8 Days Northern Circuit Route

Let's Plan Tanzania

The Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro is the longest and most scenic route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking views of the northern slopes of the mountain and surrounding landscape. This 9-day trek takes you through a variety of terrains, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, providing ample time for proper acclimatization and rest to increase your chances of summiting.

Why Visit Tanzania ?

Tanzania captures the quintessential African holiday experience in all its varying colours. From the mighty heights of Kilimanjaro to the swooping depths of the Ngorongoro, this sun-beaten land promises endless variety, ceaseless sun and unforgettable adventures for the whole family to enjoy.

Juma Rajabu Sumbi

Managing Director
255784751244

I'm here to tailor-make your perfect holiday. Give me a call and I'll use my expertise to create your personalised experience.

Tour Overview

With Sumbi Extra Miles Safari, the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek includes expert guides and porters, as well as comfortable campsites, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. The final ascent to the summit of Uhuru Peak is challenging, but highly rewarding, and offers a chance to witness an unforgettable sunrise over the African continent. The Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers a sense of accomplishment and memories that will last a lifetime.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha/Moshi

You’ll arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and be picked up by a representative from Sumbi Extra Miles Safari. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi, where you’ll have a briefing with your guide and go through a gear check to ensure you have all the necessary equipment for the trek. The rest of the day is free to relax and prepare for the trek ahead.

Day 2 : Arusha/Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to the Londorossi Gate to begin the trek. You’ll register with the park authorities and start hiking through the lush rainforest, taking in the sights and sounds of the wildlife around you. You’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp, located at 2,750 meters (9,020 feet), and spend the night there.

Day 3 : Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

After breakfast, we continue on a trail that gradually becomes steeper as we enter the giant heather moorland zone. Crossing several streams along the way, the path then leads us over Shira Ridge, where we gently descend to reach Shira 1 camp. This camp is located beside a flowing stream on the scenic Shira Plateau, making it an ideal resting point after a day of steady hiking through diverse landscapes.

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut

After breakfast, you’ll trek to Moir Hut, located at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), through the highland desert. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau along the way.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

After breakfast, you’ll trek through the alpine desert and cross the Lent Hills to reach Buffalo Camp, located at 4,020 meters (13,190 feet). You’ll enjoy stunning views of the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro and the Kenyan plains.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

After breakfast, you’ll trek to Third Cave, located at 3,870 meters (12,700 feet), through the heath and moorland. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and have a chance to rest and acclimatize.

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut

After breakfast, you’ll trek through the barren alpine desert and reach School Hut, located at 4,800 meters (15,750 feet). You’ll have an early dinner and rest as much as possible before the early morning summit attempt.

Day 8: Summit Day - School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

You’ll wake up around midnight and begin the final ascent to the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trek is very challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, and takes approximately 6-7 hours. You’ll reach the summit at sunrise and have time to take photos and enjoy the amazing view. You’ll then begin the descent back down to Mweka Camp, located at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet), where you’ll spend the night.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha/Moshi

After breakfast, you’ll continue the descent through the rainforest until you reach Mweka Gate. You’ll receive your summit certificates and then transfer back to either Arusha or Moshi.