The 11-Day Northern Circuit Route is a recently designed path that optimizes acclimatization for climbers tackling Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning along the familiar Lemosho Route, the trek diverges at Moir Hut, passing through Buffalo Camp, Third Cave, and School Hut before descending via the Mweka Route. This extended adventure to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of distant landscapes and unique mountain features.
Make sure your camera battery is fully charged, as you’ll want to capture countless unforgettable moments along the journey. The success of your climb depends heavily on the tips and guidance provided during our informative briefings. At Serengeti Clarity, our team consists of experienced climbing and safari professionals, offering insights gained from years of hands-on experience, education, and service as porters on the routes to Kilimanjaro’s summit.
A day-to-day itinerary provides a clear and structured overview of your safari, outlining each stage of your journey from arrival to departure. It details daily activities, destinations, and accommodation stays, ensuring you know exactly what to expect at every step.
Arrive at your lodging in Moshi, Tanzania, at your convenience. With prior notice, airport pick-up and private transfers can be arranged from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), or you may choose to travel independently by taxi. In the evening, we’ll hold a pre-climb briefing to ensure you have all the essentials and are fully prepared for your adventure. The Northern Circuit trek begins and ends in Moshi, spanning 9 days of incredible mountain experiences.
After breakfast at your lodge in Moshi, you’ll transfer to Londorossi Gate to complete the required registration formalities. The journey continues through scenic farmland with sweeping views of the plains, leading you to the Lemosho roadhead. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the glades before beginning an easy trek through the lush rainforest, taking in the vibrant vegetation and fresh mountain air. The day concludes with an overnight stay at Lemosho Forest Camp.
Walking time: 2–3 hours
Today, you’ll leave the rainforest behind and ascend into the moorland zone, dominated by towering giant heather. The trail climbs steadily, offering expansive panoramic views, until you reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Immerse yourself in the remote wilderness as you set up camp in the heart of the plateau at Shira One Camp.
Walking time: 6–7 hours
Today, you’ll explore the grassy moorlands and striking volcanic rock formations of the Shira Plateau. The trek includes a climb to the summit of Shira Cathedral, a massive rock buttress encircled by dramatic spires and pinnacles. After taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Meru, you’ll set up camp near Shira Hut, enjoying a peaceful evening amid the plateau’s stunning scenery.
Walking time: 5–7 hours
This morning, you’ll follow the main trail to Lava Tower (4,550 m / 14,900 ft), pausing to rest and enjoy the dramatic scenery. For those feeling strong, there’s an optional climb to Arrow Glacier (4,785 m / 15,700 ft), offering an incredible vantage point over the surrounding landscape. Afterward, descend slightly and continue to Moir Hut, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by the alpine environment.
Walking time: 5–7 hours
Today, you’ll climb out of the Moir Valley and ascend Lent Hills (4,695 m / 15,400 ft), gaining spectacular views of the surrounding alpine terrain. The trail then continues eastwards along the Northern Circuit, passing through a field of rugged rock slabs. Your day concludes at Buffalo Camp, where the vast Kenyan plains stretch out below, offering a stunning panorama.
Walking time: 4–7 hours
The trek today involves a steady climb up Buffalo Ridge, navigating a series of ribs and gullies along the way. You’ll traverse an alpine landscape with sparse vegetation, taking in the vast, rugged scenery unique to this part of Kilimanjaro. The day concludes at Third Cave Camp, where you’ll rest and prepare for the following day’s ascent.
Walking time: 5–7 hours
Today’s trek takes you on a steady ascent to the Saddle, a stark lunar landscape nestled between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Continue across this dramatic terrain to arrive at Kibo Hut (4,725 m / 15,500 ft) in the early afternoon. Take time to rest, enjoy the views, and prepare your gear for the challenging summit day ahead.
Walking time: 4–5 hours
The final ascent begins around midnight by torchlight, as you tackle the alpine desert under a starry sky. You’ll reach Gilman’s Point (5,670 m / 18,600 ft) at the crater rim, where the breathtaking sunrise unfolds across the horizon. For those feeling strong, there’s an optional three-hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,345 ft), the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating your achievement, begin the descent through Barafu Camp, continuing down to Millennium Camp, where you’ll rest and recover from a truly unforgettable day.
Walking time: 11–15 hours
The day begins with a descent through a beautiful tropical forest, vibrant with birdsong and lush undergrowth. Continue down to Mweka Gate (1,650 m / 5,400 ft), where you’ll complete the formalities and sign out. From there, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for an overnight stay, reflecting on your incredible journey.
Walking time: 4–6 hours
Make this itinerary yours
Like what you see? Every journey we design at Justland Africa Safari is fully customized to match your travel style, interests, and preferences. Get in touch with our Travel Concierge, and let us craft a one-of-a-kind adventure with carefully curated experiences tailored perfectly to you.
