1. Q: What is the Northern Circuit Route, and why is it unique?

A: The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic trail to climb Kilimanjaro. It is less crowded and offers diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, heath, moorland, and high-altitude deserts.

2. Q: How difficult is the Northern Circuit Route compared to other routes?

A: The Northern Circuit is considered a moderate to challenging route due to its length and varied terrain. However, the extended duration allows for better acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching the summit.

3. Q: What is the best time of year to attempt the Northern Circuit Route?

A: The best time is during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These months offer better weather conditions and higher chances of clear skies for stunning views.

4. Q: Are there age restrictions for climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit?

A: While there is no specific age limit, climbers should be in good physical condition. We recommend a minimum age of 16 years, and participants under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.

5. Q: Do I need prior climbing or mountaineering experience to attempt this route?

A: Prior experience is not mandatory, but it is beneficial to have some hiking experience and be physically fit. Our experienced guides will provide support and guidance throughout the climb.

6. Q: What is the accommodation like on the Northern Circuit Route?

A: Accommodations are in tents along the trail. Our team will set up comfortable camping facilities with sleeping bags, mattresses, and a dining tent for meals.

7. Q: Are permits required to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route?

A: Yes, a permit is required, and our tour operator will handle the necessary permits and logistics on your behalf.

8. Q: What safety measures are in place during the climb?

A: Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in mountain rescue and first aid. We also provide proper acclimatization, regular health checks, and emergency communication equipment.

9. Q: What should I pack for the Kilimanjaro climb?

A: We will provide you with a detailed packing list, but essentials include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, headlamp, and personal items.

10. Q: Is it possible to see wildlife during the climb?

A: While wildlife sightings are less common on the Northern Circuit compared to other routes, you may still encounter various species of birds and small animals in the lower elevations. The primary focus of this route is the stunning landscape and less-trodden paths.

8 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing via Northern Circuit Route

Price $1907 pp

Book this tour

8 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing via Northern Circuit Route Tour

The 8-day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro climbing is a spectacular and less-traveled trail that offers an incredible journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes, this route provides an unparalleled experience for climbers seeking the ultimate adventure.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Lemosho Gate (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m).
Day 2 : Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3500m).
Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp (3,610 meters) to Moir Hut Camp (4,200 meters).
Day 4 : Moir Hut Camp (4,200 meters) to Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters).
Day 5 : Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) to Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters).
Day 6 : Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters) to School Hut Camp (4,800 meters).
Day 7 : School Hut Camp (4,800 meters) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) and then onto Millenium Camp (3,950 meters).
Day 8 : Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters).

Day 1 : Lemosho Gate (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m).

After breakfast we'll pick you up around 8:00 am and take you to the Lemosho gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. The journey begins as we steadily climb through the scenic forests of Lemosho glades, arriving at Big Tree Camp, where you'll spend the night. The day's distance covered will be approximately 7km, and the climb will take around 4 hours.

Accommodation for day 1

Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 2 : Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3500m).

Today's climb leads you across a plateau of grassy moorland and heather, scattered with captivating volcanic rock formations. The destination is Shira 1 Camp, offering magnificent views of Kibo Peak amidst the clouds. The route involves gaining significant altitude, and some parts may be moderately steep. You'll cover approximately 8.5km during a climb lasting about 7 hours.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp (3,610 meters) to Moir Hut Camp (4,200 meters).

On day three, you'll traverse the Shira Plateau from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, where nine-day climbers usually spend the night. However, for 8-day climbers like yourself, the journey continues eastwards, passing through the scenic 'Garden of the Senecios' before entering the high alpine desert zone. Your day ends at Moir Camp, situated at an elevation of 4,200 meters. The climb covers around 14km and takes 6-8 hours.

Accommodation for day 3

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

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

Day four includes a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. Along the way, you have the option to make a short detour and summit Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters for breathtaking views. The route continues with inclines and declines, skirting the northern slopes of Kibo until you reach Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters. The climb covers approximately 12km and takes 5-7 hours.

Accommodation for day 4

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters) to Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters).

