8-Days Northern Circuit Route (10-Day Itinerary)

Best Season: Short Dry Season: December through early March (peak: January & February)

Max Group Size: 8 People
Elevation Gain: 4,800 – 5,000 m
Book This Itinerary

What to Expect on This 8-Day Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit is Africano Paraiso’s newest—and most secluded—Kilimanjaro path, winding you along the quiet northern flanks for spectacular, rarely seen perspectives of the mountain. With shorter daily treks and an eight-day schedule, this route offers gentle altitude gains and superior acclimatization, giving your body the time it needs to adapt and recover.

Throughout your climb, Africano Paraiso’s expert guides, porters, and camp chef ensure twice-daily health checks, delicious high-energy meals, and seamless logistics. You’ll receive a detailed pre-climb guide with packing checklists, route insights, and preparation tips so you’re fully ready for each day on the trail. Ready to explore Kilimanjaro’s hidden face? Let us take you there in comfort and style.

Best season to visit: Short Dry Season: December through early March (peak: January & February)

Best Seasons to Trek
Jan–Mar

Peak trekking season: clear skies and stable weather.

Apr–Jun

Shoulder season: fewer crowds, occasional showers.

Jul–Sep

Dry season: best views but can be dusty.

Pricing

No pricing available for this trek.

What’s Included
  • Guided trekking with an experienced guide
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • All park fees & permits
  • Camping equipment & porters
What’s Not Included
  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses & tips
Arrival Day 1

Arrival

When you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your Paraiso guide will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel, where you can unwind after your journey. Before setting off on your climb, you’ll meet with your guide for a detailed briefing—covering essential gear, packing tips, and expert advice to ensure your ascent is as comfortable and successful as possible.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Reach out to our team to pick the ideal mid-range hotel accommodation for your stay. Lodge — 3★ Kilimanjaro/Arusha
Lemosho Trailhead (2,000 m / 6,561 ft) → Big Tree Camp (2,780 m / 9,120 ft) Day 2

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

Your adventure starts at your hotel, where your driver picks you up and drives you to Londorossi Gate (on the west side). You then go to Lemosho trailhead for lunch and begin the climb. This easy walk through dense rainforest lasts 3 to 4 hours and offers the chance to spot various animals, including buffalo and monkeys. After a narrow path and a few steep sections, you reach Big Tree Camp, where you spend the night.

Accommodation

Big Tree Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Big Tree Camp (2,780 m / 9,120 ft) → Shira I Camp (3,510 m / 11,515 ft) Day 3

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

On Day 3, you’ll leave the forest behind and trek across heather-covered moorland and volcanic ridges below the Shira Plateau. After 5–6 hours of rolling ascents and descents, the trail flattens as you step onto the plateau’s edge. Arrive at Shira I Camp in time to relax and soak in sweeping views of Kibo’s summit.

Accommodation
Shira 1 Camp

Shira 1 Camp

Shira I Camp sits at 3,510 m on the Shira Plateau amid heathlands and volcanic outcrops. Wooden-platform tents offer panoramic views. Enjoy gentle hikes, communal meals, and starlit skies aiding … Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Shira I Camp (3,510 m / 11,515 ft) → Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) Day 4

Shira I Camp (3,510 m / 11,515 ft) → Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft)

Today’s 7–8-hour trek carries you from heather-strewn moorlands into stark alpine desert. You’ll skirt the vast Shira Plateau—one of the world’s highest—pausing at the Shira Cathedral’s rock formations if you wish, before arriving at the dramatic Lava Tower. From here, the trail angles northwest toward Kibo’s snowy summit. Finally, a steep descent brings you to Moir Hut Camp, a secluded high-camp boasting sweeping views back over the plateau.

Accommodation

Moir Hut

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) → Buffalo Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft) Day 5

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

Continuing along the Northern Circuit, you’ll crest a steep ridge before descending through heathland and stark alpine desert toward Buffalo Camp. Today’s trek spans roughly 8–9 hours, filled with ever-changing landscapes. In the morning, you can opt for a brief side excursion to Little Lent Hill for panoramic views before returning to the main trail.

Accommodation

Buffalo Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Buffalo Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft) → Third Cave Camp (3,930 m / 12,893 ft) Day 6

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

On Day 6, you’ll trek eastward through ever-changing terrain—from rolling heathlands and hidden valleys to stark alpine zones. The quieter Northern Circuit affords a serene immersion in Kilimanjaro’s wilderness and majestic peaks. Expect about 5–7 hours of hiking as you soak in these breathtaking landscapes.

