Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, offering unmatched panoramic views and peaceful trekking away from the busier southern paths. Known for its excellent acclimatization profile, it follows a “climb high, sleep low” strategy over 8 to 9 days, which significantly boosts summit success rates while reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

This route takes you through all of Kilimanjaro’s ecological zones—lush rainforest, moorland, high alpine desert, and the icy summit. One of its most unique features is the remote northern side of the mountain, where few climbers go, offering untouched wilderness, wide skies, and silence that enhances the sense of exploration.

Key highlights include the expansive Shira Plateau, the surreal Moir Hut area, and breathtaking views of Kenya’s plains as you circle the mountain. The summit attempt via Gilman’s Point or Stella Point is timed perfectly after days of steady elevation gain, making the final ascent more manageable.

The Northern Circuit isn’t just a climb—it’s a journey for those who want time, space, and stunning natural beauty all around.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
Elevation: 2,100m to 2,650m , Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Begin with registration at Londorossi Gate, followed by a drive to the trailhead. Trek through dense rainforest where colobus monkeys and birds are often seen. Overnight at Big Tree Camp.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,650m to 3,610m, Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Climb out of the forest into moorland. Clearings open up views of Shira Ridge and Mount Meru. This is a steady but noticeable gain in altitude. Camp on the Shira Plateau.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,610m to 3,850m, Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
A gentler day across the wide, open Shira Plateau. Hikers often enjoy panoramic views and stop for photos. You’ll begin to feel the thinner air. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (via Lava Tower for acclimatization)
Elevation: 3,850m to 4,200m, Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Climb high to Lava Tower (4,630m), then descend to sleep lower at Moir Hut. This is a key “climb high, sleep low” day for acclimatization and a major highlight of the route.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp via Lent Hills (optional acclimatization hike)
Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m, Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Hike across the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. This is the quietest part of the mountain with stunning views over the plains of northern Tanzania and southern Kenya. Optional hike up Lent Hills before continuing to Buffalo Camp.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m, Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
A relatively easier trek with gentle ascents and descents across barren alpine terrain. The isolation and stillness here offer a unique wilderness feel. Sleep at Third Cave Camp.

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut (Base Camp)
Elevation: 3,870m to 4,750m, Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Gradual uphill to the base camp. This is your final resting point before the summit attempt. Early dinner and early sleep, as the summit push begins before midnight.

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,750m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Begin the summit push around midnight, reaching Gilman’s Point or Stella Point at sunrise, then on to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating, descend all the way to Mweka Camp through Barafu and high moorlands.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m, Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Final descent through lush rainforest. Trails can be slippery, so poles help. Receive your summit certificate at the gate and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.