The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest, most scenic, and most remote route—and the one that gives you the best shot at actually standing on top. It’s a nine-day traverse across the mountain’s rarely visited northern slopes, where most trekkers never set foot. It’s remote, varied, and seriously breathtaking. Because of the extra days and the gradual altitude gain, it has the highest summit success rate of any path up the mountain! We love this route, and it’s easy to see why: lush rainforest, open moorland, high alpine desert, glaciers, and, at 5,895 m (19,341 ft), Uhuru Peak—the rooftop of an entire continent.
The best route for the summit:
The gradual ascent across Kilimanjaro's northern slopes gives your body more time to acclimatize, giving you the best possible shot at reaching Uhuru Peak
Wild, crowd-free trails:
Unlike busier southern routes, the northern slopes see very few trekkers. Dramatic views, possible wildlife sightings, and a genuine sense of wilderness all the way
All logistics, fully handled:
From certified porters & expert guides to an experienced mountain chef & top-quality gear—everything is taken care of so we can focus entirely on the climb
Duration
11 days
Season
January through March, June through October
Group size
Up to 14 people
Accommodation
We spend the first and last nights of the trip at Lindrin Lodge in Moshi—a charming chalet-style property set in a well-maintained garden with views of Kilimanjaro. It’s a great place to acclimatise, prepare, and decompress: comfortable rooms, delicious meals, and warm hospitality. The lodge is the perfect launchpad and landing pad for the adventure.
The remaining 8 nights on the mountain are spent camping in high-quality four-season tents, which are included in the price of the tour. A sleeping bag and a sleeping mat are also included, as well as a private toilet on the mountain (1 per 8 climbers).
A single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional cost for the 2 nights spent at the Lindrin Lodge.
Accommodation
Standard, Comfort: Lodge & camping
Difficulty
To join this Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek, great fitness is required. This is a non-technical climb, but you’ll be trekking for several hours a day on steep, uneven terrain at high altitude—culminating in a 6 to 8-hour midnight summit push to 5,895 m (19,341 ft).
The full route covers approximately 90 km (56 mi) over nine days on the mountain.
Your guides recommend training for 2 to 3 months before the trip, focusing on cardio (hiking, running, cycling), leg strength, and regular long hikes with elevation gain while carrying a daypack. Endurance and consistency are key.
This Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek is an 11-day guided climb up Africa's highest peak via the longest, most remote, and most rewarding route on the mountain. We traverse the quiet northern slopes—where few trekkers venture—crossing lush rainforest, vast moorland, the Shira Plateau, and high alpine desert before a midnight summit push to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m (19,341 ft). Two nights at a lodge in Moshi bookend nine nights under canvas on the mountain, with all meals, gear, and support provided throughout.
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If needed, we can arrange transfers to the town of Moshi, nestled at the foot of the mountain. The afternoon is spent settling in and meeting fellow climbers at a pre-climb briefing, where we go over the route, gear, and what to expect in the days ahead. It’s a relaxed start—dinner together, a good night’s sleep, and a first proper look at the mountain that’s about to become our world for the next nine days.
Meals: Dinner Accommodation: Lindrin Lodge, Moshi
Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
We drive to Lemosho Gate (2,100 m / 6,890 ft) and take our first steps onto the mountain. The trail drops immediately into dense rainforest—a world of towering trees, birdsong, and the occasional colobus monkey darting through the canopy. After a 3 to 4-hour hike, we reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,895 m / 9,498 ft), also known as Big Tree Camp, where we set up for our first night under canvas.
Hiking: 3–4 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,895 m / 9,498 ft)
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Today we leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone—an open, windswept landscape of heather and giant lobelias stretching toward the Shira Plateau. It’s a 5 to 6-hour hike, and as we gain altitude, sweeping views across the plateau begin to open up. We arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m / 11,500 ft) and spend the first of several nights up on the plateau.
Hiking: 5–6 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m / 11,500 ft)
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
We spend another day crossing the Shira Plateau—one of the highest plateaus in Africa—with sweeping panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s summit cone ahead of us. The 4 to 6-hour walk is a steady acclimatisation day: we gain altitude gradually, giving our bodies time to adjust before the terrain gets more serious. Shira 2 Camp (3,847 m / 12,621 ft) is a beautiful spot, with plenty of time to rest and explore the surroundings.
