Best 8 Days Northern Circuit Route

Start from: $2300

The 8 Days Northern Circuit Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering climbers a unique wilderness experience. Although it is not as popular as some other routes, it is highly regarded for its excellent summit success rate due to its gradual ascent profile and sufficient acclimatization time.

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the western side through Londorossi Gate and then circles around the remote northern slopes of the mountain, providing spectacular views rarely seen on other routes. The extra acclimatization day included in this itinerary helps climbers adapt to the altitude more effectively, increasing their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak successfully.

Climbers choosing the 8 Days Northern Circuit Route will enjoy diverse landscapes, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful trekking experience while still benefiting from one of Kilimanjaro’s highest summit success rates. The adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, followed by a memorable journey around the mountain’s northern wilderness before the final summit attempt.

Number of Clients	Price Per Person
1 Pax	$ 2,800
2 Pax	$ 2,520
3 Pax	$ 2,500
4 Pax	$ 2,480
5 Pax	$ 2,430
6 Pax	$ 2,400
7 Pax	$ 2,380
8 Pax	$ 2,350
9 Pax	$ 2,300
10+ Pax	$ 2,280

Tour Plan

Day 1

Moshi to Londossori gate then to Mti Mkubwa

This is you first climbing day where you will have a long drive and a short hike, the day will start with your pick-up from the hotel and take a drive from Moshi town to Londorossi gate, you will be with you mountain guide and the porters, but up on reaching the gate the porters will take their leave before you and then you after the formalities at the gate you will start your hike with your guide. It will be a hike of 6 kilometers with a time range of 2 to 3hrs on reaching Mti Mkubwa where you will be having your camping and dinner. On this climbing day expect to see some wild animals as you will be walking via a dense misty rainforest hence expect to see animals like the black and white colobus Monkeys Time and distance: 2 to 3hrs hiking a distance of 6km Elevation: 2895 m/9500 feet

Day 2

Mti Mkubwa camp to Shira camp

The day will start with leaving your camp at Mti Mkubwa and Taking a hike of 8 kilometers walking for 5 to 6hrs, it looks like a short walking and from here you will start to see the great view of the valleys and the snow-cape of the Kibo cone. Your hike will be through the moorland and the valleys. On this day you will have your lunch at Shira camp where you will find the tents are ready made by your porters. Though the walking seems to be short but kind long due to the steepness of the trail with some ridges Time and distance: 4 to 5hrs hiking a distance of 8km Elevation: 3480 m/11420ft

Day 3

Shira Camp 1 to Moir Camp

After breakfast, leave Shira Camp 1 and continue trekking across the vast Shira Plateau. The route gradually ascends toward Moir Camp, located at the base of the Lent Hills. This day offers stunning views of Kibo Peak and provides an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. Dinner and overnight at Moir Camp.

Day 4

Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

Today's trek follows the remote northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail passes through a rugged alpine desert landscape with spectacular views across the Kenyan plains. Few climbers visit this section of the mountain, making it one of the most peaceful and scenic parts of the Northern Circuit. Dinner and overnight at Buffalo Camp.

Day 5

Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave

Continue eastward around the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The route offers panoramic views and a gradual ascent, helping your body adjust to the increasing altitude. Arrive at Rongai Third Cave Camp in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day resting and preparing for the higher elevations ahead. Dinner and overnight at Third Cave Camp.

Day 6

Third Cave to School Hut

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper as you make your way to School Hut. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as you approach the summit zone. Upon arrival, enjoy an early dinner and rest, as the summit attempt begins around midnight. Overnight at School Hut.

Day 7

School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Millennium Camp

Around midnight, begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Reach the summit around sunrise and celebrate your achievement while enjoying breathtaking views over the glaciers and surrounding landscape. After spending some time at the summit, descend to Barafu area for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 8

Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

After breakfast, descend through the lush montane rainforest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, receive your summit certificate and celebrate the successful completion of your Kilimanjaro adventure. Your driver will meet you at the gate and transfer you back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.