8 Days Mt Kilimanjaro- Northern Circuit Trek

Day 2: Lemosho Forest Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,650 meters to 3,550 meters

Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 900 meters
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Weather: Cooler temperatures as you ascend, with possible winds and clearer skies.

After a nutritious breakfast at Lemosho Forest Camp, you’ll continue your ascent toward Shira 1 Camp. The day’s hike takes you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, where the landscape becomes more open and dramatic. You’ll begin by trekking through a series of gentle ascents, leaving behind the dense forest and entering a world of alpine meadows and unique plant life.

The trail gradually climbs through this fascinating terrain, with opportunities to spot the iconic giant groundsels and other hardy species that thrive at these higher elevations. The journey is about 5-6 hours long, covering approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles). As you trek, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s western slopes, with Kibo Peak looming in the distance, beckoning you onward.

While the day’s hike is relatively steady, the altitude gain to 3,550 meters means you’ll need to pace yourself. It’s important to remember the mantra “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) to allow your body to adjust to the increasing elevation. The air will become thinner, and the temperature will drop as you near Shira 1 Camp, so it’s advisable to wear layers and prepare for cooler conditions.

Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the plateau. The camp is located on the edge of the Shira Plateau, offering incredible vistas, making it a perfect spot to rest and acclimatize.

Highlights of the Day:

• Trek through the beautiful moorland zone with breathtaking views of the mountain.

• Spot unique plant species such as the giant groundsels, which are a hallmark of Kilimanjaro’s upper slopes.

• Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Kibo Peak and the expansive Shira Plateau.

• A peaceful evening at Shira 1 Camp, where you can relax and acclimatize to the higher altitude.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Elevation: 3,550 meters to 4,200 meters

Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 650 meters
Accommodation: Moir Hut
Weather: Cooler temperatures as you ascend, with the possibility of strong winds in the alpine desert

After a restful night at Shira 1 Camp, you’ll begin your ascent toward Moir Hut. Today’s trek is an exciting journey into the alpine desert zone, where the terrain becomes more rugged and arid. The path follows a relatively steady climb with some gentle inclines, and you’ll gain about 650 meters in elevation over a 5-6 hour period.

The route offers breathtaking views of the Kibo Peak, as well as the surrounding volcanic landscape. The trail winds through open meadows, where you can enjoy the sight of the unique, alien-like Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants, which are iconic to Kilimanjaro and thrive in these higher altitudes.

As you make your way towards Moir Hut, the landscape becomes more barren, with fewer trees and more volcanic rock. The beauty of the rugged terrain will be the highlight of the day, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection. Although the ascent is gradual, you will begin to feel the effects of the altitude, so it’s essential to continue trekking “pole pole” (slowly, slowly), taking frequent breaks to acclimatize.

Upon reaching Moir Hut, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s peak and the surrounding valleys. The camp is located in a quiet, secluded area, making it the perfect place to rest before continuing on your journey. The day’s trek is designed to aid your acclimatization, so be sure to drink plenty of water and allow your body to adjust.

Highlights of the Day:

• Trek through the alpine desert zone, a unique and barren landscape that offers incredible views of Kilimanjaro.

• Spot the iconic Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants, which are native to Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the volcanic landscapes surrounding the camp.

• Moir Hut offers a peaceful, secluded spot for rest, perfect for acclimatization.

Day 4: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp

Elevation: 4,200 meters to 4,650 meters

After a good night’s rest at Moir Hut, you’ll begin the ascent towards Pofu Camp. Today’s trek offers an exciting challenge as you climb through the rugged terrain of the alpine desert zone, gaining 450 meters over the course of 5-6 hours.

The route offers stunning panoramic views of the Kilimanjaro glaciers and distant peaks. As you ascend, you’ll pass through more exposed areas with sparse vegetation, making the views even more spectacular. The trail weaves through rocky ground and sparse alpine desert, with dramatic vistas of the surrounding wilderness.

Pofu Camp, perched at 4,650 meters, provides an excellent spot for you to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery of Kilimanjaro. This is an ideal location to allow your body to adjust to the altitude, with a peaceful setting to enjoy some rest before the upcoming days.

As you continue your trek, remember to take it “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) to avoid altitude sickness and allow for proper acclimatization.

Highlights of the Day:

• Gradual ascent through alpine desert with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and peaks

• Opportunity to acclimatize at Pofu Camp, one of the highest camps on the Lemosho route

• Peaceful, remote camp with amazing panoramic views

Walking Time: 5–6 hours

Elevation Gain: 450 meters

Accommodation: Pofu Camp

Weather: Expect cooler temperatures at this altitude, with sunny conditions, but the winds may be strong, especially in the exposed areas.

Day 5: Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp

Elevation: 4,650 meters to 4,800 meters

Walking Time: 4–5 hours

Elevation Gain: 150 meters

Accommodation: Third Cave Camp

Weather: Cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, with possible winds. Be prepared for fluctuating temperatures between sun and shade.

After breakfast at Pofu Camp, today’s trek will take you further up the slopes of Kilimanjaro towards Third Cave Camp. The journey is a relatively short but rewarding climb, taking about 4–5 hours to ascend 150 meters in altitude.

The trail begins with a gradual climb, crossing rocky terrain and winding through volcanic rock formations. As you gain elevation, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the glaciers and the summit of Kilimanjaro. The surrounding landscape is sparse, with the occasional hardy plant, and the terrain becomes more barren as you approach Third Cave Camp.

