Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Tour 8 Days

Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro 8 Days

Recommended by 99% of travelers

USD 2,870 / person

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No. of People

Price per person

2 Pax $ 2,995
3 Pax $ 2,870
4 - 6 Pax $ 2,580
7 - 10 Pax $ 2,520

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Embark on the ultimate Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek 8 Days on the mountain plus 2 nights hotel accommodation. Enjoy unmatched scenery, low crowds, and excellent acclimatization for a safer, more successful summit with Hike Kilimanjaro.

Country

Tanzania

Duration

10 Days

Difficulty

Challenging

Activity

Trekking / Hiking

Max. altitude

5,895 m(19,341 ft)

Best season

Jun-Oct, Dec-March

Accomodation

Hotel/Camping

Meals

Included

Start/End Point

Kilimanjaro Airport

Country

Tanzania

Duration

10 Days

Difficulty

Challenging

Activity

Trekking / Hiking

Max. altitude

5,895 m(19,341 ft)

Best season

Jun-Oct, Dec-March

Accomodation

Planet Lodge

Meals

Included

Tour Highlights

Scenic trek via the longest and quietest route on Kilimanjaro
Excellent acclimatization profile with gradual elevation gain
Panoramic views from remote northern slopes
Opportunity to spot wildlife like colobus monkeys and exotic birds
High summit success rate due to the extended route
Diverse landscapes including rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert
Personalized support from professional Hike Kilimanjaro mountain crew
Less crowded trail, ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty

Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Tour Overview

The Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek 8 Days is Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and least traveled trail, offering a truly immersive and rewarding trekking experience. Starting from the Lemosho Gate, this route loops around the northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro before approaching the summit from School Hut. It’s the longest route to the top, giving trekkers the best possible acclimatization and the highest summit success rate.

This extended journey allows for a deeper connection with the mountain’s diverse ecosystems from lush rainforest and heathland to arid alpine desert. With fewer trekkers on the trail, you’ll enjoy peaceful landscapes, unspoiled views, and a greater chance to encounter wildlife. Led by expert guides from Hike Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit is perfect for those who want a less crowded, more scenic, and highly successful route to Africa’s highest peak

Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be welcomed by a representative from Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd and transferred to Planet Lodge in Arusha or to a similar Lodge. After check-in, you will have a full briefing with your guide, including a gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared for the trek.

Note:
The pre-trip briefing will take place at our office if you arrive before 4:00 PM, and at your hotel if you arrive later in the evening. Please ensure you bring a copy of your passport and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy to the meeting. These documents are required for us to obtain your trekking permits and complete necessary documentation for the trek.

Please also note that hotel check-in is from midday (12:00 PM). If your flight arrives early in the morning, kindly let us know in advance. We can arrange a day-use room for you, or, if you prefer, we can organize some short activities to keep you engaged until your check-in time.

Day 2: Arusha – Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 m)

After breakfast, we depart Arusha and drive to Lemosho Gate (approx. 3-4 hours). Upon arrival, registration with the park authorities is completed, and we begin our trek through the lush rainforest, home to black and white colobus monkeys. We gradually ascend to Mti Mkubwa Camp for our first night on the mountain.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Today you’ll climb steadily through forest and heather terrain, with views opening up as you approach the Shira Plateau. The trail leads to Shira 1 Camp where you’ll settle for the night under open skies.

Day 4: Shira 1 to Shira 2 to Moir Hut Camp

Today you cross the vast Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp, then continue north to the remote Moir Hut. This less-traveled path provides a great acclimatization opportunity and solitude away from the busier routes.

Day 5: Moir Camp to Pofu Camp

From Moir Camp, you’ll ascend briefly before contouring around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. This quieter path provides panoramic views and leads to the remote Pofu Camp for the night.

Day 6: Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp

Today’s trek continues along the northern circuit with a gradual descent. The trail crosses barren terrain and rocky ridges to reach Third Cave Camp, an excellent spot for further acclimatization.

Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut

This shorter but steep ascent brings you to School Hut, your base for the summit attempt. Rest, hydrate, and prepare your gear for the early morning climb to Uhuru Peak.

