The Northern Circuit Route is the newest, longest (9 days), and most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a 360-degree experience with unrivaled summit success rates of 85-95% due to superior acclimatization. Beginning on the western side via the Lemosho path, it circles the quiet northern slopes before summiting from the east, allowing for immense solitude and varied, panoramic views.
The Northern circuit route Kilimanjaro is 90 – 98 kilometers (56 – 61 miles) long and takes 9 days to complete; also our itineraries include arrival and departure days making a total of 11 days.
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights on the mountain (plus arrival/departure days).
Distance: Approximately 90–98 km (56–61 miles) from gate to gate. This is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, as it nearly circumnavigates the entire mountain.
Difficulty: Moderate. While it is physically demanding due to its length, it is technically “easier” than most routes because the gradual ascent and extra days allow your body to adapt naturally to the altitude.
Scenery: Spectacular and Unique. It offers 360-degree views of the mountain, including the rarely visited northern slopes. You’ll experience everything from lush rainforests and the Shira Plateau to the remote high-altitude deserts near the Kenyan border.
Traffic: Very Low. This is the quietest route on the mountain. You will experience true solitude on the northern side before merging with the Rongai or Marangu descent routes toward the end.
Summit Success Rate: Approximately 95–98%. Because of its “Grand Traverse” design and the maximum time allowed for acclimatization, this route boasts the highest success rate of any path to Uhuru Peak.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi.
Enjoy a comprehensive briefing about your trek, including safety procedures, the route, and what to expect each day and answer any questions you may have.
Your guide will conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear. You’ll have the opportunity to rent any missing items.
Overnight at your hotel in Moshi, allowing you to rest and prepare for the Kilimanjaro adventure ahead.
Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be driven (approximately 2-3 hours) to the Lemosho Gate (2350m / 7,743ft), the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park.
Complete park entry formalities while the porters organize the equipment.
Trek: Begin your trek through the lush rainforest. The trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude. Keep an eye out for black and white colobus monkeys and various bird species.
Enjoy a packed lunch en route.
Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (“Big Tree”) Camp (2750m / 9,120ft) in the late afternoon. Settle into your tents, and enjoy hot drinks and dinner.
3- 4 hrs
400m/1,312ft
Rain Forest
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mti Mkubwa Camp
Morning: After breakfast, continue your ascent, leaving the rainforest behind and entering the moorland zone characterized by tall grasses, giant heathers, and volcanic rock formations.
Trek: The trail continues to ascend, gradually leaving the rainforest behind and entering the heather and moorland zone. You’ll have your first clear views of Kibo peak (the main summit of Kilimanjaro) on a clear day.
Enjoy your first clear views of Kibo Peak in the distance.
Arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3505m / 11,483ft) in the mid-afternoon. This camp offers fantastic panoramic views.
Shira 1 Camp is located on a ridge with views of the Shira Cathedral peaks. The landscape here is more barren, with volcanic rock formations and moorland vegetation.
Dinner and overnight at Shira Camp 1. Be prepared for colder temperatures as you gain altitude.
6 - 7 hrs
830m/2,723ft
Heather
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shira 1 Camp
Trek: This is a shorter day, primarily focused on acclimatization. You’ll traverse the Shira Plateau, a relatively flat and scenic area formed by the collapse of an ancient volcanic crater.
Enjoy a gentle walk across the plateau, taking in the unique flora, including giant senecio plants and wildflowers.
You’ll have acclimatization walk to the top of Shira Cathedral, a dramatic volcanic plug.
Arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3840m / 12,600ft) in the early afternoon, allowing ample time to rest and further acclimatize. Optional short acclimatization walks around Shira Camp 2 can be arranged.
4 - 5 hrs
400m/1,312ft
Heather
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shira 2 Camp
Morning: After breakfast, trek east across the Shira Plateau towards the Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic rock formation.
Trek: Today involves ascending to a higher altitude for acclimatization and then descending to sleep lower, a crucial principle for preventing altitude sickness (“walk high, sleep low”). You’ll trek towards the impressive Lava Tower, a volcanic plug.
