Climb Kilimanjaro – Northern Circuit Route
Route Overview
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the highest summit success rate of all trails. It starts from the western side of the mountain and circles around the quiet northern slopes before approaching the summit. With its excellent acclimatization profile, remote wilderness, and low foot traffic, this route is perfect for those seeking a premium, less crowded trekking experience.
🌟 Route Highlights
Longest route with best acclimatization
Very high summit success rate
Quiet northern slopes with minimal traffic
Spectacular panoramic views from all angles
Full circumnavigation of Kilimanjaro
Ideal for experienced trekkers or slow climbersv
📅 Itinerary (9-Day Recommended)
Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)
Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration
Hike through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
Wildlife sightings possible along the trail
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp (tents)
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Climb through forest into heather and moorland zone
Views of Shira Ridge and Kibo Peak
Camp on the Shira Plateau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Easy trek across the plateau
Acclimatization day with scenic rest and short hikes
Optional hike to Shira Cathedral
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Moir Hut (4,200m)
Trek to Lava Tower for altitude adaptation
Descend to Moir Hut, a secluded and quiet campsite
Optional afternoon hike for further acclimatization
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 5: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Hike along the northern slopes with panoramic views
Remote trail with few other trekkers
Overnight at Buffalo Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 6: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
Continue along the northern circuit route
Easier trekking day with gentle terrain
Arrive at Third Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 7: Third Cave – School Hut (4,800m)
Steeper climb toward School Hut at base of summit
Early dinner and rest for midnight summit push
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 8: Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Midnight start to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise
Pass Gilman’s Point and Stella Point en route
Celebrate, then descend to Mweka Camp for rest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha/Moshi
Final descent through rainforest trail
Receive summit certificate at Mweka Gate
Transfer back to Arusha or Moshi
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Climbing Booking
All park fees, camping equipment, rescue fee
Mountain guide, porters, and cook
All meals and drinking water on the mountain
Private transfers from/to Arusha or Moshi
Tents, sleeping mattresses, dining tent
Summit certificate
International flights and Tanzanian visa
Sleeping bag and personal gear (available to rent)
Tips for the guide and crew
Pre/post-trek hotel in Arusha or Moshi
Travel insurance and optional excursions
Snacks, soda, and alcoholic drinks