Day 8: Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Your summit push starts around midnight. After a slow, steady climb, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point (5,681m), followed by Stella Point (5,756m), and finally Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend via Barafu and continue to Millennium Camp.

Day 9: Millennium Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640 m) – Arusha

On your final day, you’ll descend through the lush montane rainforest, soaking in the sights and sounds of Kilimanjaro’s vibrant lower slopes. The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially if it has rained, so trekking poles and caution are advised.

Once you arrive at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your well-earned summit certificate from the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, a proud moment marking your successful climb to Uhuru Peak. Your Hike Kilimanjaro driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to Mweka Village, where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared picnic hot lunch en route.

After lunch, continue the return journey to either Arusha or Moshi. This marks the perfect time to reflect on your unforgettable experience and celebrate your accomplishment of conquering Africa’s highest peak.

Day 10: Departure Day

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.

Note:
Check-out time at the hotel is 10:00 AM. If your flight is scheduled for the evening or night, you may book a day-use room to rest and freshen up before your departure. Please inform us in advance if you would like us to reserve a room for you.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
This trek operates year-round, subject to weather conditions.
A valid passport copy is required for park registration.
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is highly recommended.
A good level of physical fitness is required for this trek.
Proper mountain trekking gear is essential, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, and suitable hiking boots.
Temperatures on the mountain can vary significantly, from warm at lower altitudes to below freezing near the summit.
Rental trekking equipment is available at an additional cost.
Summit success depends on individual fitness, weather conditions, and acclimatization.
Extra acclimatization days can be arranged upon request at an additional cost.
International flights are not included.
Tanzania visa fees are not included.
Tips for mountain guides, porters, and cooks are not included.
Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs are not included.

Alternative Airports

If you cannot find a flight directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, you may also consider flying to:

Nairobi International Airport (NBO) – Kenya
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

From these airports, you can connect to Kilimanjaro by either:

A connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
A shuttle bus or private transfer to Moshi or Arusha, where your trek begins

For convenience, Nairobi is closer to Kilimanjaro than Dar es Salaam, and often offers more international flight options at competitive prices.

International Flights to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)

Several major airlines offer direct flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport:

Airline	Route
KLM	Amsterdam → Kilimanjaro
Condor	Frankfurt → Kilimanjaro
Turkish Airlines	Istanbul → Kilimanjaro
Kenya Airways	Nairobi → Kilimanjaro
Precision Air	Nairobi → Kilimanjaro
Qatar Airways	Doha → Kilimanjaro
Ethiopian Airlines	Addis Ababa → Kilimanjaro
RwandAir	Kigali → Kilimanjaro

If direct flights are not available from your location, you can also book flights via Dar es Salaam or Nairobi, then connect to Kilimanjaro.

Domestic Flights within Tanzania

For flights within Tanzania, the following airlines operate regular domestic services:

Precision Air
Air Tanzania
Fly540
Regional Air
ZanAir
Coastal Aviation
Air Excel

Bus Transfers

We can also arrange shuttle bus services between Nairobi, Arusha, and Moshi. These are available daily for an additional fee.

Sample Shuttle Schedule (subject to change):

Route	Departure	Arrival
Nairobi → Arusha	08:00	14:00
Nairobi → Arusha	14:00	18:30
Nairobi → Moshi	08:00	15:30
Moshi → Nairobi	06:00	14:00
Arusha → Nairobi	08:00	14:00
Moshi → Nairobi	10:30	18:30
Arusha → Nairobi	14:00	18:30

Private Transfers

For added comfort and flexibility, private transfers can also be arranged between:

Nairobi ↔ Arusha / Moshi
Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha / Moshi
Mombasa ↔ Arusha / Moshi

Private transfers are available at an extra cost. Contact us for current rates and arrangements.

