Duration
8 days
The Northern Circuit is Olee's flagship Kilimanjaro experience — a sweeping route that traces nearly the entire circumference of the mountain, taking climbers through landscapes and vantage points that shorter routes never reach. Beginning on the western slopes through thick rainforest, the trail crosses the Shira Plateau and then curves northward, away from the crowds, into quieter and more remote terrain. This extended path gives the body exceptional time to adapt to altitude, resulting in one of the highest summit success rates of any route on the mountain. For those seeking both the best odds of reaching Uhuru Peak and the most complete experience Kilimanjaro has to offer, the Northern Circuit stands apart.
Your journey begins after breakfast, when your guide collects you from your hotel for the drive (approximately 113 km / 70.5 miles) to Lemosho Gate on the western side of the mountain. After completing registration and enjoying lunch at the gate, the trek begins through dense rainforest. This section is rich in wildlife - keep an eye out for colobus monkeys moving through the canopy. This is a relatively short and gentle walk, bringing you to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp), where your tents will already be set up and dinner prepared. After a hot meal, you will settle in for your first night on the mountain.
$2,600Per person
The day begins with another scenic walk beneath the forest canopy, though this section is shorter as you soon transition into the heath and moorland zone. A steady climb through the forest leads you onto the northern slopes of the Shira Plateau. As you emerge above the treeline, the landscape opens dramatically, offering expansive views of the mountain. Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, your tents will be ready and lunch will be waiting.
Today you cross the Shira Plateau, enjoying wide, open views toward Kibo Peak. The trail is gradual but steadily gains altitude. You will pass Fischer's Camp, named after Scott Fischer, one of the pioneers of this route. The landscape here is vast and quiet, adding to the remote feel of the Northern Circuit. Moir Hut Camp is set beneath Moir Ridge, offering a peaceful and less crowded overnight location. In the afternoon, optional acclimatisation hikes toward Moir Ridge are available, depending on weather conditions and how you are feeling.
The day begins with a moderately steep ascent out of Moir Valley, including a 30-45 minute climb to Moir Ridge, providing an excellent start and rewarding views. The trail then crosses a rocky landscape, reaching the highest point of the day at approximately 4,402m. From here, the route gently traverses a series of valleys toward Pofu Camp, located on exposed ridges with expansive views across northern Kilimanjaro and toward Kenya. Continuing onward, the trail leads across remote valleys on the northern slopes, eventually arriving at Third Cave Camp - a quiet, open site with views toward the eastern crater rim.
Today's trek ascends steadily across the "Saddle" - the wide, barren plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks - leading to School Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. As you gain altitude, the terrain becomes increasingly dry and lunar in appearance. Although the distance is short, the climb is steep and involves significant elevation gain. After arriving at camp, dinner is served early. Rest is essential as you prepare for the midnight summit ascent.
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. You will climb steadily in the dark, taking frequent but short breaks to manage energy and altitude. After approximately 5-6 hours, you reach Gilman's Point on the crater rim. If conditions allow, you will witness a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. The ascent continues to Stella Point (5,745m), followed by the final stretch to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating at the summit and taking a short rest, you descend to Barafu Camp - a challenging section after the long ascent. At Barafu, you will have breakfast and rest briefly before continuing down the Mweka Trail toward Mweka Camp. Depending on your condition, your guide may adjust the final stopping point between Millennium Camp and Mweka Camp.
The final day is a gentle descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you will receive your summit certificates and enjoy a well-deserved rest. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you for a celebratory lunch before returning to your hotel - marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Starts in Arusha, Tanzania, ends in Arusha, Tanzania.
Tanzania
What's arranged for you to sleep and eat each night of the trip.
Tent
Tent
No accommodation
Tent
No accommodation