Accommodation

Third Cave Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Third Cave Camp (3,930 m / 12,893 ft) → School Hut Camp (4,710 m / 15,452 ft) Day 7

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

Today’s trek takes 4–5 hours up to the “Saddle,” a breathtaking lunar plateau nestled between Mawenzi and Kibo. From there, you’ll press on to School Hut Camp, arriving by early afternoon. Spend the rest of the day resting and gearing up for tomorrow’s summit push.

Accommodation

School Hut Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
School Hut Camp (4,710 m / 15,452 ft) → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) → Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) Day 8

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

Under a star-studded sky, you’ll begin your midnight push toward Gilman’s Point, navigating the steep rim of Kibo’s crater. After several hours of climbing—with short rests—you’ll arrive in time for a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From there, it’s a 2–3-hour trek to Uhuru Peak, where you’ll toast your achievement amid sweeping summit vistas. Your descent follows the same path down through Kibo Huts to Millennium Camp, where a warm dinner and a final mountain night await.

Accommodation
Millennium Camp

Millennium Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) → Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft) → Return to Hotel Day 9

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

At last, you’ll feel the welcome drop in altitude. After breakfast, stroll down to the park exit at Mweka Gate, where your group will reunite and celebrate your achievement. Then, relax as your Paraiso driver transfers you back to the hotel for a refreshing shower, a celebratory dinner, and a well-earned rest.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Reach out to our team to pick the ideal mid-range hotel accommodation for your stay. Lodge — 3★ Kilimanjaro/Arusha
Transfer to the Airport for your Departure flight Day 10

Transfer to the Airport for your Departure flight

As your Kilimanjaro adventure comes to an end, savor your final moments in Tanzania before our driver whisks you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Craving more excitement? Extend your escape with a thrilling safari or relaxing beach getaway to make your Paraiso experience last even longer!

Essential Gear for This Trek

🧳 Rent or Buy Your Gear?

If you’ve already climbed peaks above 5,000 meters, you likely have most of the gear needed for Kilimanjaro. But for many of our guests, this is their first big trek — and that’s perfectly okay!

At Africano Paraiso, we recommend renting gear locally if you're not planning future climbs. A full kit can cost over $1,000, while rentals for essentials like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles are typically just $250–$300.

Planning more hikes? Then investing in your own equipment makes sense. Just remember: a full kit can weigh 15–17 kg. This matters when booking flights to Zanzibar or safari extensions, where luggage limits often cap at 15 kg.

Even experienced hikers often rent heavier gear for convenience. Whether you rent or bring your own, Africano Paraiso ensures you're fully prepared for a smooth and unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

Fleece jacket for mid-layer insulation
Fleece jacket for mid-layer insulation

Fleece jackets are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro gear. Whether worn on their own or layered over a trekking shirt, they provide much-needed warmth—especially during chilly evenings at camp. You’ll find yourself using a fleece jacket on most days of your climb, making it a must-have for the trek. For optimal performance, Polartec 200 fleece is highly recommended thanks …

Warm Jacket
Warm Jacket

A warm jacket is essential for your Kilimanjaro climb, especially during cold evenings at camp and the summit push. It’s a key part of your gear that should not be overlooked. Choose a jacket that’s neither too bulky nor too thin, and designed to keep you comfortable in temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). A hooded design is highly recommended …

Membrane Hard Shell Rain Jacket
Membrane Hard Shell Rain Jacket

A hard shell rain jacket is a must-have from day one—especially on routes like the Lemosho 7-day trek, which begins at elevations around 3,500 m (11,500 ft). Always keep it easily accessible in your daypack, as weather can shift quickly on the mountain. Designed to shield you from wind and light rain, this jacket plays a key role in your …

Trekking Pants
Trekking Pants

A reliable pair of trekking pants is typically all you need for a Kilimanjaro expedition. Even if you enjoy hiking in shorts, it's important to bring long trousers for the colder high-altitude sections and the cool evenings at camp.

Membrane pants of rain pants
Membrane pants of rain pants

Membrane pants are a key part of your Kilimanjaro gear, especially during the rainy season. When layered over your trekking pants, they offer reliable protection from wind and rain, helping you stay dry, warm, and comfortable throughout the climb.

