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Kilimanjaro Mountain, Tanzania

8 Day Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Via Northern Circuit Route

Adventure to Mt. Kilimanjaro Via Northern Circuit Route

Route Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering excellent acclimatization and breathtaking views. Spanning 8 days, this route allows trekkers to gradually adjust to the altitude while experiencing diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. The trek begins at Lemosho Gate and traverses the mountain’s northern slopes, providing solitude away from crowded trails. Climbers will pass through Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Buffalo Camp, and Third Cave before summiting via Gilman’s Point and Uhuru Peak (5,895m). The descent follows the Mweka Route, ensuring a smooth and rewarding conclusion. This trek is ideal for those seeking a high success rate and an immersive wilderness experience.

Trip Itinerary

  • Arrival

    Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
    Activity: Trek briefing and preparation

    Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. A briefing session with your guide will cover trekking details, equipment checks, and last-minute preparations. Enjoy a restful night before your adventure begins.

  • Accommodation

    Kiliwonders Hotel Moshi

  • Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,785m)

    Distance: 6 km
    Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
    Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp (Tents)

    After a morning briefing in Arusha or Moshi, you’ll be driven to Londorossi Gate, where park formalities are completed. The trek begins in lush rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The well-defined trail winds through dense vegetation with occasional steep sections. As you gain elevation, the air becomes cooler, and the forest thins. You’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp by late afternoon, where tents will be set up. Enjoy dinner under the stars while acclimatizing to the high-altitude environment.

  • Day 2: Mti Mkubwa (2,785m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,505m)

    Distance: 8 km
    Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
    Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp (Tents)

    Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends into the heath and moorland zone, where vegetation becomes sparser, and giant heather plants dominate the landscape. You’ll traverse Shira Ridge, a scenic ridge offering stunning views of Mount Meru and the surrounding valleys. The path becomes rockier as you approach Shira Plateau, an expansive high-altitude desert formed by ancient volcanic activity. Upon reaching Shira 1 Camp, you’ll settle in for the night, with clear evening skies offering incredible stargazing opportunities.

  • Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3,505m) to Moir Hut (4,206m)

    Distance: 10 km
    Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
    Accommodation: Moir Hut (Tents)

    Today’s trek is a gradual ascent across the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in Africa. The landscape is rugged, with volcanic rock formations and sparse vegetation. You’ll pass through Shira 2 Camp, then continue towards Moir Hut, nestled beneath the Lent Hills. This isolated location provides an excellent spot for acclimatization hikes. The day ends with a well-deserved rest, with the towering summit of Kibo looming in the distance.

  • Day 4: Moir Hut (4,206m) to Buffalo Camp (4,033m)

    Distance: 12 km
    Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
    Accommodation: Buffalo Camp (Tents)

    A steep climb out of Moir Valley leads to a high ridge offering panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. The terrain alternates between rocky paths and alpine desert. The trail gradually descends toward Buffalo Camp, where you’ll spend the night. This remote section of the Northern Circuit offers solitude and a chance to appreciate the untouched beauty of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.

  • Day 5: Day 5: Buffalo Camp (4,033m) to Third Cave (3,870m)ekking From Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

    Distance: 8 km
    Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
    Accommodation: Third Cave (Tents)

    The trek continues eastward across rolling terrain and small valleys. The path follows a gentle descent, allowing for better acclimatization. The landscape remains barren, with occasional Senecio plants breaking the rocky terrain. Upon arrival at Third Cave, you’ll rest in preparation for the summit push. The lower elevation compared to previous camps allows for a better night’s sleep.

  • Day 6: Third Cave (3,870m) to School Hut (4,750m)

    Distance: 6 km
    Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
    Accommodation: School Hut (Tents)

    The trail steepens as you ascend toward School Hut, the final camp before the summit attempt. The landscape is stark and windswept, with minimal vegetation. Trekkers will spend the afternoon resting and hydrating in preparation for the early morning summit push. The high altitude becomes more noticeable, so movement should be slow and steady.

  • Day 7: School Hut (4,750m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

    Distance: 16 km
    Trekking Time: 12-14 hours
    Accommodation: Mweka Camp (Tents)

    Summit day begins before midnight with a challenging ascent toward Gilman’s Point (5,685m) along steep, switchback trails. The final push to Uhuru Peak is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding. As the sun rises over Africa, you’ll stand at the highest point on the continent. After celebrating at the summit, the descent begins via Stella Point to Barafu Camp, then continues down to Mweka Camp, where you’ll enjoy a well-earned rest.

  • Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) - Return to Moshi/Arusha

    Distance: 10 km
    Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
    Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha

    The final day is a descent through lush rainforest, where you may encounter blue monkeys and vibrant bird species. The trail leads to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive summit certificates. A vehicle transfer will take you back to Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro.

  • Accommodation

    Kiliwonders Hotel Moshi

  • Departure Day

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. If you wish to extend your stay, optional tours to Zanzibar, Serengeti, or Ngorongoro can be arranged.

Climbing Cost Include

  • All transfers
  • Hotel before and after the hike
  • Camping equipment
  • Meals on the hike
  • Professional guides and porters
  • Oxygen tanks
  • Fully-loaded medical kits
  • All park fees and taxes
  • Innovative and user-friendly travel planning portal
  • Dedicated support team

Climbing Cost Excludes

  • International flights
  • Visa fee;
  • Travel insurance;
  • Tips to the climbing crew
  • Lunch and dinner in the hotel
  • Portable toilet
  • Single supplement
  • Personal gear rentals

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