Day five commences with a climb up the Buffalo ridge and then descends into Pofu Camp, where lunch is usually served. The journey then continues eastwards around the northern slopes to Third Cave Camp at an elevation of 3,800 meters. The climb is shorter on this day, and you should feel well acclimatized to the altitude by now. You'll cover about 8km during a climb lasting 5-7 hours.

Accommodation for day 5

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Third Cave Camp (3,800 meters) to School Hut Camp (4,800 meters).

Day six involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle, which lies between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. You'll continue walking southwest, reaching School Hut Camp at 4,800 meters. After an early dinner, you'll prepare for your summit attempt, starting before midnight. Remember to gather all necessary gear before resting. Climb distance is approximately 15km during 4-5 hours.

Accommodation for day 6

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : School Hut Camp (4,800 meters) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) and then onto Millenium Camp (3,950 meters).

Your summit day! You'll be awakened around 11:30 pm with hot tea and biscuits to begin your steep ascent up Kibo's slopes in darkness. Your first checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave, where you'll take a short break. The climb becomes steeper as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters). After 5-6 hours from School Hut, you should reach Gilman’s Point, and then continue for about 2 more hours to Uhuru Peak. Take in the breathtaking views and snap pictures before heading back to Stella Point and descending to Barafu Camp. From there, continue to Millenium Camp, where you'll spend your final night on the mountain. On this intense day, you'll be Climb for 14-16 hours. Remember to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and nourished.

Accommodation for day 7

Millenium Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters).

The final day is a shorter climb through the dense montane rainforest from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival at the gate, you'll sign-out with the authorities and receive your well-earned certificate - a green certificate for those who reached Gilman's Point and a gold certificate for Uhuru Peak conquerors. It's customary to tip your guide and porter at this point. Then, you'll be driven back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax and reflect on your extraordinary achievement.

Accommodation for day 8

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Lunch

Costs for 8 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing via Northern Circuit Route

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax
$ 1982	$ 1957	$ 1957	$ 1957	$ 1932	$ 1932	$ 1932	$ 1932	$ 1932	$ 1907

Tour activities

Game drive tours

Getting around/Walking

Hotel resting

Photographs

Tour features and style

Private tour
You can do safari privately for solo, couple, family, or in group.

Group tour
Join a group with your fellow tourists through this tour.

Budget tour
You can compute the price for budget for the whole tour

Customizable
You can customize the itinerary, price inclusions, accommodations, and also the price.

First aid/Rescue
First aid and rescue during the tour is assured.

Price inclusions

Sleeping bag or bed linen

Rental vehicle

Rescue fee

A professional driver/guide

All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)

Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Tips: tipping guideline

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Climbing gear

Roundtrip airport transfer

All flights during the tour

International flights to/from the start/end of the tour

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

OWL EYES EXPEDITION

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.owleyesexpedition.com

OWL EYES EXPEDITION CO L.T.D specializes in providing a source experience for clients by connecting them with local people who are close to the land. We aim to create long term partnerships that are fair and transparent; allowing for structured but un-staged encounters. Book your Africa Tour Package with us.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How are dietary restrictions addressed during bush breakfasts?

Most operators offer a range of meal options during bush breakfasts, including catering to dietary needs.

Can I bring my own bicycle for exploration during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Bicycles might not be suitable for Camping Group Join Safari exploration. Game drives and walks are the primary activities.

How are wildlife sightings communicated between guides?

Guides often communicate via radio or other means to share information about wildlife movements.

Can I request a specific type of Camping Group Join Safari tent at the lodges?

Some lodges offer different types of Camping Group Join Safari tents. Check with the operator for options.

Can I request a vegan meal during picnics?

Most operators can accommodate vegan meal requests during picnics.

Can I interact with local researchers during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Some lodges might have experts conducting research. Inquire about possible interactions.

How do I handle interactions with other participants during guided tours?

Respectful interactions with fellow participants enhance the overall Camping Group Join Safari experience.

Can I request a specific location for bush dinners?

Some operators offer customized bush dinner locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own musical instruments for campfire evenings?

Some campsites might allow musical instruments for entertainment. Check with the operator.

What's the policy on wildlife encounters at lodges and campsites?

Lodge and camp staff is trained to handle wildlife encounters to ensure your safety.