Climb Kilimanjaro with Follow Alice: The Northern Circuit

Stand on Uhuru Peak - the highest point in Africa - on a guided expedition crafted for those who dare to dream big.

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A Glimpse Of Your Journey Ahead …

Step into the magic of the Kilimanjaro experience. Watch the sun rise above a sea of clouds, feel the rhythm of songs carried up the mountain, and share in the energy of a team that lifts you higher with every step. This journey is filled with moments of awe, connection, and quiet triumph that stay with you long after you leave the mountain.

No technical climbing experience is needed, with a good level of fitness, this is a challenge within reach and a summit you can truly call your own.

Africa's Highest Peak. One of the Seven Summits. From Rainforest to Glacier.

Towering over the plains of Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro stands as Africa's highest point and one of the world's iconic "Seven Summits". You could very soon be standing right there at the top. This magnificent, free-standing volcanic mountain offers an unparalleled climbing experience, leading adventurers through diverse ecosystems – from lush rainforests to alpine deserts – culminating in a glaciated summit. Conquering Kilimanjaro is not just a hike; it's a journey to the roof of Africa, a test of endurance, and a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.

Rainforest Zone

Begin your ascent through dense, lush tropical forest teeming with wildlife and birdsong.

Moorland & Heather

Trek through otherworldly moorland where giant senecios tower over the open terrain.

Alpine Desert

A stark, volcanic landscape of ash and rock as altitude increases and the air thins.

Arctic Summit

Reach Uhuru Peak - glaciers, thin air, and the triumphant feeling of standing on top of Africa.

Your Lead Guide

Meet Chris, Your Expert Guide to the Summit

Chris is one of Follow Alice's most experienced Kilimanjaro guides, having summited the mountain over 300 times. He leads a dedicated professional team whose combined summit count runs into the thousands - guides, porters, and cooks who support every climber throughout the expedition.

🏔 Safety First, Always

Chris's foremost priority is the safety and acclimatisation of every climber - monitoring the team closely and making informed decisions throughout the ascent.

🌟 Expert Encouragement

From the first forest trail to the final summit push, Chris and his team provide guidance, motivation, and expert advice at every step of the journey.

🤝 A Full Support Crew

Climbing with Chris means benefiting from an experienced team - making your expedition safer, more enjoyable, and far more memorable.

Recommended Route

Why Follow Alice Recommends the 9-Day Northern Circuit

The Northern Circuit is the longest and most spectacular route on Kilimanjaro, traversing the remote northern slope where few trekkers go. Starting from Lemosho Gate, it crosses the Shira Plateau before circling around Kibo's north face, offering unmatched views and outstanding acclimatisation throughout.

With ~90 km covered over 9 days (25 km longer than any other route), it gives climbers the best possible chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). It's also the least crowded route, offering a quieter, more pristine wilderness experience.

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9 Days

The longest route on the mountain, with the highest summit success rate

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~90 km

Total distance, 25 km longer than any other Kilimanjaro route

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5,895 m

Uhuru Peak - the highest point in Africa and one of the Seven Summits

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Most Remote

Traverse the northern slope where few trekkers go, away from the crowds


Your Itinerary

Your 9-Day Northern Circuit: Day by Day

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Day 1: Arrival Day

Londorossi Park Gate → Mkubwa Camp: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to the lodge. Meet your mountain crew and fellow trekkers over dinner, followed by a briefing from your lead guide.

  • Elevation: Arrive at lodge
  • Trekking Time: Transfer day
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Day 2: Hike in Pristine Forest

Lemosho Gate → Mkubwa Camp: Drive to Londorossi Park Gate, then begin the trek from Lemosho Gate through lush mountain rainforest.

  • Elevation: 2,100 m → 2,895 m
  • Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
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Day 3: Enter the Heath Zone

Mkubwa Camp → Shira 1 Camp: Trek through the last of the rainforest before entering moorland terrain, heading towards the Shira Plateau.

  • Elevation: 2,895 m → 3,505 m
  • Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
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Day 4: Walk the Shira Plateau

Shira 1 Camp → Shira 2 Camp: Cross the sweeping Shira Plateau as temperatures begin to drop dramatically, with nights sometimes plummeting below freezing.

  • Elevation: 3,505 m → 3,810 m
  • Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
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Day 5: Break from the Crowds

Shira 2 Camp → Moir Camp: An important acclimatisation day. Climb to the Shark's Tooth rock formation before descending to Moir Camp in the high alpine desert.

  • Elevation: 3,810 m → 4,206 m
  • Trekking Time: 2–3 hours
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Day 6: Traverse the Northern Slope

Moir Camp → Pofu Camp: A steep incline as you journey around Kibo's remote north face, walking through alpine desert on a trail few trekkers ever see.

  • Elevation: 4,206 m → 4,033 m
  • Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
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Day 7: Descend to Third Cave

Pofu Camp → Third Cave Camp: Cross valleys through varied terrain. Buffaloes are sometimes spotted here. A lengthy but rewarding day on the mountain.

