From:
$2,300
/Person
9 days
Londorossi Gate (2,250 m / 7,380 f)
About
Highlights
Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route
Highest summit success rate of all routes
Full 360° traverse of the mountain
Exceptional acclimatisation profile
Quiet, remote trails with varied landscapes
Description
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s most extensive route, circling almost the entire mountain. Starting on the western side (like Lemosho), it joins the northern slopes instead of cutting south — giving you quiet, untouched views few trekkers ever see.
The longer itinerary allows for excellent acclimatisation and a gradual ascent. You’ll explore remote valleys, cross wide plateaus, and sleep under some of the clearest skies in East Africa. The route merges with the summit approach from School Hut, then descends via the scenic southern Mweka Route.
Led by Dulla and his expert team, this route is ideal for those who want the best possible summit experience, with strong safety protocols and fair porter support throughout.
“If you want the best chance to summit and see the whole mountain, Northern Circuit is the way. It’s peaceful, long, and truly unforgettable. Take your time — the mountain will meet you step by step.”
Pricing Breakdown
Pricing Packages
Group Size | Price per Person (pax) |
|---|---|
1-2 pax | $2,600 |
3-4 pax | $2,500 |
5-10 pax | $2,400 |
10+ pax | $2,300 |
Price Includes
Airport transfers (to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
2 nights at a hotel in Arusha (before and after the trek)
Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and permits
All meals and purified drinking water during the trek
Private toilet tent for groups of 4+
Professional English-speaking guide(s)
Experienced local porters (fair pay and reasonable loads)
Cook and kitchen staff
Four-season mountain tents (2 climbers per tent)
Sleeping mats
Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit
Daily health checks with pulse oximeter
Rescue fees (where applicable)
Price Doesn't Include
Flights and visa
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear (rental available)
Meals in Arusha (lunch and dinner)
Extra hotel nights before or after the trek
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Airport pickup and hotel transfer. Meet your guide for a detailed briefing, gear check, and Q&A.
Day 2: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)
Drive to the western gate for registration. Begin trekking through lush rainforest teeming with life. Overnight at Big Tree Camp.
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Climb through forest and moorland. The views open up dramatically as you emerge onto the vast Shira Plateau.
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hrs
Day 4: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Gentle ascent across the plateau. Spot giant lobelias and senecios along the trail. Optional hike to Shira Cathedral.
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
Day 5: Shira 2 – Moir Hut (4,200m)
Trek northward through high-altitude desert to Moir Hut, a secluded camp nestled below a rocky ridge.
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hrs
Day 6: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Climb to the summit of Lent Hills (optional) before traversing the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro with views into Kenya.
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hrs
Day 7: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
Continue across the northern face through alpine desert. This is one of the most peaceful and remote parts of the mountain.
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hrs
Day 8: Third Cave – School Hut (4,750m)
Steady climb up to School Hut, your final base camp. You’ll rest, eat early, and prepare for the summit push.
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hrs
Day 9: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Midnight departure for the summit. Reach Gilman’s Point at sunrise, then Uhuru Peak. After celebrating, descend to School Hut, then all the way down to Mweka Camp.
Distance: 15 km
Hiking Time: 13–15 hrs
Day 10: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha
Final descent through lush rainforest. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Arusha.
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
