8 Days 8-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Climbing Route
Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit. This 8-day trek promises not only a physical challenge but an immersion into the diverse geographical wonders of the region. Each day unfolds a new chapter in your journey, culminating in the triumphant summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Itinerary
Moshi to Londorossi gate then Big Tree Camp:
Start the trek at Londorossi gate, entering a rainforest teeming with life. The ascent leads to Big Tree Camp, with temperatures dropping to 10°C. The dense vegetation showcases an array of flora, from towering trees to exotic orchids
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 camp:
Transition into the moorland zone, reaching Shira 1 camp. The altitude increases, touching around 3,500 meters, and the temperature drops further. The landscape transforms, featuring giant heather and other hardy plants adapted to higher altitudes
Shira 1 camp to Lava Tower then Moir Hut
Climb to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation. The altitude rises to 4,600 meters, and temperatures dip. The sparse vegetation includes hardy mosses and lichens, showcasing the harsh beauty of alpine deserts
Moir Hut to Buffalo camp
Hike through the dramatic Barranco Valley, crossing alpine desert and heath zones. Reach Buffalo camp at an elevation of approximately 4,020 meters. The terrain is stark, with sparse vegetation giving a surreal feel to the surroundings
Buffalo camp to Third Cave:
Continue through the alpine desert, reaching Third Cave at around 3,870 meters. The temperature varies, and the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse, with only the hardiest plants enduring the challenging conditions.
Third Cave to School Hut
Ascend to School Hut, standing at 4,715 meters. The landscape is dominated by rocky outcrops, and the temperature drops significantly. Vegetation is limited to resilient mosses and lichens, adapting to the extreme conditions
School Hut to Uhuru Peak then Mweka camp
The summit day arrives as you conquer Uhuru Peak at an impressive 5,895 meters. Descend to Mweka camp, situated at 3,100 meters, experiencing a drastic change in temperature and vegetation – from the icy summit to the lush rainforest
Mweka camp to Mweka gate then Back to Moshi/Arusha
Complete the descent through the rainforest, reaching Mweka gate. The adventure concludes with a return to Moshi or Arusha, celebrating the triumph over Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit.
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Questions & Answers
Reviews for 8 Days 8-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Climbing Route
By Elena Sokolova 
Visited: April 2009
Embarking on the Northern Circuit was a transformative experience. The diversity of landscapes, from lush rainforests to the barren summit, was awe-inspiring. The responsible approach of the guides and the team towards the environment left a lasting impression
By Mai Takahashi 
Visited: July 2015
Conquering Uhuru Peak was a monumental achievement. The guides were not just experts but true motivators, ensuring everyone's safety and success. Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit is a journey that stays with you forever
By Lilian Nkosi
Visited: July 2014
The flora and fauna along the trail were captivating. The guides' knowledge about the local ecosystems enriched the trek. Responsible tourism practices were evident throughout, making it a guilt-free adventure
By Maria Rodriguez
Visited: March 2018
The challenge was real, but the support from the team made it conquerable. The attention to acclimatization and the careful waste management practices showcased a commitment to responsible trekking
By Elena Petrov
Visited: August 2019
The shifting landscapes mirrored the personal growth throughout the trek. Responsible tourism isn't just a tagline here – it's ingrained in every step. An unforgettable journey for both the soul and the environment