Discover the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience—more scenic, more successful, and far less crowded.
The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s hidden gem—an expansive trail that circles almost the entire mountain, showcasing the full range of its natural beauty while offering the highest summit success rate of any route. With nearly 360-degree views, an extended acclimatization profile, and the rare chance to trek along the remote northern slopes, this route delivers an unforgettable journey to Africa’s highest point.
Approaching Kilimanjaro from the west, the Northern Circuit begins at Londorossi Gate and initially follows the same path as the Lemosho Route through the rainforest and Shira Plateau. But from Moir Hut, it veers north and wraps around Kilimanjaro’s remote northern face, passing Buffalo Camp and Third Cave before joining the eastern summit approach via School Hut. The descent is made via the Mweka Route on the southern slopes.
This extended trail spans approximately 88 km (53 miles) and typically takes 9 days, although 8-day and 10-day variations are available depending on your acclimatization needs and trekking style.
Longest Route = Best Acclimatization
The gradual gain in altitude over many days gives your body time to adjust naturally, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. This is the key reason behind its 95–98% summit success rate.
Remote, Wild, and Peaceful
Unlike other routes, the Northern Circuit travels through rarely visited wilderness on Kilimanjaro’s north side. It’s perfect for trekkers seeking solitude, silence, and unspoiled scenery.
Full Kilimanjaro Experience
From lush rainforests to volcanic plateaus, alpine deserts, and the glacial arctic summit zone, this route offers more time and terrain to fully absorb the magic of the mountain.
Flexible Itinerary Options
With 8-, 9-, and 10-day options, including variations like daytime summit attempts and Crater Camp overnight stays, the route can be customized to match different adventure levels and preferences.
Day 1 – Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,100m to 2,895m (7,742 ft to 9,498 ft)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Begin your adventure with a drive to Londorossi Gate followed by a scenic trek through lush rainforest to your first campsite.
Elevation: 2,895m to 3,505m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Heath
Trek through the forest into high moorlands and volcanic landscapes. Catch your first full view of Kibo peak from the plateau.
Day 3 – Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,505m to 3,850m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Heath
A relatively easy day to continue acclimatizing as you cross the expansive Shira Plateau, rich with wildflowers and views.
Max Elevation: 4,630m at Lava Tower
Camp Elevation: 4,200m
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Gain altitude rapidly to Lava Tower, then descend to Moir Hut for overnight—an ideal "climb high, sleep low" day for acclimatization.
Day 5 – Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Elevation: 4,200m to 4,030m
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Climb out of Moir Valley and traverse the dramatic northern slopes, where views stretch into Kenya. Few other trekkers come this way.
Day 6 – Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Elevation: 4,030m to 3,870m
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Heath
Cross high ridgelines and descend into valleys—this quiet day reinforces the remote feel of the Northern Circuit.
Day 7 – Third Cave to School Hut
Elevation: 3,870m to 4,750m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
A steep ascent up to School Hut on the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi—your final staging ground before summit day.
Day 8 – School Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp
Summit Elevation: 5,895m (19,341 ft)
Descent Elevation: 3,100m
Hiking Time: 11–15 hours total
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Summit day begins around midnight. After reaching Gilman’s Point and Uhuru Peak, descend through Barafu to Mweka Camp.
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Final descent through rainforest. Celebrate your achievement and receive your summit certificate before returning to Moshi.
10-Day Daytime Summit Route: Avoids the midnight summit by climbing in daylight and overnighting at Barafu before descending.
8-Day Variation: Combines Days 3 & 4; skips Lava Tower acclimatization.
10-Day Crater Camp Route: Includes an overnight stay at Crater Camp, just below the summit—an extreme but unforgettable experience (private only).
How long is the route?
About 88 km / 53 miles in total.
How many days does it take?
8 to 10 days depending on itinerary; 9 days is the standard.
How hard is it?
Moderate to challenging. While daily climbs aren’t overly steep, the extended duration and longer summit day require endurance.
What is the success rate?
8-day: ~90–95%
9–10 day: ~95–98%
The best on the mountain thanks to its acclimatization profile.
Each of Kilimanjaro’s seven official routes offers a different way to connect with the mountain — whether through solitude, scenery, or challenge. Your best route depends on your fitness, experience, acclimatization needs, and what kind of journey you’re seeking.
At Eagle Soul Adventure, I don’t just guide — I translate the heartbeat of Kilimanjaro into an unforgettable, soul-stirring experience. Let’s choose the route that speaks to you and write your story on the slopes of the Great Mountain.
From the roots to the roof of Africa — I walk with you.