Hiking: 4–6 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Shira 2 Camp (3,847 m / 12,621 ft)
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
A shorter but steeper day as we head higher into the alpine desert zone. The terrain becomes increasingly stark and rocky, and the air noticeably thinner. The 2 to 3-hour climb brings us to Moir Hut (4,206 m / 13,800 ft), where the afternoon is free for an optional acclimatisation hike—a great way to go high and sleep low, which significantly boosts summit success rates.
Hiking: 2–3 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Moir Hut (4,206 m / 13,800 ft)
Day 6: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp
This is the Northern Circuit at its most remote and rewarding. We traverse the wild, rarely visited northern slopes of Kilimanjaro on a 5 to 6-hour walk to Pofu Camp (4,033 m / 13,231 ft)—a slight descent in altitude that gives our bodies a welcome rest. The trail offers dramatic views across the mountain and a real sense of wilderness, with the possibility of spotting wildlife like eland or buffalo in this quieter corner of the park.
Hiking: 5–6 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Pofu Camp (4,033 m / 13,231 ft)
Day 7: Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp
A 4 to 6-hour day of gentle ascents and descents across the high alpine desert, heading toward the eastern side of the mountain. The landscape is stark and beautiful—volcanic rock, sparse vegetation, and enormous skies. Third Cave Camp (3,870 m / 12,700 ft) is one of the quieter camps on the route, and on a clear night, the stargazing here is extraordinary.
Hiking: 4–6 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Third Cave Camp (3,870 m / 12,700 ft)
Day 8: Third Cave Camp to Kibo Hut
Today we make our final push to Kibo Hut (4,750 m / 15,600 ft)—the high camp at the base of Kilimanjaro’s summit cone. It’s a steady 4 to 5-hour climb on exposed, scree-covered slopes, and by the time we arrive, the summit feels very close. We eat an early dinner and try to rest—the alarm for summit night is set for midnight.
Hiking: 4–5 hours Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Kibo Hut (4,750 m / 15,600 ft)
Day 9: Summit day—Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
The day everyone has been building toward. We set off from Kibo Hut at midnight, headlamps on, moving slowly and steadily through the darkness toward the crater rim. It’s a 6 to 8-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)—the highest point in Africa. We celebrate at the famous summit sign, take in views stretching across the continent, and then begin the long 7 to 9-hour descent to Mweka Camp (3,068 m / 10,065 ft). An epic day in every sense.
Hiking: 6–8 hours ascent, 7–9 hours descent Meals: All meals included Accommodation: Tents, Mweka Camp (3,068 m / 10,065 ft)
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate—return to Moshi
A final 3-hour descent through lush montane forest brings us to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft), where we say goodbye to the mountain. We transfer back to Lindrin Lodge, arriving around 3 pm, just in time for a hot shower and a well-deserved dinner. Climb certificates are handed out, stories are shared, and the full weight of what we’ve just done starts to sink in.
After breakfast at the lodge, it’s time to head home—or onward to the next adventure. Optional airport transfers to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) can be arranged for USD 40 per person.
Meals: Breakfast
Adventure Architect
Let’s build something unique. Design your own adventure from the ground up and let us handle the rest.
We spend the first and last nights of the trip at Lindrin Lodge in Moshi—a charming chalet-style property set in a well-maintained garden with views of Kilimanjaro. It’s a great place to acclimatise, prepare, and decompress: comfortable rooms, delicious meals, and warm hospitality. The lodge is the perfect launchpad and landing pad for the adventure.
The remaining 8 nights on the mountain are spent camping in high-quality four-season tents, which are included in the price of the tour. A sleeping bag and a sleeping mat are also included, as well as a private toilet on the mountain (1 per 8 climbers).
A single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional cost for the 2 nights spent at the Lindrin Lodge.
