The Northern Circuit Route is the longest, most scenic, and least crowded route up Kilimanjaro, making it perfect for trekkers seeking panoramic views, gradual acclimatization, and immersion in the mountain’s diverse ecosystems. This trail loops almost entirely around the mountain, providing trekkers with uninterrupted vistas of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the surrounding plains while passing through pristine rainforest, high-altitude moorlands, and the alpine desert.
Because it is the longest route, the Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate, especially for those who take the 10-day itinerary, which includes extra acclimatization days. Trekkers experience serenity, remoteness, and fewer fellow climbers, combined with fully tented camps nestled in spectacular locations. The trek culminates at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), where the sunrise over Africa’s highest point is a truly unforgettable moment.
Every day on this route offers a unique blend of adventure, nature, and photography opportunities, from wildlife encounters in lower forests to sweeping highland panoramas, volcanic ridges, and glaciers near the summit. This route is suitable for climbers with moderate to high fitness levels, offering a gradual ascent, improved acclimatization, and a rewarding summit experience.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Nayla African Safaris representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Enjoy your first views of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru along the scenic drive.
Check in, relax, and recover from your flight. In the evening, meet your professional trekking guide for a detailed briefing on the Northern Circuit Route, including logistics, safety procedures, gear requiremen
Recommended Properties to Stay
The trek starts at Londorossi Gate, where registration is completed with the park rangers and armed guides join the group. You will walk through dense rainforest, encountering colobus monkeys, exotic birds, and waterfalls along shaded trails.
Arrive at Big Tree Camp, a tented site in the forest. Here, enjoy a hot meal, rest, and prepare for the ascent through the heath and moorland zones, which begin tomorrow.
Climb steadily into heath and moorland, where giant lobelias and groundsels dominate the landscape. Panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks emerge, revealing the mountain’s northern slopes in all their grandeur.
Settle into Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau. Afternoon optional walks allow trekkers to acclimatize while enjoying dramatic volcanic landscapes and perfect photo opportunities. Dinner and rest follow.
Cross the expansive Shira Plateau, traversing open moorlands with volcanic features. Views of the surrounding valleys, ridges, and peaks become more dramatic as elevation increases.
Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, a tented campsite in a remote and scenic area. Afternoon optional walks help with acclimatization, taking in the northern glaciers and ridges, while preparing for higher altitude sections.
Ascend gradually through alpine desert and rocky ridges, approaching the iconic Barranco Wall. The northern exposure offers uninterrupted views and a quieter trekking experience than other routes.
Arrive at Barranco Camp, situated at the base of the Barranco Wall. Afternoon acclimatization walks allow trekkers to explore surrounding ridges and terrain. Dinner and rest prepare you for tomorrow’s scramble.
Climb the Barranco Wall, a thrilling but manageable rock scramble with panoramic views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the plains below. Descend slightly to Karanga Camp, a tented site in the Karanga Valley.
Optional walks help with further acclimatization. Camp surroundings offer a serene, breathtaking environment to relax, rest, and enjoy the alpine desert. Dinner and early sleep follow.
The trail ascends steadily through barren alpine desert, with Kibo Peak looming above. Arrive at Barafu Camp, the last campsite before summit day. Afternoon is for rest, hydration, and a final summit briefing.
9-Day itinerary: Summit tomorrow.
10-Day itinerary: Optional extra acclimatization or short hike in Karanga Valley to improve summit success.
Dinner and early sleep are essential for the midnight summit climb.
Summit day starts around midnight. Ascend steep scree slopes and rocky paths with headlamps, reaching Gillman’s Point (5,685 m), then continue to Uhuru Peak. Witness the sunrise over Africa’s highest point, a truly life-changing experience.
After celebrating, descend carefully to Barafu Camp for rest, snacks, and hydration before continuing descent to lower camps.
Descend through alpine desert, moorland, and rainforest zones to Mweka Camp, a tented site nestled in lush forest. The trail winds through shaded areas and streams, offering a peaceful and scenic descent.
Dinner and rest reward trekkers after the challenging summit and descent.
Complete the final descent to Mweka Gate, receive your certificate of achievement, and transfer to Moshi or Arusha.
9-Day itinerary: Trek concludes today.
10-Day itinerary: Includes an extra acclimatization day before summit to maximize summit success and minimize fatigue.
Recommended Properties to Stay
After an unforgettable Mount Kilimanjaro experience, your last day begins with breakfast at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. You will then be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport, ensuring plenty of time for your flight and departure procedures.
This marks the conclusion of your Northern Circuit Route adventure, leaving you with lifelong memories of Africa’s highest peak, breathtaking landscapes, and a rewarding high-altitude achievement. Many climbers reflect on their journey during the transfer, reliving the stunning views, summit sunrise, and unique ecological zones they experienced along the way.
All transfers as outlined in the itinerary.
Camping accommodation with tents, sleeping mats, and dining tents.
Meals as specified during the trek.
Tea, coffee, and clean drinking water included.
Certified Machame Route guides and armed park rangers.
Porters and cooks to carry gear and prepare meals.
All park fees, rescue fees, and first-aid coverage included.
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