The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a rare 360-degree traverse around the mountain. This 8-day itinerary is designed with gradual elevation gains, making it one of the routes with the best acclimatization profile and highest summit success rates.
Beginning on Kilimanjaro’s remote western side, the trail follows the Lemosho Route before circling the quiet and rarely visited northern slopes. This section provides exceptional solitude and expansive views toward Kenya and the Amboseli Plains—perspectives unavailable on other routes.
Although physically demanding due to its length, the Northern Circuit is ideal for trekkers seeking a safe, immersive, and highly rewarding climb. From lush rainforest and moorlands to alpine desert and glacial summit zones, this route showcases Kilimanjaro’s full ecological diversity before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you are met by a Kilimanjaro Mavens representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. A full pre-trek briefing is conducted in the afternoon, including safety procedures, altitude awareness, Pole Pole pacing, and a detailed gear check. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Elevation: 2,100m to 2,650m | Distance: 18km | Time: 5–7 hours
After park registration at Lemosho Gate, the trek begins through lush montane rainforest. The trail ascends gently beneath towering trees draped in moss, with opportunities to spot blue monkeys and colobus. You arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, surrounded by dense forest.
Elevation: 2,650m to 3,610m | Distance: 8km | Time: 5–6 hours
Leaving the rainforest behind, the forest thins as you climb steadily into the heather and moorland zone. Giant heathers and volcanic rock replace tall trees as the landscape opens up. The trail gradually ascends onto the western edge of the Shira Plateau, offering your first expansive views of Kibo Peak before arriving at Shira 1 Camp.
Elevation: 3,610m to 4,200m | Distance: 14km | Time: 6–8 hours
Crossing the Shira Plateau, the trail gradually ascends into a more rugged alpine environment. Leaving the main route behind, you head north toward the remote Moir Hut. The rocky terrain and increased altitude provide excellent acclimatization and a strong sense of wilderness.
Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m | Distance: 12km | Time: 5–7 hours
The trail begins its famous Northern Circuit traverse, contouring around Kilimanjaro’s rarely visited northern slopes. Gentle ascents and descents aid acclimatization while offering expansive views toward Kenya and the Amboseli Plains. You arrive at the scenic and secluded Buffalo Camp.
Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m | Distance: 8km | Time: 4–5 hours
Today’s hike continues across high alpine desert terrain beneath Kibo’s northern face. The landscape is stark and dramatic, with sweeping horizons and minimal vegetation. The gradual pace supports altitude adjustment as you reach Third Cave Camp.
Elevation: 3,870m to 4,800m | Distance: 5km | Time: 4–5 hours
The ascent becomes more pronounced as you climb steadily toward School Hut, your final base camp before the summit. The environment is now fully alpine desert, with colder temperatures and thinner air. After an early dinner, you rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
Elevation: 4,800m to 5,895m to 3,100m | Distance: 18km | Time: 12–15 hours
The summit push begins around midnight, ascending steeply to Gilman’s Point before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at sunrise, descend past Barafu Camp and continue down to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,800m | Distance: 10km | Time: 3–4 hours
The final descent takes you through lush rainforest as oxygen levels increase and temperatures warm. At Mweka Gate, you receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificates before transferring back to Moshi for celebration and rest.
Depending on your flight schedule, Kilimanjaro Mavens will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). For guests continuing with a safari or Zanzibar beach holiday, seamless onward arrangements can be made.
English
German
French
Spanish