Why choose the Northern Circuit Route?

It is the quietest route with excellent acclimatization and scenic views.

s the 8-day itinerary suitable for beginners?

Yes, it offers good acclimatization for beginners with reasonable fitness.

Can this trek be combined with a safari?

Yes, safari and Zanzibar extensions can be arranged after the climb.

8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

Transportation
Transfers & Transportation
Accomodation
Hotel & Camping
Departure From
Arusha or Moshi
Best Season
January to March and June to October,
Tour type
Tour, Hiking
Meals
All meals on the Mountai
Language
Preferred Language
Fitness Level
Easy to Moderate
Group Size
2-15
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

More Info

FAQs

8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit -Overview

The 8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route is one of the most scenic and least crowded routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching the mountain from the western side, this route circles around the remote northern slopes, offering excellent acclimatization, open landscapes, and a high summit success rate. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter and more gradual climb.

Highlights

Least crowded route on Mount Kilimanjaro
Excellent acclimatization profile
Panoramic views from the northern slopes
Diverse landscapes and remote trails
Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)

8 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route-Itinerary

Expand all

The Northern Circuit Route follows the Lemosho approach before branching north around the mountain. Over eight days, climbers move through rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and glacial zones. The longer traverse supports steady altitude adjustment while showcasing rarely visited areas of Kilimanjaro. Accommodation is in tented camps, supported by experienced guides, porters, and cooks throughout the trek.

Arrival Day in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. After check-in, a trek briefing and gear check will be conducted. The rest of the day is free for rest and preparation.

Day 1 :

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2,100 m to 2,650 m
Distance: 6 km
Walking Time: 3–4 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,650 m

Trek through rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp with gentle elevation gain.

Day 2 :

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,650 m to 3,500 m
Distance: 8 km
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,500 m

Climb out of the forest into heath and moorland with expanding views.

Day 3 :

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,500 m to 3,850 m
Distance: 7 km
Walking Time: 4–5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,850 m

Cross the Shira Plateau with gradual acclimatization.

Day 4 :

Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (Northern Circuit)

Elevation: 3,850 m to 4,200 m
Distance: 14 km
Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m

Move onto the Northern Circuit with wide, remote landscapes.

Day 5 :

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Elevation: 4,200 m to 4,020 m
Distance: 12 km
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m

Traverse around the northern slopes with panoramic views.

Day 6 :

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Elevation: 4,020 m to 3,870 m
Distance: 8 km
Walking Time: 4–5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,020 m

A steady trek across open alpine terrain.

Day 7 :

hird Cave Camp to School Hut

Elevation: 3,870 m to 4,800 m
Distance: 5 km
Walking Time: 4–5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,800 m

Short ascent to base camp in preparation for summit day.

Day 08 :

Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 4,800 m to 5,895 m, then down to 1,640 m
Distance: 18 km
Walking Time: 12–15 hours
Maximum Altitude: 5,895 m

Midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak followed by descent and transfer back to the hotel.

All About Your Trek

8 Days Climb-Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit

Route & Terrain:

The Northern Circuit Route offers a wide range of landscapes, starting in lush rainforest and moving through heath, moorland, alpine desert, and glacial zones. The trail circles the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, providing open views, quiet paths, and a true wilderness trekking experience.

Duration & Pace:

The 8-day itinerary follows a steady and relaxed pace designed to support good acclimatization. Daily walking distances are well balanced, allowing climbers enough time to rest and adjust to altitude changes comfortably.

Accommodation & Facilities:

Accommodation on the mountain is provided in comfortable tented camps with sleeping mats and basic facilities. Before and after the trek, climbers stay in selected 3- or 4-star hotels in Moshi or Arusha for rest and preparation.

Cultural Experience:

Spending time in Moshi or Arusha gives climbers the chance to experience local culture, visit markets, and learn about daily life around Mount Kilimanjaro through interactions with guides and local communities.

Best Time to Visit:

The best months to climb the Northern Circuit Route are January to March and June to October, when weather conditions are generally dry and stable.

Preparation & Packing Tips:

Good physical preparation and correct gear are important. Warm layered clothing, waterproof equipment, sturdy hiking boots, and personal essentials help ensure comfort in changing mountain conditions.

Health & Safety:

Experienced mountain guides monitor climbers’ health daily and control the pace carefully. Safety procedures are followed throughout the trek to reduce altitude-related risks and ensure a safe climb.

Environmental Responsibility:

Climbers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles by keeping camps clean, respecting wildlife, and minimizing environmental impact to protect Kilimanjaro’s natural environment.

Additional Support:

Professional guides, porters, and cooks provide full support throughout the trek, managing logistics, meals, and safety so climbers can focus on enjoying the journey.