Northern Circuit Climb Kilimanjaro along the Northern Circuit
The Northern Circuit is the newest, the longest and a less crowded Kilimanjaro route, offering views of the mountain's northern slopes, which are rarely seen by visitors. As the route covers a distance of almost 90 km, it allows for ample time to acclimatize. Ultimate adventures await you.
Accommodation is in tents throughout the trip.
DAY 1: From Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree)
Commencing your climb along the Northern Circuit unfolds in a verdant rainforest setting, where a diverse array of plant life envelops you - towering trees, lush ferns, and rocks adorned with moss. As you delve further, expect a gentle elevation gain, maneuvering through moderate slopes. The path is consistently groomed with distinct trails to guide your way. Amidst the trek, chance sightings of wildlife and the tunes of exotic birdlife may enrich your adventure. Rest and enjoy your lunch at Mti Mkubwa Camp upon arrival.
DAY 2: From Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp
Exiting Mti Mkubwa Camp, you transition from the verdant rainforest to heather-clad moorlands, where the towering trees yield to vast stretches of slopes and hills. The incline progressively increases as you ascend, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic vistas of the encompassing scenery, notably the expansive Shira Plateau. Your arrival at Shira I Camp will be welcomed with a served lunch.
DAY 3: From Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp
Advancing further, your journey extends towards the eastern expanse of the Shira Plateau. You will traverse through the expansive alpine desert, marked by rocky surfaces, volcanic ash, and scarce flora. The scenery is truly mesmerizing, offering sweeping vistas of neighboring peaks and valleys. Upon reaching Shira II Camp, a satisfying lunch awaits.
DAY 4: From Shira II Camp to Moir Hut
The trail takes you to through the moorland of Shira Plateau, gradually ascending to Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation. From here, you continue descending to Moir Hut. The path offers a different perspective of the mountain and may provide af quieter and more secluded experience. Keep an eye out for unique species such as giant lobelias and groundsel plants. You may also spot some birds or small mammals along the way. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Moir Hut.
DAY 5: From Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
As you leave Moir Hut, you will enter the moorland zone, characterized by unique and diverse vegetation. The landscape becomes greener, with heather, tussock grass, and other hardy plants dotting the slopes. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape like the rugged peaks and valleys of Kilimanjaro. You will also have the opportunity to admire the vastness of the moorland terrain, known for its wildlife sightings. Therefore, keep an eye out for various bird species, including the beautiful and elusive Malachite Sunbird. You may also encounter small mammals such as dik-diks, hyraxes, and even larger animals like buffalos. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Buffalo Camp.
DAY 6: From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Leaving Buffalo Camp, you will continue through the moorland zone, characterized by heather, tussock grass, and other hearty plants. The landscape remains green and vibrant, providing a beautiful backdrop for your climb. The trail involves traversing both rolling hills and grassy slopes. As you ascend, you will be rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding moorland landscape. Therefore, take time to pause and admire the sweeping vistas of Kilimanjaro's peaks, valleys, as well as the vastness of the moorland terrain. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Third Cave Camp.
DAY 7: From Third Cave Camp to School Hut
You will continue your trek through the alpine desert zone, characterized by sparse vegetation and rocky terrain. The landscape becomes more barren and rugged as you gain altitude. The trail involves a steady and gradual ascent. As you climb higher, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys. Therefore, take the time to appreciate the stunning beauty of the high alpine landscape. Lunch will be served upon arrival at School Hut.
DAY 8: From School Hut to Uhuru Peak - and from Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
The trek begins in darkness as you start the challenging ascent towards the iconic Uhuru Peak around midnight. The trail involves a steep and challenging ascent. You will navigate switchbacks and rocky paths as you gain elevation rapidly. The terrain becomes more rugged and icy as you approach the summit. After several hours of climbing, you will reach Gilman's Point, located at an altitude of 5,681 meters / 18,638 feet on the crater rim. From here, the trail continues along the rim to Stella Point, situated at an elevation of 5,756 meters / 18,885 feet. Stella Point is the junction where climbers on the different routes meet, and from where you will continue along the rim, pushing towards Uhuru Peak. The path is less steep from this point, although the high altitude and low temperatures can still present challenges.
Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, you will have reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, after covering the distance along the Northern Circuit. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take memorable photos to commemorate your achievement. After celebrating your accomplishment, you will begin the descent to Barafu Camp.
After a brief rest at Barafu Camp with a chance to rest, eat, and rehydrate, you will continue to descent to Millennium Camp. The trail takes you through various vegetation zones, starting with the alpine desert and gradually transitioning into the rainforest as you descend. At the campsite, you will spend the final night on the mountain, celebrating your successful summit of Kilimanjaro along the Northern Circuit.
DAY 9: From Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate
On the last day of the trek, you will have a final descent from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate, passing trough the rainforest.
Explore Mount Meru, and the other routes for climbing Kilimanjaro, Machame, Lemosho, Umbwe, Rongai, and Marangu, as well - or take a look at the overview of which mountain route to choose.
NORTHERN CIRCUIT OVERVIEW
The Northern Circuit can be completed in 8 or 9 days. If you choose to do the climb in 9 days, you will hike directly from Shira I Camp to to Moir Hut.
SUMMIT SUCCES RATE: 95
ACCLIMATIZATION: Excellent
DIFFICULTY: Very easy
On the morning of day 1, you will check out of the hotel and be picked up by us. We will of course take care of storing your belongings while you are on the mountain. Together, we drive to the Lemosho Gate, which takes about 2-3 hours from Moshi. After registering at the gate, you are ready to start climbing Kilimanjaro along the Northern Circuit.
DAY 1:
From Lemosho Gate at 2100 m / 6890 ft to Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2650 m / 8694 ft - 7 km. Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
DAY 2:
From Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp at 3610 m / 11844 ft - 7 km. Hiking duration: 5-6 hours
DAY 3:
From Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp at 3850 m / 12630 ft - 10 km. Hiking duration: 3 hours
DAY 4:
From Shira II Camp to Moir Hut at 4200 m / 13780 ft - 8 km. Hiking duration: 4-5 hours
DAY 5:
From Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp at 4020 m / 13189 ft - 11 km. Hiking duration: 6 hours
DAY 6:
From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp at 3800 / 12467 ft - 9 km. Hiking duration: 4 hours
DAY 7:
From Third Cave Camp to School Hut at 4710 m / 15453 ft - 10 km. Hiking duration: 4-5 hours
DAY 8 - 'SUMMIT NIGHT':
From School Hut to Uhuru Peak at 5895 m / 19341 ft - and from Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp at 3787 m / 12500 ft - 22 km. Hiking duration: 14-15 hours
DAY 9:
From Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate at 1640 m / 5381 ft - 13 km. Hiking duration: 5-6 hours
Km in total 87
Upon arrival at the gate, you will be rewarded with your certificate, issued by Kilimanjaro National Park, stating your successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro along the Northern Circuit.
Lunch will be served in a village between Mweka Gate where the Northern Circuit ends and Moshi. Back in our office, you will get back your belongings before we take you to your hotel or the airport.
The Northern Circuit is for you who
want to experience the most scenic and remote trekking route on Kilimanjaro
- have enough time to complete a longer trek
- seek a higher level of acclimatization
What is the Best Time of Year to Trek the Northern Circuit?
The best time to trek the Northern Circuit is during the dry seasons, typically from June to October, and from December to February.
More information
Do you want to climb Kilimanjaro along the Northern Circuit? Go to our FAQ section for information about booking, prices, briefings, equipment checks, safety, acclimatization and much more.