8 Days 8 days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking
Embark on a thrilling 8-days journey through the Northern Circuit Route of Kilimanjaro, a majestic adventure that promises diverse landscapes and the ultimate conquest of the Uhuru Peak. This trek takes you through a mesmerizing range of terrains, from lush forests to barren alpine deserts, offering a unique and challenging experience for seasoned trekkers. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Tanzania's highest peak, as you navigate each day's distinct challenges, culminating in the awe-inspiring summit.
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 -Moir Hut
- Day 4 : Moir Hut -Buffalo Camp
- Day 5 : Buffalo Camp -Third Cave
- Day 6 : Third Cave-School Hut
- Day 7 : School Hut -Uhuru Peak -Mweka Camp
- Day 8 : Mweka Camp -Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
- Departure Day :
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi Londorossi Gate-Big Tree Camp
Distance: Approximately 80 km Duration: 2 hours Temperature: 25°C The journey commences with a scenic drive to Londorossi Gate, the starting point of the Northern Circuit Route. Begin your trek through the enchanting rainforests, reaching Big Tree Camp, surrounded by colossal trees and an array of exotic wildlife.
Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa- Shira 1 Camp
Distance: 10 km Duration: 5-7 hours Temperature: 15°C Experience a shift in landscapes as you ascend through the heath and moorland zones, reaching Shira 1 Camp. Marvel at the expansive Shira Plateau and catch glimpses of Kibo, the dormant volcanic cone.
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 -Moir Hut
Distance: 14 km Duration: 6-8 hours Temperature: 10°C Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization, providing panoramic views of the Western Breach. Descend to Moir Hut, situated in the high alpine desert with stunning vistas of the glaciers.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Moir Hut Camp
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: Moir Hut -Buffalo Camp
Distance: 12 km Duration: 5-7 hours Temperature: 5°C traverse the rugged terrain, passing the Lent Hills and circling the northern slopes. Arrive at Buffalo Camp, nestled in the heart of the dramatic landscapes.
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Buffalo Camp -Third Cave
Distance: 15 km Duration: 6-8 hours Temperature: 0°C Hike through the alpine meadows, enjoying expansive views of the Eastern Icefields. Reach Third Cave, where the landscape transforms into a high-altitude desert.
Destination: Buffalo Camp To Pofu Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Third Cave-School Hut
Distance: 10 km Duration: 4-6 hours Temperature: -5°C Ascend through the lunar desert to School Hut, the last stop before the summit. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery and prepare for the final push.
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 -Mweka Camp
Distance: 20 km Duration: 12-16 hours Temperature: -10°C to -15°C Embark on the summit attempt in the early hours, conquering challenging terrains to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. Marvel at the sunrise over the African plains before descending to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
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: 15 km Duration: 4-6 hours Temperature: 10°C Descend through lush rainforests to Mweka Gate, marking the end of your remarkable journey. Celebrate your achievement before returning to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- Park fees
- 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
- 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 Route is challenging and recommended for experienced trekkers due to its length and varying altitudes.
Uhuru Peak, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is the highest point on the Northern Circuit Route.
Temperatures on summit night can drop to as low as -15°C (5°F), so adequate cold-weather gear is essential.
Basic toilet facilities are available at designated campsites, but they become more limited at higher altitudes.
While wildlife sightings are less common on Kilimanjaro, the lower altitudes may offer glimpses of birds and smaller mammals.
The best time is during the dry seasons, from late December to early March and from June to October.
Experienced cooks prepare nutritious meals with a variety of options to accommodate different dietary needs.
Yes, porters assist in carrying heavy equipment and supplies, allowing trekkers to focus on the trek itself.
The itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization, and guides are trained to recognize and manage symptoms of altitude sickness.
Yes, arrangements can be made to extend your stay and explore the local attractions in Moshi or Arusha.
Group sizes are kept small to ensure personalized attention and a more intimate trekking experience.
Reviews for 8 Days 8 days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking
By Sophie Johnson 
Visited: October 2023
Trekking with a purpose! The team's commitment to responsible tourism and minimizing our environmental impact impressed me. Kilimanjaro's beauty deserves to be preserved.
By Raj Patel 
Visited: June 2023
A challenging yet rewarding trek. The guides were knowledgeable emphasizing safety and sustainability. Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a must for adventure seekers.
By Emma Thompson 
Visited: October 2022
From lush forests to the lunar desert each day offered a new adventure. The team's dedication to responsible trekking made this journey not only thrilling but also conscientious.
By Diego Rodriguez 
Visited: June 2023
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a jewel for nature lovers. The carefully planned itinerary and responsible practices ensure a positive impact on both trekkers and the environment.
By Elena Petrov 
Visited: August 2023
The Northern Circuit Route exceeded my expectations. The guides' expertise the breathtaking landscapes and the commitment to responsible tourism made this trek unforgettable.
By Makoto Suzuki 
Visited: January 2024
An incredible journey through diverse landscapes. The guides' respect for nature and responsible trekking practices added a deeper meaning to the adventure. Truly remarkable!
By Maria Gonzalez 
Visited: June 2023
Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route is a test of endurance and a celebration of nature. The responsible approach of the team resonated with my values making it a journey with purpose.
By Lucas Müller 
Visited: May 2023
A challenging trek that rewards with stunning vistas. The guides' dedication to responsible trekking left a positive impact on me and the environment. Unforgettable!
By Chen Mei 
Visited: November 2023
The Northern Circuit Route provided a perfect blend of challenge and beauty. The commitment to responsible trekking practices made me appreciate the journey even more. Highly recommended!
