8 Days Elevation Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Hiking
This 8-day Northern Circuit Route Hiking Tour is designed for adventurous souls seeking a profound connection with nature and a sense of accomplishment. Kilimanjaro, standing majestically at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), invites you to a thrilling ascent via the less-trodden Northern Circuit. With seasoned guides leading the way, each day promises a new challenge, a fresh perspective, and an unforgettable experience.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
- Day 2 : : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp Lava Tower to Moir Hut
- Day 4 : : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Day 5 : Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
- Day 6 : Third Cave to School Hut
- Day 7 : : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Day 8 : : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
• Distance: 70 km drive • Hours: 2 hours • Temperature: 25°C • Landscape: Dense forests and foothills embark on a scenic drive to Londorossi Gate, the starting point of your trek. The trail takes you through lush forests to Big Tree Camp, where you will spend your first night surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
• Distance: 8 km • Hours: 6-7 hours • Temperature: 15°C • Landscape: Moorland and volcanic formations Ascend through the giant heather zone, reaching Shira 1 Camp. Marvel at the changing landscape as you gain altitude, and witness the enormity of Kilimanjaro's slopes.
Destination: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp Lava Tower to Moir Hut
• Distance: 14 km • Hours: 5-7 hours • Temperature: 10°C • Landscape: Alpine desert and unique rock formations Navigate through the lunar-like terrain to Lava Tower before descending to Moir Hut. The day offers panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and rugged landscapes.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Moir Hut Camp
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
• Distance: 12 km • Hours: 6-8 hours • Temperature: 5°C • Landscape: High desert and rocky ridges Trek to Buffalo Camp, traversing high-altitude deserts and rocky ridges. The challenging terrain prepares you for the final ascent
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
• Distance: 10 km • Hours: 5-7 hours • Temperature: 0°C • Landscape: Alpine meadows and giant lobelias As you approach the equator, experience the unique transition from high desert to alpine meadows, arriving at the serene Third Cave.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Pofu Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Third Cave to School Hut
• Distance: 9 km • Hours: 4-6 hours • Temperature: -5°C • Landscape: Glacial moraines and high-altitude landscapes Ascend towards School Hut, situated at the base of Kibo Peak. The frigid temperatures and rocky terrains prepare you for the final push to Uhuru Peak.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
• Distance: 21 km (ascent), 12 km (descent) • Ascent Hours: 7-8 hours • Descent Hours: 4-6 hours • Temperature: -10°C to 20°C • Landscape: Glacial zones, snowfields, and the iconic Uhuru Peak The summit day! Begin the ascent under the glittering stars, reaching Gilman's Point at dawn. Continue to Uhuru Peak, standing on the roof of Africa. Descend to Mweka Camp, reflecting on the incredible achievement.
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 8: : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
• Distance: 10 km • Hours: 3-4 hours • Temperature: 20°C to 25°C • Landscape: Rainforest and vibrant vegetation Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Celebrate your triumph before returning to Moshi or Arusha, where a well-deserved rest and festivities await.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Porterage
- Rescue fee
- A professional driver/guide
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- Bath towels
- Rental vehicle
- Climbing gear
- All flights during the tour
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Frequently Asked Questions
• The Northern Circuit is challenging but offers a gradual ascent, increasing acclimatization chances.
• The dry seasons of January to March and June to October are ideal, providing clear skies and stable conditions.
• Accommodations range from tents in campsites to basic huts at higher altitudes.
• Participants should be in good health, and age restrictions may apply based on individual fitness levels.
• Proper hiking boots, layered clothing, a good backpack, and altitude-appropriate gear are essential.
• Our gradual ascent minimizes the risk, but participants are monitored, and safety measures are in place.
• Yes, we offer customizable options to suit your preferences and fitness levels.
• Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking and medical emergencies is mandatory.
• Answer: Big Tree Camp is a strategic point for acclimatization. Situated at a lower altitude, it helps the body adjust gradually, reducing the risk of altitude-related issues during the ascent.
• Answer: Yes, our team caters to diverse dietary needs. Please inform us in advance, and we will ensure that your meals meet your specific requirements, whether vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary restrictions.
Reviews for 8 Days Elevation Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Hiking
By John Smith 
Visited: April 2017
The Northern Circuit Route was a life-changing experience. The team's commitment to responsible tourism impressed me. The guides ensured our safety while showcasing the wonders of Kilimanjaro.
By Elena Rodriguez 
Visited: April 2016
From lush forests to icy peaks, every day presented a new challenge. The meticulous planning and eco-friendly practices made this journey not just a trek but a sustainable adventure
By Daniel Brown
Visited: June 2016
Conquering Kilimanjaro was a dream, and the Northern Circuit Route exceeded expectations. The guides' expertise and the breathtaking landscapes made this journey unforgettable
By Sophie Martin 
Visited: September 2015
The journey tested my limits, but the support from the guides and the responsible approach to tourism made the Northern Circuit Route a truly transformative experience
By Muhammad Ali 
Visited: February 2019
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a testament to nature's beauty. The sustainable practices employed throughout the trek showcase a commitment to preserving this incredible environment
By Lily Chen 
Visited: February 0016
I marveled at the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to snow-covered peaks. The guides' knowledge and the responsible approach made this an enriching adventure
By Raj Patel 
Visited: July 2016
The Northern Circuit Route was both challenging and rewarding. The responsible tourism practices and the support from the guides made it a journey of a lifetime
