Overview
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s newest and longest route. It begins at Londorossi Gate on the western side, follows the Lemosho trail through rainforest and moorland, then swings north across the mountain’s remote slopes. You trek around the entire northern face, with wide views into Kenya, before joining the eastern approach to Kibo Hut. The descent follows the Mweka trail. With nine days, it offers the best acclimatization, the fewest crowds, and the highest summit success rate.
Elevation: 2,100 m to 2,650 m / 6,890 ft to 8,694 ft
Distance: 7 km / 4.3 mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description:
After breakfast, you drive 3 hours to Lemosho Gate. You’ll register with park rangers and meet your mountain crew. The trail starts gently through thick forest, full of birds and monkeys. You’ll walk slowly uphill, breathing fresh mountain air. By afternoon, you reach Mti Mkubwa Camp and settle in.
Elevation: 2,650 m to 3,610 m / 8,694 ft to 11,843 ft
Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description:
You leave the forest and climb into open moorland. The air gets cooler and the views stretch wide. Strange plants and rocky paths appear as you go higher. You’ll stop for lunch, then continue to Shira 1 Camp. It’s quiet, open, and perfect for your second night on the mountain.
Elevation: 3,610 m to 3,850 m / 11,843 ft to 12,631 ft
Distance: 7 km / 4.3 mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description:
Today is a gentle walk across the Shira Plateau. The land is flat and wide, with golden grasses and big sky. You’ll take your time, enjoy the views, and let your body adjust. The trail is peaceful and quiet. Shira 2 Camp is a great place to rest and watch the sunset.
Elevation: 3,850 m to 4,600 m to 4,200 m / 12,631 ft to 15,091 ft to 13,780 ft
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description:
You climb steadily to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation at high altitude. Lunch here helps your body adjust. Then descend to Moir Hut, a remote camp tucked in a valley. This “climb high, sleep low” day is excellent for acclimatization.
Elevation: 4,200 m to 4,020 m / 13,780 ft to 13,189 ft
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description:
You trek across the northern slopes, far from the crowds. The trail is quiet, with sweeping views into Kenya. Buffalo Camp sits on a ridge, with dramatic sunsets and a sense of solitude.
Elevation: 4,020 m to 3,800 m / 13,189 ft to 12,467 ft
Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description:
The trail continues east across the northern circuit. It’s a gradual descent, with wide horizons and rugged terrain. Third Cave Camp is a simple, quiet site, perfect for rest before the push toward Kibo.
Elevation: 3,800 m to 4,800 m / 12,467 ft to 15,748 ft
Distance: 15 km / 9.3 mi
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description:
You climb steadily toward School Hut, your final camp before the summit. The trail is barren and exposed, with views of Mawenzi Peak to the east. You’ll arrive early, eat, and rest. Summit night begins at midnight.
Elevation: 4,800 m to 5,895 m to 3,100 m / 15,748 ft to 19,341 ft to 10,170 ft
Distance: 15 km / 9.3 mi
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Description:
Summit day begins in the dark. You climb slowly, step by step, through thin air and cold wind. At sunrise, you reach Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. You celebrate, take photos, and feel the joy of achievement. Then descend all the way to Mweka Camp. It’s a long, exhausting day, but unforgettable.
Elevation: 3,068 m to 1,640 m / 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Description:
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will be present for pick up and drive you back to your hotel in Moshi.
INCLUDES
All park fees (camping fees, concession fees, entrance fees, & rescue fee)
Accommodations 2 nights before and after the trek
All government Taxes
Trekking Crew (Porters, Cook and professional guide)
Camping equipment’s (Tents, Mattress, Chairs, & Tables)
Private Toilets
Meals & Drinking water
EXCLUDES
Tipping’s for the crew
Personal Items (Visa, Souvenirs, Passport etc.)
Flights
9 Day Northern Circuit Route
- Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
- Group Size: 2–12 climbers
