The Northern Circuit Route is considered the longest and one of the most scenic routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro Africa’s highest peak. It’s a 9-day trek that circles around the mountain, offering climbers a chance to experience all sides Mount Kilimanjaro and some of the most diverse landscapes on the mountain. The Northern circuit route Kilimanjaro is 88 kilometers (55 miles) long and takes 9 days to complete as our itineraries and the best recommended route to select for kilimanjaro climbing.
Day 1 Moshi To Londorossi Gate 2350m / 7743ft To Mti Mkubwa 2750m / 9120ft Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, the official starting point of the Northern Circuit Route. Upon arrival, you will complete the necessary park formalities before embarking on your trek.
The adventure starts with a hike through a lush rainforest, where the trail offers a relatively gentle ascent compared to the more challenging stages ahead. Along the way, you may spot wildlife such as playful monkeys and grazing buffaloes, adding to the rich experience of your climb.
After 3 to 4 hours of trekking, covering a distance of approximately 6 km (4 miles), you will arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp in the late afternoon. Nestled within the Rainforest Zone, this campsite sits at an elevation 400 meters (1,312 feet) higher than your starting point, marking the end of your first day on the mountain. Here, you will settle in and rest for the night, preparing for the exciting journey ahead. Day 2 Mti Mkubwa Camp 2750M To Shira 1 Camp 3500M Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
After a hearty breakfast, we continue our journey as the trail gradually ascends, becoming steeper as we enter the breathtaking moorland zone dominated by giant heather. Along the way, we cross several small streams before reaching the scenic Shira Ridge. From here, the trail gently descends towards the vast Shira Plateau, where we arrive at Shira 1 Camp. Nestled beside a tranquil stream, this campsite offers stunning views and a peaceful resting spot after the day's hike. Day 3 Shira 1 Camp 3500M To Shira 2 Camp 3840M Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
After breakfast, we embark on a gentle hike across the expansive Shira Plateau, surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountain's rugged landscape. The trail leads us through open moorland meadows, where we may spot unique high-altitude flora. Along the way, there are opportunities for optional hikes to further aid acclimatization. By afternoon, we arrive at Shira 2 Camp, set near a picturesque stream, offering a serene resting place before the next leg of our journey. Day 4 Shira 2 Camp 3840M To Lava Tower 4600m To Moir Camp 4200M Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut via Lava Tower
After an early breakfast, we set off on a challenging but rewarding trek from Shira 2 Camp towards Lava Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks on Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail gradually ascends through the alpine desert, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As we climb higher, the terrain becomes more rugged, with sparse vegetation and a striking volcanic landscape.
Reaching Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190ft) marks the highest point of the day. This massive volcanic rock formation provides a stunning backdrop for a well-deserved lunch break. Spending time at this altitude aids acclimatization, preparing our bodies for the challenges ahead.
Elevation: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower: 3,850m (12,600ft) → 4,630m (15,190ft) (Gain: 750m/2,460ft) Lava Tower to Moir Hut: 4,630m (15,190ft) → 4,230m (13,880ft) (Loss: 400m/1,312ft) Distance: 11km (6 miles) Hiking Time: 5–7 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert. Day 5 Moir Camp 4200m To Buffalo Camp 4000m Contrary to what some trekkers might experience due to the route, there’s actually a slight descent from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp on Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek continues along the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, with views of the Kibo Glacier Kilimanjaro offering panoramic views across the plateau, The route traverses semi-desert terrain with unique vegetation. This trek from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp is a relatively easy hike of about 4-7 hours; you’ll reach Buffalo Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll spend your night. Distance 12km/7miles, 5-7hrs walking, Habitat- Semi desert zone. Elevation change 180m/590ft. Day 6 Buffalo Camp 4000M To Rongai Third Cave 3800M We start the day with a climb up the Buffalo ridge and down into Porfu Camp where lunch is usually served. The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave. The trek is shorter than the day before and by now you should be feeling well acclimated to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.
Elevation: 4020m/13,188ft to 3800m/12,467ft Distance: 8km/5mi Climbing Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: High Alpine Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 7 Third Cave 3800M To School Hut 4750M The day involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Trekkers then continue walking south-west up to School Hut. After arriving at School Hut you will be served an early dinner and then you should get some shut-eye as you will be awoken before midnight to start your summit attempt. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp and camera before going to bed.
Elevation: 3800m/12,467ft to 4800m/15,748ft Distance: 15km/8mi Climbing Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Day 8 School Hut 4750m To Uhuru Peak 5895m To Millennium Camp 3720m You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness. Your first check-point is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break. The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), which will be around 5-6 hours after departing School Hut.
Take a moment to enjoy the approaching dawn and incredible view out and across to Mawenzi Peak, but remember you still have 2 hours trekking to reach Uhuru Peak so dig deep for the energy. The slope flattens as you head west around the crater rim and you should arrive at the summit at or just after sunrise.
Your stay here will be brief so get as many pictures as you can of the incredible views and surrounding glaciers. You will then retrace your steps back around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters) where you will turn south and head down the heavily screed slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters) to millennium camp. Day 9 Millennium Camp 3720m To Mweka Gate 1640M to Hotel moshi After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our final descent towards the Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your well-earned summit certificates. As we move to lower elevations, the trail may become wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for added stability. Light clothing such as shorts and t-shirts should be comfortable for the descent, but it's advisable to keep rain gear and warmer layers easily accessible.
Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, Our vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, a journey of approximately one hour.
Elevation: 3,950m (12,959ft) to 1,680m (5,500ft) Distance: 10km (6mi) Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Forest Meals: Breakfast.
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