Northern Circuit Route

Start on Kilimanjaro’s north-eastern side with a drive to the Rongai Gate at about 2,000 metres. After registering, walk for 3–4 hours through montane forest, gaining gentle altitude and looking for wildlife, to reach Simba Camp at around 2,600 metres.

Leave Simba Camp and ascend through alpine moorland to the Second Cave at around 3,500 metres for lunch. After a rest, the trail turns towards Mawenzi and follows a rocky path for another 3 hours to reach Kikelewa Cave Camp at about 3,690 metres. This long day of 6–7 hours rewards you with views of Mawenzi and the expansive Saddle.

Climb steeply up a grassy ridge toward Mawenzi, leaving the heath behind. Traverse rocky terrain below Mawenzi’s rugged spires and then descend into the sheltered Tarn Valley to reach Mawenzi Tarn Camp at around 4,320 metres. After lunch there is time for an acclimatisation hike to explore the north corrie of Mawenzi and enjoy views of the Small Barranco and the Saddle towards Kibo.

Depart from Mawenzi Tarn and skirt around Mawenzi’s base into a series of dry valleys on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The trail undulates gently with occasional short climbs as you traverse beneath the towering bulk of Kibo, with Mawenzi fading behind you. Camp at North Circuit (also called Pofu Camp) at just over 4,000 metres after about 5 hours of hiking.

Continue around the northern slopes, descending and ascending a series of remote valleys with distinctive flora. The path heads west toward the Shira Plateau, eventually leading up to Moir Hut at about 4,150 metres. After a day of roughly 4‑5 hours on the trail, you can take an afternoon hike above camp for extra acclimatisation.

From Moir Hut, ascend steadily across the barren alpine desert toward Lava Tower at around 4,600 metres. After soaking up the views, descend steeply into the upper reaches of the Umbwe Valley to reach Barranco Camp at about 3,980 metres. This 5-hour day takes you from high altitude back down to a lush valley for overnight.

Begin by scaling the 300‑metre Barranco Wall, a fun scramble that offers spectacular views of the southern glaciers. Traverse the Southern Circuit, dipping into and out of valleys, then descend into the lush Karanga Valley. After lunch at Karanga Camp, climb steadily through the alpine desert to reach Barafu Camp at about 4,600 m, where you rest ahead of the summit push.

Rise before midnight for the summit bid. Climb slowly up the steep scree to Stella Point (5,750 m) on the crater rim, then continue along the snow-covered path to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m. After celebrating, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and refreshments. Later, head down past Kibo Hut on the Marangu Route to reach Horombo Hut (around 3,720 m) for the night. Expect a 12–14‑hour day.

Descend steadily from Horombo Hut through the moorland and montane forest of the Marangu Route. Pass Mandara Hut for a break before continuing down to Marangu Gate at around 1,880 m. Sign out and collect your summit certificate before being driven back to Marangu Hotel. This pleasant walk takes about 5–6 hours.