8-Days Northern Circuit Route

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!