  • Elevation: 4,033 m → 3,870 m
  • Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
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Day 8: Walk Through Alpine Desert

Third Cave Camp → Kibo Hut: Steady climb over the Saddle, the barren high-altitude desert connecting the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Rest up before the big day.

  • Elevation: 3,870 m → 4,750 m
  • Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
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Day 9: Summit Day!

Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp: A midnight start for the final push. Ascend northwest into the dark night, reach Stella Point, then Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa! Descend all the way to Mweka Camp.

  • Elevation: 4,750 m → 5,895 m → 3,068 m
  • Trekking Time: 12–16 hours
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Day 10: Last Day on the Mountain

Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate: The final descent through beautiful rainforest to the park gate. High-fives, certificates, and a celebratory drink await!

  • Elevation: 3,068 m → 1,640 m
  • Trekking Time: 3 hours


Other Routes

Other Kilimanjaro Routes to Consider

While Follow Alice recommends the 9-Day Northern Circuit for its unmatched acclimatisation, remote scenery, and highest summit success rate, there are several other routes worth knowing about. Route choice depends on time available, acclimatisation preference, and trekking style.

8-Day Lemosho Route

8 Days

A classic and highly scenic route crossing the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall. Excellent acclimatisation over 65–70 km — a great choice for those wanting a shorter but still scenic expedition.

7 Day Lemosho

7 Days

The 7-day Lemosho Route is a shorter version of the 8-day itinerary, following the same scenic path but with one less acclimatisation day.

Machame Route

7 Days

Very scenic and highly popular, with good acclimatisation built into the schedule. A fantastic choice for those with slightly less time.

Rongai Route

7 Days

Approaches from the quieter northern side of the mountain. Tends to be drier and less crowded - a wonderful option for those seeking solitude.

Why Follow Alice

Why Choose Follow Alice on Kilimanjaro

Trusted mountain expertise, ethical operations, and premium support from start to summit.

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KPAP-Certified

Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project, the industry standard for porter welfare. All porters paid above KPAP minimum wage, properly equipped, never overloaded.

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300+ Summits & Counting

Chris has summited Kilimanjaro over 300 times. The wider Follow Alice guide team has a combined summit count in the thousands.

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Exceptional Guide Retention

Among the highest guide retention rates on the mountain, this means the same experienced team, year after year.

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Industry-Leading Pay

Among the highest-paying operators for guides and porters on Kilimanjaro. Not just the right thing to do, it means your team is the most motivated and experienced on the mountain.

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Private Toilet Tents Included

1 per 6 climbers, included as standard. Most operators charge extra or don't provide them at all.

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Premium Sleeping Gear Provided

4-season sleeping bags and fleece liners provided. Many operators charge hire fees.

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Trustpilot Excellent Rating

5/5 across hundreds of verified reviews.

✅ What's Included

  • Best-in-Class local guides and full mountain crew. The highest paid crew on Kilimanjaro
  • Porters to carry group equipment and luggage
  • All meals and water on the mountain
  • Camping mountain tents
  • 4 season sleeping bags
  • Sleeping mats
  • All Park fees and climbing permits
  • Private toilet tents with chemical toilet (1 per 6 climbers)
  • Sleeping bag liners
  • Fleece liners
  • Safety equipment and support team
  • Beautiful pre- and post-climb lodge accommodation
  • Breakfast and dinner at the climb lodge
  • Expedition briefings
  • Gear checks & daily health checks - you're in great hands

❌ What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking gear (boots, clothes, walking poles etc - available for hire. Ask what to take!)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Alcoholic drinks and personal snacks
  • Tanzania visa fees
  • Personal expenses or optional add-on activities
  • Transfers between your Moshi hotel and the mountain
Testimonials

Don't Just Take Our Word For It

Trustpilot

Follow Alice is rated "Excellent" with 5 / 5 on Trustpilot

Climbers consistently rate their Follow Alice experience 5 stars. From expert guides and exceptional safety standards to the camaraderie on the mountain, our travellers regularly describe their Kilimanjaro climb as one of the most memorable adventures of their lives.

Below, Matt and Julia share their experience climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with Follow Alice recently. From the challenges they faced to the breathtaking views at the summit, hear their personal stories and tips for tackling Africa’s highest peak.

Your Summit Moment Is Waiting

Standing on Uhuru Peak - watching the sun rise over Africa from 5,895 metres - is a moment that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Our Northern Circuit expeditions are filling fast, and spots are limited.

We would love you to take a quick video call with one of our Kili specialists. We have all climbed the mountain many times and can talk through your fitness, your timeline & your specific goals. We will guide you through every step of preparation and design an expedition experience that gives you the very best chance of reaching the summit. This isn't a hard sell - it's the beginning of the adventure of a lifetime.

Uhuru Peak is waiting. Take the first step today.