8 Days Northern Circuit Route

Overview

The 8-Day Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m), offering less crowded trails and panoramic views from all sides of the mountain. Starting from the northwestern side, this route allows climbers to experience diverse landscapes, gradually acclimatize, and enjoy a high summit success rate.

Over 8 days, trekkers pass through rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zones, reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The Northern Circuit also provides 360-degree views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the Shira Plateau, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts and adventurers seeking a unique climbing experience.

Tour Highlights

Eight-day itinerary: Ideal for gradual acclimatization and maximum summit success
360-degree panoramic views: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira Plateau
Diverse ecosystems: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic summit zone
Less crowded: Northern Circuit is the longest route, offering solitude
Professional support: Experienced guides, porters, and cooks
High summit success rate: Extra days allow the body to adjust
Scenic photography opportunities: Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, Barranco Valley

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp

Start Altitude: 2,100 m
End Altitude: 2,600 m
Distance: ~5–6 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Trek begins at Londorossi Gate, passing through dense rainforest. Expect to see colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and exotic birds.

Camp: Big Tree Camp
Activities: Dinner, rest, light walk for acclimatization

Day 2: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp

Start Altitude: 2,600 m
End Altitude: 3,500 m
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Leave the forest and enter heath and moorland, enjoying views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Giant lobelias and heathers line the trail.

Camp: Shira 1 Camp
Activities: Dinner, acclimatization

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp

Start Altitude: 3,500 m
End Altitude: 3,850 m
Distance: ~5–6 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Trek across the Shira Plateau, a volcanic highland with wide vistas. This moderate day helps climbers adjust to higher altitudes.

Camp: Shira 2 Camp
Activities: Dinner, rest, acclimatization

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower Camp – Barranco Camp

Start Altitude: 3,850 m
End Altitude: 3,950 m
Distance: ~12 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Climbers ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m), a dramatic volcanic ridge, for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp at the base of the Barranco Wall.

Camp: Barranco Camp
Activities: Dinner, sunset, rest

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

Start Altitude: 3,950 m
End Altitude: 4,035 m
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Climb the Barranco Wall and continue to Karanga Camp. This shorter day allows for recovery and acclimatization before the summit push.

Camp: Karanga Camp
Activities: Dinner, rest

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

Start Altitude: 4,035 m
End Altitude: 4,600 m
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Ascend to Barafu Camp, the base for the summit attempt. Afternoon spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for midnight climb.

Camp: Barafu Camp
Activities: Dinner, early rest

Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak – Barafu Camp

Start Altitude: 4,600 m
Summit: 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak)
Distance: ~11–12 km
Hiking Time: 10–12 hours

Summit climb begins around midnight, trekking through alpine desert and arctic zones. Climbers reach:

Gilman’s Point (5,685 m)
Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Africa’s highest point

After sunrise, descend back to Barafu Camp for rest and overnight.

Camp: Barafu Camp

Day 8: Barafu Camp – Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Transfer to Moshi/Arusha

Start Altitude: 4,600 m
End Altitude: 1,640 m
Distance: ~10–12 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

Final descent through alpine desert and rainforest to Mweka Gate. Climbers receive Kilimanjaro Summit Certificates and are transferred to Moshi or Arusha, concluding the 8-day Northern Circuit adventure.

Best Time to Climb

January – March: Cool, clear, fewer climbers
June – October: Dry season, best summit visibility
Avoid April–May (long rains)

Accommodation

Tented Camps: Big Tree, Shira 1, Shira 2, Lava Tower, Barranco, Karanga, Barafu, Mweka
Facilities: Sleeping mats, meals, basic toilets

Book This Tour

Price Inclusions:

✔ Accommodations as mentioned in the itinerary.
✔ Professional English-speaking guide or tour leader.
✔ All applicable park, conservation, or activity entrance fees.
✔ Comfortable transportation during the tour or transfers as required.
✔ Meals as specified in the itinerary.
✔ Mineral drinking water during activities or excursions.
✔ All government taxes and applicable service charges.
✔ Selected activities and experiences as outlined in the itinerary.
✔ Safety equipment and guidance where required for the activity.
✔ Personalized assistance and support throughout the tour.

Price Exclusions:

✖ International and domestic flights.
✖ Visa fees and travel insurance.
✖ Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary.
✖ Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, phone calls, etc.).
✖ Alcoholic and soft drinks unless specified.
✖ Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
✖ Accommodation before or after the tour unless requested.
✖ Airport transfers unless arranged in advance.
✖ Any additional services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.