Food
All meals on the mountain are freshly prepared by a dedicated mountain chef—heartier and better than you’d expect at altitude. Think hot breakfasts, packed or hot lunches, and substantial dinners: soups, vegetables, rice, pasta, and protein, designed to keep us fuelled and strong. Hot drinks and snacks are provided throughout the day, and purified drinking water is available at all times. Special dietary requirements—including vegetarian and vegan—can be accommodated with advance notice.
Adventure, packed to go
Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit: 9 Days to the Roof of Africa
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Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit: 9 Days to the Roof of Africa
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Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
5.00
Chris
Chris is one of the company's most legendary guides. With over 300 Kilimanjaro summits under his belt and a client ranking of #6 out of 261 guides on the mountain, his experience and reputation speak for themselves. When Chris leads your climb, you're in exceptionally capable hands.
5.00
Robert
Robert is one of the finest Kilimanjaro lead guides, bringing expertise, calm, and deep mountain knowledge to every climb he leads. His experience on the mountain means you can focus on the journey ahead, knowing you're in safe, capable, and thoroughly trusted hands.
5.00
Paul
When not hiking in the mountains of Scotland with family, Paul is hard at work at his dream job which is helping others have truly unforgettable travel experiences like summiting Kilimanjaro or trekking to Everest Base Camp.
What others say about this adventure
5.00(9reviews)
A
A Sinclair
The team was fantastic in supporting us all the way along the Northern Circuit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The team met and even exceeded all our expectations from setting up and taking down our tents, carrying all the kit, catering delicious food to guiding us in the best way possible to make sure all of us, including our two sons aged 17 and 13, could make it to the top. Very memorable! Thank you to all of you!
M
Murtaza K
The guides were amazing! We booked these guides for a group of 7 to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. They had a great group of staff that were very approachable and kind. Their lead guy Tony was amazing and this will be one of our most memorable thanks to the guides, Tony and the crew. I would highly recommend them to others.
K
Kev T
I took the northern route to climb Kilimanjaro with these guides and had one of the best experiences of my life. They took care of everything. The Guides Robert and Paul were the best you can have. They looked after every thing
The team was fantastic in supporting us all the way along the Northern Circuit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The team met and even exceeded all our expectations from setting up and taking down our tents, carrying all the kit, catering delicious food to guiding us in the best way possible to make sure all of us, including our two sons aged 17 and 13, could make it to the top. Very memorable! Thank you to all of you!
M
Murtaza K
The guides were amazing! We booked these guides for a group of 7 to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. They had a great group of staff that were very approachable and kind. Their lead guy Tony was amazing and this will be one of our most memorable thanks to the guides, Tony and the crew. I would highly recommend them to others.
K
Kev T
I took the northern route to climb Kilimanjaro with these guides and had one of the best experiences of my life. They took care of everything. The Guides Robert and Paul were the best you can have. They looked after every thing
J
Jon F
Unleash your inner explorer and achieve your dream of climbing Kilimanjaro with these guides as your trusted guide. Their passionate team will empower you to reach new heights and create lasting memories. I can’t say enough positive things about their entire staff from guides cheering you on during the summit climb to the porters who brought coffee to your tent every morning. This was Ana amazing experience that I would recommend to everyone.
H
Hollywood27
I want to insist that this company is the safest and most accommodating organization I could ever imagine! On the 9 day Northern Circuit Route, I developed a respiratory infection that got worse as we gained altitude. On day 7, the 3 Guides decided that I could not climb anymore, even though I felt terrific! I think they saved my life. I will be forever grateful to my Guides, Trevor, Paul and Vincent, and all of the Porters for giving me a magical trek! They treated me like a Queen! I will climb again with them. They are hands down the best company to travel with!
R
ROGER35G
We recently took the 9-day Northern Circuit climb of Kilimanjaro. Thank you for organizing such a great trek! The Northern Circuit is a beautiful and remote route up the mountain; we met only one other hiker on the northern part of the route.
We truly appreciated the guiding team and the entire crew. Everyone was exceptional and worked seamlessly together throughout the trek. We are especially grateful for our lead guide William and his assistant guides Rama and Amadeus’ patience, leadership, and support. We could tell that they know what they are doing; William was constantly being recognized on the mountain by other guides, and had great stories and wisdom to share. We appreciate all their expertise and how well-rounded they were. William, our waiter, helped us stay punctual for meal times and took great care of us throughout the trek. The entire crew’s contagious energy and constant encouragement (from passing the porters on the trail to our time at camp) made a real difference from start to finish. Every single member was happy and willing to help whenever needed. We cannot recommend them enough to anyone.
