Explore the world with tourHQ
Tanzania · Trekking
The journey
The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, giving climbers the highest summit success rate thanks to its extended acclimatization profile. It follows the Lemosho Route for the first two days before veering onto the quieter northern slopes and circling to the east side of the mountain. Along the way, you trek through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi before making your summit push to Uhuru Peak. The descent follows the same route used by the Machame and Lemosho routes.
The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, giving climbers the highest summit success rate thanks to its extended acclimatization profile.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Arrange a private transfer to Moshi.
Gather at the hotel for a pre-climb briefing and equipment check.
Confirm mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.
Rest and prepare for the trek.
Begin trekking from Lemosho Gate through mountain rainforest.
Hike for 3-4 hours, covering 6 km (4 miles).
Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp and spend the night.
Enter moorland terrain and head towards Shira Plateau.
Hike for 5-6 hours, covering 8 km (5 miles).
Reach Shira 1 Camp and stay overnight.
Hike for 4-6 hours, covering 7 km (4 miles).
Prepare for colder temperatures at Shira 2 Camp.
Spend the night at Shira 2 Camp.
Ascend to Lava Tower and Shark's Tooth rock formation.
Descend to Moir Hut for acclimatization and an overnight stay.
Cross the alpine desert for 5-6 hours, covering 12 km (7 miles).
Reach Pofu Camp and rest.
Look out for buffaloes along the way.
Reach Third Cave Camp and spend the night.
Hike for 4-5 hours, covering 5 km (3 miles).
Rest at Kibo Hut and School Hut to prepare for summit day.
Ascend for 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak via Stella Point.
Descend for 6-8 hours to Mweka Camp.
Celebrate your summit success.
Meet the driver at Mweka Gate.
Transfer to Moshi for rest and relaxation.
Begin your next adventure or return home.
Where this trip takes you
Lemosho Gate rainforest, Shira Plateau semi-desert, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak
The route
The fine print
Pre-climb briefing and equipment check in Moshi
Park entry fees and Kilimanjaro National Park permits
Professional mountain guides and porters for support throughout the trek
Camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats, and dining tents
Meals and drinking water during the trek
Camping fees and accommodation at all campsites along the route
Transportation from Moshi to Lemosho Gate and back from Mweka Gate to Moshi
Rescue and emergency evacuation procedures if needed
Post-trek transfer from Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport or your onward destination
Accommodation before and after the trek
Hotel (available as an optional add-on)
Transfers (available as an optional add-on)
Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc. (available for rent)
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
International airfares and departure taxes
All items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, fax, email, etc.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
Visa and international flight ticket fees
You should bring a comprehensive packing list that includes layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, essential gear like a headlamp, a hydration system, and personal items. You'll also need sunscreen, lip balm, and medication if needed. Consider your route, acclimatization, and the potential for altitude sickness, and pack accordingly.
It's crucial to be aware of the unique challenges and conditions of climbing Kilimanjaro. These include acclimatization, altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and the importance of proper gear and training.
Logistics
Your 11 days finish where they began, in Mt Kilimanjaro.
Watch the film
Create your own adventure
Say goodbye to travel stress.
Starting from
When
Travellers
Total
—