Enjoy lunch near the Lava Tower.
Descend through the scenic Moir Valley to reach the secluded Moir Hut campsite (4200m / 13,779ft), located near the base of the Lent Hills. The landscape will transition to an alpine desert environment.
You’ll have the option for a short detour to climb the summit of little Lent Hill (4,375m/14,354 ft) for further acclimatization and panoramic views.
Dinner and overnight at Moir Hut.
5-7 hrs
+750m/2460ft /-400m/1312ft.
Alpine Desert
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Moir Hut Camp
Today’s trek involves a moderately steep climb out of the Moir Valley.
Trek: Today, you’ll continue your trek across the northern slopes, offering fantastic panoramic views of the Kenyan plains and Amboseli National Park on a clear day. The trail involves some ups and downs as you traverse valleys and ridges. This less-traveled side of the mountain provides a sense of remoteness and tranquility.
Arrive at Buffalo Camp 4000m / 13,190ft (also known as Pofu Camp) in the afternoon.
Dinner and overnight at Buffalo Camp.
5-7 hrs
180m/590ft
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Buffalo Camp
Morning: After breakfast, the trail climbs up the Buffalo Ridge and then descends into Porfu Camp, where you might have lunch.
Trek: The trail continues along the relatively flat northern circuit, offering unique perspectives of the mountain. You’ll pass through different high-altitude vegetation zones. This day is another important one for acclimatization as you maintain a similar sleeping altitude.
The destination for today is the Rongai Third Cave Camp (3900m / 12, 880ft), situated in a sheltered valley.
Enjoy the quieter atmosphere of the northern side of the mountain. By now, you should be feeling well-acclimatized.
Dinner and overnight at Third Cave Camp.
5-7hrs
120m/390ft
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Third Cave Camp
Trek: Today involves a steady and challenging ascent towards the “Saddle,” a lunar-like landscape between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The terrain becomes rockier and more barren as you gain significant altitude, the pace will be slower.
The views of Kibo’s imposing summit become more dramatic as you gain altitude.
Arrive at School Hut (4800m / 15,800ft) in the early afternoon. This camp is located on the rim of the Kibo crater’s eastern side.
Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the summit push. Enjoy an early dinner to maximize rest.
5-7 hrs
900m/2,950ft
Alpine Desert
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
School Hut
Wake up very early (around midnight) for the final and most challenging ascent to the summit.
Trek in the darkness with headlamps, following switchbacks up the steep scree slopes. The pace will be slow but steady.
Reach Gilman’s Point (5,681m/18,638 ft) on the crater rim as dawn approaches, offering a breathtaking sunrise view.
Continue along the crater rim for approximately 1-2 hours to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341 ft), the “Roof of Africa”!
Celebrate your incredible achievement, take photos, and soak in the awe-inspiring panoramic views.
Begin your descent via the Barafu route, a steep and often loose scree path.
Stop at Barafu Camp (4,680m/15,354 ft) for a brief rest and lunch.
Continue your descent to Mweka Camp (3720m / 12,205ft), located in the upper rainforest. The lower altitude will feel easier for breathing.
Enjoy a well-deserved dinner and overnight at Mweka Camp.
Summit Attempt (Night/Early Morning) Estimated Temp: -15°C to -25°C (5°F to -13°F) or even colder, with potential for strong winds. You’ll experience extreme cold.
11-14 hrs
+1100m/3600ft / - 1,900m/6200ft
Rain Forest
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mweka Camp
After a celebratory breakfast with your trekking team, begin your final descent through the lush rainforest on a well-maintained trail.
Arrive at the Mweka Gate, where you will complete park formalities and receive your summit certificate.
Meet your transfer vehicle for the drive back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved shower and rest.
Estimated Daytime Temp: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) – Warmer and more humid conditions as you descend to lower elevations.
4-6 hours
2665m/8,743ft
Rain Forest
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bristol Cottages Kilimanjaro
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for souvenir shopping or further exploration.
Transfer any time to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.