The equipment the company provided/rented was good; tents, sleeping bags, and down jackets worked well, as did the poles. The thick fleece liners for the sleeping bags were a great addition that allowed us to regulate our temperature at night.
We have absolutely no regrets in choosing these guidesfor what was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Asante sana!
B
BoardingPass826672
I recently completed a remarkable nine-day journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa. The experience was unforgettable, and while the mountain itself is extraordinary, it was our guide, Mr. Amedeus, who truly elevated the entire expedition.
Our group was fortunate to have a lead guide, Crossman, along with three assistant guides: Amedeus, Gidion, and Rama. Each contributed to our success, but Amedeus stood out as the most memorable. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also warm, approachable, and deeply attentive to the needs of every member of the group. From day one, he created an atmosphere of trust and motivation that never wavered.
I will never forget the night of our summit push. We set out at midnight, climbing steadily through the darkness. The switchbacks in the snow felt endless, and exhaustion weighed heavily on all of us. At one point, I truly began to doubt whether I had the strength to continue. That’s when Amedeus reminded us: “We have come too far to give up now.” His words, spoken with calm conviction, struck me deeply. They gave me the courage to push past my fatigue and continue step by step toward the summit. That encouragement carried me through, and I’m certain it played a key role in reaching Uhuru Peak.
What impressed me most was not just his skill as a guide, but his ability to connect on a human level. He knew exactly when to offer reassurance, when to check in quietly, and when to simply walk beside us in silence. That balance of empathy and leadership is rare, and it made the climb as much an emotional triumph as a physical one.
Although all of the guides were capable and supportive, Amedeus left the deepest impact on me. His kindness, attentiveness, and unwavering encouragement were unmatched. I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone considering the climb.
Thanks to the team for making my dream come true.
I hope to return to Tanzania someday, and when I do, I will gladly choose these guides again — and I sincerely hope to have the privilege of being guided once more by Amedeus. He is not only a remarkable guide, but also a remarkable person, and I feel fortunate to have shared such a life-changing journey under his Leadership.
J
Jess
The Kili team was amazing!!!! Super organised and super focused on our safety. They made the trip remarkable!
We also had a two day Safari to Tarangire and Ngorongoro. The nature was stunning. We have been to South Africa and Kenya for Safari but Tanzania was by far the best.
Thank you to the team for the amazing unforgettable experiences.
n
needhair
I just returned from a Kilimanjaro Trek with this company.
The whole experience was top notch and I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Trevor, Vincent and Paul along with all the porters and cooks just did an outstanding job at make the experience safe and successful. It was truly a 5 Star service and can’t really think of one negative thing to say about them
Things to know
Included:
Experienced & qualified English-speaking guides
Porters
11-day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek (9 days on the mountain)
2 nights at Lindrin Lodge in Moshi, including breakfasts and dinners
8 nights camping with the following included:
High-quality four-season sleeping bag
High-quality four-season tent
Sleeping mat included
All meals on the mountain, plus snacks, hot drinks, and purified drinking water
Experienced mountain cook
Pre-trip preparation & organization:
In-depth pre-climb safety briefing
Pre-climb Zoom consultation
Dedicated trip manager and in-depth preparation documents
Transport to and from trailheads
Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fee
Daily wash water (‘washy washy’)
Private toilet tent (1 per 8 climbers)
Medical equipment including pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen
Organisation of any required rental equipment
Climb certificate
Add-ons (can be arranged, leave a note at checkout if interested):
Airport transfers — pricing shown at checkout
Safari extension
Private toilet tent upgrade
Extra porter
Gear rental
Not included:
Flights to Tanzania
Tanzanian visa
Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
Guide & mountain crew gratuities — optional
The Northern Circuit is the longest and newest of theseven Kilimanjaro routes, covering roughly 90 km (56 miles)—about 25 km longer than any other route on the mountain.
