Experience Kilimanjaro’s longest, most scenic, and highly successful trekking route.
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers an unparalleled experience of the mountain’s diverse landscapes. This 10-day journey, with 8 days of trekking, provides the highest acclimatization success rate, increasing the likelihood of reaching Uhuru Peak. Unlike the more crowded southern trails, this route takes a less-traveled path around the northern slopes, offering breathtaking views of the Kenyan plains, unique high-altitude ecosystems, and an intimate, crowd-free trekking experience. With expertly designed itineraries, professional guides, and superior safety measures—including additional oxygen and medical check-ups—the Northern Circuit ensures a rewarding and well-supported climb to Africa’s highest peak.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your comfortable hotel. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms, hot showers, a swimming pool, and WiFi access for a relaxing stay. In the evening, you will attend a pre-trek briefing with your guide, who will review the climb, safety protocols, and equipment requirements.
Important Note:
• Shared airport transfers are included for private tour packages. Individual transfers can be arranged at an additional cost.
• Hotel check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
After breakfast, your guide and support team will pick you up from the hotel for a 3 to 4-hour drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m / 7,380 ft), the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park. After completing registration and obtaining trekking permits, the group will continue by off-road vehicles to the drop-off point at 3,414 m (11,200 ft), where breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau await.
The trek to Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m / 11,500 ft) is relatively short, allowing time for acclimatization. Upon arrival, the team will have camp set up, including tents and a warm dinner.
Acclimatization Tips:
• Drink at least 4 liters of water daily.
• Watch for signs of altitude sickness and inform your guide if needed.
Today’s trek features a moderate altitude gain, as you ascend to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m / 12,631 ft). The path is not physically demanding, allowing time to admire Kilimanjaro’s stunning landscapes. If conditions are clear, you’ll have breathtaking views of Mount Meru, the fifth-highest peak in Africa.
In the afternoon, an acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower (4,110 m / 13,484 ft) is encouraged, helping your body adjust to the higher elevations.
Acclimatization Hike:
• Elevation Gain: 260 m (853 ft)
• Hike Duration: 1-2 hours
The trek to Lava Tower (4,600 m / 15,088 ft) is a challenging but crucial part of the acclimatization process. Many trekkers experience mild altitude effects, but the lunch break at Lava Tower provides valuable time for your body to adjust.
After lunch, the route descends slightly to Moir Hut Camp (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), offering a scenic and quiet setting for the night.
Leaving Moir Hut, you’ll ascend out of the valley before trekking along Kilimanjaro’s less-traveled northern circuit. The path is undulating, with rolling hills and spectacular views of Kenya’s Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. You may even spot Bearded Vultures soaring overhead.
Tonight’s destination is Buffalo Camp (4,020 m / 13,190 ft), where you will settle in for the evening.
Today’s trek takes you along the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, gradually ascending towards Third Cave Camp (3,800 m / 12,464 ft). This section of the route connects with the Rongai Route, offering diverse landscapes with fewer crowds. By now, your body should be well-acclimated to the altitude.
The journey continues to School Hut Summit Camp (4,800 m / 15,744 ft), the starting point for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. The trek is moderate but requires a steady pace to conserve energy for the summit push. Upon arrival, you’ll have an early dinner and rest before the midnight summit attempt.
The most demanding yet rewarding day of the trek begins at midnight, as you make the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft). This technically non-strenuous trek is made difficult by extreme altitude and cold temperatures. A personal guide will accompany every two climbers for safety.
After celebrating at the summit, you will descend to Barafu Camp for a brief rest and lunch, before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,950 m / 12,956 ft) for a well-earned sleep.
Descent Precautions:
• 90% of accidents occur during descent – watch your footing.
After a refreshing night at Millennium Camp, the final stretch of the trek leads you through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,379 ft). Here, you will receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your dedicated support team before transferring back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Enjoy a final morning at the hotel before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. If you have a late flight, an extended hotel stay can be arranged for an additional fee.
Hotel Check-out: 11:00 AM
This Northern Circuit Route 10-Day Tour is designed to offer maximum acclimatization, fewer crowds, and the most scenic experience on Kilimanjaro’s longest trail. With expert guides, well-structured trekking days, and breathtaking landscapes, this route provides a memorable and rewarding climb to Africa’s highest peak.
The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, offering excellent acclimatization, fewer crowds, and panoramic views of both Tanzania and Kenya.
The full Northern Circuit Route takes 10 days, including 8 days of trekking and 2 days for arrival and departure.
The Northern Circuit Route has one of the highest success rates, with approximately 90.2% reaching the crater rim and 81.3% reaching Uhuru Peak.
The best time to trek is during the dry seasons: from January to mid-March and from June to October.
No prior trekking experience is required. However, good physical fitness and endurance are recommended for this high-altitude trek.
During the trek, you will stay in high-quality mountain tents. Before and after the trek, you will stay in a comfortable hotel in Arusha.
The Northern Circuit is considered a moderate trek. The longer duration allows for better acclimatization, making it less physically demanding than shorter routes like Marangu or Machame.
Essential gear includes layered clothing, a quality sleeping bag, trekking boots, waterproof gear, a headlamp, gloves, and sunglasses.
Altitude sickness is always a risk on Kilimanjaro, but the Northern Circuit’s gradual ascent allows for better acclimatization. Guides conduct daily health checks.
Our expert guides are trained in first aid and high-altitude safety. We provide oxygen tanks, medical kits, and conduct daily health checks.
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