8-Day Northern Circuit route on Kilimanjaro

The 8-day Northern Circuit route on Kilimanjaro is a longer and more scenic trek that takes trekkers through some of the most remote and untouched areas of the mountain. Starting from the Lemosho Gate, trekkers will hike through lush rainforests, rolling hills, and high-altitude deserts before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak.

The Northern Circuit route is known for its breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife sightings, including the endangered Kilimanjaro tree hyrax and the elusive leopard. The longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization, increasing the chances of successfully reaching the summit.

The trip includes a night at Crater Camp, which offers trekkers the opportunity to explore the famous Furtwängler Glacier and the stunning ash pit of the Kibo crater. The descent is via the Mweka route, which provides a diverse range of landscapes and spectacular views of the mountain. Overall, the Northern Circuit route is a challenging but rewarding trek that is well worth the effort for those seeking a more remote and unique Kilimanjaro experience. Book your 8-Day Northern route Kilimanjaro with us today

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION

Kilimanjaro International Airport

DEPARTURE TIME

Please arrive at least 2 hours before the flight.

INCLUDED

	Professional driver-guide All park entry fees and government taxes Accommodation as per itinerary (usually in lodges or tented camps) Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof

NOT INCLUDED

International flights to and from Tanzania
Visa fees (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Tips for the driver-guide and lodge/camp staff
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (except for water)
Optional activities not specified in the itinerary (such as hot air balloon safaris)
Any additional expenses not mentioned in the itinerary

Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Distance: 4 miles After breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to the Lemosho Gate, where you will start your trek. The trail leads through lush rainforest and offers great views of the Shira Plateau. You will spend your first night at Mti Mkubwa Camp

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,499 ft Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Distance: 5 miles Today’s trek takes you through the heather and moorland zone, where you will have a chance to spot the endemic Kilimanjaro tree hyrax. You will reach Shira 1 Camp in the afternoon and spend the night there.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 11,499 ft to 12,500 ft Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Distance: 4 miles Today’s trek takes you through the high-altitude desert of the Shira Plateau. You will have great views of the Kibo peak and the surrounding landscape. You will spend the night at Shira 2 Camp.

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut

Elevation: 12,500 ft to 14,927 ft to 13,800 ft Hiking Time: 7-8 hours Distance: 7 miles Today’s trek is a challenging one, as you will be hiking to the Lava Tower at 14,927 ft before descending to Moir Hut at 13,800 ft. This will help with acclimatization and prepare you for the next few days. You will spend the night at Moir Hut.

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Elevation: 13,800 ft to 13,045 ft Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Distance: 6 miles Today’s trek takes you through the alpine desert and up to Buffalo Camp. You will have great views of the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. You will spend the night at Buffalo Camp.

Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave

Elevation: 13,045 ft to 12,795 ft Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Distance: 4 miles Today’s trek takes you through the remote and less-traveled areas of Kilimanjaro. You will have a chance to spot the elusive leopard and other wildlife. You will spend the night at Rongai Third Cave.

Rongai Third Cave to Crater Camp

Elevation: 12,795 ft to 18,865 ft Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Distance: 5 miles Today’s trek takes you through the lunar desert and up to Crater Camp, located at the rim of the Kibo crater. You will have the opportunity to explore the Furtwängler Glacier and the stunning ash pit. You will spend the night at Crater Camp.