You will spend 9 days on the mountain, giving your body ample time to adapt to the altitude safely, which is why the Northern Circuit is widely regarded as one of the best routes for that reason.
One thing worth noting: the Northern Circuit does not take you up the Barranco Wall. The Wall sits on Kilimanjaro’s southern slope, while the Northern Circuit crosses the northern slope entirely—making it a great option if you’re fearful of heights.
Beyond acclimatisation, it has a lot going for it:
Relaxed pace with less rushing and more time to adjust
Away from the crowds even during peak seasons
Stunning, varied scenery: lush rainforest, the Shira Plateau, the remote Northern Wilderness, and glacier views from multiple angles
A quieter, more pristine environment with opportunities to spot unique wildlife
Bottom line: If you want the best acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, fewer crowds, and prefer to avoid exposed scrambles like the Barranco Wall, the Northern Circuit is an excellent choice.
To join this Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek, great fitness is required. This is a non-technical climb, but you’ll be trekking for several hours a day on steep, uneven terrain at high altitude—culminating in a 6 to 8-hour midnight summit push to 5,895 m (19,341 ft).
The full route covers approximately 90 km (56 mi) over nine days on the mountain.
Your guides recommend training for 2 to 3 months before the trip, focusing on cardio (hiking, running, cycling), leg strength, and regular long hikes with elevation gain while carrying a daypack. Endurance and consistency are key.
Yes, porters are fully included in the price. Your guides are committed to ethical travel and hold KPAP certification—meaning every porter is treated and paid fairly, with working conditions that meet the highest standards on the mountain.
Your guides provide a high-quality four-season sleeping bag, tent, and sleeping mat. Here’s what you’ll need to bring:
Equipment:
Trekking poles
Backpack (35–50 litres)
Waterproof backpack rain cover
Dry bags
Duffel bag (65–100 litres) for porters to carry
Hydration pack (water bladder)
Water bottle(s)
Headlamp with spare batteries (essential for summit night)
Sunglasses and SPF sunscreen
Camera—optional (but very recommended)
Clothing:
Kilimanjaro takes you through five distinct climate zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic summit. Layering is essential.
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots (waterproof)
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
Waterproof, windproof jacket and trousers
Warm mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
Hiking trousers and shorts
Moisture-wicking t-shirts
Warm hat and balaclava
Neck gaiter
Waterproof gloves and liner gloves
Hiking socks (several pairs)
Gaiters—recommended for summit night
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Group sizes and pricing
For this Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 2:1.
It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is 14 participants. Solo climbs can be arranged—contact us for pricing.
Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit treks can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
Minors older than 12 may be permitted to join the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Yes, absolutely—there are more departure dates available than what’s listed here.
The best times to climb are during the dry seasons: January to early March, and June to October, when you can expect clearer skies, more stable weather, and better trail conditions. The wetter months (April–May and November) are possible but less predictable and more strenuous.
Reach out to us directly and we’ll find something that works. Whether you’d love to join an existing group, have your own group, or are looking to go solo, we’ll do our best to arrange what suits you best.
You will spend 2 nights at a lodge with double occupancy rooms, the rest of the trip is spent camping in tents. A single occupancy room for these 2 nights can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.
The starting point of your Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit trek is Moshi, Tanzania. Most climbers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is approximately 45 minutes from Moshi by road.
We can arrange airport transfers for you, you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout. If you opt for this, you’ll be met at the airport on arrival. Otherwise, the exact lodge address will be shared after booking.
Your guides highly recommend arriving a day or two early to rest and acclimatize before the climb begins.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered tosimply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
If cancelled 60 or moredays before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
If cancelled within 59days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
If cancelled 60 or moredays before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
If cancelled within 29days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
If cancelled 30 or moredays before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
Have more questions?
Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.
Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.
The team was fantastic in supporting us all the way along the Northern Circuit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The team met and even exceeded all our expectations from setting up and taking down our tents, carrying all the kit, catering delicious food to guiding us in the best way possible to make sure all of us, including our two sons aged 17 and 13, could make it to the top. Very memorable! Thank you to all of you!