Northern Circuit Route – Kilimanjaro Adventure

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your Kiware Africa guide will be waiting to greet you. You’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind and recover from your journey.

Later in the day, you’ll meet your mountain guide for a detailed pre-climb briefing. They'll provide expert advice on what to pack, what to wear, and how to prepare for the days ahead—ensuring you feel confident and ready to take on the mountain.

Route: Lemosho Trailhead (2,000 m / 6,561 ft) → Big Tree Camp (2,780 m / 9,120 ft)

Your Kilimanjaro trek begins! After breakfast at the hotel, your driver will take you to Londorossi Gate on the western side of the mountain to complete registration. From there, you’ll continue to the Lemosho Trailhead, where you’ll enjoy lunch before setting off on foot.

The day’s hike is a gentle 3–4 hour walk through lush rainforest teeming with wildlife—you might spot buffalo, monkeys, or exotic birds along the way. After following a narrow trail with a few steep stretches, you’ll arrive at Big Tree Camp, your first overnight stop in the heart of the forest.

Route: Big Tree Camp (2,780 m / 9,120 ft) → Shira 1 Camp (3,510 m / 11,515 ft)

Today, you leave the dense rainforest behind and ascend into a dramatic moorland landscape filled with heather, wildflowers, and volcanic rock formations. The trail winds through rolling hills below the majestic Shira Plateau, the remains of one of Kilimanjaro’s three ancient volcanic cones.The hike lasts around 5 to 6 hours, with a mix of moderate climbs and descents. As you reach the edge of the Shira Plateau, the terrain levels out and the views open wide—leading you to Shira 1 Camp, where you’ll rest for the night with stunning views of Kibo Peak on the horizon.

Today’s hike lasts 7-8 hours and takes you from Heather into the alpine desert. You pass the Shira Plateau, one of the highest in the world, on the way to the Lava Tower, with an optional visit to the Shira Cathedral. From the Lava Tower, the path continues northwest toward Kibo, the highest peak of Kilimanjaro. Afterwards, you follow a steep trail to Moir Hut Camp, a remote spot with stunning views over the Shira Plateau.

Route: Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) → Buffalo Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft)

Today’s journey continues along the remote Northern Circuit, offering an immersive day of exploration through high-altitude heathland and alpine desert. After breakfast, you’ll set out over a steep ridge, with sweeping views of the rugged terrain surrounding you.

For those with extra energy, there’s the option of a quick detour to Little Lent Hill—a worthwhile viewpoint before rejoining the main trail. The total hike takes approximately 8 to 9 hours, ending at Buffalo Camp, a peaceful spot nestled on the northern slopes with stunning views toward the Kenyan border.

Route: Buffalo Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft) → Third Cave Camp (3,930 m / 12,893 ft)

Today’s trek continues eastward along the rarely traveled northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail leads you through a mix of heathland, deep valleys, and alpine terrain, offering a serene and untouched perspective of the mountain—far from the busier southern routes.

This 5 to 7-hour hike provides ample opportunity to take in the surrounding wilderness and marvel at the stark beauty of the remote northern circuit. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Third Cave Camp, where you’ll settle in for the night beneath a quiet, starry sky.

Route: Third Cave Camp (3,930 m / 12,893 ft) → School Huts Camp (4,710 m / 15,452 ft)

Today’s trek is a 4 to 5-hour gradual climb leading to the Saddle, a striking high-altitude desert plateau that stretches between the towering peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. The scenery is vast and barren—often compared to walking on the moon.

You’ll reach School Huts Camp by early afternoon, where you’ll have plenty of time to rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the final summit push starting just after midnight. This is your last camp before reaching the Roof of Africa.

Route: School Huts Camp (4,710 m / 15,452 ft) → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) → Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft)

Your summit attempt begins around midnight, under a sky full of stars. In the quiet darkness, you’ll ascend the steep, winding path toward Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. This challenging stretch is taken slowly, with short rest breaks along the way.

Reaching Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak—a moment you’ll never forget. From there, it’s another 1–2 hours along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your triumph, snap your summit photos, and take in the views from the Roof of Africa.Afterward, begin your descent back to Kibo Huts for a short rest, then continue down to Millennium Camp, where a warm meal and your final night on the mountain await.

Route: Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) → Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft) → Hotel

On your final day on the mountain, you’ll feel the relief of lower altitude and the joy of accomplishment. After breakfast, begin your gentle descent through the lush rainforest, enjoying the changing scenery as you approach Mweka Gate, the official exit of Kilimanjaro National Park.

At the gate, the entire group comes together to celebrate the achievement and receive your well-earned summit certificates. From there, your driver will return you to your hotel, where you can enjoy a hot shower, a hearty dinner, and a much-needed night of rest.

After an incredible journey to the Roof of Africa, your Kilimanjaro adventure comes to a close. Spend your final hours in Tanzania relaxing at the hotel, reflecting on your climb, or picking up souvenirs before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.

Still not ready to leave? Many climbers choose to extend their stay with a safari through the Serengeti or a beach escape to Zanzibar. Just let us know—we’ll be happy to help you plan the perfect add-on to your journey!