Relaxing by the pool, with the vast savanna stretching out before you
"Endless blue ocean in Zanzibar, a true tropical paradise
Chasing the sunset in the savanna, with the Land Cruiser as your front-row seat
Mount Kilimanjaro, towering above the plains in all its majestic glory
"In the heart of the savanna, a Land Cruiser surrounded by roaming buffalo
Elephant gracefully drinking from the waterhole, a moment of serenity in the wild
Explore Africa’s Wild Heart
Tailored Safaris, Timeless Memories
Enjoy safaris and nature
Dive into the Tanzanian culture
Northern Circuit Route: 8 Days / 7 Nights
The Northern Circuit Route offers a unique and unforgettable trekking experience, providing exceptional views and an excellent chance to acclimatize.
About the Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic vistas and a quieter trekking experience.
Distance: Approximately 98 kilometers (61 miles).
Duration: 8 days and 7 nights, providing excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Starting Point: Londorossi Gate, located on the western side of Kilimanjaro.
Trek Highlights
- Stunning Views: Witness dramatic landscapes and unique vistas from the northern slopes.
- Less Crowded: Enjoy a more serene trekking experience compared to other routes.
- High Success Rate: Excellent acclimatization leads to a higher summit success rate.
- Professional Team: Experienced guides, porters, and cooks ensure your safety and comfort.
Northern Circuit Route: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1: Trek from Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 meters).
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles) | Habitat: Montane Forest
Day 2: Hike to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 meters), crossing moorlands and scenic ridges.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Continue to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 meters) with time to acclimatize.
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Trek to Moir Hut (4,200 meters), enjoying stunning views of the plains.
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Traverse the northern slopes to Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters).
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) | Habitat: Heath
Day 6: Hike to School Hut (4,800 meters), preparing for the summit push.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 7: Summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) and descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 meters).
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours | Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles) | Habitat: Arctic and Rainforest
Day 8: Final descent to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters) for your certificate.
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Habitat: Rainforest
Success Rates
8-Day Itinerary: Approximately 90-95% success rate for well-prepared climbers.
What's Included
- Two nights at budget Hotel in Moshi (double or triple occupancy) before and after the climb.
- First night includes breakfast; last night includes dinner and breakfast.
- Qualified, experienced guides and mountain crew (guides, porters, cooks, and waiters).
- Salaries for all crew members.
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
- Hut and camping fees.
- Rescue fees (mandatory per park regulations).
- High-quality tents, foam sleeping pads, and cooking equipment.
- Complete cutlery and crockery.
- Pulse oximeters for daily health monitoring.
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Boiled drinking water on the mountain.
- Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfers to and from the Marangu Gate.
- Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
What's Not Included
- Single room supplement at budget Hotel.
- Tips for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal climbing gear (e.g., sleeping bags). Rental options available.
- Car supplement of USD $145 for Lemosho, Rongai, or Shira Routes (if applicable).
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks).
- Emergency oxygen.
- Additional activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included.
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- International and domestic flight tickets.
Northern Circuit Route: 8 Days / 7 Nights
What Our 8-Day Northern Circuit Trekkers Say
"The Northern Circuit was an incredible experience! The 8-day trek provided ample time to acclimatize and truly appreciate the diverse landscapes of Kilimanjaro. Via Africa Expeditions delivered top-notch support and expertise every step of the way." - Alex J.
"Taking the Northern Circuit route was the best decision I made. The extra days allowed me to adapt to the altitude and take in the breathtaking scenery. Reaching the summit was unforgettable, and the Via Africa Expeditions team was exceptional!" - Maria H.
"The 8-day Northern Circuit is perfect for anyone looking for a well-paced and scenic adventure. The guides were knowledgeable, supportive, and made the journey unforgettable. Thanks to Via Africa Expeditions, I conquered Kilimanjaro!" - James K.
"The Northern Circuit route exceeded all my expectations! With eight days on the mountain, I had time to adjust and enjoy the beauty around me. Via Africa Expeditions made every moment special with their attention to detail and incredible support." - Olivia S.
Choose Your Northern Circuit Trek Duration
Experience the Machame Route with the perfect trek duration. Select the 7-days adventure to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro!
"Absolutely the best safari experience! Unforgettable from start to finish." – John Doe
"Incredible views, amazing guides, and a truly unique adventure." – Jane Smith
"Highly recommend! Everything was beyond our expectations." – Michael Brown