8 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour overview
Embark on a transformative journey through the majestic Northern Circuit Route of Kilimanjaro, a challenging 8-day trek that promises not only breathtaking vistas but also a profound sense of accomplishment. Guided by seasoned experts, each day unfolds new landscapes, testing your endurance and rewarding you with the beauty of Africa's tallest peak. From Kilimanjaro Airport to Uhuru Peak and back, this expedition is a celebration of nature's grandeur and the human spirit's resilience
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi Londorossi Gate Big Tree Camp
- Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa 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 Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Day 8 : Mweka Camp Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi Londorossi Gate Big Tree Camp
Distance: 95 km Duration: 2 hours Temperature: 25°C Start your trek from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, the entrance to the Northern Circuit. Hike to Big Tree Camp, surrounded by dense montane forest, setting the stage for the adventure to come
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 Shira 1 Camp
Distance: 15 km Duration: 6 hours Temperature: 20°C Venture through Mti Mkubwa and ascend to Shira 1 Camp, offering panoramic views of the Shira Plateau. The landscape transitions from lush forest to heath and moorland
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: 11 km Duration: 7 hours Temperature: 15°C Ascend to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation, providing acclimatization. Continue to Moir Hut, where the sparse vegetation reveals the rugged beauty of Kilimanjaro
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: 6 hours Temperature: 10°C Trek through the alpine desert to Buffalo Camp, an isolated site surrounded by giant Senecio plants. The desolation is mesmerizing as you approach higher altitudes
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 Duration: 5 hours Temperature: 5°C Descend to the Barranco Valley, witnessing the unique plant life of Kilimanjaro. Camp at Third Cave, an oasis amid 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: 8 km Duration: 5 hours Temperature: 0°C As you approach the School Hut, the landscape transforms into an otherworldly moonscape. The air thins, preparing you for the final ascent
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: School Hut Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Distance: 21 km Duration: 12 hours Temperature: -5°C to 5°C Summit day! Conquer Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Mweka Camp, savoring the achievement as you leave the summit behind
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 8: Mweka Camp Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Distance: 12 km Duration: 5 hours Temperature: 10°C Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where the journey concludes. Celebrate the triumph in Moshi or Arusha, carrying the memories of an epic adventure
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- 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
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
Price Excludes
- 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
This route is considered challenging due to its length and varying terrains. Proper physical fitness and acclimatization are crucial
The best time is during the dry seasons of January to March and June to October for optimal trekking conditions
Basic toilet facilities are available at designated campsites, but participants are advised to bring personal hygiene supplies
Our experienced guides monitor participants for symptoms, and the gradual ascent helps in acclimatization. Adequate rest and hydration are essential
A detailed packing list will be provided, including essentials like proper trekking boots, warm clothing, and a quality sleeping bag
While beginners can attempt this trek, it is recommended for those with prior trekking experience due to its length and altitude challenges
Yes, our catering team can accommodate various dietary preferences with advance notice
We have a comprehensive emergency response plan in place, including evacuation procedures if needed
While Kilimanjaro's higher altitudes lack significant wildlife, the lower slopes may host various birds and small mammals
Our guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management. We also provide thorough pre-trek briefings on safety protocols
Charging facilities may be limited. Participants are advised to bring portable chargers and conserve energy
Reviews for 8 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour overview
By Isabella Bianchi 
Visited: November 2023
The Northern Circuit Route is a hidden gem. The gradual ascent allowed for acclimatization, and the vistas were simply breathtaking. Our guides were not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the environment. An enriching experience that left me in awe
By John Smith 
Visited: April 2023
The Northern Circuit Route was an absolute adventure! The landscapes were diverse, from dense forests to the barren moonscape near the summit. Our guides were knowledgeable and ensured our safety. The sense of accomplishment at Uhuru Peak is indescribable
By Maria Rodriguez 
Visited: January 2023
I'm still in awe of the beauty and challenge of the Northern Circuit Route. The support from the guides and the team was exceptional. Each day brought new wonders, and reaching Uhuru Peak felt like conquering the world. A trek to remember
By Emily Thompson 
Visited: January 2023
Embarking on the Northern Circuit Route was a transformative experience. The ever-changing landscapes kept me in awe, and the expert guidance made the challenging trek enjoyable. It's more than a climb; it's a journey into the heart of Kilimanjaro's beauty
By Raj Patel 
Visited: January 2024
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route was a test of endurance and a celebration of nature. The support from the team, especially at high altitudes, was commendable. The sunrise at Uhuru Peak was a reward beyond words. Highly recommended for adventure seekers!
By Isabella Bianchi
Visited: February 2024
The Northern Circuit Route is a hidden gem. The gradual ascent allowed for acclimatization, and the vistas were simply breathtaking. Our guides were not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the environment. An enriching experience that left me in awe
By Benjamin Nguyen 
Visited: December 2023
From the lush rainforests to the lunar landscapes, the Northern Circuit Route is a visual feast. The attention to detail from the guides ensured a safe and enjoyable trek. Uhuru Peak was a moment of triumph that I will cherish forever
By Ana Silva 
Visited: November 2023
The Northern Circuit Route surpassed my expectations. The days were filled with challenges and beauty. The guides not only led the way but shared their knowledge about the flora and fauna. Summiting Kilimanjaro was a testament to perseverance and teamwork
By James Wilson 
Visited: November 2023
The Northern Circuit Route was an incredible journey through diverse landscapes. The meticulous planning by the team ensured a smooth trek. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak was a moment of pure elation. Kilimanjaro's grandeur is truly unmatched
By Mei Chen 
Visited: February 2023
Trekking the Northern Circuit Route was a bucket-list adventure. The changing scenery, from lush forests to high-altitude deserts, was awe-inspiring. The guides' expertise and camaraderie among fellow trekkers made this journey truly special
By Alejandro Hernandez 
Visited: February 2024
The Northern Circuit Route was a challenge that I embraced with enthusiasm. The guides' professionalism and the carefully planned itinerary made the trek enjoyable. Standing at Uhuru Peak, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. An unforgettable expedition
