10 Days / 9 Nights – Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route (8 Days Trek)
Take on the ultimate Kilimanjaro adventure with the Northern Circuit Route, the longest and most scenic trail to the Roof of Africa. Starting from the western side via the Lemosho Route, this trek circles the entire northern flank of Kilimanjaro, offering unmatched 360° views, diverse landscapes, and minimal crowds.
The extended route gives your body plenty of time to acclimatize gradually, which dramatically increases your summit success rate. You’ll traverse lush rainforests, vast moorlands, alpine deserts, and glacier fields before standing atop Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Perfect for adventurers who want the ultimate wilderness experience and enough time to truly absorb the majesty of Africa’s tallest mountain.
Experience the longest and most panoramic route on Kilimanjaro.
Circle the entire northern side, far from the crowds.
Cross seven unique climate zones from rainforest to arctic summit.
Excellent acclimatization profile and highest summit success rate.
Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) with breathtaking views of Kenya and Tanzania.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet your Unpredictable Safaris representative. Transfer to Moshi for your pre-climb briefing, gear check, and dinner. Meet your guides and porters who will accompany you on your journey to the Roof of Africa.
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate (2,100m) for registration and permits. Begin trekking through lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail is scenic and peaceful, with moss-covered trees and trickling streams. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp for your first night in the wilderness.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Leave the rainforest behind as the path climbs into heather and moorland. The vegetation opens up, revealing sweeping views of the Shira Ridge and Kibo’s glaciers. Lunch en route before reaching Shira 1 Camp, located on the Shira Plateau — one of the highest plateaus in the world.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
A gentle trek across the Shira Plateau, with wide-open views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes. Take your time to enjoy the alpine scenery and adjust to the higher altitude. Stop for photography breaks and short acclimatization walks around camp.
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Ascend gradually toward Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation offering excellent acclimatization. After lunch, descend slightly to Moir Hut Camp, located in a remote valley beneath the Lent Hills. Optional short hike around Moir for better acclimatization and exploration.
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Today’s trek takes you along the Northern Circuit proper, skirting the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Cross undulating terrain with panoramic views of Kenya’s plains stretching into the distance. Arrive at Buffalo Camp, one of the quietest and most scenic camps on the mountain.
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Continue eastward across alpine desert and heath zones with dramatic landscapes all around. The trail undulates gently, allowing for a relaxed pace and excellent acclimatization. Stop at Third Cave Camp for dinner and overnight under a blanket of stars.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Climb steadily toward School Hut, your final base before the summit attempt. The air is thin here, so move slowly and hydrate well. Spend the afternoon resting, enjoying dinner early, and preparing for the midnight summit push.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Begin your summit ascent around midnight, trekking by headlamp through the cold alpine night. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,681m) and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, just in time for sunrise. Celebrate your incredible achievement before descending to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then onward to Mweka Camp for your final overnight.
Trekking Time: 12–14 hours
Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate. Celebrate your success and transfer back to Moshi for a shower, rest, and farewell dinner with your mountain crew.
Our trekking packages offer exceptional value, covering everything from expert guides and nutritious meals to high-quality camping gear, ensuring a safe and memorable summit experience.
Give us a call or send an online enquiry. Have your Tanzanian dream list ready so we can begin planning your Unpredictable safari.
A travel specialist will collaborate with you to design your unique Unpredictable safari adventure and craft your personalized itinerary.
Review and confirm your safari plan. Prepare your travel essentials and get ready for your journey. We can’t wait to welcome you to Tanzania soon.
