The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, offering 360° panoramic views, including vistas of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, Kibo Crater, and Mount Meru. This route is perfect for climbers who want a gradual ascent for better acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful summit.
By following the northern and less-traveled slopes, you will experience remote wilderness, unique flora, and abundant wildlife, all while enjoying peaceful campsites and spectacular crater views.
11 Days & 10 Nights
Lodges / Tented Camps
Private, Group Tour
4x4 WD Land Cruiser
Upon arrival, a Nano Africa Safaris representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy a comfortable stay with cozy rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool.
Attend a briefing session in the evening to review your itinerary, gear, and preparations for the climb.
Important Notes:
Shared airport transfers included for group packages
Extra individual transfers may incur additional fees
Hotel check-in starts at 2:00 PM
Drive 3–4 hours to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m / 7,380 ft). Complete permits and registration before beginning your trek through dense rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
After lunch, take a short acclimatization hike towards Shira 1 Camp (3,095 m / 10,154 ft) and return for dinner.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Acclimatization Hike: 1 hour, 2 km (1.2 miles)
Tips:
Drink at least 4 liters of water daily
Consider high-altitude medication
Report any altitude sickness symptoms to your guide
Begin early with breakfast and enjoy a gradual ascent through scenic trails to Shira 1 Camp. Stop to admire Kibo Volcano and the Shira Plateau along the way.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Trek a gentle route to Shira 2 Camp, enjoying panoramic views and Kilimanjaro’s endemic flora. After lunch, take an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower (4,110 m / 13,484 ft), then return to camp.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Acclimatization Hike: 1–2 hours, 2 km (1.2 miles)
Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m / 15,088 ft) for lunch and acclimatization. Afterward, descend gently to Moir Hut to continue your northern trek.
Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Begin with a short climb out of Moir Valley, then continue along the northern slopes with moderate ups and downs. Enjoy views of Tsavo and Amboseli Valleys before reaching Buffalo Camp.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
Continue trekking the northern slopes, linking up with the Rongai Route, and spend the night at 3rd Cave Camp. By now, your body should be well-acclimatized to the high altitude.
Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 8 km (4.9 miles)
Trek to School Hut, your summit camp. Take it easy, rest well, and stay hydrated to prepare for the crater summit attempt the next day.
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Depart at midnight and climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft). Enjoy the sunrise and panoramic views, explore nearby glaciers, then descend to Crater Camp. Optional trek to Ash Pit (90-minute hike).
Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Depending on your energy, you may make a second summit attempt or descend towards Barafu Summit Camp, continuing down to Millennium Camp. Optional exploration of the Ash Pit and Reusch Crater.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles)
Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,379 ft). Celebrate your achievement, share memories, receive your summit certificate, and transfer back to your hotel.
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.
Important Note:
Hotel check-out is 11:00 AM
Late check-out available for an additional fee