The Northern circuit route offers some of the most diverse scenery on Mount Kilimanjaro, as you’ll trek through rainforest, heath, moorland, and semi-desert regions. You’ll also get panoramic views of the mountain from all sides.
Compared to other Kilimanjaro routes, the Northern Circuit route is less crowded, so you’ll have a more secluded Kilimanjaro trekking experience.
Price per person based on group size. All prices in USD
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Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp, is the first overnight stop on the popular Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Located at approximately 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) above sea level, the camp sits within the lush montane rainforest zone on the western slopes of the mountain. It is one of the quietest and most peaceful camps on Kilimanjaro, offering climbers a comfortable introduction to their trekking adventure.
The name “Mti Mkubwa” means “Big Tree” in Swahili, reflecting the dense forest environment that surrounds the camp. The area is filled with giant trees, moss-covered branches, colorful flowers, and tropical vegetation, creating a completely different atmosphere from the higher alpine areas of the mountain. Trekkers often hear birds singing and may even spot black-and-white colobus monkeys moving through the forest canopy during the hike to camp.
The journey to Mti Mkubwa Camp begins at Londorossi Gate, where climbers complete park registration before entering the rainforest. The hike to the camp is generally gentle and allows trekkers to settle into the climb while enjoying the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes. The cool forest air and shaded trails make the first trekking day relatively comfortable compared to the more demanding days ahead.
Accommodation at Mti Mkubwa Camp is tent-based, with trekkers sleeping in mountain tents arranged within forest clearings. The camp includes basic facilities such as toilets and ranger stations, while meals are prepared by the trekking crew. Due to its lower altitude and sheltered location, temperatures at the camp are usually milder than those experienced higher on the mountain.
Shira 1 Camp is a scenic campsite located on the expansive Shira Plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro. Situated at approximately 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level, the camp is commonly used by trekkers following the Lemosho and Shira routes. It marks the transition from the rainforest and moorland zones into the open alpine environment of the mountain.
The camp sits on one of Kilimanjaro’s oldest volcanic formations, offering wide-open landscapes and spectacular panoramic views. Unlike the forested camps lower on the mountain, Shira 1 Camp features open grasslands, volcanic rock formations, and sparse vegetation adapted to the harsher mountain climate. The area provides clear views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding plains stretching toward western Tanzania.
Trekkers reaching Shira 1 Camp often notice the effects of higher altitude for the first time, making the camp an important acclimatization stop during the climb. The route leading to the camp is less steep than many other sections of the mountain, allowing climbers to gradually gain elevation while enjoying the unique scenery of the Shira Plateau.
Accommodation at Shira 1 Camp is entirely tent-based, with camping areas spread across the plateau. Facilities are basic and include toilets and ranger stations. Nights at the camp are usually colder and windier than those at lower camps due to the open landscape and higher elevation. However, the clear skies often provide excellent opportunities for stargazing and photography.
Shira 2 Camp is a high-altitude campsite located on the expansive Shira Plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro at approximately 3,850 meters (12,631 feet) above sea level. The camp is commonly used by climbers on the Lemosho, Shira, and Northern Circuit routes and serves as an important acclimatization stop before trekking toward Lava Tower and the southern circuit of the mountain.
The landscape around Shira 2 Camp is dramatically different from the rainforest and moorland zones lower on the mountain. The area is dominated by open alpine desert terrain, volcanic rock formations, and sparse high-altitude vegetation. The camp offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kibo Peak, Mount Meru, and the vast Shira Plateau stretching across Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.
Trekkers reaching Shira 2 Camp often begin to feel the effects of altitude more noticeably due to the thinner air. For this reason, the camp plays a major role in helping climbers acclimatize gradually before moving to higher elevations. The hiking trails leading to the camp are generally gentle, allowing climbers to enjoy the scenery while steadily gaining altitude.
Accommodation at Shira 2 Camp is entirely tent-based, with designated camping areas spread across the rocky plateau. Nights are cold and temperatures can drop below freezing, especially during clear weather conditions. Despite the harsh environment, the camp remains one of the most scenic overnight stops on Kilimanjaro.
