Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route 8 Days Trek
Start From $ 2337 Person
Overview
Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route 8 Days Trek
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering climbers a quieter and more gradual journey to the summit. This route circles the northern slopes of the mountain, providing spectacular views and excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Climbing Kilimanjaro with Wildlife Lovers Safaris means trekking with experienced mountain guides, professional porters, and a dedicated support team who prioritize safety, comfort, and success. The extended itinerary allows climbers to adjust properly to the altitude, increasing the likelihood of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa.
The Northern Circuit route takes you across the dramatic Shira Plateau, past volcanic landscapes, alpine deserts, and remote northern slopes rarely visited by other climbers. It is ideal for travelers looking for a less crowded route with breathtaking scenery and a high summit success rate.
Highlights
- Unique Climatic Zones
- Spectacular Mountain Views
- Authentic Mountain Camping
- Expert-Guided Adventure
- The Roof of Africa Achievement
Destination
Mt.kilimanjaro
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1
Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a representative from Wildlife Lovers Safaris will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
You will enjoy comfortable accommodation, hot showers, and internet access. In the evening, our team will conduct a pre-climb briefing and check your climbing gear to ensure you are fully prepared for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 2
Londorossi Gate to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,250 m → 3,610 m
- Distance: 4 km
- Hiking Time: 1–2 hours
After breakfast, we drive to Londorossi Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro where park registration is completed. From here, we continue by vehicle to the starting point on the Shira Plateau.
The short trek to Shira 1 Camp allows your body to begin adjusting to the altitude while enjoying the beautiful volcanic landscape.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 3
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,610 m → 3,850 m
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Today’s trek crosses the scenic Shira Plateau, offering spectacular views of Mount Meru and the surrounding valleys. The trail is relatively gentle, allowing time to explore the unique plants and landscapes found on Kilimanjaro.
An afternoon acclimatization hike may be done to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 4
Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut via Lava Tower
- Elevation: 3,850 m → 4,200 m
- Distance: 14 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
This is one of the most scenic days of the trek. The trail climbs toward Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic rock formation. After a lunch break, the route continues toward Moir Hut Camp, located in a quiet and remote valley.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 5
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Elevation: 4,200 m → 4,020 m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Today you trek across the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, a rarely visited area of the mountain. The route offers incredible views toward Kenya’s Amboseli and Tsavo plains.
You will spend the night at Buffalo Camp, surrounded by peaceful mountain landscapes.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 6
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
- Elevation: 4,020 m → 3,800 m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
The trek continues across the northern side of Kilimanjaro before reaching Third Cave Camp, where the Northern Circuit joins the Rongai Route. By this stage, your body should be well acclimatized to the altitude.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 7
Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp
- Elevation: 3,800 m → 4,800 m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Today you trek to School Hut Camp, the base camp for the final summit attempt. The hike is gradual but steady as you approach the upper slopes of Kilimanjaro.
You will rest early in preparation for the midnight summit climb.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 8
Summit to Uhuru Peak & Descent to Millennium Camp
- Elevation: 4,800 m → 5,895 m → 3,950 m
- Distance: 16 km
- Hiking Time: 10–13 hours
Your summit climb begins around midnight. Guided by experienced mountain guides, you slowly ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Reaching the summit at sunrise is an unforgettable achievement. After celebrating and taking photos, you descend to Millennium Camp for dinner and overnight rest.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 9
Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,950 m → 1,640 m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
After breakfast, you descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate.
You will then be transferred back to your hotel for relaxation and celebration.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 10
Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight or continue exploring Tanzania with a safari organized by Wildlife Lovers Safaris.
Inclusions
Here’s how your price comes together.
INCLUDED
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
- Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
- Airport Transfers
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water and Full Board Meals
- All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Gate Transfers
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
- Credit Card Transfer Fees
EXCLUDED
- International flights(From/to home)
- Visa fees
- Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendations
- Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
- Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain
- Gamow Bag
- Medication
- Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
- Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
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