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Northern Circuit Route

9 Days 8 Nights
  • 16
  • 80
  • English, French, Spanish, Kiswahili, Sign Language
  • Hotel before and after your hike, The North Face tents
  • All Mount Kilimanjaro National Park fees included
  • Dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October
  • While not technically difficult, the long days require stamina and endurance, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a slower, immersive experience.
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are freshly prepared daily. Designed to keep you full and provide the energy and nutrients needed for the climb.
  • Uhuru Peak: 5,895m (19,341 ft)

Northern Circuit Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary

The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, circling the mountain’s quieter northern slopes. This 9-day trek offers unparalleled acclimatization, making it an excellent choice for climbers aiming to maximize their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. The trail passes through remote, untouched landscapes, providing solitude and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, rugged peaks, and Kenya’s plains. Ideal for those seeking a longer, more immersive adventure, the Northern Circuit is a bucket-list journey for trekkers looking to explore Kilimanjaro’s beauty at a slower pace.

Highlights

  • Longest Route with Highest Success Rate
  • Stunning Views from the Northern Slopes
  • Excellent Acclimatization Across Nine Days
  • Remote, Peaceful, and Less Crowded
  • Panoramic Summit Approach via Gilman’s Point

Itinerary

  • Day
    One

    Arrival in Moshi

    Arrive in Moshi, where you’ll meet your guides for a pre-climb briefing and gear check. Rest and hydrate well as you prepare for the adventure ahead.

    Dinner
    Comfort Hotel
  • Day
    Two

    Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp

    Elevation: 2,100m (6,890 ft) to 2,800m (9,190 ft)
    Elevation Gain: 700m (2,297 ft)
    Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
    Hiking Time: 4 hours

    Start with a drive to Lemosho Gate for registration, followed by a drive through the lush rainforest to the trailhead. From there, begin your trek through the dense forest, where you’ll likely spot colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The trail ascends gently to Big Tree Camp, your first stop.

    Tip: Keep your pace steady and enjoy the serene forest surroundings.

    4 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Three

    Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

    Elevation: 2,800m (9,190 ft) to 3,505m (11,500 ft)
    Elevation Gain: 705m (2,310 ft)
    Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
    Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

    Leave the forest behind as the trail climbs into heather and moorland. The landscape opens up, offering your first sweeping views of the Shira Plateau. By the time you reach Shira 1 Camp, you’ll be surrounded by rolling hills and volcanic rock formations.

    Highlight: Catch a glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s peaks as they emerge in the distance.

    6 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Four

    Shira 1 Camp to Moir Camp

    Elevation: 3,505m (11,500 ft) to 4,200m (13,780 ft)
    Elevation Gain: 695m (2,280 ft)
    Distance: 7 km (4 miles)
    Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

    Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Shira Plateau, with stunning views of the surrounding high-altitude wilderness. After crossing the plateau, the trail ascends steadily to Moir Camp, tucked into a quiet valley at the base of Lent Hills. Use the afternoon for a short acclimatization hike.

    Tip: Take advantage of the isolation to enjoy the quiet beauty of the plateau.

    4 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Five

    Moir Camp to Pofu Camp

    Elevation: 4,200m (13,780 ft) to 4,033m (13,230 ft)
    Elevation Loss: 167m (550 ft)
    Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
    Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

    The trail heads northward, wrapping around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. This section of the route is remote and less traveled, offering solitude and uninterrupted views of Kenya’s vast plains. Pofu Camp lies in a quiet setting, providing a chance to rest and acclimatize further.

    Highlight: The remoteness of the northern circuit is unparalleled, with chances to spot wildlife like elands and servals.

    8 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Six

    Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp

    Elevation: 4,033m (13,230 ft) to 3,870m (12,700 ft)
    Elevation Loss: 163m (530 ft)
    Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
    Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

    The trail continues its gradual circuit around Kilimanjaro, offering unique perspectives of the mountain and its rugged northern slopes. The path descends slightly before reaching Third Cave Camp, nestled in a scenic, rocky area.

    Tip: This day is shorter, so use it to rest and prepare for the challenging climb ahead.