Warm Trouser
Warm Trouser

Warm trousers or ski pants are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro gear—especially for summit night, when temperatures drop well below freezing. These pants should be fleece-lined for insulation and have a water-resistant, windproof outer shell to protect you from harsh alpine conditions. Designed for extreme cold, they should keep you comfortable in temperatures below -15°C (5°F). Even before summit …

Daypack
Daypack

Your daypack is your go-to companion during the Kilimanjaro trek, carrying all your daily essentials—like sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, flashlight, water flask, snacks, and any personal gadgets such as a camera or smartphone. Aim to keep your daypack lightweight and compact. Heavier backpacks are better suited for other adventures. Most importantly, ensure it fits comfortably on your back. We strongly …

Duffle bag
Duffle bag

Duffel bags are carried by porters on their heads, so it’s important to choose a soft, flexible model to ensure their comfort. Over the course of the trek, a porter may carry your bag for 40–60 km, and even more on longer routes like the Northern Circuit—making weight and structure crucial. According to Kilimanjaro National Park regulations, your fully loaded …

Dry bag (optional)
Dry bag (optional)

Rain is common on Kilimanjaro, so packing a dry bag is highly recommended. Placing it inside your duffle bag or backpack helps keep your gear dry and ready for use in all conditions. If you bring one, be sure it's large enough to hold your sleeping bag and other essentials.

Water Flask
Water Flask

Certainly! Here's a refined and more engaging version of your passage: --- A water flask is absolutely essential for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Unlike low-quality hydration bladders that can freeze overnight, a sturdy flask keeps your water accessible even in cold conditions. Since you’ll need to drink 3–4 liters of water daily, carrying one or two 1-liter flasks is highly recommended. …

Camel bag / Hydration bladder (Optional)
Camel bag / Hydration bladder (Optional)

A hydration bladder (commonly known as a "camel bag") is strongly recommended for your Kilimanjaro trek. If your daypack is hydration-compatible, using a bladder will make staying hydrated far more convenient during the climb. Be sure to invest in a high-quality model—cheaper versions may fail under extreme conditions. It's especially important to choose one with an insulated drinking tube, as …

Travel bag organizers
Travel bag organizers

Travel organizers are a great addition to your packing system, making it easy to sort your gear inside a duffle bag. They’re especially useful for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from clean items, helping you stay organized throughout your trip.

Hiking Boots
Hiking Boots

Choosing the right hiking boots is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. Look for medium-weight, waterproof boots with strong ankle support and a secure lacing system. Break them in with at least two hikes before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort. Recommended brands include La Sportiva, Zamberlan, The North Face, Asolo, Salomon, and Scarpa. If you’re not planning to …

Sneakers (Optional)
Sneakers (Optional)

On certain routes, the early days of your Kilimanjaro trek are relatively gentle, allowing you to wear lightweight trekking sneakers instead of boots. Later in the journey, once you arrive at camp, you’ll likely want to give your feet a break from heavy boots. That’s when sneakers become especially useful — perfect for walking around camp, exploring nearby areas, or …

Trekking socks
Trekking socks

Trekking socks are essential for a climb like Kilimanjaro. Avoid cotton socks—they trap moisture and increase the risk of blisters. Instead, opt for wool or wool-blend socks, which offer excellent moisture-wicking and comfort. A reliable brand to consider is Bridgedale, known for performance and durability on high-altitude treks.

Thermal socks (Optional)
Thermal socks (Optional)

Thermal socks aren’t mandatory, but they’re highly recommended—especially for summer climbs when warmth at higher altitudes becomes essential. Look for non-cotton options with flat seams for maximum comfort. Wool socks are an excellent choice, offering warmth, breathability, and moisture control. With many quality brands available, it’s easy to find a pair that suits your needs perfectly.

Gaiters (Optional)
Gaiters (Optional)

Gaiters aren’t mandatory for Kilimanjaro, but they become extremely useful during the rainy season. They help keep mud, snow, and small rocks out of your boots, ensuring greater comfort along the trail. While often underestimated, gaiters go a long way in keeping your trekking pants and boots clean and dry, making gear easier to manage each day. They also provide …

Sun hat
Sun hat

A sun hat is an essential item for your Kilimanjaro packing list. For added protection, choose one with a built-in neck flap. It helps shield your face and neck from sunburn and keeps you cool under strong mountain sun.

Beanie
Beanie

A beanie is an essential item for your Kilimanjaro climb. As you gain altitude, temperatures drop significantly — especially near the summit. A warm, well-fitting beanie will help protect your head and ears from the cold and wind, making a big difference in comfort during early mornings and snowy summit conditions.

Balaclava (Optional)
Balaclava (Optional)

A balaclava is an excellent choice for hikers who are sensitive to cold. A wool or thermal balaclava helps shield your chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead from biting winds—especially during the summit night. While you may not need it often during the trek, it becomes invaluable at high altitudes.