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Price Includes

Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
All park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
Private portable toilet for group use on the mountain
Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
Comfortable, high-quality, four-season mountain tents (shared by two climbers)
Sleeping mattress
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
Drinking water (filtered and treated)
Table and chairs for meals at camp
Mess tent for dining and shelter
Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
Pre-climb briefing with your guide

Price Excludes

International airfare to and from Tanzania
Tanzania entry visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel)
Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required)
Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry)
Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol)
Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek
Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost)
Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices

Packing List For Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Tour

To ensure a safe and comfortable trek with Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd, we recommend the following essential gear and equipment. Proper preparation is key to enjoying your climb and reaching the summit successfully.

Head & Neck Gear (Essential Accessories)

Sun hat or cap (wide-brimmed or with neck cover is ideal)
Knitted hat / Beanie (for warmth at higher altitudes)
Scarf / Neck Gaiter / Buff (highly recommended for dust, wind, and cold)
Headlamp (with extra batteries – essential for summit night)
Sunglasses (with high UV protection and polarized lenses)

Torso (Upper Body Clothing)

Technical fabric base layers (1 light for warmer days, 1 heavier for cold conditions; synthetic or merino wool preferred)
Technical trekking shirts – 2 short-sleeve and 2 long-sleeve (breathable, moisture-wicking)
Fleece jacket or pullover (for insulation during cool evenings and mornings)
Insulated down or synthetic jacket (optional but highly recommended for extra warmth on summit night)
Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (with hood; Gore-Tex or similar material to protect against rain and wind)

Lower Body (Legwear)

Technical fabric base layer leggings (lightweight for warmer days, heavier thermal for cold nights)
Hiking pants (2 pairs; lightweight, quick-dry, and breathable)
Comfortable pants (for relaxing at camp and sleeping, such as joggers or fleece pants)
Waterproof and windproof shell pants (to wear over hiking pants in rain or high winds; essential)
Hiking shorts (optional – for the lower, warmer sections of the mountain)

Hands

Feet

Warm socks (wool or technical fabric; essential for cold nights and summit day)
Hiking socks (several pairs; moisture-wicking and breathable)
Liner socks (optional, such as silk or synthetic, to help prevent blisters)
Trekking/Hiking boots (waterproof, insulated, and well broken-in)
Ice Cleats / Micro Spikes (recommended from December to February) – helpful for icy or slippery conditions on the higher slopes.
Casual shoes (for wearing around camp after trekking, such as sneakers or slip-ons)
Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy-duty for snow during the wet season)

First Aid Kits and Personal Medications

Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher; essential for high-altitude sun exposure)
Lip balm (with SPF protection)
Antiseptic ointment (for cuts, blisters, or minor wounds)
Cough syrup (dry air and cold temperatures can irritate the throat)
Mosquito repellent (for lower elevations or time spent before/after the trek)

Other Essentials

Passport (valid, with necessary visas)
Reusable water bottles (2 bottles of 1L each are recommended)
Hydration bladder (like a CamelBak, 2–3L capacity, useful for summit night)
Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (optional, as filtered water is provided, but good as backup)
Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
Quick-dry towel (small or medium size)
High-protein snacks (such as energy bars, trail mix, or nuts).
Waterproof/dry bags (to protect important documents, electronics, and money)
Airline tickets (Please leave a copy of your flight details with our office for coordination and in case of schedule changes.)

Optional

Once you are in Tanzania, you have the option to rent all necessary gear from us or purchase supplies and hiking equipment if you have spare time before your trek. Our guide will be happy to assist you in finding and buying any required gear.

Important Luggage and Gear Information

Each participant is allowed one duffel bag, which should weigh between 10 to 14 kg.
This bag will be carried by our porters throughout the trek.

You will also need to carry your own daypack (with a waterproof cover) for daily essentials such as cash, important documents, water bottle or hydration bladder, camera, snacks, energy bars, toiletries, sunscreen, extra clothing layers, and other personal items.

Any extra luggage (non-trekking items) can be safely stored at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi during the trek.

Gear Rentals:

Down jacket with hood (mandatory above 4,000m): Available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd. for USD 30
Sleeping bag (suitable for high-altitude cold conditions): Available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro. for USD 30
Note: All essential mountain gear is available for rent.

Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Tour Map

Frequently Asked Questions

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Traveler Reviews

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