The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and least crowded route, offering excellent acclimatization and summit success rates. This 9-day itinerary concludes with a descent to Millennium Camp before ending at Mweka Gate.
Day1
Londorosi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
Elevation:
2,100m to 2,650m
Distance:
6km
Hiking Time:
3-4 hours
Habitat:
Rainforest
After breakfast in Moshi, you’ll drive to Londorosi Gate for registration, followed by a drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Your trek begins in lush rainforest, home to monkeys and exotic flora. You’ll spend your first night at Mti Mkubwa Camp, nestled in the forest.
Day2
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
The trail ascends out of the forest and into the moorland zone. As you climb higher, you’ll get your first expansive views of the Shira Plateau and distant Mount Meru. Camp at Shira 1 with stunning mountain backdrops.
Elevation:
2,650m to 3,610m
Distance:
8km
Hiking Time:
5-6 hours
Habitat:
Moorland
Day3
Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation:
3,610m to 3,850m
Distance:
7km
Hiking Time:
3-4 hours
Habitat:
Moorland
This day offers a relatively easy trek across the vast Shira Plateau, one of the oldest volcanic landscapes on Kilimanjaro. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, perfectly positioned for breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.
Day4
Shira 2 to Moir Hut
You’ll ascend steadily to Moir Hut, a remote camp ideal for acclimatization. In the afternoon, you can take an optional acclimatization hike to Lent Hills for elevated views and added altitude training.
Elevation:
3,850m to 4,200m
Distance:
10km
Hiking Time:
5-7 hours
Habitat:
Semi-desert
Day5
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp via Pofu Camp
Elevation:
4,200m to 4,020m
Distance:
12km
Hiking Time:
6-7 hours
Habitat:
Alpine desert
Today you join the Northern Circuit proper, traversing the untouched northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The scenery is remote and wild, with wide horizons and possible views into Kenya. Overnight at Buffalo Camp.
Day6
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
A shorter, easier day as you move east across the mountain’s northern face. You’ll arrive early at Third Cave Camp, giving you plenty of time to rest and acclimatize ahead of your summit attempt.
Elevation:
4,020m to 3,870m
Distance:
8km
Hiking Time:
5-6 hours
Habitat:
Alpine desert
Day7
Third Cave to School Hut
Elevation:
3,870m to 4,750m
Distance:
5km
Hiking Time:
4-5 hours
Habitat:
Alpine desert
Today’s hike is steep and gains significant elevation as you reach School Hut, your final base before summit night. You’ll have an early dinner and rest as much as possible in preparation for the long summit day ahead.
Day8
Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then down to Millennium Camp
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. Climb under the stars toward Gilman’s Point, then on to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After soaking in the sunrise views, descend via Barafu Camp and continue to Millennium Camp for a well-earned rest.
Elevation:
4,750m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,820m
Distance:
6 km ascent, 11 km descent
Hiking Time:
12-14 hours
Habitat:
Arctic to Moorland
Day9
Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Moshi
Elevation:
3,820m to 1,640m
Distance:
10km
Hiking Time:
3-4 hours
Habitat:
Rainforest
Enjoy your final walk through the vibrant montane forest, reflecting on your incredible achievement. At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your official summit certificate before returning to Moshi.
What's in the Price?
Inclusive
Pick-ups and drop offs from the Airport
Accommodations (One night Before Trekking and One night After Trekking)
Mountain guide(s)
Personal chef(s)
Porters
All meals and drinking water
Park entrance fees, all camping fees
Camping equipment – tent, foam mattress (Not needed for the Marangu route)
First aid kit
Pulse oximeter
Exclusive
Alcoholic beverages or sodas
Sleeping bag (can arrange hire if necessary)
Tipping gratuities.
Travel insurance
Visa fees
International and domestic flights
Available supplements
Flying Doctor’s Emergency rescue or Kili Made Air
Portable toilet
Oxygen cylinder
Massage after the climb
Add anExtra Dayto experience
Nice relaxing day at the Hotsprings
Coffee and waterfall tour to Materuni Village
Walking safari in Arusha National Park
Kayaking at Lake Chala
Walking tour in Rau Forest
Day trip to Ngorongoro or a full safari package
Congratulations on completing yourKilimanjaro trek!