11 day kilimanjaro Great nothern traverse
Trip Overview – 11-Day Kilimanjaro Grand Northern Traverse
Ultimate Kilimanjaro Adventure
Embark on the ultimate Kilimanjaro trekking adventure along the remote northern circuit, one of the quietest and most scenic routes on the mountain. Enjoy excellent acclimatization as you ascend through lush rainforests, open moorlands, and dramatic alpine landscapes, culminating at the iconic Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Cultural Immersion in Arusha
Begin your journey with a warm Maasai welcome at Africa Amini Lodge, an eco-lodge set in the heart of Maasailand. Immerse yourself in local traditions, explore Maasai culture, and enjoy authentic community experiences that complement your adventure on Kilimanjaro.
Safari in Arusha National Park
Experience a guided walking safari in Arusha National Park, encountering giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys across diverse ecosystems. From lush rainforests to open savannahs, this safari provides the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s incredible wildlife.
Remote Northern Circuit Trek
Trek the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, passing through the Shira Plateau, Moir Hut, and Pofu Camp. With fewer climbers on this route, you’ll enjoy tranquil landscapes, stunning vistas, and a unique perspective on Kilimanjaro’s beauty.
Summit and Descent
Reach Uhuru Peak via School Hut, celebrating your achievement with breathtaking panoramic views. Descend safely through alpine and forest zones, ending the trek with a relaxing stay at Four Points by Sheraton – Arusha Hotel, where comfort and celebration await.
Why This Trip
This 11-day itinerary offers a perfect mix of adventure, cultural experiences, and wildlife exploration, designed for travelers seeking an authentic and memorable East African journey. From Maasai cultural stays to remote Kilimanjaro trekking and Arusha safaris, every day delivers unique experiences that create lasting memories.
11-Day Kilimanjaro Grand Northern Traverse – Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet our team. Transfer to Africa Amini Maasai Lodge for a warm Maasai welcome. Enjoy dinner and settle in at the eco-lodge surrounded by Maasai culture.
Meals: Dinner | Accommodation: Africa Amini Maasai Lodge
Day 2: Walking Safari in Arusha National Park
After breakfast, explore Arusha National Park on a guided walking safari. Spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys as you move through rainforest and savannah. Return to the lodge for evening Maasai cultural activities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Africa Amini Maasai Lodge
Day 3: Lemosho Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Drive to Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) and register for your trek. Hike through lush rainforest and watch for tropical birds and monkeys before reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 m).
Hiking: 3–4 hrs | Elevation Gain: 720 m | Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 4: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
Climb out of the rainforest into heather and moorland. Enjoy your first views of Shira Plateau before arriving at Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m).
Hiking: 5–6 hrs | Elevation Gain: 790 m | Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Day 5: Shira 1 – Moir Hut
Cross the scenic Shira Plateau and hike steadily to Moir Hut (4,200 m), located at the base of Lent Hills.
Hiking: 6–7 hrs | Elevation Gain: 590 m | Accommodation: Moir Hut
Day 6: Moir Hut – Pofu Camp
Enter the quiet northern circuit and trek across rugged terrain with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and Kenya’s Amboseli plains before reaching Pofu Camp (4,020 m).
Hiking: 6–7 hrs | Elevation Change: –180 m | Accommodation: Pofu Camp
Day 7: Pofu Camp – Third Cave Camp
Traverse the northern slopes with few fellow climbers in sight. Overnight at Third Cave Camp (3,870 m) amidst open, wild landscapes.
Hiking: 5–6 hrs | Elevation Change: –150 m | Accommodation: Third Cave Camp
Day 8: Third Cave – School Hut
Climb steadily to School Hut (4,800 m), the base for your summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the pre-dawn push to the Roof of Africa.
Hiking: 4–5 hrs | Elevation Gain: 930 m | Accommodation: School Hut
Day 9: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak – Barafu Camp
Begin a pre-dawn climb to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) and continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Celebrate your achievement and descend to Barafu Camp (4,640 m) for rest.
Hiking: 10–14 hrs | Elevation Gain: 1,095 m | Elevation Loss: 1,255 m | Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Day 10: Barafu Camp – Mweka Hut
Descend through alpine desert and moorland to reach Mweka Hut (3,100 m) in the forest zone.
Hiking: 4–5 hrs | Elevation Loss: 1,540 m | Accommodation: Mweka Hut
Day 11: Mweka Hut – Mweka Gate – Arusha
Complete the trek at Mweka Gate (1,640 m) and receive your summit certificate. Transfer to Four Points by Sheraton – Arusha Hotel for a celebratory dinner and rest.
Hiking: 3–4 hrs | Elevation Loss: 1,460 m | Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton
Trip Highlights
Authentic Maasai cultural stay at Africa Amini Lodge
Guided walking safari in Arusha National Park
Remote northern traverse of Kilimanjaro with excellent acclimatization
Summit push from School Hut to Uhuru Peak
Comfortable post-climb stay at Four Points by Sheraton – Arusha
What’s Included
Airport transfers in Arusha
Accommodation as per itinerary: Africa Amini Maasai Lodge, Kilimanjaro camps, and Four Points by Sheraton – Arusha
All meals during the trek and at lodges
Guided walking safari in Arusha National Park
Experienced Kilimanjaro guides, porters, and support staff
Trekking permits, park fees, and rescue fees
Summit certificate for reaching Uhuru Peak
Sleeping mats in tents provided during the trek
Cultural experiences with the Maasai community
What’s Not Included
International flights and airport taxes
Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
Visa fees for Tanzania
Personal expenses, souvenirs, and tips for guides/porters
Optional excursions not listed in the itinerary