
Relax069762270642024-12-02Verified We couldn't have wishes for a better honeymoon experience than this one Our three-week honeymoon with Pumbaa Africa was like a dream come true. We started with a Mount Kilimanjaro trek via the Lemosho Route. Pumbaa’s team, led by the wonderful guide Alex, took exceptional care of us. They even surprised us with a small celebration at the top when we reached Uhuru Peak! After the trek, we enjoyed a luxurious safari across the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, where our guide Saidi made sure we had intimate wildlife encounters without the crowds.The final leg of our journey took us to Zanzibar for a beach escape. Pumbaa Africa arranged a romantic, private villa for us with views over the Indian Ocean. We spent our days snorkeling, taking sunset cruises, and exploring the vibrant Stone Town. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a deeply personal experience crafted with love and attention. We couldn’t be happier with our choice of Pumbaa Africa for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Journey528121877072024-11-27Verified Night game drive in Tarangi Absolutely breathtaking! My friends and I were excited to see nocturnal animals, and Pumbaa Africa made it possible. Emma was our guide, and she was phenomenal. Watching lions and hyenas under the moonlight was surreal. Thank you, Pumbaa Africa Expeditions, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience Sightseer399578076812024-11-27Verified Outstanding climate The Udzungwa Mountain tour was one of the highlights of my trip to Tanzania. The lush forests, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna made it feel like stepping into another world. John, our briefer, provided such detailed information about the route and what to expect. Pumbaa Africa Expeditions offers an experience unlike any other Wander535233937562024-11-24Verified Worth every penny Our fly-in safari was perfectly organized. Pumbaa Africa took all the hassle out of our journey, allowing us to focus on the adventure. Flying straight into the heart of the Serengeti and beginning our safari immediately was magical. Saidi, our guide, was knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife. Wander597526812942024-11-23Verified I highly recommend Zanzibar to anyone visiting Tanzania Our Zanzibar beach holiday arranged by Pumbaa Africa was incredible! The team found us a beautiful resort, and Erica ensured all our needs were met. From snorkeling to sunset cruises, the activities were fantastic. We couldn't have asked for a better way to relax after our Kilimanjaro trek Navigate347511040422024-11-18Verified Thanks For the Experience Unforgettable! Pumbaa Africa Expeditions arranged a trek up Mount Meru that was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Our mountain guide, Musa, was phenomenal — his experience was evident, and he motivated us the entire way up. We felt so safe and well-prepared. Highly recommend this for avid hikers. Trip198164622352024-11-18Verified The mountain of God We opted for the Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai trek and Lake Natron excursion, and it was phenomenal! David, our local mountain guide, ensured our safety throughout, and he was so informative about the geological wonders of the area. If you’re looking for adventure beyond famous peaks, Pumbaa Africa Expeditions is the way to go! Explorer318458795182024-11-14Verified Breathtaking Experience Our 7 day fly-in safari was the epitome of convenience and excitement. Flying into Serengeti and beginning our safari immediately made the experience thrilling from the start. Our guide, Saidi, made sure we saw everything — from lions to rare birds. It was a dream come true! Voyage403410150592024-11-14Verified We lived the moment. Pumbaa Africa Expeditions arranged a day trip safari to Ngorongoro Crater, and it was breathtaking. From the lush scenery to the abundance of wildlife, every moment felt like a scene from a documentary. Our guide, Emma, was friendly and knowledgeable. I’d absolutely book with Pumbaa again! Maps523581273552024-11-13Verified A day at Maasai Village Visiting the Maasai in West Kilimanjaro was an eye-opening and heartwarming experience. Pumbaa Africa Expeditions arranged everything with such respect for the local culture. Ryder did an amazing job coordinating, and the Maasai people welcomed us warmly. This was truly an authentic encounter, and we are so grateful for the opportunityTripadvisor rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 40 reviews
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
Sample Itineraries
From majestic wildlife to out of this world natural wonders, enchanting beaches and intriguing cities, every bespoke Pumbaa Expeditions is thrilling. Unsure where to visit? Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a milestone celebration or simply a much-needed escape, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of favourites.

Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and it’s the most hardest and challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
find out more

7 Days Umbwe Route
Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach and it’s the most hardest and challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
- ages 12+
- 7 Days

9 Days Northern Circuit
This route avoids the crowds on the southern routes and over 9 days, you have a fantastic journey and a great chance of summiting successfully.
- ages 12+
- 9 Days

7 Days Rongai Route
The Rongai route is one of the least frequented of the official Kilimanjaro routes.
- ages 12+
- 7 Days