Northern Circuit Route 8 Days
Ultimate Kilimanjaro Trek
INTRODUCTION
The Northern Circuit Route is widely regarded as the most comprehensive and rewarding way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. As the longest route on the mountain, it offers exceptional acclimatization, the highest summit success rates, and unmatched solitude—making it the ultimate choice for trekkers who want to experience Kilimanjaro in full.
Beginning on the scenic western slopes via the Lemosho Glades, the route gradually circles the rarely visited northern side of the mountain, offering expansive views toward Kenya and long stretches of untouched wilderness. With fewer climbers, diverse landscapes, and a carefully paced ascent, the Northern Circuit is ideal for those who prioritize safety, comfort, and a deeply immersive trekking experience.
If you are seeking the most scenic, least crowded, and highest-success Kilimanjaro route, the 8-day Northern Circuit stands above all others.
Northern Circuit 8 Days Itinerary
ARRIVAL DAY: Kilimanjaro International Airport → Moshi Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our team and transferred to Leopard Hotel in Moshi. In the evening, enjoy a detailed climb briefing and a full equipment check with your head guide. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel Meals: Breakfast
Day 1: Moshi – Londorosi Gate – Lemosho Glades – Forest Camp Overnight Altitude: ~9,498 ft Hiking Time: 4–5 hours After breakfast, drive to Londorosi Gate on Kilimanjaro’s western side. Following registration, continue to the Lemosho trailhead where your trek begins. Hiking through pristine montane forest, you may spot colobus monkeys and signs of wildlife. Accommodation: Forest Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Forest Camp – Shira Plateau (Shira 1 Camp) Overnight Altitude: ~11,500 ft Hiking Time: 6–9 hours Leaving the forest behind, the trail opens onto the Shira Plateau, revealing your first dramatic views of Kibo Peak. The route undulates gently, offering excellent acclimatization. Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira Camp – Moir Camp Overnight Altitude: ~13,580 ft Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Traverse the vast heathland of the Shira Plateau while climbing the western slopes of Kibo. After lunch near Scott Fischer’s Memorial, continue to Moir Camp, one of the most remote camps on the mountain. Optional acclimatization hikes may be offered. Accommodation: Moir Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Moir Camp – Pofu (Buffalo) Camp Overnight Altitude: ~13,200 ft Hiking Time: 5–7 hours A steady climb up a ridge leads into the true northern circuit. This is a powerful acclimatization day, with expansive views across the northern plains of Kilimanjaro. Accommodation: Pofu Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Pofu Camp – Third Cave Camp Overnight Altitude: ~12,700 ft Hiking Time: 5–7 hours Continue traversing the rarely visited northern slopes. The landscape feels vast, quiet, and wild—one of the defining features of this route. Accommodation: Third Cave Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Third Cave Camp – School Hut Overnight Altitude: ~15,600 ft Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Ascend gradually to School Hut, your highest overnight camp. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for the summit attempt later that night. Accommodation: School Hut Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp Summit Altitude: 19,341 ft Hiking Time: 13–17 hours Overnight Altitude: ~10,065 ft You begin your summit ascent around midnight. After reaching Gilman’s Point, traverse the crater rim via Stella Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for lunch, then continue to Mweka Camp for overnight rest. (Millennium Camp available by request.) Accommodation: Mweka Camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi Hiking Time: 3–5 hours Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you sign out of the park. After tipping and farewells to your mountain crew, return to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration. Accommodation: leopard Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DEPARTURE DAY Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure, or continue with a safari or Zanzibar beach extension arranged by our team.
Moments Along the Northern Circuit Route
Voices from the Northern Circuit Route
Essential Questions About the Northern Circuit Route
Why is the Northern Circuit considered the best Kilimanjaro route?
Because it offers the longest acclimatization, highest summit success rate, least crowding, and most varied scenery of all Kilimanjaro routes.
Is the Northern Circuit suitable for first-time climbers?
Yes. Despite being longer, its gradual ascent makes it ideal for first-time climbers seeking maximum safety and success.
How does the Northern Circuit compare to Lemosho or Machame?
The Northern Circuit is quieter and longer than both, offering superior acclimatization and a more exclusive wilderness experience.
