7 Days Northern Circuit Route

Trip Overview

The Northern Circuit stands out as Mount Kilimanjaro’s latest and most extensive route. Originating from the Londorossi Gate in the West, it initially traces the same path as the Lemosho route for the initial two days. Departing from the more conventional Southern Circuit via Barranco Valley, the Northern Circuit takes a unique turn after crossing the Shira plateau, veering north near Lava Tower. This less-trodden route then encircles the serene northern slopes, eventually leading to the eastern side of the mountain.

Distinguished by its extended length, the Northern Circuit demands a minimum of eight or nine days for completion. An eight-day trek forgoes the additional acclimatization day typically spent at Shira Camp 2, progressing directly to Moir Camp, contributing to a distinctive and challenging Kilimanjaro experience.

With Lusen Tours & Safaris

Kilimanjaro’s newest and longest trekking route
Starts from Londorossi Gate in the west, sharing initial path with Lemosho Route
Diverges from Southern Circuit after Barranco Valley via Shira Plateau
Circles the quiet, scenic northern slopes of the mountain
Trek lasts 8 or 9 days, allowing for excellent acclimatization
8-day option skips extra acclimatization day at Shira Camp 2 for a more challenging pace
Offers a unique, less crowded, and immersive Kilimanjaro experience
Covers diverse landscapes and breathtaking views throughout the circuit

Trip Highlight

7 Days / 6 Nights

Moshi

Price from

$1840 per person

(Based on 2 or more Adults)

Full Itinerary

Day to day

Day 1: Londorosi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

The Northern Circuit Route starts at Londorossi Gate, shared with the Lemosho Route. A two-hour drive from Moshi (longer from Arusha) leads to registration, followed by a drive to the trailhead. Lunch is provided, setting the stage for the trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Look out for wildlife in the rainforest, and dinner awaits at Mti Mkubwa Camp, kicking off your unique Northern Circuit journey.

Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft
Trail Trek: 8km/ 5miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Embark on a unique trek today across a grassy moorland plateau adorned with volcanic rock formations and scattered heather. Your goal is the Shira 1 Camp, offering potential glimpses of Kibo Peak amidst the clouds. The journey involves a notable gain in altitude, with certain sections featuring moderately steep terrain.

Elevation: 2,650m/8,700ft to 3,500m/11,500ft
Trail Trek: 8km/4.97 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Today’s adventure grants you a unique opportunity to behold the Northern Ice fields from the mountain’s western flank, offering unconventional views of Kibo. A gradual ascent through the Shira Plateau’s moorland not only provides stunning panoramic views but also aids in acclimatization. The day concludes at Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll indulge in an acclimatization walk in the afternoon before returning to camp for a hearty dinner and an overnight stay.

Elevation: 3,500m/11,500ft to 3,850m/12,600ft
Trail Trek: 8km/4.97 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 2-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

Embark on a unique trek with an initial ascent, offering sweeping panoramic views as you enter the climatic zone of the upland desert. Traverse the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach, reaching the distinctive pinnacle of the Lava Tower (4640 m), a splendid spot for lunch.

The afternoon adventure involves a steep descent to the camp for the night, nestled in the base of the Great Barranco Valley (3960 m). Sheltered by towering cliffs, the camp provides extensive views of the plains below, creating a memorable setting for your journey.

Elevation: 3,850m/12,600ft to 4,000m/13,000ft
Trail Trek: 8km/4.97 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Moir Camp (4,200 Meters) To Buffalo Camp (4,020 Meters)

Today’s journey involves a moderately challenging ascent out of Moir Valley. A detour option invites trekkers to summit Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before rejoining the Northern Circuit trail. The route then navigates a series of inclines and declines, tracing the northern slopes of Kibo until reaching Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters).

Along the trek, enjoy breathtaking vistas across the plains north of Kilimanjaro, extending to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. Arriving at Buffalo Camp just after midday, you’ll have the opportunity to savor lunch and rest after a rewarding day of hiking.

Elevation: 4,200 Meters to 4,020 Meters
Trail Trek: 12km/7 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Buffalo Camp To Rongai Third Cave

Commencing with an ascent up the distinctive Buffalo ridge and descending into Pofu Camp for a customary lunch, the day’s journey unfolds uniquely. Continuing east around the northern slopes, the trail leads to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters.

Shorter than the previous day, this trek takes advantage of your well-acclimatized state to the altitude. Anticipate reaching the Third Cave around mid-afternoon, concluding another day of the remarkable journey.

Elevation: 4,020 Meters to 3,800 Meters
Trail Trek: 8km/5 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Third Cave Camp – Skull Hut Camp

Embarking on a steady incline, today’s trek takes you up and over the Saddle nestled between the majestic peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Continuing in a south-west direction, you’ll reach School Hut at 4,800 meters.

Upon arrival, indulge in an early dinner and then prepare for a rest, as you’ll be awakened before midnight to commence your summit attempt. Ensure all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera, is ready before settling in for the night.

Elevation: 4,020 Meters to 4,800 Meters
Trail Trek: 5km/3 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 8: School Hut To Uhuru Peak To Millennium Camp

Around 11:30, you’ll be roused with hot tea and biscuits, marking the start of your ascent up the steep slopes of Kibo, shrouded in darkness. The initial checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave, offering a brief respite. As you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), roughly 5-6 hours from School Hut, relish the approaching dawn and the stunning view of Mawenzi Peak.

Though the summit of Uhuru Peak is still 2 hours away, the slope becomes more gradual as you navigate west around the crater rim. Arriving at the summit at or just after sunrise, seize the opportunity for photos of the breathtaking scenery and surrounding glaciers. Retrace your steps back around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters), then descend the scree-covered slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters).

Many trekkers take a brief break at Barafu Camp before continuing to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters), where you’ll spend your final night on the mountain. The total trekking time on day eight is 14-16 hours, so it’s crucial to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and maintain your blood sugar levels. Note: Some tour operators return via Gilman’s Point to Horombo Hut using the Marangu Route, depending on client preferences.

Elevation: 4,800 Meters to 5895 Meters then decent to 3,950 meters
Trail Trek: 18km/11 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 10-14 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 9: Millennium Camp – Mweka Gate

On the concluding day, enjoy a brief trek through the lush montane rainforest, descending from Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters). At the gate, complete the sign-out process with the authorities,

who will proudly present your well-deserved official certificate—a green one for reaching Gilman’s Point and a gold certificate for those who conquered Uhuru Peak. Before being chauffeured back to your hotel, it’s customary to express appreciation by offering tips to your guide and porter.

Elevation: 3950 Meters to 1,640 Meters
Trail Trek: 12km/7 miles Unveiled
Trek Duration: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Mountain Forest
Meals: Breakfast