Moir Camp is a remote and scenic campsite located on the northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. The camp is mainly used by trekkers on the Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes after leaving the Shira Plateau area.
The camp sits in a quiet valley beneath the Lent Hills, surrounded by rugged volcanic landscapes and sparse alpine vegetation. Moir Camp is well known for its peaceful atmosphere and dramatic scenery, making it one of the most memorable camps on Kilimanjaro for many climbers. The nearby Lent Hills also provide optional acclimatization hikes that help trekkers adjust to the altitude.
The environment around Moir Camp is colder and drier than the lower camps, with clear skies often revealing spectacular views of Kibo Peak and the northern mountain slopes. Because fewer climbers pass through this area, the camp offers a more isolated and tranquil trekking experience.
Accommodation at Moir Camp consists of mountain tents arranged on rocky terrain. Temperatures can drop significantly during the night, but the calm surroundings and impressive scenery make the camp a favorite stop for photographers and nature lovers.
Buffalo Camp is a scenic campsite located on the remote northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro at approximately 4,020 meters (13,189 feet) above sea level. It is primarily used by trekkers on the Northern Circuit Route and offers one of the quietest camping experiences on the mountain.
The camp is surrounded by open alpine landscapes, volcanic terrain, and distant views toward the Kenyan plains. The northern side of Kilimanjaro receives less rainfall than the southern slopes, creating a drier and more rugged environment. Trekkers often appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and sense of isolation found at Buffalo Camp.
As climbers continue gaining altitude, Buffalo Camp becomes an important point for acclimatization before moving toward higher northern circuit camps. The thinner air and cooler temperatures provide a true high-mountain experience while allowing trekkers additional time to adjust before summit attempts.
Accommodation is entirely tent-based, with campsites spread across the rocky mountain terrain. Nights are cold and windy, but the clear skies often create excellent conditions for stargazing and photography.
Third Cave Camp is a high-altitude campsite located on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro at approximately 3,870 meters (12,697 feet) above sea level. The camp is primarily used by trekkers on the Rongai and Northern Circuit routes as they continue toward the summit area.
The camp is situated within the alpine desert zone, where vegetation becomes sparse and the landscape is dominated by rocky terrain and open mountain scenery. Climbers staying at Third Cave Camp enjoy impressive views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The peaceful setting and lower traffic compared to southern routes create a more remote mountain experience.
Third Cave Camp is an important acclimatization stop because climbers spend the night at a higher elevation before continuing toward Kibo Hut or School Hut. The thinner air and colder temperatures begin to challenge trekkers more noticeably, making proper rest and hydration especially important at this stage of the climb.
Accommodation consists of mountain tents arranged on rocky camping grounds. Temperatures at night can become very cold, especially during windy conditions. However, the clear skies and isolated setting provide excellent opportunities for mountain photography and stargazing.
School Hut is a high-altitude summit camp located on Mount Kilimanjaro at approximately 4,750 meters (15,584 feet) above sea level. It is primarily used by climbers on the Rongai and Northern Circuit routes before their final summit attempt to Uhuru Peak.
The camp is positioned within the alpine desert zone, surrounded by rocky volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and dramatic mountain scenery. Due to its high elevation, the environment is cold, dry, and windy, with very little vegetation. Climbers staying at School Hut typically rest early before beginning their summit ascent during the night.
Accommodation at School Hut includes simple mountain shelters and camping areas for trekkers and support crews. The camp’s strategic location allows climbers a shorter summit push compared to some other summit camps on Kilimanjaro.
Mweka Camp is a forest campsite located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro at approximately 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) above sea level. It is commonly used as the final overnight stop for climbers descending the mountain after successful summit attempts.
The camp is situated within the rainforest zone, surrounded by dense vegetation, giant trees, and rich mountain forest scenery. After the cold alpine conditions higher on the mountain, many climbers enjoy the warmer temperatures and oxygen-rich environment found at Mweka Camp.
