The Northern Circuit is the newest route up Kilimanjaro and also the longest. Because of its length, the Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate. It starts from Arusha or Moshi at 6:30 a.m., and its cost ranges from $2200 to $3400. The route follows the same route as the Lemosho Route for the first two days and then veers off to circle around the quieter northern slopes on the east side of the mountain. The Northern Circuit approaches the summit via Gilman's Point before descending on the same route as the Machame and Lemosho. This 11-day Northern Circuit route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro enables climbers to reach the Uhuru peak, the highest peak in the world, at 5895 meters above sea level.
11-day North Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb - Request for a free quote, sent direct to your e-mail address
You will be picked up at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. You will meet your guide, who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented this day.
Elevation: 1830m to 2650m,
Distance: 6-8 km,
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours,
Zone: Rain Forest
After breakfast and briefing, drive to Londrossi Park Gate (about a 3-hour drive). From here, a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades. Walk along forest trails to the Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.
Elevation: 2650m to 3500m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Rain Forest
After breakfast, we continue as the trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone. After several streams are crossed, we continue over the Shira Ridge, then gently descend to Shira 1 camp, located by a stream on the Shira Plateau.
Elevation: 3500m to 3850m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Low Alpine desert
Embark on a picturesque journey from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp as you ascend the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail leads you through rugged alpine terrain, where sparse vegetation and striking rock formations create a stark and captivating landscape. Amidst this pristine wilderness, you'll continue your trek, gaining altitude and witnessing the ever-changing panoramas that make this transition from Shira 1 to Shira 2 a memorable part of your Kilimanjaro climbing adventure.
Elevation: 3850m to 4200m
Distance: 14km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High Alpine Zone
From the elevated vantage point of Shira 2 Camp, your journey continues towards Moir Camp, offering a remarkable shift in Kilimanjaro's scenery. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into an otherworldly alpine desert, with hardy flora and striking volcanic formations dotting the path. The hike to Moir Camp grants you a sense of remoteness and tranquility, with sweeping vistas that emphasize the rugged beauty of the mountain, creating a truly immersive and captivating experience in the heart of Tanzania.
Elevation: 4200m to 4020m
Distance: 6 km.
Climbing Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: High Alpine Zone
Today, we encountered a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. We can do an optional hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. From here, the route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp.
Elevation: 4020m to 3800m
Distance: 8km
Climbing Time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High Alpine
We start the day with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge and down into Porfu Camp, where lunch is usually served. The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave. The trek is shorter than the day before, and by now you should be feeling well acclimated to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.
On this day you climb from Rongai Third Cave to School Hut marks the transition from the lush moorlands to the stark alpine desert on Mount Kilimanjaro. As you descend, the landscape becomes increasingly barren, with volcanic rocks and rugged terrain dominating the scenery. This leg of the journey offers a stark contrast to the lush surroundings of the lower elevations, serving as a crucial phase before your final push for the summit.
Elevation: 4800m to 5895m
Down to 3950m
Distance: 6km up and 11km
Climbing Time: 5-7 hours up and 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Embark on the ultimate ascent from School Hut to Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Mount Kilimanjaro. As you make your way to Uhuru Peak, you'll traverse the lunar-like landscape of the glaciers and snowfields, with each step bringing you closer to the roof of Africa. After reaching the summit and savoring the awe-inspiring views, descend to Millennium Camp, where you'll find rest and reflection amidst the lower alpine zones, marking the triumphant conclusion of your Kilimanjaro expedition.
Elevation: 3950m to 1680m
Distance: 14km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
Africa Natural Tour Adventures vehicle will be waiting for you at Mweka gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (around 60 minutes).
The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on your flight times, you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport. Meals and breakfast are included.
11-day North Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb - Request for a free quote, sent direct to your e-mail address
| Office In: | Tanzania |
| City: | Moshi |
| Since: | 2008 » (16) Years of Experience. |
| Size: | 10 - Employees |
11-day North Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb
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