8-Day Northern Circuit Route Climbing Kilimanjaro

Meet our dedicated driver at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), holding a sign with your name and ready to welcome you.

Enjoy a seamless, comfortable transfer to your hotel in Arusha.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you will be served a delicious meal.

Later, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will provide a pre-trekking briefing about your upcoming Kilimanjaro expedition.

After breakfast and a briefing from your guide, you will be transferred to Lemosho Park Gate (2,100 m) on a 1.5-hour drive.

At Londorossi Gate, you will complete registration before starting your trek along scenic forest trails to Mti Mkubwa Campsite (2,750 m).

The hike takes about 2-3 hours and covers 6 km (4 mi).

Upon arrival, porters will set up the tents and the chef will prepare lunch.

After lunch, you will have time to relax until dinner.

In the evening, your guide will brief you about the next day’s trek.

Elevation: 1,830 m (6,000 ft) to 2,650 m (8,700 ft)

Habitat: Montane Forest

Start early with breakfast, then hike from Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (up to 5 hours).

Enjoy views of the west face of Kibo Volcano (Kilimanjaro) along the way.

Trek through lower moonland with large shrubs and vibrant wildflowers.

Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, where porters set up tents and the chef prepares lunch.

Relax after lunch until dinner.

In the evening, your guide will brief you on the next day’s trek.

Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3500m/11,500ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Moorland

After breakfast, enjoy a gentle hike across the plateau to Shira 2 Camp, set on moorland meadows by a stream.

Continue trekking east, passing through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’.

Enter the high alpine desert zone.

Join the Northern Circuit and descend to Moir Camp.

Elevation: 3500m/11,500ft to 4200m/13,780ft

Distance: 14km/8mi

Hiking time: 6-8 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley

Optional hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill (4,375 meters), then return to the Northern Circuit trail

Continue with a series of inclines and declines, skirting the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp

Elevation: 4200m/13,780ft to 4020m/13,188ft

Distance: 12km/7mi

Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: High Alpine

Start the day with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge, then descend into Porfu Camp, where lunch is usually served.

Continue east around the northern slopes to Rongai Third Cave.

The trek is shorter than the previous day, and you should be feeling well acclimated to the altitude.

Arrive at Third Cave around mid-afternoon.

Elevation: 4020m/13,188ft to 3800m/12,467ft

Distance: 8km/5mi

Climbing Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: High Alpine

Steady incline up and over the Saddle between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak

Continue walking south-west up to School Hut

Upon arrival at School Hut, enjoy an early dinner and rest, as you will be woken before midnight for your summit attempt

Prepare all your gear before bed: warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera

Elevation: 3800m/12,467ft to 4800m/15,748ft

Distance: 15km/8mi

Climbing Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Wake-up around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits.

Begin the steep incline up the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness.

First checkpoint: Hans Meyer Cave for a short break.

The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), around 5-6 hours after departing School Hut.

Enjoy the approaching dawn and the view 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 at the summit will be brief, so take as many pictures as you can of the views and surrounding glaciers.

Retrace your steps back around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters), then turn south and descend the heavily screed slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters).

Most trekkers take a short break.

Descend from Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to Mweka Gate (1,830 m) in approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Once at the gate, you will receive your climbing certificate to commemorate your achievement.

Transfer back to your accommodation in Arusha for dinner and an overnight stay.

Enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel, reflecting on your journey and the accomplishment of your climb.

If you have booked a safari, our safari coordinator will meet you in the afternoon for a pre-briefing and to discuss your upcoming adventure.

For more details about the safari options, please visit our Safari page.

Elevation: 3950 m/12,959 ft to 1680 m/5500 ft

Distance: 10 km/6 mi

Hiking Time: 3 to 4 hours

Habitat: Forest

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to the airport for your departure.

If you wish to extend your adventure, you may add a day trip to your itinerary to explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in local culture. For more details, visit our Day Trip page.

Alternatively, continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or exploring the island’s rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Explore our Zanzibar page to discover the perfect package for your next excursion.

If you’re interested in adding a safari experience, please visit our Safari page for more information on our safari options.