Accommodation at Mweka Camp is tent-based, with designated camping areas and basic mountain facilities. The camp provides a comfortable resting point before the final descent to Mweka Gate.
Bristol Cottages Kilimanjaro is a comfortable accommodation property located in Moshi, offering travelers a convenient stay close to Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes and safari departure points. The property provides a calm environment suitable for both short and extended stays.
The cottages are surrounded by greenery and peaceful outdoor spaces that create a relaxing atmosphere for guests preparing for adventures in northern Tanzania. Its location allows easy access to Moshi town, local attractions, and transportation services.
Accommodation includes private cottages and guest rooms equipped with modern amenities for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy friendly hospitality, dining services, and restful surroundings during their stay.
Everything you need to know about what makes this route special
The 9-day Northern Circuit offers the best acclimatization profile on the mountain. By nearly circling the entire peak, you benefit from the "walk high, sleep low" principle over a longer period. However, even with this advantage, you must still monitor your body closely and communicate any changes to your guide.
While the Northern Circuit is less steep than routes like the Umbwe, it requires mental and physical endurance for nine consecutive days of trekking. Your training should focus on long-distance stamina and back-to-back hiking days.
Because you are on the mountain longer, gear reliability is paramount. You will experience everything from humid rainforests to sub-zero arctic summits. Ensure you have high-quality moisture-wicking layers, a -15°C (0°F) rated sleeping bag, and extra batteries/power banks, as there is no charging access for over a week.
On a 9-day trek, your relationship with your guides, porters, and cook is vital. This route requires a larger support team to carry supplies for the extended duration. Trust their pace (pole pole) and expertise; they are your greatest asset for reaching the summit safely.
Even with superior acclimatization, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk. Familiarize yourself with the "big four" symptoms: persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. Early intervention is the key to continuing the climb.
With nine days on the trail, caloric deficits can sneak up on you. Prioritize the high-carb meals provided by your cook and aim to drink 4–5 liters of water daily to aid blood oxygenation.
The Northern Circuit sees far fewer trekkers on its northern slopes, offering a true wilderness experience. It is imperative to maintain this pristine environment by strictly adhering to Leave No Trace principles—if you pack it in, pack it out.
Choose the best season for your Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing adventure
Clear & Warm
21–27°C base / -7 to -29°C summit
High
Premium
The warmest months on the mountain, with excellent visibility. Expect generally clear skies in the mornings and evenings; clouds may appear during the day with occasional brief showers.
Clear & Cold
15–20°C base / -10 to -20°C summit
Very High
Premium
The probability of rain is minimal, skies are mostly clear, and the visibility is unparalleled. July and August are the busiest months on the mountain, with crowds thinning in September and even more so in October.
Variable — occasional showers
18–25°C base / -10 to -20°C summit
Low to Moderate
Standard
Early October is still stable, but by November, less stable weather patterns can bring rain every day for a short period. March begins with a short dry window, but by mid-March the long rains begin.
Eat even if you aren't hungry: High altitude suppresses appetite, but you’ll be burning 4,000+ calories on summit day. Force down the porridge!
The Northern Circuit typically takes 9 days, though some operators offer an 8-day version for experienced hikers.
It has the highest success rate of any route on the mountain—often cited at 95% to 98%.
While it is the longest route, many consider it physically “easier” than routes like Machame or Lemosho in terms of technical terrain.
No. This is the quietest route on Kilimanjaro.
Because it is longer and more expensive than the popular Machame (“Whiskey”) or Marangu (“Coca-Cola”) routes, it sees a fraction of the foot traffic. You will often have the camps on the northern side almost entirely to yourself.
The best windows are the dry seasons:
The Northern Circuit is usually the most expensive route.
From your first inquiry, Climbing Preparation, packing to your summit selfie at Uhuru Peak — we’ve got every step covered. Here’s why thousands of climbers trust Kilimanjaro Bound to conquer this majestic mountain.
Download our comprehensive Kilimanjaro Packing List PDF to ensure you have all the essential clothing, gear, and equipment needed for a safe and comfortable trek to the summit.
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