Neck warmer (Optional)
Neck warmer (Optional)

A neck warmer can be a great addition to your gear. It offers extra warmth for your neck and face in cold conditions and also helps protect against dust on windy trails. Many trekkers find it surprisingly useful.

Sun Glasses
Sun Glasses

Sunglasses are essential for your Kilimanjaro climb. At altitudes nearing 6,000 meters, UV radiation is significantly stronger than at sea level, making proper eye protection critical. In addition to direct sunlight, snow near the summit reflects intense glare, increasing the risk of snow blindness—a painful and potentially serious condition that can cause lasting eye damage. To stay protected, always wear …

Headlamp
Headlamp

A headlamp is an essential item for anyone trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. Once the sun sets at camp, visibility drops significantly, making it difficult to move around or even find your tent. Without a headlamp, navigating tent ropes or heading to the bathroom at night can become hazardous. Most importantly, during the summit attempt, climbers typically begin the ascent around midnight …

Trekking Poles
Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are highly recommended for Kilimanjaro—not just for comfort, but for joint support. Daily hikes range from 7–10 km over rugged terrain, often lasting 4–8 hours. This puts significant strain on your knees, especially at high altitude. Poles provide extra balance, reduce impact, and become especially helpful during the summit push when fatigue sets in. By shifting some weight …

Lightweight gloves
Lightweight gloves

Lightweight gloves are essential from Day 2 of your Kilimanjaro trek onward. Most trekkers wear them until reaching the summit camp, where they switch to outer gloves. Choose inner gloves made from quality materials like wool, Polartec, or synthetics for warmth and moisture control. Avoid cotton, as it lacks proper wicking ability and won’t keep your hands dry in mountain …

Mittens
Mittens

You'll need warm, waterproof gloves or mittens for the summit night. Comfort and insulation are key, as you’ll be holding trekking poles for up to eight hours in freezing temperatures. Mittens are often the better choice, offering superior warmth in the -15°C / 5°F summit zone—where keeping your hands protected is absolutely essential.

Sleeping bag
Sleeping bag

No matter the season or route you choose to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, a warm sleeping bag is essential. Even on the Marangu route, where huts are provided, the shelters are not heated, and temperatures drop significantly at night. Staying warm is entirely up to you. When selecting a sleeping bag, pay close attention to its temperature ratings: The comfort level …

Sleeping bag liner (Optional)
Sleeping bag liner (Optional)

A sleeping bag liner adds valuable warmth during the coldest nights of your Kilimanjaro climb, especially near the summit. Mummy-shaped liners are more efficient than rectangular ones, and both fleece and insulated options work well. A quality liner can increase your sleeping bag’s comfort range by 3 to 8°C, making it possible to bring your own bag—even if it doesn’t …

Inflatable pillow (Optional)
Inflatable pillow (Optional)

An inflatable pillow is a great comfort item, especially for those who enjoy reading or relaxing in the tent. That said, if you prefer to pack light, you can always improvise by using your backpack or rolled-up clothes as a makeshift pillow.

Wet wipes (Optional)
Wet wipes (Optional)

Wet wipes are a great alternative for staying fresh on Kilimanjaro, especially if you’re not using a portable shower. Bring two packs—one small pack in your daypack for quick refreshes during the trek, and a larger pack in your duffel bag for evening hygiene at camp.

Camera
Camera

The views from Mount Kilimanjaro are absolutely breathtaking, and capturing them is a highlight for many trekkers. Whether it’s the sunrise over the clouds or the rugged summit landscape, these are moments you’ll want to remember. Bring a smartphone with a power bank or a GoPro with extra batteries to document your journey and preserve the magic of your adventure.

Power Banks
Power Banks

If you're bringing any electronic devices, a power bank is essential. With no power outlets available on Mount Kilimanjaro, it's the only reliable way to keep your smartphone, e-reader, or other gadgets charged during the trek.

E-Book
E-Book

If you enjoy reading before bed, this is a must-pack essential.

Mp3 Player
Mp3 Player

This is the secret to making your Kilimanjaro adventure unforgettable — especially on summit night. Listening to your favorite songs will lift your spirits, boost your energy, and make those magical moments at the Roof of Africa even more special.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Northern Circuit is the longest and most scenic route on Kilimanjaro — and also the least crowded. It offers an extended journey around the remote northern slopes, with stunning views of Kenya’s plains and Kilimanjaro’s glaciers. It’s our most recommended route for comfort, success, and wilderness.

