Kilimanjaro Private Northern Circuit 8-Day
The Northern Circuit 8-Day private climb offers ~95% summit success with Camping accommodation on the Scenic Circuit.
About This Package
The Kilimanjaro Private Northern Circuit 8-Day is the ultimate exclusive climb for those who want the mountain to themselves. You’'ll have your own dedicated mountain guide and support team — no joining with strangers. Climb at your own pace on your chosen dates. See the full day-by-day itinerary below.
The Northern Circuit Route is a great path on Kilimanjaro with Camping accommodation — spacious tents with comfortable sleeping pads set at some of the most beautiful campsites on the mountain. This makes it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a true wilderness experience. Check our camping details here. The trail is well-graded and manageable, with a moderate difficulty that most fit beginners can handle.
All-inclusive park fees camping equipment meals guides porters transfers. Flexible start dates.
This package is perfect for: Serious trekkers wanting maximum success rates with stunning scenery.
Why You’ll Love This Climb
Flexible Dates
Choose your own start date — private climbs depart any day of the week.
Professional Mountain Guides
Certified, English-speaking guides with extensive summit experience and first-aid training.
Premium Camping
Spacious tents with comfortable sleeping pads set at scenic campsites.
Summit Uhuru Peak
Stand at 5,895m above sea level on the Roof of Africa — a life-changing achievement.
Daily Fresh Meals
Three hearty meals prepared daily by our dedicated mountain cook — dietary needs accommodated.
Airport Transfers Included
Free pickup from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) on arrival day.
KPAP Ethical Climb
We are a KPAP partner ensuring fair wages, proper gear, and ethical treatment of all porters.
Your Private Team
Exclusive guide and porter team dedicated to you and your party only — no strangers.
Your 8-Day Northern Circuit Adventure
95% summit success on the Scenic Circuit.
London Gate to Forest Camp
3-4 hrs
Begin on the western side at London Gate entering lush rainforest. The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Kilimanjaro offering maximum time for acclimatisation.
The trail is peaceful through towering trees and abundant birdlife. This is the least crowded route on the mountain.
Forest Camp (2,800m) in a forest clearing. Tents set up by crew.
Forest Camp to Shira Camp One
5-7 hrs
Emerge onto the vast Shira Plateau. The views of Kibo and Mount Meru are breathtaking.
Walk across one of the highest volcanic calderas in the world.
Shira Camp One (3,550m). Spectacular sunset over the African savannah.
Shira Camp One to Shira Camp Two
3-5 hrs
Short acclimatisation day traversing the upper plateau.
The western glaciers of Kibo dominate the view.
Shira Camp Two (3,850m). Afternoon optional ridge hike.
Shira Camp Two to Lava Tower to Moir Camp
6-8 hrs
Climb to Lava Tower (4,640m) then take the northern route to Moir Camp. This is what makes the Northern Circuit unique.
The northern side is remote and rarely visited. The landscape is stunning alpine desert.
Moir Camp (4,200m) on the northern slopes. Incredible views and complete solitude.
Moir Camp to Saddle Camp
5-7 hrs
Continue around the northern side of Kibo. The trail traverses alpine desert with views of the Kenyan plains.
The silence on the northern slopes is profound. You may see no other trekkers all day.
Saddle Camp (4,500m) on the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi. The views of both peaks are spectacular.
Saddle Camp to Kibo Hut
4-5 hrs
Short day crossing the saddle to Kibo Hut. The terrain is alpine desert.
Kibo Hut (4,703m) is a basic stone shelter. The starting point for the midnight summit attempt.
Early dinner. Summit briefing. Organise gear. Lights out by 7 PM.
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
10-14 hrs
Midnight summit push via Gilmans Point. The trail is steep scree switchbacks.
Dawn at the crater rim. Walk to Stella Point and Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
You are standing on the highest point in Africa after the longest route. Descent to Horombo Hut.
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Moshi
5-7 hrs
Final descent through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate.
Sign out and receive summit certificates. Transfer to Moshi.
Celebrate your Northern Circuit summit. You completed the longest route on Kilimanjaro.
What’s Included & What’s Not
Included
- Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees
- Camping/hut fees for all nights on the mountain
- Certified English-speaking mountain guide
- Professional cook and support porters
- All meals on the mountain (3 meals/day)
- Filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Camping fees for all nights on the mountain
- Emergency oxygen cylinder and pulse oximeter
- Park rescue fees and emergency evacuation coverage
- Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Transport to/from London Gate (start) & Mweka Gate (exit)
- 18% VAT and all government taxes
Excluded
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Tanzania visa fees ($50–$100 depending on nationality)
- Travel insurance (mandatory — must cover high-altitude trekking)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Rental equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.)
- Alcoholic beverages and snacks
- Laundry services
- Tips for guides, cook, and porters (recommended: $150–$250 total)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Understanding the Climb
The Northern Circuit 8-Day is rated challenging but achievable for anyone with reasonable fitness and determination.
Fitness Required
You should be comfortable walking 4–8 hours per day over uneven terrain. Start a training routine 8–12 weeks before your climb — focus on hiking, stair-climbing, and cardiovascular exercise.
