8 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via the Northern Circuit Route

Day 1: Arusha/Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, you'll depart from Moshi to the Londorossi Gate for registration. The drive takes you through the lush rainforest to the starting point of the Northern Circuit Route. From there, you'll embark on a trek through the forest, where you might spot wildlife such as monkeys and various bird species. The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp, where you'll settle in for the night.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Leaving the rainforest behind, you'll climb steadily through the moorland zone. The landscape changes dramatically as you reach the Shira Plateau, with vast open spaces and stunning views of the mountain. The trek continues to Shira 1 Camp, where you'll enjoy the serene environment and the sense of remoteness that the Northern Circuit offers.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut

The trek across the Shira Plateau is gentle and beautiful, with expansive views. You'll traverse to the east, passing through lava formations and ridges. The day's hike ends at Moir Hut, located at the base of Lent Hills. Here, you'll have the opportunity to take an acclimatization hike in the afternoon, which is highly beneficial for adjusting to the higher altitudes.

Day 4: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Today's trek involves a series of ascents and descents as you make your way around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The path takes you through remote and less-traveled areas, offering a unique perspective of the mountain. You'll camp at Buffalo Camp, which provides a tranquil setting and a good night's rest as you continue to acclimatize.

Day 5: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Continuing around the northern circuit, you'll trek through the alpine desert, with sweeping views of the Kenyan plains below. The trail is less demanding today, allowing you to focus on enjoying the surroundings and gradually gaining altitude. You'll reach Third Cave Camp by late afternoon, where you'll prepare for the push towards the higher altitudes.

Day 6: Third Cave Camp to School Hut

The journey today takes you to School Hut, the final camp before the summit push. The hike is relatively short but steep, giving you more time to rest and prepare for the early morning ascent. At School Hut, you'll have an early dinner and then rest, as the summit attempt begins shortly after midnight.

Day 7: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek begins around midnight. You'll make your way up to the summit in the darkness, with the goal of reaching Uhuru Peak by sunrise. The ascent is slow and steady, with the final push to the summit being the most demanding. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, you'll experience the incredible feeling of standing on the highest point in Africa. After taking in the views and capturing photos, you'll begin the descent to Mweka Camp, passing back through Barafu Camp. The descent is long and tiring, but the sense of accomplishment will keep you motivated.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Moshi

On the final day, you'll descend through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate. Here, you'll receive your summit certificates before being driven back to Moshi. Once back at your hotel, you'll have the chance to rest and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. In the evening, you'll gather with your trekking team for a celebratory dinner, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.