Yes! It’s ideal for beginners who want the best chance of summit success. The longer itinerary gives your body ample time to acclimatize safely, reducing the risk of altitude sickness while allowing a more relaxed trekking pace.

Expect a diverse journey through lush rainforest, the Shira Plateau, remote high alpine desert, and rugged ridgelines near the Rongai route. The scenery is dramatic, remote, and constantly changing — with incredible views from every angle of the mountain.

Yes — this is a full camping experience. Africano Paraiso provides high-quality tents, thick foam sleeping mats, mess tents, and a professional support crew to set up camp, prepare meals, and carry your gear. Expect simple but comfortable mountain living.

This route is moderate in difficulty, but the longer duration makes it less physically intense day-to-day. The main challenge is the summit night, which begins around midnight from School Hut. With proper pacing and support, most trekkers reach the summit successfully.

The Northern Circuit shares its start with the Lemosho Route, but branches north instead of heading straight to Barranco. It’s longer, quieter, and gives you more time to adjust to the altitude. While Machame is steeper and shorter, Northern Circuit prioritizes comfort and safety.

✔️ Park & camping fees
✔️ Professional guides, porters & cook team
✔️ Tents, mess tent, and sleeping mats
✔️ All meals on the mountain
✔️ Airport transfers & pre-climb briefing
✔️ Emergency oxygen, pulse oximeter checks, and full support
✔️ Gear rental coordination (if needed)

Pack for all weather zones. You’ll need:

Layered thermal clothing

Waterproof shell jacket & pants

Down jacket and sleeping bag (-15°C)

Trekking poles, gloves, and headlamp

Comfortable hiking boots and gaiters
We’ll provide a full checklist and help arrange rentals if required.

Ideal seasons are January–March and June–October, when weather is dry and visibility is excellent. Northern Circuit’s low crowd levels make it enjoyable even during peak seasons.

Absolutely. Africano Paraiso offers tailor-made add-ons including wildlife safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire, and Zanzibar beach getaways. Let us help you celebrate your summit with a dream finish to your trip.

Price

Group Size & Pricing
Climbing Cost Includes
  • All airport & trailhead transfers (Toyota Alphard, Hiace/Coaster)
  • 3★ hotel in Moshi (bed & breakfast; half- & full-board upgrades available)
  • Premium camping equipment: 4-season tents, 3″ mats, tables, chairs, mess tents, hand-washing station
  • All meals on the mountain (custom diet plans at no extra cost)
  • Experienced WFR-certified guides & porter support team
  • Preventive oxygen bottles
  • Real-time GPS tracking link
  • Daily medical check-ups, fully-stocked medical kits & in-company doctor
  • 24/7 satellite-phone emergency support
  • All park fees & Tanzanian taxes (VAT, crew, rescue, conservation fees)
  • Dedicated back-office support team
  • Innovative online Personal Trip Board
  • Free safe-room & luggage storage
  • “Leave No Trace” waste-management team
  • Social-impact contributions to local communities
Climbing Cost Excludes
  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Tips for guides & porters (recommended US $250–350 pp)
  • Tanzania visa fee (approx. US $50; US citizens pay US $100)
  • Personal gear rentals (boots, sleeping bags, poles, etc.)
  • Single-occupancy supplement (hotel & tent)
  • Travel insurance (6 000 m altitude & helicopter evacuation required)
  • Portable toilet rental on mountain
  • Lunch & dinner at hotel before/after climb

Trekking Overview

Your 10-day adventure at a glance

10-Day Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1
    Arrival
  • Day 2
    Lemosho Trailhead (2,000 m / 6,561 ft) → Big Tree Camp (2,780 m / 9,120 ft)
  • Day 3
    Big Tree Camp (2,780 m / 9,120 ft) → Shira I Camp (3,510 m / 11,515 ft)
  • Day 4
    Shira I Camp (3,510 m / 11,515 ft) → Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft)
  • Day 5
    Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) → Buffalo Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft)
  • Day 6
    Buffalo Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft) → Third Cave Camp (3,930 m / 12,893 ft)
  • Day 7
    Third Cave Camp (3,930 m / 12,893 ft) → School Hut Camp (4,710 m / 15,452 ft)
  • Day 8
    School Hut Camp (4,710 m / 15,452 ft) → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) → Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft)
  • Day 9
    Millennium Camp (3,820 m / 12,532 ft) → Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft) → Return to Hotel
  • Day 10
    Transfer to the Airport for your Departure flight

More Trekking Routes

Explore more mountain adventures

← Back to All Treks