Why Choose 7-Day Northern Circuit Route?

Good Success Rate

With 85-90% summit success due to good acclimatization profile and gradual ascent.

Time Efficient

Complete the trek in just 7 days while still maintaining good acclimatization.

Scenic Views

Experience the stunning northern slopes of Kilimanjaro with breathtaking views.

Pricing Options

Choose the duration that fits your schedule and budget

7 Day Trek

Popular

A slightly faster version of the Northern Circuit with good acclimatization

  • Good success rate (85-90%)
  • Experience the northern slopes
  • Less crowded than other routes

Prices:

  • 1 person: $2,300
  • 2-5 persons: $1,900/person
  • 6+ persons: $1,850/person

Route Overview

7
Days
75km
Distance
85-90%
Success Rate
Challenging
Difficulty

7-Day Route Highlights

The 7-day Northern Circuit is a slightly faster version of the full circuit, designed for those with less time but who still want to experience Kilimanjaro's spectacular northern slopes. While shorter than the 8 or 9-day options, it maintains a good acclimatization profile by including key acclimatization hikes.

This itinerary combines elements of the Lemosho Route with a traverse to the northern side of Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers unique views and a wilderness experience. The route is less crowded than the southern approaches but requires a good level of fitness due to the slightly faster pace.

Why Choose the 7-Day Option

The 7-day Northern Circuit is perfect for those who want to experience Kilimanjaro's remote northern side but have limited time. While the success rate is slightly lower than the 8 or 9-day options, it's still significantly higher than most other 7-day routes due to the excellent acclimatization profile of the northern traverse.

Pro Tip

While the 7-day itinerary is faster, we recommend adding an extra acclimatization day if possible. The 8-day version has a significantly higher success rate. However, if you're limited to 7 days, this route offers the best combination of scenery and acclimatization in that timeframe.

Detailed Itinerary

7-day Northern Circuit Route schedule with elevation profile

0

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you'll be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you'll meet your guide and have a pre-climb briefing to discuss the adventure ahead.

Kilimanjaro International Airport

Kilimanjaro International Airport

1

Morran Gate to Shira 1 Camp

After breakfast, you'll drive to the Morran Gate (2,200m). From there, you begin your trek through the rainforest and heath zones, gradually ascending to Shira 1 Camp (3,600m). This route offers beautiful views of the Shira Plateau.

Duration
5-7 hours
Distance
10 km
Elevation Gain
+1,400m
Camp Altitude
3,600m
Shira 1 Camp

Shira 1 Camp

2

Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut

This day's hike leads through moorland terrain to Moir Hut. The trek provides amazing views of Kilimanjaro's summit and an excellent spot for acclimatization.

Duration
4-6 hours
Distance
10 km
Elevation Gain
+516m
Camp Altitude
4,116m
Moir Hut

Moir Hut

3

Moir Hut to Pofu Camp

Today you'll traverse Kilimanjaro's northern slopes to Pofu Camp. This remote section offers spectacular views and excellent acclimatization as you hike through alpine desert terrain.

Duration
5-7 hours
Distance
12 km
Elevation Gain
+300m
Camp Altitude
4,050m
Pofu Camp

Pofu Camp

4

Pofu Camp to Third Cave

Continue your traverse of Kilimanjaro's northern slopes to Third Cave. The trail offers spectacular views of the mountain's rugged northern face and the plains below.

Duration
5-7 hours
Distance
8 km
Elevation Gain
+300m
Camp Altitude
4,035m
Third Cave

Third Cave

5

Third Cave to School Hut

Today's trek takes you through alpine desert terrain as you ascend steadily to School Hut (4,750m). This is a shorter hiking day to conserve energy for summit night. After an early dinner, you'll rest before the midnight summit attempt.

Duration
4-5 hours
Distance
5 km
Elevation Gain
+715m
Camp Altitude
4,750m
School Hut

School Hut - Summit Base Camp

6

Summit Day: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Summit day begins around midnight with a steep ascent to Gilman's Point (5,681m) on the crater rim, then continues along the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After celebrating at Africa's highest point, descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m) for rest and recovery.

Duration
12-16 hours
Distance
18 km
Elevation
+1,145m/-2,075m
Camp Altitude
3,820m
Uhuru Peak

Celebrating at Uhuru Peak (5,895m)

7

Millennium Camp/Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

The final descent takes you through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). You'll receive your summit certificates before transferring back to Moshi. This celebratory day is easier on the knees thanks to the lower elevation of Millennium Camp compared to Mweka Camp.

Duration
4-5 hours
Distance
12 km
Descent
-2,180m
Gate Altitude
1,640m
Mweka Gate

Celebration at Mweka Gate

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

  • Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Two nights accommodations in Moshi
  • Transfer to and from the mountain
  • 18% VAT (Value Added Tax) on tour fees and service
  • Park fees
  • 4-season mountain tent
  • Mess tents, lanterns, chairs, tables
  • Three hot meals daily on the mountain
  • Hot water for washing
  • Fair wages for the mountain crew: guides, cook, and porters
  • Emergency oxygen tank

Exclusions

  • Visa fees
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • All items of personal nature
  • Lunch, dinner, and drinks at your hotel
  • Tips for the team: guides, cooks, and porters

Recommendation Tips:

  • Guide: $20-$25/day
  • Cook: $15-$20/day
  • Porters: $10/day

Additional Costs

  • Portable flash toilet: $100 for the entire trek
  • Extra hotel night in Moshi: Double room $100, Single $80
  • Extra porters for excess gear: $10/day

Requirements:

  • Good physical condition (for hiking and safaris)
  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
  • Visa
  • Appropriate clothing for hot and cold temperatures
  • Camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing (Optional)

Pricing Information

Our Kilimanjaro pricing is subject to availability and may change without notice. The price is only guaranteed once paid for in full or in installments. Prices quoted are subject to changes outside our control, which may increase the cost of the product or service.

Ready to Climb?

Book your Kilimanjaro adventure

Book Now