7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic path to Kilimanjaro’s summit, offering excellent acclimatization and fewer crowds. This route circles around the mountain’s northern slopes, providing breathtaking views and a high success rate.

Essential Mountain Trekking Tips

  • Acclimatize Properly – Take your time to adjust to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to maintain energy and prevent dehydration.
  • Pack Smart – Carry lightweight, essential gear for changing weather conditions.
  • Pace Yourself – Trek at a steady, manageable pace to conserve energy for summit day.

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Day 0: Arrival in Arusha or Moshi

Activity: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide for a trek briefing, gear check, and last-minute preparations. Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Day 1: Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

  • Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
  • Elevation: 2,100m to 2,820m
  • Distance: 7 km
  • Altitude Gained: 720m

 

Activity: Start the trek at Lemosho Gate, hiking through dense rainforest filled with exotic wildlife. The trek is relatively short, leading to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll rest for the night.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

  • Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
  • Elevation: 2,820m to 3,850m
  • Distance: 16 km
  • Altitude Gained: 1,030m

 

Activity: The trail opens up to moorland, offering stunning views of Kibo Peak. You’ll pass the Shira Plateau and Shira 1 Camp before arriving at Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll spend the night.

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

  • Accommodation: Moir Hut
  • Elevation: 3,850m to 4,200m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Altitude Gained: 350m

 

Activity: A gradual ascent leads to the remote and peaceful Moir Hut, where you’ll take an acclimatization hike to a nearby ridge before returning to camp. This day helps your body adjust to the altitude.

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

  • Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
  • Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Altitude Lost: 180m

Activity: The trail curves around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, offering breathtaking views of the Kenyan plains. This less-traveled section provides solitude and unique scenery. The descent to Buffalo Camp helps with acclimatization.

Day 5: Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)

  • Accommodation: Third Cave Camp
  • Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Altitude Lost: 150m

 

Activity: A relatively easy trekking day through the alpine desert, gradually descending to Third Cave Camp. This day allows your body to further acclimatize before the summit push.

Day 6: Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) via School Hut (4,800m), then descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m)

  • Accommodation: Millennium Camp
  • Elevation: 3,870m to 5,895m (summit) to 3,820m
  • Distance: 21 km
  • Altitude Gained: 2,025m (ascent), Altitude Lost: 2,075m (descent)

 

Activity: Begin the summit push at midnight, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681m) before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Witness an unforgettable sunrise before descending to Millennium Camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 7: Millennium Camp (3,820m) to Mweka Gate (1,650m) – Return to Moshi/Arusha

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha
  • Elevation: 3,820m to 1,650m
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Altitude Lost: 2,170m

 

Activity: A final descent through the lush rainforest leads to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle transfer will take you back to Moshi or Arusha to celebrate your achievement.

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route
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