Northern Circuit Route - Fargin Safaris

Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit Route is a scenic and less crowded trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It's known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems, offering a longer and more gradual ascent compared to other routes.
8 Days

Overview

The Northern Circuit typically takes 8-10 days to complete, providing ample time for acclimatization and increasing the chances of reaching the summit successfully. It's favored by those seeking a quieter and more immersive Kilimanjaro experience, with stunning views and varied terrain.

Itinerary

You will meet our driver and pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha airport and transfer you to your hotel. Pre-trek briefing at your hotel. You should be planning to arrive at least one day before the start of the trek. Today we will spend in having a pre-trek briefing. We will also review your equipment and rent any equipment which is needed.

After registration at Londorossi Gate, the trek begins in the rainforest, home to lush greenery and possibly wildlife sightings. The trail ascends steadily to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

The trek leaves the rainforest and enters the moorland zone, characterized by shrubs and rocky terrain. This day provides your first close views of Kibo Peak.
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Today is a shorter day with a gradual ascent. You'll cross the Shira Plateau, with expansive views of Kilimanjaro's peaks. The altitude starts to have a mild impact here, and acclimatization becomes key.
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland

From Shira 2, the trail heads east across a semi-desert landscape. You’ll climb over ridges, and by the time you reach Moir Hut, you'll have gained considerable altitude.
Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

This day includes an acclimatization trek up to Lava Tower at 4,600 m, followed by a descent to Buffalo Camp. It’s a challenging day, with a focus on adapting to higher altitudes.
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day begins with a hike across the rugged Buffalo Ridge, known for its windy and exposed terrain. You’ll encounter fewer trekkers on this remote part of the mountain, giving a real sense of solitude. As you move across the northern slopes, views of Kilimanjaro's glaciers become more prominent. You’ll end the day at Third Cave Camp, set in a secluded valley.
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

You’ll ascend steadily today, aiming to reach School Hut, the final base before the summit attempt. The trail is steep and barren, with large boulders scattered across the terrain. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon to rest and prepare for the grueling summit push ahead. This camp is much colder due to the high altitude, and you’ll go to bed early, as the summit attempt begins around midnight.
Distance: 15 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Summit night begins with a steep, slow climb under a blanket of stars. The ascent to Stella Point on the crater rim is physically and mentally challenging, with scree slopes making the going tough. After reaching Stella Point, it’s a gradual ascent along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the glaciers and surrounding landscape. After celebratory photos at the summit, you’ll descend rapidly to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

The final day is a descent through the vibrant rainforest, where you’ll likely encounter colobus monkeys and rich birdlife. The trail is steep and often muddy, but the lush surroundings make it a pleasant walk. Once you reach Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to your trekking team before heading back to your hotel.

What is included in this trek package?

  • All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
  • Professional, experienced, mountain guides
  • Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
  • Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on a twin sharing basis)
  • Sleeping Mattress
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
  • All meals while on the Mountain
  • Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
  • Clean, purified drinking water
  • Conservation fees (part of park fees)
  • Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
  • Rescue fees (part of park fees)
  • VAT (18% charged by the Government)
  • Kilimanjaro summit certificate

What is excluded in this trek package?

  • Tanzania Visa
  • International and domestic flights
  • Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary
  • Liquors, beers and bottled beverages

Book for this trek Route

Northern Circuit Route
From $4300
/ Each
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