Overview
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the highest success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile. This 10-day route circles the mountain’s northern slopes — far away from the crowds — giving hikers a quiet, scenic, and immersive experience.
Starting from the Lemosho Gate on the western side, you’ll traverse lush rainforest, heather, moorland, and alpine desert before approaching the summit from the north. The route offers 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro and neighboring Kenya, making it the most beautiful and least-traveled path to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Trip Highlights
- Longest and most scenic route on Kilimanjaro
- Excellent acclimatization for higher summit success
- Fewer crowds — serene and peaceful hiking experience
- Spectacular panoramic views from multiple angles
- Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
- Delicious, freshly prepared mountain meals
- Guided by experienced, certified Kilimanjaro guides
Itinerary
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your guide for a pre-climb briefing, equipment check, and rest before your adventure begins.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi
After registration at Londorossi Gate, begin hiking through lush rainforest filled with wildlife and towering trees.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 6 km
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Ascend gradually out of the forest into heather and moorland. Enjoy your first views of Kibo Peak.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Cross the Shira Plateau, a vast expanse of high-altitude desert, with incredible views of the mountain.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 7 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
A challenging day for acclimatization. Hike up to Lava Tower before descending to Moir Hut.
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Moir Hut
Climb out of Moir Valley to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy incredible views of Kenya’s plains.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 12 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Buffalo Camp
A moderate hike with gradual elevation changes across the scenic northern circuit.
Hiking Time: 5 hours
Distance: 8 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Third Cave Camp
Continue ascending to the high camp. Rest early in preparation for your midnight summit push.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: School Hut
Start your final ascent around midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise — Africa’s highest point! After celebrations and photos, descend via Mweka Route to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Distance: 16 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi for relaxation.
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees
- Professional, English-speaking mountain guides
- Porters, cook, and full support team
- All camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs)
- Meals as per itinerary
- Drinking water on the mountain
- Rescue fees and government taxes
- Airport transfers (JRO – Moshi – JRO)
- Two nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
Excludes
- International flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal hiking gear (sleeping bag, clothing, poles)
- Additional hotel nights before/after climb
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
FAQs
It’s considered moderate to challenging but offers the highest success rate due to excellent acclimatization.
It’s the longest and least crowded route, offering 360° panoramic views around the mountain.
Yes, all camping gear is provided except for personal items like sleeping bags.
The best months are January–March and June–October for stable weather.
The standard Northern Circuit route takes 9–10 days, which maximizes acclimatization and summit success.
You’ll stay in comfortable mountain tents with mess tents for dining.
Yes, insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation is mandatory.
Yes, with good fitness and determination. The slow pace helps acclimatization even for first-time trekkers.
