Climb Overview
Camping | Longest Route | Excellent Acclimatization
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro and is widely regarded as one of the best routes for summit success. Approaching the mountain from the western side, the trail circles the remote northern slopes before ascending to Uhuru Peak from the east.
This route offers outstanding acclimatization, fewer crowds, breathtaking scenery, and one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro. It is ideal for climbers seeking a quieter, safer, and more scenic mountain experience.
Climb Highlights
- Longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro
- Exceptional acclimatisation profile
- One of the highest summit success rates
- Remote and uncrowded northern slopes
- Spectacular views rarely seen on other routes
- Diverse ecological zones and landscapes
- Full camping experience with professional crew support
- Summit Africa's Highest Peak – Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
- Excellent route for first-time climbers
- Official Kilimanjaro National Park summit certificate
Detailed Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to Under The Shade Safari Lodge in Moshi. After check-in, relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before meeting your mountain guide for a detailed climb briefing, equipment inspection, and safety orientation.
Accommodation: Under The Shade Safari Lodge
Meals: Dinner
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and permit formalities. Continue to the trailhead where your trek begins through the lush rainforest zone. This area is rich in wildlife, giant trees, and tropical vegetation.
The relatively short hike allows your body to gradually begin adapting to the altitude.
Altitude: 2,100m – 2,650m
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today's trek leaves the rainforest behind and enters the heath and moorland zone. The landscape opens dramatically as expansive views of the Shira Plateau and surrounding peaks begin to appear.
Arrive at Shira Camp in the afternoon and enjoy your first close views of Kibo Peak.
Altitude: 2,650m – 3,500m
Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours
Accommodation: Shira Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail continues steadily upward while turning north toward the remote side of the mountain. Today's route crosses alpine terrain featuring volcanic rock formations, ridges, and panoramic mountain views.
The quieter trails offer a true wilderness experience away from the busier routes.
Altitude: 3,500m – 4,200m
Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today's dedicated acclimatization day allows your body to adapt naturally to the altitude. Enjoy a guided acclimatization hike to higher elevations before returning to camp to rest.
This additional day significantly improves comfort and summit success rates.
Altitude: 4,200m – Approx. 4,500m+ – 4,200m
Hiking Time: 2–4 Hours
Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is one of the most scenic sections of the Northern Circuit. Traverse the remote northern slopes with incredible views toward Kenya and the surrounding plains.
The route remains relatively gentle, allowing continued acclimatization while enjoying the solitude and beauty of Kilimanjaro's least-visited side.
Altitude: 4,200m – 4,020m
Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, continue across the northern slopes on a shorter trekking day designed to aid acclimatization. The terrain is dry and alpine, with stunning views across northern Tanzania and southern Kenya.
The easier pace helps conserve energy for the summit stages ahead.
Altitude: 4,020m – 3,800m
Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours
Accommodation: Third Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today's trek gradually ascends toward School Hut, the final base camp before summit night. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as you enter the high alpine desert zone.
After an early dinner, your guide will conduct a summit briefing before you retire for a few hours of rest.
Altitude: 3,800m – 4,800m
Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours
Accommodation: School Hut Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Around midnight, begin the final ascent to the Roof of Africa. Climb slowly under the stars toward Gilman's Point before continuing along the crater rim to Stella Point and finally Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Celebrate your achievement at Africa's highest point and witness a breathtaking sunrise before beginning the descent to Mweka Camp.
This is the most demanding and rewarding day of the expedition.
Altitude: 4,800m – 5,895m – 3,100m
Hiking Time: 12–15 Hours
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Following breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your official summit certificate and celebrate your achievement before returning to Moshi.
Enjoy a hot shower and a comfortable night's rest at the lodge.
Hiking Time: 3–5 Hours
Accommodation: Under The Shade Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Climb Includes / Excludes
Climb Includes
- 2 Nights Accommodation at Under The Shade Safari Lodge (Half Board)
- Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)
- Transfers to and from Mountain Gates
- Professional Mountain Guides
- Assistant Guides, Cook, Camp Manager & Porters
- All Camping Equipment
- Dining Tent, Tables & Chairs
- Private Portable Toilet
- All Meals During the Climb
- Drinking Water, Tea & Coffee on the Mountain
- Kilimanjaro National Park Fees
- Rescue Fees
- Government Taxes & VAT
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Daily Health Monitoring
- Summit Certificate
Climb Excludes
- International Flights
- Tanzania Visa
- Travel & Medical Insurance
- Personal Trekking Equipment
- Sleeping Bag Rental (if required)
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks
- Personal Expenses
- Tips for Guides, Porters & Cook
- Additional Hotel Nights
- Optional Activities
- Costs Due to Flight Delays, Weather Conditions or Circumstances Beyond Control
Frequently Asked Questions
It is considered moderately challenging but offers excellent acclimatization, making it one of the safest routes for reaching the summit.
Yes. All tents, dining tents, tables, chairs, and camping equipment are provided.
The Northern Circuit has one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro due to its gradual ascent profile.









