Overview:

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most comprehensive trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, circling around the entire northern slopes of the mountain. As the newest established route, it combines the quiet remoteness of the north with the best acclimatization profile of all routes—giving climbers the highest summit success rate.
Starting from the Londorossi Gate, the route first follows the Lemosho Trail across the Shira Plateau, then veers north at Moir Hut, away from the busier southern paths. From there, trekkers traverse the remote and rarely visited northern side of Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic views across Kenya and a true sense of wilderness.
With more days to adjust to altitude, a gradual ascent, and a varied, scenic experience, the Northern Circuit is ideal for climbers who want to maximize their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak while fully immersing themselves in Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.

Details:

Key Details of the Northern Circuit Route:
• Duration: 9 Days
• Distance: Approximately 98 kilometers (61 miles)
• Starting Elevation: 7,742 ft (2,360 m)
• Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (5,895 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Accommodation: Tents
• Best Time to Climb: June to October and December to March

ITINERARY :

Arrival Day
On arrival in Moshi, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, we will conduct a detailed orientation and gear check to ensure you are well-prepared for the climb. You’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary, safety protocols, and answer any questions. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and rest for the adventure ahead.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
• Elevation: 7,742 ft (2,360 m) to 9,498 ft (2,895 m)
• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
After breakfast, we drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and permits. From there, a short drive takes us to the trailhead, where the trek begins. The trail winds through dense rain forest with chances to spot monkeys and exotic birds. You’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
• Elevation: 9,498 ft (2,895 m) to 11,500 ft (3,505 m)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Heath
Leaving the rain forest behind, the trail climbs steadily into a heather and moorland zone. Along the way, you’ll cross streams and enjoy sweeping views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak in the distance. Overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
• Elevation: 11,500 ft (3,505 m) to 12,598 ft (3,840 m)
• Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
A short but scenic hike across the Shira Plateau takes you to Shira 2 Camp. The plateau is a unique landscape with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and plains. You’ll enjoy a leisurely pace today, which is helpful for acclimatization.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
• Elevation: 12,598 ft (3,840 m) to 13,800 ft (4,206 m)
• Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
The trail heads eastward and passes close to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation. After lunch, you’ll continue to Moir Hut, a less-crowded campsite with opportunities for short acclimatization hikes on the nearby Lent Hills.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
• Elevation: 13,800 ft (4,206 m) to 13,200 ft (4,025 m)
• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
This is the start of the Northern Circuit proper. The trail takes you around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering stunning and rarely seen views of the Kenyan plains. The trek to Buffalo Camp is relatively gentle, allowing for further acclimatization.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
• Elevation: 13,200 ft (4,025 m) to 12,700 ft (3,870 m)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Habitat: Semi-Alpine Desert
The trail continues eastward around the mountain, gradually descending and ascending through alpine desert terrain. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the towering cliffs of Kilimanjaro and the open wilderness of Kenya. Overnight at Third Cave Camp.

Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
• Elevation: 12,700 ft (3,870 m) to 15,600 ft (4,750 m)
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine DesertToday’s hike takes you to School Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. The steep trail leads up to the rocky slopes of Kilimanjaro’s crater rim. Upon arrival, you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent to the summit.

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
• Elevation: 15,600 ft (4,750 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) to 10,065 ft (3,070 m)
• Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
• Hiking Time: 12-16 hours
• Habitat: Arctic, then Rain Forest
You’ll wake up around midnight for the summit push. The trail ascends steeply to Gilman’s Point (18,650 ft), where you’ll catch the sunrise over the African plains. From there, a final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
• Elevation: 10,065 ft (3,070 m) to 5,380 ft (1,640 m)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
On the final day, you’ll descend through the lush rain forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will meet you at the gate to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi for a celebratory meal and rest.

PRICE (USD)

PRICE INCLUDES

- Dedicated Customer Satisfaction Associate: Personalized assistance throughout your climb, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

- Airport Pickup and Drop-off: Convenient transport to and from the airport at the start and end of your journey.

- Hotel Accommodation: One night before and one night after the climb in a comfortable hotel.

- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during, the climb, including water on the mountain.

- Park Fees and Taxes: All applicable national park entry fees and taxes are covered.

- Transportation: Transfers between the hotel and the trailhead for the start and end of your climb.

- Camping Equipment: High-quality, 3-person mountaineering tents, sleeping mats, and a private toilet tent for your comfort.

- Support Team: A professional team of certified guides, porters, and cooks to assist and support you throughout the trek.

- Kilimanjaro SAR Evacuation Insurance: Comprehensive search and rescue evacuation coverage for peace of mind during your climb.

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Airfare to and from Tanzania
• Personal travel insurance
• Visa
• Tips for the support team
• Sleeping bags and other personal gear
• Rental gear
• Lunch and dinner at the hotel
• Drinks and snacks