8 Days/ 7-Nights Trekking Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

On the first day, after breakfast and a briefing from your guide at Hotel/Lodge, you’ll be transferred to Lemosho Park Gate (2,100m), a 1.5-hour drive. At Londorossi Gate, you’ll complete the registration before starting your trek along scenic forest trails to Mti Mkubwa Campsite (2750m), a 3-hour hike. Upon arrival, the porters will set up the tents and our chef will prepare lunch. After enjoying your meal, you’ll have time to relax until dinner. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing about the next day’s trek.

Altitude: 2,200 m – 2,780 m

Hiking distance: 7 km

Hiking time: 5 hours time

Begin your day with an early breakfast before setting out on your trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp. The trail will lead you through diverse landscapes, including moorlands and stunning views of Kibo Volcano. You will hike for approximately 5 hours, reaching Shira Camp 1 for a hot lunch prepared by our chef. After your meal, continue the trek to Shira Camp 2, a further 2–3 hours away. Shira Camp 2 is located at a higher altitude, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival, our porters will set up your tents, and you’ll have time to relax and acclimate before dinner. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the following day’s trek.

Altitude: 2,780 m – 3,840 m

Hiking distance: 12 km

Hiking time: 6–7 hours

Begin your trek with an early breakfast at Shira 2 Camp, then set out towards Moir Hut. As you start, the trail gradually steepens, leading you into the giant heather moorland zone and crossing Shira Ridge. The route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, enhancing your journey. By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Moir Hut (4,200 m), where you can take some time to relax and acclimate. This section of the trek features a combination of gentle ascents and spectacular vistas, helping to prepare you for the more challenging days ahead. The peaceful environment at Moir Hut allows you to recharge for the journey to come.

Altitude: 3,878 m – 4,200 m

Hiking distance: 8 km

Hiking time: 4–5 hours

Start your trek with breakfast at Moir Hut, then proceed out of the moorland and into the alpine desert. Ascend a steep ridge off the main trail, a climb that will take about 5 to 7 hours to reach Pofu Camp (4,025 m). As you trek, enjoy the magnificent views of Kenya’s wild lands to the north. This challenging section of the journey offers a dramatic contrast to the lush moorland previously experienced, highlighting the stark beauty and vast expanse of the alpine desert. Arriving at Pofu Camp, you’ll have the opportunity to take in these breathtaking landscapes and prepare for the next stages of your adventure.

Altitude: 4,200 m – 4,025 m

Hiking distance: 10 km

Hiking time: 5–7 hours

Begin your trek from Pofu Camp with a hearty breakfast, then continue eastward through valleys and ridges in the alpine desert and moorland. This trek, which takes approximately 5 to 7 hours, rewards you with expansive views of the vast mountain wilderness. As you progress, the rugged terrain and panoramic vistas offer a dramatic backdrop to your journey. Upon arrival at Third Caves Camp (3,600 m), you’ll have ample time to rest and acclimate, soaking in the serene surroundings. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you prepare for the next day’s adventure, and savor a well-deserved dinner amidst the stunning landscapes.

Altitude: 4,025 m – 3,600 m

Hiking distance: 12 km

Hiking time: 5–7 hours

Begin your trek from Third Caves Camp, heading south through valleys and ridges onto the alpine desert and moorland. After trekking for approximately 4 to 6 hours, you’ll arrive at Kibo Camp (4,700 m), where temperatures will start to drop significantly. Use this time to prepare your gear for the upcoming summit attempt and take advantage of the fresh food supplies that will arrive in the afternoon. Enjoy a hearty meal and take an early night’s sleep, ensuring you are well-rested and ready for the challenging ascent to come. The rest at Kibo Camp is crucial for your energy and acclimatization before the summit bid.

Altitude: 3,600 m – 4,700 m

Hiking distance: 10 km

Hiking time: 4–6 hours

Wake up around midnight to start your summit trek. Begin hiking at 1 am, navigating switchbacks and loose rock as you ascend to Gillman’s Point (5,685 m). From there, continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), where you can enjoy breathtaking views and spend a brief time at the summit. After taking in the magnificent scenery, descend to Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to rest for the night. The challenging climb to the summit and subsequent descent will be both physically demanding and rewarding, making the evening’s rest at Millennium Camp a well-deserved reprieve.

Altitude: 4,700 m – 5,895 m – 3,110 m

Hiking distance: 17 km

Hiking time:15+ hours

Descend from Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to Mweka Gate (1,830 m) in approximately 2 to 3 hours. Once at the gate, you’ll receive your climbing certificate to commemorate your achievement. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Hotel/Lodge for your overnight stay. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel, reflecting on your incredible journey and the accomplishment of your climb. If you have booked a safari, our safari coordinator will meet with you in the afternoon to provide a pre-briefing and discuss your upcoming adventure. For more details about the safari options, please visit our Safari page.

Altitude: 3,110 m – 1,830 m

Hiking distance: 10 km

Hiking time:2-3 hours