    7 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Seven

    Third Cave Camp to School Hut

    Elevation: 3,870m (12,700 ft) to 4,750m (15,580 ft)
    Elevation Gain: 880m (2,880 ft)
    Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
    Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

    A steady ascent through alpine desert takes you to School Hut, the final camp before the summit. The barren, windswept terrain is a stark reminder of the challenge ahead. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing your gear for the midnight push to Uhuru Peak.

    Highlight: The view of the summit trail from School Hut is both inspiring and intimidating.

    7 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Eight

    Summit Day - School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

    Elevation: 4,750m (15,580 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) to 3,950m (12,960 ft)
    Elevation Gain: 1,145m (3,761 ft)
    Elevation Loss: 1,945m (6,381 ft)
    Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
    Hiking Time: 12–15 hours

    Your summit attempt begins in the dark, with a steep climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,650 ft) on the crater rim. From there, continue to Uhuru Peak, where the sunrise over the glacier-covered summit provides a breathtaking reward. After celebrating at the Roof of Africa, descend to Millennium Camp for the night.

    Tip: Break the climb into small milestones and celebrate each one - it’s as much a mental challenge as a physical one.

    15 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tents
  • Day
    Nine

    Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

    Elevation: 3,950m (12,960 ft) to 1,640m (5,380 ft)
    Elevation Loss: 2,310m (7,580 ft)
    Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)
    Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

    The final stretch takes you through the lush rainforest, where the vibrant sounds of nature welcome you back to lower altitudes. At Mweka Gate, collect your summit certificate and celebrate your accomplishment before returning to Moshi.

    Highlight: The rainforest provides a refreshing and scenic conclusion to your trek.

    6 hour
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Comfort Hotel

Cost Includes

  • Transfer from hotel to mountain
  • Meals on the hike
  • Salaries for professional guides and porters
  • All park fees and taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International flights, Airport taxes, Visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunch, dinner and beverages in the hotel
  • Snacks and energy bars, Items of a personal nature
  • Tips for the climbing crew
  • Personal gear rentals and purchases
  • Single supplement
  • Portable toilet and shower

Dates

See all departures at Northern Circuit Route

FAQs for the Northern Circuit Route

When is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit Route?

The best time is during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October, offering stable weather for this scenic and remote route.

How long is the Northern Circuit Route, and what is the average hiking time?

The route spans approximately 56 miles (90 km) over 8–9 days, with daily hikes ranging from 5 to 8 hours, and summit day lasting 10–14 hours.

What makes the Northern Circuit Route unique?

It’s the longest and most remote route, circling the mountain’s northern slopes and offering unparalleled solitude and unique perspectives.

Is the Northern Circuit Route suitable for beginners?

Yes, its gradual ascent and extended duration make it one of the best routes for acclimatization, ideal for first-time climbers with moderate fitness levels.

How crowded is the Northern Circuit Route?

It’s the least crowded route, offering a peaceful and immersive trekking experience, even during peak climbing months.

What are the main highlights of the Northern Circuit Route?

The sweeping views of Kenya’s savannah, a full circumnavigation of Kilimanjaro, and breathtaking vistas from the northern slopes are standout features.

What’s the biggest challenge on the Northern Circuit Route?

Its longer duration requires stamina and mental determination, but the gradual ascent helps reduce the physical strain.

What’s the acclimatization profile like on the Northern Circuit Route?

The route’s length and steady “climb high, sleep low” profile provide the best acclimatization of all Kilimanjaro routes, maximizing summit success rates.

What’s the wildlife like on the Northern Circuit Route?

The lower elevations feature rainforest wildlife like monkeys and birds, while the northern slopes offer unique alpine vegetation and occasional wildlife sightings.

What’s the biggest advantage of the Northern Circuit Route?

Its unmatched acclimatization profile and tranquil, scenic paths make it perfect for those seeking a less crowded and highly rewarding trek.

Northern Circuit Map, Distances and Elevations

Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Elevations and Distances Chart

At JoyTrekking Tours & Safaris, we are on a mission to curate extraordinary journeys and forge lifelong memories. Our commitment to delivering top-tier adventure experiences, coupled with a deep respect for the natural and cultural wonders of Kilimanjaro and its surroundings, defines our essence.

+255 755 557 547

findjoy@joytrekkingtours.com

January, Head Guide and Founder of JoyTrekking Tours & Safaris

+255 755 557 547
findjoy@joytrekking.com

See it online https://joytrekking.com/trip/northern-circuit-route/