The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, offering a 9-day adventure with the highest summit success rate. Starting on the western side at Londorossi Gate, it shares the beginning with the Lemosho Route before circling around the quieter northern slopes. With its gradual ascent profile and multiple acclimatization days, this trek gives climbers the best possible chance to reach Uhuru Peak.
Expect stunning scenery, from lush rainforests and giant heather moorlands to alpine desert and dramatic glaciers near the summit. The Northern Circuit also offers unmatched solitude, wildlife sightings, and panoramic views of both Tanzania and Kenya. Nights are spent in tents under starlit skies, supported by expert guides, porters, and cooks who ensure safety and comfort throughout the trek. This is the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience for those seeking both adventure and success.
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Tour Highlights
Day by Day Experience
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 1: Moshi – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast, transfer from Moshi to Londorossi Gate (2,100m) for registration. Begin trekking through lush rainforest filled with colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail is gentle but introduces you to Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. After 3–4 hours of hiking, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m).
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Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp
Leave the forest behind as you ascend into moorland. The trail climbs steadily with panoramic views opening up as vegetation changes to giant heathers and wildflowers. Reach Shira Plateau and camp at Shira 1 (3,610m).
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Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp
Today is a short trek across the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful high-altitude landscapes. The route is relatively gentle, allowing for acclimatization. Explore the plateau with optional side hikes before arriving at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m).
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Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Moir Hut
Ascend gradually toward Lava Tower (4,600m), an excellent acclimatization point. After lunch, descend slightly to Moir Hut (4,200m), a remote and quiet camp at the base of Lent Hills. This day follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle to aid acclimatization.
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Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 5: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp
Climb out of the Moir Valley, with an optional detour to climb Lent Hills for incredible views. Continue across the northern slopes with sweeping vistas of Kenya’s plains. Arrive at Buffalo Camp (4,020m), where you’ll spend the night surrounded by wilderness.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 6: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp
The trail continues east across remote terrain, with rolling ridges and long stretches of alpine desert. Today’s trek is moderate, offering beautiful scenery and solitude. Arrive at Third Cave Camp (3,870m) for dinner and overnight.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 7: Third Cave Camp – School Hut
Ascend steadily toward School Hut (4,800m), your base camp for the summit attempt. The landscape is stark and dramatic, preparing you mentally for the challenge ahead. Arrive early to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight climb. Dinner and overnight at School Hut.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 8: Summit Day – School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
At midnight, begin the final ascent over scree and switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement and take in the breathtaking sunrise before descending back to School Hut for rest, then continue to Mweka Camp (3,080m) for overnight.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). Enjoy the final stretch of your trek under the forest canopy. Upon arrival at the gate, receive your summit certificates and transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved shower, dinner, and overnight at your lodge.
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