The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route up Mount Kilimanjaro, beginning at Londorossi Gate on the western side. This 9-day trek offers a less crowded path with gradual ascents and panoramic views as it circles around the northern slopes of the mountain, providing multiple opportunities for acclimatization. Ideal for climbers seeking a unique experience, this route has one of the highest success rates due to its extended itinerary.
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 2,360 m (7,742 ft) to 2,895 m (9,498 ft)
Starting from Londorossi Gate, you’ll trek through the rainforest, encountering unique wildlife en route to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp).
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation: 2,895 m (9,498 ft) to 3,505 m (11,499 ft)
Today’s hike takes you from rainforest to the heather and moorland zone, leading to Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau, with views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks.
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 3,505 m (11,499 ft) to 3,845 m (12,615 ft)
Continue trekking across the expansive Shira Plateau, taking in its open vistas and gradually acclimatizing before reaching Shira 2 Camp for the night
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation: 3,845 m (12,615 ft) to 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Climb up the rugged landscape to Moir Hut. This remote camp offers great acclimatization and is ideal for short hikes in the afternoon to further aid altitude adjustment.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) to 4,020 m (13,188 ft)
Departing Moir Hut, you’ll traverse the mountain’s northern slopes, enjoying stunning views of Kenya along the way. Arrive at Buffalo Camp for an evening surrounded by scenic wilderness.
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 4,020 m (13,188 ft) to 3,870 m (12,696 ft)
Continue across the northern circuit to Third Cave, another serene spot that offers great acclimatization, with an early stop to rest and prepare for the upcoming altitude gain.
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 3,870 m (12,696 ft) to 4,750 m (15,584 ft)
Today’s trek leads you to School Hut, where you’ll make final preparations for the summit attempt. Arriving in the early afternoon allows you to rest and ready yourself for the midnight ascent.
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles) ascent to summit; 12 km (7.5 miles) descent
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to summit; 4-6 hours descent
Elevation: 4,750 m (15,584 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft), then down to 3,068 m (10,065 ft)
Begin the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak, experiencing sunrise at the summit of Africa’s highest point. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp for a restful night.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 3,068 m (10,065 ft) to 1,640 m (5,381 ft)
Complete the final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate before being driven back to Arusha for celebration and rest.
