8-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climb from Arusha With The Woven Experience

Transfer from your Arusha accommodation through picturesque landscapes to Lemosho Gate for park registration. Embark on a gentle forest trail, observing colobus monkeys, exotic birds, and potential large game sightings – an armed ranger may join for wildlife protection. Settle into camp with warm beverages, a hearty dinner, and overnight amid the trees.

Distance: 6 km (4 miles).

Altitude increase: 650 m (2,130 ft), from 2,100 m (6,890 ft) to 2,750 m (9,020 ft).

Habitat: Montane Rainforest.

Climb out of the dense forest into the heath and moorland zones, crossing small streams and ridges with initial glimpses of Kibo Peak. Traverse open meadows dotted with wildflowers and unique flora, arriving at camp for relaxation and, if desired, acclimatization walks.

Distance: 8 km (5 miles).

Altitude increase: 750 m (2,460 ft), from 2,750 m (9,020 ft) to 3,500 m (11,480 ft).

Habitat: Heath and Moorland.

Head across the Shira Plateau – an ancient volcanic caldera – passing Cathedral Point for optional side hikes and panoramic views. Diverge north into less-traveled terrain, reaching the secluded Moir Hut amid giant groundsels for an evening of stargazing and recovery.

Distance: 14 km (9 miles).

Altitude increase: 700 m (2,300 ft), from 3,500 m (11,480 ft) to 4,200 m (13,780 ft).

Habitat: Alpine Moorland.

Contour around the northern flanks through undulating valleys, descending slightly into Lent Hills for "climb high, sleep low" benefits. Spot unique rock formations and distant Kenya views, arriving at the remote Buffalo Camp near seasonal streams.

Distance: 8 km (5 miles).

Altitude increase: Net decrease of 180 m (590 ft), from 4,200 m (13,780 ft) to 4,020 m (13,190 ft) via higher points.

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Continue eastward on the northern circuit, traversing gentle slopes with vast wilderness vistas and minimal traffic. Pass through sparse vegetation zones, focusing on hydration and pacing, to reach the tranquil Third Cave Camp for pre-summit preparation.

Distance: 5 km (3 miles).

Altitude increase: Net decrease of 220 m (720 ft), from 4,020 m (13,190 ft) to 3,800 m (12,470 ft).

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Ascend steadily toward the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, navigating rocky paths with increasing summit proximity. Arrive early at high camp for lunch, rest, gear checks, and a summit briefing while enjoying Mawenzi's jagged silhouette.

Distance: 5 km (3 miles).

Altitude increase: 1,000 m (3,280 ft), from 3,800 m (12,470 ft) to 4,800 m (15,750 ft).

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Commence the midnight ascent with headlamps, zigzagging up scree to Gilman's Point on the crater rim for dawn views. Traverse to Uhuru Peak for triumphant photos and crater panoramas, then descend safely to Barafu for brief rest before continuing to lower camp through shifting ecosystems.

Distance: 6 km (4 miles) up / 11 km (7 miles) down.

Altitude increase: 1,095 m (3,590 ft) to summit at 5,895 m (19,340 ft), then descend to 3,100 m (10,170 ft).

Habitat: Stone Scree and Ice-Capped Summit.

Descend through vibrant rainforest trails teeming with birds and monkeys, collecting your summit certificate at Mweka Gate. Say goodbye to the team, then transfer back to your Arusha accommodation for relaxation and optional celebrations.

Distance: 10 km (6 miles).

Altitude decrease: 1,450 m (4,760 ft), from 3,100 m (10,170 ft) to 1,650 m (5,410 ft).

Habitat: Montane Rainforest.