8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit Route

8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit

The 8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit is the longest and most scenic route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Known for its high success rate and gradual ascent, this trail offers trekkers the best acclimatization experience, significantly increasing the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Unlike the more crowded routes, the 8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit follows a remote path around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, providing breathtaking views and a peaceful trekking experience.

This 8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit route begins at Londorossi Gate, winding through lush rainforest, heathlands, alpine desert, and glacier-covered peaks. Trekkers will experience a unique journey across diverse landscapes, with panoramic sights of Kibo Peak, Mount Meru, and the Kenyan plains. Due to the extended duration, climbers have more time to adjust to the altitude, making it one of the safest and most successful routes.

For those seeking adventure, solitude, and stunning scenery, the 8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit is the ideal choice. This route not only offers spectacular 360-degree views but also provides a chance to explore Kilimanjaro’s untouched northern slopes. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a first-time climber, the 8 Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit ensures an unforgettable and rewarding experience on Africa’s highest mountain.

8-Day Northern Circuit Route Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,850m)

• Distance: ~7 km
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest

The trek begins at Londorossi Gate, where you complete registration and permits before driving to the trailhead. The hike starts through dense rainforest, home to Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species. The first night is spent at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp), surrounded by lush greenery.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,850m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,550m)

• Distance: ~8 km
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

Leaving the rainforest, the trail climbs into heath and moorland. The landscape opens up, revealing stunning views of the Shira Plateau. You will cross several rocky ridges before reaching Shira 1 Camp, where you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets over Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3,550m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

• Distance: ~7 km
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

A relatively easy day allows for acclimatization, as you gradually trek across the Shira Plateau. The landscape features volcanic rock formations and giant lobelias. You will pass Shira Cathedral, a dramatic rock outcrop, before reaching Shira 2 Camp. From here, you have stunning views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) to Moir Hut (4,200m)

• Distance: ~10 km
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek continues through the alpine desert, with a steady ascent towards Lava Tower (4,600m). This section is crucial for acclimatization, as you briefly climb to a high altitude before descending to Moir Hut. The remote Moir Valley is a secluded and peaceful camp, away from the busier trails.

Day 5: Moir Hut (4,200m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)

• Distance: ~12 km
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Leaving Moir Hut, the trail heads towards the Northern Slopes, a rarely visited section of Kilimanjaro. This part of the trek is quiet and untouched, with spectacular views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park in the distance. The route follows a series of gentle ups and downs before arriving at Buffalo Camp, a scenic and remote location.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)

• Distance: ~8 km
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: High Alpine Zone

The trail continues along the northern circuit, gradually descending before climbing again towards Third Cave Camp. The high-altitude plains offer wide-open views of Kibo Peak’s rugged slopes. This relatively short hike helps with acclimatization, ensuring your body is well-prepared for the summit attempt.

Day 7: Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to School Hut (4,750m)

• Distance: ~5 km
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s hike is steep but short, leading to School Hut, the final camp before the summit push. The barren, rocky terrain and thin air make this section challenging. After an early dinner, you rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.

Day 8: School Hut (4,750m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

• Distance: ~16 km
• Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
• Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

The summit attempt begins around midnight, following a slow, steady pace through steep switchbacks on loose scree. After reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681m), you continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa!

After celebrating at the summit, you descend rapidly to Mweka Camp, passing through Barafu Camp for a short rest. The trail becomes easier as oxygen levels increase, leading back into the rainforest.

Why Choose the 8-Day Northern Circuit Route?

✅ Best Acclimatization & Highest Success Rate: The gradual ascent gives your body time to adjust.
✅ Most Scenic Route: 360-degree views from all sides of Kilimanjaro.
✅ Least Crowded Trail: Avoids the busy southern routes.
✅ Diverse Landscapes: Rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.