8 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking Northern Circuit Route
Welcome to an extraordinary expedition that combines the thrill of adventure with the awe-inspiring beauty of Kilimanjaro. The 8-day Northern Circuit Route offers a unique and less-traveled path, allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems that characterize this iconic mountain. From the moment you touch down at Kilimanjaro Airport, your journey begins, promising not only a physical accomplishment but a soul-enriching experience.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi to Londorossi gate - Big Tree Camp
- Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Lava Tower 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 - Mweka Camp
- Day 8 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi to Londorossi gate - Big Tree Camp
Distance: Approximately 120 km Duration: 2 hours Temperature: 25°C to 30°C Your journey starts with a scenic drive to Londorossi gate, the entrance to the Northern Circuit Route. From there, the hike to Big Tree Camp immerses you in the lush rainforests, offering glimpses of endemic flora and fauna.
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 Duration: 5-6 hours Temperature: 20°C to 25°C Leaving the rainforest behind, you ascend to Shira 1 Camp, crossing the Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) plateau. The landscape transforms into heath and moorland, providing a taste of the varied terrains to come.
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 to Lava Tower Moir Hut
Distance: 14 km Duration: 7-9 hours Temperature: 15°C to 20°C A challenging day takes you to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation, before descending to Moir Hut. The alpine desert scenery and changing temperatures add to the sense of adventure.
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 Duration: 5-7 hours Temperature: 10°C to 15°C Traverse the high-altitude desert as you make your way to Buffalo Camp. The views of rugged landscapes and distant peaks create an otherworldly atmosphere.
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: 8 km Duration: 4-6 hours Temperature: 5°C to 10°C Descending into the Great Barranco Valley, witness the unique flora of Kilimanjaro. Third Cave offers a serene setting amidst the rocky terrain
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Third Cave to School Hut
Distance: 10 km Duration: 4-5 hours Temperature: -5°C to 5°C The landscape evolves as you approach the alpine desert, reaching School Hut. The anticipation builds as Uhuru Peak looms on the horizon.
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 - Mweka Camp
Distance: 21 km Duration: 12-16 hours Temperature: -10°C to -5°C (Summit), 5°C to -5°C (Mweka Camp) The summit day is an early start, reaching the roof of Africa at Uhuru Peak. Experience the exhilaration of standing atop Kilimanjaro, surrounded by the vastness of the African continent. Descend to Mweka Camp, surrounded by the mystical glaciers and expansive landscapes.
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 Duration: 3-5 hours Temperature: 10°C to 20°C The final descent takes you through the lush rainforest once more, concluding at Mweka Gate. Celebrate your accomplishment and return to Moshi or Arusha, cherishing the memories of an unforgettable journey.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- 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
- Park fees
- 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 best time is during the dry seasons, typically from January to March and June to October.
Yes, there are designated restroom facilities at each campsite.
Endurance training, cardiovascular exercises, and altitude simulation are beneficial.
Experienced chefs prepare a variety of nutritious meals, catering to dietary preferences and restrictions.
Mobile network coverage is limited, especially at higher altitudes.
Experienced guides, first aid kits, and emergency evacuation plans ensure safety throughout the journey.
Reviews for 8 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking Northern Circuit Route
By John Smith 
Visited: February 2017
The Northern Circuit Route was a life-changing experience. The guides were not only experts but also passionate about the environment. The attention to detail in waste management and safety measures impressed me. Uhuru Peak's sunrise is etched in my memory forever
By Sophie Johnson 
Visited: February 2022
The diversity of landscapes on this route is incredible. From rainforests to glaciers, each day brought something new. The guides' knowledge and encouragement made the challenging parts manageable. This journey is not just a climb; it's a connection with nature
By Makoto Tanaka 
Visited: April 2023
The dedication of the guides to preserving Kilimanjaro's beauty was evident. They emphasized responsible trekking practices, making me feel like I was part of a sustainable journey. The views from Uhuru Peak are unparalleled, and the descent through changing ecosystems is unforgettable
By Isabella Rossi 
Visited: July 2023
The dedication of the guides to preserving Kilimanjaro's beauty was evident. They emphasized responsible trekking practices, making me feel like I was part of a sustainable journey. The views from Uhuru Peak are unparalleled, and the descent through changing ecosystems is unforgettable
By Raj Singh 
Visited: March 2011
This trek was not just about conquering a peak but understanding the mountain's soul. The guides shared stories that added a cultural richness to the journey. The organization's commitment to environmental responsibility was commendable
By Elena Rodriguez 
Visited: February 2022
The Northern Circuit Route felt like a symphony of nature. The gradual ascent allowed for acclimatization, and the guides' expertise ensured our safety. The camaraderie among fellow trekkers added to the overall experience. Kilimanjaro is truly a gem
By Chinonso Okonkwo 
Visited: December 2022
This expedition was a testament to human resilience and the beauty of our planet. The guides' encouragement and knowledge made the challenging moments worthwhile. Standing at Uhuru Peak felt like being on top of the world. Kilimanjaro, you've left an indelible mark
By Carlos Fernandez 
Visited: March 2017
Choosing the Northern Circuit Route was a wise decision. The landscape variations were astounding, and the guides' expertise ensured a safe and enjoyable trek. The sunrise at Uhuru Peak felt like a reward for the journey. Highly recommended for those seeking a holistic adventure
By Aisha Malik 
Visited: March 2014
This expedition showcased the grandeur of Kilimanjaro. The guides' knowledge about the local flora and fauna added an educational element. The responsible trekking practices were evident throughout. Climbing Kilimanjaro was not just a physical feat but a spiritual experience