Northern Circuit Route

10 Days, 9 Nights Trek

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro VIA the Northern Circuit Route (Option II)

ROUTE OVERVIEW

The Northern Circuit route is one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro, offering nearly 360 degrees of beautiful scenery, including the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit also has the most acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate. Thus, the Northern Circuit route is highly recommended.

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge, before crossing the Shira Plateau. The route then heads north and circles clockwise from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp to School Hut, before summiting from the east. Descend is made via the Mweka route.

Price Per Person


1 to 2 People	3 to 4 People	Group of 5+
$3,000	$2,950	$2,900

Trekking Highlights

Summary Route Description

Summit success rates

Northern Circuit Route 10-day trek: Crater Rim – 94.2%; Uhuru Peak – 86.3%.

Route Map

Best Time to Use the Northern Circuit Route

The best time for the Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, specifically July to September (most stable) and December to mid-March. These months offer clear, sunny skies, lower humidity, and minimal rain, providing the best conditions for the route’s long 9-10 day, high-success journey.

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, you will meet with your guide for a briefing about the trek, gear check, and discussion of the next day’s plans. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore Moshi, and prepare for the climb.

Altitude: 915m/3,000ft

Accommodation Options (Before and After the Hike):

After breakfast, you’ll be driven from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration. The drive takes approximately 3 hours. After completing the registration process, you’ll begin your trek through the dense rainforest, where you may encounter Colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The trail ascends gradually, offering an introduction to Kilimanjaro’s rich biodiversity. Upon arrival at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp), you’ll settle in for dinner and an overnight stay.

Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Today’s trek starts with a steep climb out of the rainforest into the heather and moorland zone. The trail offers expansive views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru in the distance. As you trek across the Shira Plateau, you’ll pass through an ancient caldera and continue to Shira 1 Camp. Dinner and overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp.

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

This is a relatively easy day as you continue your trek across the Shira Plateau towards Shira 2 Camp. The day is meant for acclimatization as you walk slowly, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. You’ll have stunning views of the western breach and the volcanic formations. You’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the early afternoon, giving you time to explore the surrounding area. Dinner and overnight at Shira 2 Camp.

Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The trail continues across the Shira Plateau, where the landscape becomes more rugged and the air thinner. You’ll trek through the heather and moorland zone, with views of the Shira Cathedral and other volcanic formations. The day’s trek ends at Moir Hut, a remote camp nestled at the base of a massive lava flow. In the afternoon, there’s an optional acclimatization hike to the Lent Group (4,600m), which offers panoramic views. Dinner and overnight at Moir Hut.

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland/Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Today’s trek follows a steady ascent, leaving the Shira Plateau and entering the northern circuit of Kilimanjaro. The trail offers sweeping views of the Kenyan plains and the Northern Icefields. The path traverses the alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and unique volcanic rock formations. You’ll arrive at Buffalo Camp in the afternoon, where you can rest, acclimatize, and enjoy dinner before your overnight stay.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The trek today involves a series of ascents and descents, providing excellent acclimatization opportunities. The trail continues around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering different perspectives of the mountain. The path is less crowded, allowing for a more solitary experience. You’ll arrive at Third Cave Camp in the early afternoon, with time to rest and prepare for the days ahead. Dinner and overnight at Third Cave Camp.

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The trail ascends steadily towards the base of the Kibo Crater. You’ll pass through an increasingly barren landscape, with the summit looming closer. School Hut is located near the crater rim, offering a strategic location for the summit attempt. After arriving at School Hut, you’ll have an early dinner and rest, as the summit attempt will begin at midnight.

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

During normal morning hours, we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. We ascend for several hours at a slow but steady pace while taking frequent, but short, breaks. The trail turns into heavy scree as we make the steep climb to the crater rim. At Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft), we see the summit sign in the distance. We continue around the crater rim until finally we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

We then descend a short distance to Crater Camp, where the rest of the staff will join us to set up camp. There is an option to hike to Reutsch Crater and the ash pit, or simply explore the areas around Furtwangler Glacier. Sleeping at this high altitude can be dangerous. Serious AMS can develop if adequate altitude acclimatization has not been achieved, so the guides will monitor you very closely.

School Hut to Uhuru Peak

Elevation: 15,600 ft to 19,341 ft
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 6 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Crater Camp

Elevation: 19,341 ft to 18,865 ft
Hiking Time: 0.5-1 hours
Distance: 1 km | 0.6 miles
Habitat: Arctic

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

From Crater Camp, we now make our descent, continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest, and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Elevation: 18,865 ft to 10,065 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: 12 km | 7 miles
Habitat: Arctic

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 10 km | 6 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

COST BREAKDOWN

Trekking Cost Covers

All entrance fees and Government Taxes
Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure)
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair wages for the mountain crew.
All meals while on the Mountain 
Rescue Fees and all taxes.
Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides 
Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit
Private cook speaking fluent English
Private guide speaking fluent English
Transfers from the Hotel to the Kilimanjaro entrance gate and from the Kilimanjaro exit gate to the hotel.

Does not Cover

Travel insurance
International flights (can be booked for you on request)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Accommodation on day of arrival and departure
Visas & vaccinations
Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.
Private Toilet and hot shower tent.

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Inquiry Space

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

Are there other Kilimanjaro routes besides Northern Circuit?

Yes, other routes include Machame (scenic southern approach), Rongai (northern, drier), Umbwe (steep), and the Northern Circuit (longest and most scenic). Marangu stands out for hut accommodations, gradual ascent, and a well-structured six-day climb.

When is the best time to climb the 10 Days Northern Circuit Route?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route is during the dry seasons: late June to October (warmest/driest) and January to March (clear skies/colder). These months offer the best weather, highest summit success rates, and optimal visibility. Mid-June to October is generally considered the top choice for dry, stable, and warmer trekking conditions.

How should I prepare for the 10 Days Northern Circuit Route?

Prepare with physical training, mental readiness, and gear planning. Cardio, strength exercises, and long hikes with a weighted backpack are recommended. Layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sturdy boots are essential. Stay hydrated, eat well, and learn to recognize high-altitude symptoms.

What is the summit success rate for the 10 Days Northern Circuit Route?

The 10-Day Northern Circuit Route offers a good summit success rate of about 86.3%. The route’s gradual climb and helpful acclimatization points improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Success rates are strong when trekkers pace themselves well and stay hydrated.

Is it possible to arrange a safari after Trekking?

Yes, we can arrange a safari for you after you complete the Marangu Route of the Kilimanjaro Trek. Tanzania offers incredible safari destinations, such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, which you can easily add to your adventure. Our team will help you customize an itinerary to suit your preferences, allowing you to experience the best of Tanzanian wildlife after your trek. Simply let us know your interests, and we will arrange an unforgettable safari to complete your Kilimanjaro experience.

Can I join Kilimanjaro group treks on the Northern Circuit Route?

Yes, group treks are available. Groups share porters, enjoy guided support, and create a social trekking experience. Group sizes vary; early booking is recommended.