Technical Level
No technical climbing skills are needed. The Northern Circuit Route is a non-technical trek. The trail is well-graded and manageable with a moderate difficulty that most fit beginners can handle — your guide will assist you.
Altitude Challenges
The main challenge is altitude. Our 8-day itinerary includes proper acclimatisation with a gradual ascent profile. You climb high, sleep low, and follow the pole-pole (slowly, slowly) philosophy.
Mental Preparation
Summit night is mentally demanding — a 12–16 hour push in darkness and cold. Trust your training, trust your guide, and take it one step at a time. A positive mindset is your most important gear.
How We Keep You Safe
Your safety is our highest priority. Our certified guides follow strict medical protocols on every climb.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
AMS can affect anyone regardless of fitness. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Our guides are trained to recognise early warning signs and take immediate action — the only cure is descent.
Acclimatisation & Hydration
Our 8-day itinerary is designed for optimal acclimatisation with a gradual ascent profile. Drink 4–5 litres of water daily. We carry filtered water and remind you to drink regularly — clear urine is a good sign.
Daily Health Checks
Twice-daily health checks with pulse oximeter readings, blood pressure, and AMS symptom assessment. Any sign of altitude sickness triggers immediate response and assisted descent if needed.
Emergency Procedures
We carry emergency oxygen, comprehensive medical kits, and satellite phones. Pre-established evacuation routes with standby vehicles. Mandatory travel insurance with mountain evacuation coverage required.
Upcoming Departure Dates
Private climbs depart any day of your choice. Pick your preferred date and we’ll confirm within 24 hours.
Flexible Departure — Any Day You Choose
Private climbs have no fixed schedule. Tell us your preferred date and we’ll confirm your guide and team within 24 hours.
Pick Your Start DatePackage Price & Options
All-inclusive private climb price for the Northern Circuit 8-Day
Payments accepted via bank transfer, credit card, PayPal, or cryptocurrency.
Kilimanjaro Weather & Seasons
Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the best conditions are during the dry seasons from June–October and December–March.
| Month | Season | Weather | Temperature | Crowds | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Dry | Warm & clear | 15–25°C | Moderate | Recommended |
| February | Dry | Warm & clear | 15–25°C | Moderate | Recommended |
| March | Short Rains | Afternoon showers | 15–25°C | Low | Good |
| April | Long Rains | Wet & muddy | 12–22°C | Low | Possible |
| May | Long Rains | Wet & muddy | 12–22°C | Low | Possible |
| June | Dry | Cool & clear | 10–20°C | Moderate | Recommended |
| July | Dry | Cool & clear | 10–20°C | High | Recommended |
| August | Dry | Cool & clear | 10–20°C | High | Recommended |
| September | Dry | Mild & clear | 12–22°C | Moderate | Recommended |
| October | Dry | Mild & clear | 12–22°C | Moderate | Recommended |
| November | Short Rains | Afternoon showers | 15–25°C | Low | Good |
| December | Dry | Warm & clear | 15–25°C | Moderate | Recommended |
The Northern Circuit Route performs well year-round. For the best experience, book during June–October or December–February for clear skies and optimal summit conditions.
Climb Profile at a Glance
See the terrain you’ll cover. Each bar shows the altitude at key camps and landmarks along the Northern Circuit Route.
Kilimanjaro Route Comparison
Not sure which route is right for you? Compare the most popular Kilimanjaro routes below.
| Route | Days | Difficulty | Success Rate | Accommodation | Scenery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marangu | 5–6 | Moderate | ~75% | Huts | Rainforest to Alpine |
| Machame | 6–8 | Challenging | ~85% | Camping | Scenic & varied |
| Lemosho | 6–11 | Challenging | ~90% | Camping | Pristine & diverse |
| Rongai | 5–6 | Moderate | ~80% | Camping | Remote & wild |
| Northern Circuit | 8–11 | Challenging | ~93% | Camping | Remote & panoramic |
| Umbwe | 5–6 | Very Challenging | ~65% | Camping | Steep & direct |
Tented Camp Accommodation
Well-spaced camps for optimal acclimatisation on the Premium Route.
Forest Camp
Altitude 2,800m. Forest clearing on western approach.
Barranco Camp
Altitude 3,960m. Valley camp with giant groundsels.
Barafu Camp
Altitude 4,673m. Summit high camp on rocky ridge.
Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List
Everything you need to reach Uhuru Peak — download our free comprehensive packing guide.
Proper packing can mean the difference between a successful summit and a struggle. Kilimanjaro takes you through five climate zones — from warm rainforest at the base to freezing Arctic conditions at 5,895m. Our expert guides have created a complete packing checklist covering every layer, piece of gear, and essential item you’ll need.
At Kizza Adventures, we review every climber’s gear before departure to maximise safety and summit success.
Printable page — open, then print or save as PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Join the Next Climb?
Reserve your spot on the Kilimanjaro Private Northern Circuit 8-Day or talk to our team about customising your adventure. We’re here to help every step of the way.