Along the way, you’ll notice the air becoming thinner, so it’s important to maintain a slow, steady pace to help with acclimatization. This day’s trek provides ample time to relax and soak in the views of the glaciers and the expansive wilderness.

Third Cave Camp, located at 4,800 meters, offers an excellent resting spot. The camp provides beautiful views of the mountain, as well as a quiet, serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking.

Highlights of the Day:

• Gradual ascent through rocky terrain with amazing views of the glaciers and the mountain’s summit

• Opportunity to acclimatize while enjoying the stunning landscapes surrounding Kilimanjaro

• Peaceful Third Cave Camp, offering solitude and a serene environment

Day 6: Third Cave Camp to School Hut

Elevation: 4,800 meters to 4,780 meters

Walking Time: 4–5 hours

Elevation Gain:-20 meters (slight descent and then gradual ascent)

Accommodation: School Hut

Weather: Cold and windy at high altitudes, with a drop in temperature as you approach the summit. Prepare for fluctuating temperatures and strong winds.

On Day 6, you’ll leave Third Cave Camp and head towards School Hut, located just below the famous Kilimanjaro summit. This day’s trek is relatively short but vital in preparing you for the summit climb the following day. The hike will take approximately 4-5 hours, with a slight descent initially, followed by a gradual ascent towards School Hut.

The route is rocky and barren, with the landscape becoming more desolate as you approach the high-altitude areas of the mountain. As you ascend, you’ll pass through the alpine desert zone, which is marked by volcanic rock and sparse vegetation. The air will become thinner, so it’s crucial to move at a slow, steady pace to help with acclimatization.

Upon reaching School Hut, you’ll have the chance to relax and prepare for your summit push. School Hut is located at 4,780 meters, just below the Barafu Hut area. It provides a quiet resting spot to recover before your summit attempt, which will begin in the early hours of the following day.

Highlights of the Day:

• Gradual ascent through rocky, volcanic terrain with views of the summit area

• Time for acclimatization and preparation for the summit day

• Quiet, secluded School Hut, offering a peaceful environment for rest

Day 7: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Elevation: 4,780 meters (School Hut) to 5,895 meters (Uhuru Peak) to 3,080 meters (Millennium Camp)

Walking Time: Ascent: 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak. Descent: 4-5 hours to Millennium Camp

Elevation Gain: Uhuru Peak: 5,895 meters down to Millennium Camp: 3,080 meters

Accommodation: Millennium Camp

Weather:

Summit Conditions: Extremely cold, with freezing temperatures and high winds at the summit (you may encounter snow).

Millennium Camp: Cooler temperatures as you descend, but more moderate compared to the summit.

The much-anticipated summit day has arrived! You’ll begin the final leg of your journey to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak. The day starts very early — around midnight or 1:00 AM — as you begin your climb in the dark, with only headlamps lighting the way. The climb to the summit is long, strenuous, and requires strong mental and physical endurance.

The first part of the ascent is a steep climb up to the crater rim, where you’ll stop for a brief rest before continuing towards Uhuru Peak. The path will be rocky and challenging, but you will be rewarded with stunning views of the stars and the surrounding landscape as the sun begins to rise. This is the moment when you’ll catch a glimpse of the summit’s rugged terrain in the morning light.

Once you reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, you’ll stand at the highest point in Africa! Take a moment to celebrate your achievement and snap some photos of the breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers, crater, and the vast expanse of Tanzania beneath you.

After the exhilarating summit celebration, you’ll begin your descent back to Millennium Camp. The descent to Millennium Camp is steep and fast, but you’ll get a chance to relax and recover at the camp. It will take several hours to get down, but the scenery along the way will be equally captivating.

Highlights of the Day:

• Summit Success: Reaching the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters — a truly once-in-a-lifetime achievement.

• Stunning Sunrise: Watch the first rays of sunlight paint the mountain and surrounding landscape as you approach the summit.

• Descent to Millennium Camp: After the summit, descend to Millennium Camp to rest and recover in a more comfortable altitude.

• Breathtaking Views: Enjoy magnificent panoramic views from the summit and along the descent.

Day 8: Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,650 meters) to Kilimanjaro International Airport

Elevation Loss: 2,300 meters
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland to Montane Forest

After a restful night at Millennium Camp, your final day on Mount Kilimanjaro begins with an early breakfast and the journey back to civilization. Today’s trek is a steady and scenic descent from the alpine moorland down to the lush montane rainforest, where the temperature becomes warmer and the oxygen richer as you make your way down.

The trail can be muddy, especially after rainfall, so trekking poles and sturdy boots are recommended for good grip. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the refreshing, cooler air of the forest, where you might encounter local wildlife like birds and monkeys. The vibrant rainforest marks a stark contrast to the rocky terrain you’ve climbed, reminding you of the diverse ecosystems on the mountain.

After a few hours of walking, you’ll reach Mweka Gate (1,650 meters), the official exit point of your trek. Here, you’ll sign out of the national park, and you’ll be awarded your Kilimanjaro climbing certificate, a well-deserved reward for your hard work and perseverance. It’s a moment to celebrate your incredible accomplishment!

Once you’ve signed out, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home or onward journey. Whether you’re heading to your next adventure or returning home, the sense of achievement will stay with you for years to come. Reflect on your experience, knowing you’ve reached the Roof of Africa.

Highlights of the Day:

• Lush Forest Descent: Enjoy trekking through the shaded rainforest, listening to the sounds of birds and wildlife.

• Mweka Gate Finish: Sign out and receive your official Kilimanjaro climbing certificate.

• Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport: After completing your climb, relax as you are transferred back to the airport.