The Northern Circuit Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, providing an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. It offers stunning views, a less-crowded experience compared to other routes, and a gradual ascent that increases your chances of successfully reaching the summit. This 11-day itinerary starts with the Lemosho Route and branches off at Moir Hut, traversing Buffalo Camp, Third Cave, and School Hut before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft). The route also allows for a diverse range of habitats, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, providing hikers with a variety of landscapes and wildlife. The journey culminates in a triumphant descent via the Mweka Route, offering a celebratory end to the trek.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi, a charming town located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
After breakfast, drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, the starting point of the Northern Circuit Route. After completing park formalities, begin your trek through lush rainforest. This is a relatively gentle ascent, with the chance to spot wildlife like monkeys and buffalo. You will reach Mti Mkubwa Camp in the late afternoon for your first night on the mountain.
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation Gain: 400m / 1,312ft
Habitat: Rainforest Zone
Hike through the rainforest to Shira Plateau. This section involves a gradual ascent as you transition from rainforest to moorland with volcanic rock formations and barren landscapes. Upon reaching Shira 1 Camp, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 830m / 2,723ft
Habitat: Heather and Moorland Zone
This day involves a moderate climb across the Shira Plateau, with stunning views of volcanic craters and surrounding mountains. The trail offers a great opportunity for acclimatization, allowing you to enjoy the striking landscape.
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 400m / 1,312ft
Habitat: Heather and Moorland Zone
A challenging hike, beginning with an ascent to Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After lunch, descend to Moir Hut, located on the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.
Distance: 11 km / 6 miles
Walking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 750m / 2,460ft
Elevation Loss: 400m / 1,312ft (from Lava Tower to Moir Hut)
Habitat: Alpine Desert Zone
Contrary to expectations, this section features a slight descent from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp. As you trek along the northern slopes, enjoy panoramic views of the Kibo Glacier and semi-desert terrain. This relatively easy hike offers a chance to rest and acclimatize.
Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Walking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Change: -180m / -590ft
Habitat: Semi-desert Zone
The trek from Buffalo Camp to Third Cave takes you through barren, high-altitude landscapes. You’ll experience incredible views of Kilimanjaro’s rugged northern slopes.
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Walking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Loss: 290m / 950ft
Habitat: Semi-desert Zone
The trek from Third Cave to School Hut is a significant step towards the summit, with a challenging ascent. Located on the rim of the Kibo Crater, School Hut offers stunning views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Walking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 880m / 2,900ft
Habitat: Semi-desert Zone
Summit day! Wake up pre-dawn for the challenging trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After reaching the summit, take time to celebrate your achievement and enjoy the incredible views. Afterward, descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Distance: 12 km / 8 miles
Walking Time: 11-14 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,100m / 3,600ft
Elevation Loss: 1,900m / 6,200ft
Habitat: Summit Zone
Descend via the Mweka Route through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will be greeted by your vehicle for the transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Walking Time: 4-6 hours
Elevation Loss: 2,665m / 8,743ft
Habitat: Rainforest Zone
After completing your trek, enjoy some leisure time in Moshi or explore other Tanzanian safaris. If you choose to rest, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.
Whether it’s your first safari or one of many, let us turn your travel dreams into reality. With Parks Frontiers and Safaris, your journey promises to be more than a trip—it’s a lifelong memory waiting to unfold.
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