8 days kilimanjaro climb via northern circuit route
8 days northern Circuit route trekking
Kilimanjaro Climb Days 1–8
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Northern Circuit.
- Pass through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert.
- Acclimatize gradually for a higher summit success rate.
- Reach Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.
- Enjoy spectacular sunrise views from the summit.
- Descend through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Day 1
Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
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After breakfast, depart from Arusha or Moshi and drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and permit formalities. Following a short transfer to the trailhead, begin your trek through lush rainforest filled with towering trees, colorful birds, and playful colobus monkeys. The gentle ascent allows you to settle into the mountain environment while enjoying the tranquility of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp in the afternoon for dinner and overnight.
Camping site; Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
“The rainforest zone receives the highest rainfall on Kilimanjaro and supports rich biodiversity.”
Distance Covered: 6 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Day 2
Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
After breakfast, continue ascending through the heath and moorland zone where giant heathers and unique alpine plants dominate the landscape. As the forest gradually disappears, magnificent views of Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak emerge. The trail becomes more open, allowing incredible photographic opportunities. Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, relax and enjoy the sunset over one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
Camping site; Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
“Shira Plateau is the remains of an ancient volcanic caldera that collapsed thousands of years ago.”
Distance Covered: 8 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours
Day 3
Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) to Moir Hut (4,200m)
Today’s trek crosses the expansive Shira Plateau toward the remote Moir Hut area. The route offers stunning views of Kibo Peak and unique volcanic formations scattered across the landscape. The gradual climb helps improve acclimatization while allowing plenty of time to appreciate the mountain’s beauty. Upon arrival at Moir Hut, enjoy lunch and relax while taking in panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.
Camping site; Moir Hut Camp (4,200m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance Covered: 11 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Day 4
Moir Hut (4,200m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Following breakfast, leave the main climbing routes behind and head toward the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail passes through rolling alpine terrain with spectacular views into Kenya and the Amboseli region. Wildlife sightings are occasionally possible in the lower areas. Arrive at Buffalo Camp in the afternoon and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this rarely visited section of the mountain.
Camping site; Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
INTERESTING FACT…!
“The Northern Circuit offers some of the best panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s northern wilderness.”
Distance Covered: 12 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Day 5
Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
Today’s route traverses the northern side of Kilimanjaro beneath the towering slopes of Kibo. The trek offers breathtaking views across the Kenyan plains and distant mountain ranges. The relatively moderate hiking day supports continued acclimatization while allowing you to enjoy the mountain’s remote beauty. Arrive at Third Cave Camp where you can relax and prepare for higher elevations ahead.
Camping site; Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance Covered: 12 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Day 6
Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to School Hut (4,800m)
After breakfast, begin your ascent toward School Hut, the final camp before summit day. The trail gradually climbs through alpine desert terrain characterized by rocky landscapes and dramatic mountain views. Arrive at camp in the early afternoon, allowing sufficient time to rest, hydrate, and prepare your equipment. An early dinner will be served before your guides conduct a summit briefing.
Camping site; School Hut (4,800m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance Covered: 5 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
Day 7
Day 7: School Hut (4,800m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Shortly after midnight, begin your summit attempt under a canopy of stars. The trail climbs steadily toward Gilman’s Point before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness an unforgettable sunrise illuminating glaciers and vast landscapes below. After celebrating your achievement, descend to School Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for dinner and overnight.
Camping site; Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance Covered: 16 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 10–14 Hours
Day 8
Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Arusha/Moshi
After breakfast, enjoy your final descent through the rainforest zone. The lush vegetation and fresh mountain air provide a fitting end to your Kilimanjaro adventure. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, receive your official summit certificate and celebrate with your guides and porters. A transfer will then take you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi where your journey concludes.
Accommodation: Not Included
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Distance Covered: 10 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 3–5 Hours
Items included:
- All national park entry fees and conservation fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides
- Dedicated mountain cook and support crew
- Porters for carrying camping equipment and supplies
- Quality mountain tents and camping equipment
- Sleeping mattresses
- Three freshly prepared meals per day during the climb
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and drinking water on the mountain
- Round trip transfers between Kilimanjaro Airport and the hotel
- Accommodation before and after the climb (if applicable)
- Daily health monitoring and basic first-aid support
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
- Emergency evacuation arrangements
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
- Government taxes and VAT
Items not included:
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and mountain rescue insurance
- Laundry services
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Telephone calls and internet charge