The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s newest — and longest — trekking option, offering unmatched acclimatization and the highest summit success rate of any route. The journey begins along the scenic Lemosho Route for the first two days before branching away from the crowds and traversing the mountain’s untouched northern slopes. This remote section delivers quiet trails, dramatic vistas, and a rare 360° circumnavigation of Kilimanjaro.
With gradual elevation gain and plenty of acclimatization time, the Northern Circuit gives climbers a strong advantage on summit night. The final push approaches Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point, followed by a descent along the same trail used by the Machame and Lemosho routes.
For trekkers seeking the most panoramic, peaceful, and success-driven route, Kili Vista Expeditions highly recommends the Northern Circuit.
If you’ve requested optional airport transfers, a Kili Vista Expeditions representative will warmly welcome you upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and escort you to your hotel in Moshi.
You should plan to arrive at least one day before your climb begins. This evening, your lead mountain guide will meet you at the hotel for a detailed pre-trek briefing, covering safety, the route plan, mountain expectations, acclimatization strategy, and summit preparation. We’ll also check your trekking gear and assist with rentals if needed—ensuring you start your adventure fully prepared and confident.
After breakfast, depart Moshi and enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. From here, a 4×4 transfer takes you to the Lemosho Glades—your official starting point. The trek begins on a beautiful forest trail surrounded by towering trees, birdsong, and occasional signs of wildlife. Your first night on the mountain is spent at Mti Mkubwa, also known as “Big Tree” Camp.
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft
Distance: 6km/4mi
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Today, the trail gradually steepens, transitioning from lush rainforest into the open moorland zone filled with giant heathers and volcanic rock. After crossing several streams and ascending over the Shira Ridge, you descend gently into Shira 1 Camp, situated on the expansive Shira Plateau—one of Kilimanjaro’s most stunning geological features.
Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3500m/11,500ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
A relaxed hike across the plateau leads toward Shira 2 Camp before continuing east through the otherworldly “Garden of the Senecios.” You’ll enter the high alpine desert and officially join the remote Northern Circuit trail, eventually descending into the quiet and dramatic Moir Valley—one of Kilimanjaro’s most secluded campsites.
Elevation: 3500m/11,500ft to 4200m/13,780ft
Distance: 14km/8mi
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley, trekkers have the option of summiting Little Lent Hill at 4,375m for extra acclimatization and panoramic views. The trail then rolls along the wild northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering solitude and sweeping vistas before reaching Buffalo Camp.
Elevation: 4200m/13,780ft to 4020m/13,188ft
Distance: 12km/7mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: High Alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The day begins with a climb over Buffalo Ridge followed by a descent into Porfu Camp for lunch. The trail then continues east across the northern face of Kibo, gradually descending into the Rongai Third Cave. By now, most trekkers feel well acclimatized and can truly enjoy the peaceful landscapes.
Elevation: 4020m/13,188ft to 3800m/12,467ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: High Alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today features a steady ascent across the Saddle, the stark moon-like landscape between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. Upon arriving at School Hut, you’ll rest, enjoy an early dinner, and prepare your summit gear—headlamp, snacks, warm layers, camera, and insulated water—before attempting the summit tonight.
Elevation: 3800m/12,467ft to 4800m/15,748ft
Distance: 15km/8mi
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Summit day begins around 11:30 PM with hot tea and biscuits before starting the challenging climb up Kibo’s steep slopes under a sky full of stars. After several hours, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point and witness a breathtaking sunrise over Africa—an unforgettable moment.
Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the Roof of Africa. Celebrate, take photos, and savor your achievement before descending to Barafu and onward to Millennium Camp for well-earned rest. Total trekking time today is long, so hydrate, fuel well, and go “pole pole”—slowly, steadily.
Elevation: 4800m/15,748ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3950m/12,959ft
Distance: 6km/3.5mi up / 11km/6mi down
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours up / 5–6 hours down
Habitat: Summit Zone to Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificates. A Kili Vista Expeditions vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your Moshi hotel—hot showers, comfortable beds, and celebration await!
Elevation: 3950m/12,959ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
