The Northern Circuit route is the least frequented of the Kilimanjaro routes. The route circles around the quieter northern slope to the east side of the mountain.
You get to enjoy remotes slopes and seldom-used camps. It’s the perfect option if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed Kilimanjaro climb.
2 persons | 4 persons | 6+ persons |
|---|---|---|
$2500.00 | $2300.00 |
With Tanzania Foot-Mark Safaris, every journey is tailor-made for you. Customize our sample itineraries to match your style and interests, our travel experts will craft your dream safari experience together with you!.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
Once settled, you will receive a detailed briefing, including an introduction to your trek and a review of your packing list, ensuring you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Depart from Arusha to Londorosi Gate, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead.
Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site which is Mti Mkubwa Camp.
The trail continues as you leave the rainforest behind and enter open savannah dotted with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped in lichen.
As you ascend through lush, rolling hills and cross several small streams, you will reach the Shira Ridge before gently descending to Shira 1 Camp. From here, you catch your first impressive views of Kibo Peak rising across the plateau.
Today you will explore the expansive Shira Plateau on a gentle eastward walk across open moorland meadows toward Shira 2 Camp. Along the way, the heath zone reveals an abundance of wildflowers and distinctive giant senecio trees, creating a scenic and memorable trekking experience.
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills.
A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail.
The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.
As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled, and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel.
We trek through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave.
We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.
The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak.
Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch.
The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
On your final day, you will continue the descent to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates in recognition of your achievement. At the lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy, so care is required.
From Mweka Gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka Village and transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
