9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit
OVERVIEW
The Northern Circuit is the longest and newest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, renowned for excellent acclimatization and breathtaking views of the mountain’s remote northern slopes. With very few climbers using this trail, it offers a peaceful and uncrowded trekking experience.
This route is highly recommended for trekkers who enjoy extended journeys through remote wilderness with minimal foot traffic. The longer duration significantly increases summit success rates. The 9-day Northern Circuit itinerary also allows for improved acclimatization and a more relaxed pace, making it one of the most successful and rewarding ways to reach the Roof of Africa.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, your professional mountain guide will provide a detailed trek briefing and conduct an equipment check to ensure you are fully prepared. Overnight at the hotel.
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
The Northern Circuit begins at Londorossi Gate (2100 m) on the western side of Kilimanjaro, the same starting point as the Lemosho Route. After a 2-hour drive from Moshi and park registration, you will be transferred to the trailhead. Trek through lush rainforest where sightings of wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and buffalo are sometimes possible. Dinner and overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650 m).
Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest / Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Begin the day trekking through the final stretch of rainforest before transitioning into low alpine moorland. The trail gradually ascends onto the Shira Plateau, making for a comfortable acclimatization day. Overnight at Shira I Camp (3600 m).
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Low alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Today’s trek crosses the expansive Shira Plateau from Shira I to Shira II Camp. The terrain is relatively gentle, allowing for further acclimatization while enjoying panoramic views of Kibo Peak. Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Shira II Camp (3900 m).
Distance covered: 4 km
Approximate time taken: 2 hours
Habitat: Low alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
A short but important acclimatization day. The route continues across the Shira Plateau toward Lava Tower before descending slightly to Moir Hut Camp. The reduced trekking time allows your body to adapt to the increasing altitude. Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Moir Hut Camp (4200 m).
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 5–7 hours
Habitat: High alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Climb out of Moir Valley with an optional acclimatization hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill (4375 m). Continue along the northern slopes of Kibo, following rolling terrain with sweeping views across the plains toward the Kenya–Tanzania border. Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Pofu Camp (4000 m).
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Begin with a climb up Buffalo Ridge before traversing east along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes to Rongai Third Cave. The shorter trek aids recovery and acclimatization. Arrive by mid-afternoon for rest, dinner, and overnight at Third Cave Camp (3800 m).
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 4–5 hours
Habitat: High alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Trek steadily upward across the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Continue southwest to School Hut (4800 m), your base for the summit attempt. Enjoy an early dinner and rest before being awakened for the final ascent.
Distance covered: 16 km
Approximate time taken: 12 hours
Habitat: Glacial zone and preceding zones
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Wake at 5:00 am for breakfast and begin the summit climb at around 6:00 am. Stop briefly at Hans Meyer Cave before ascending toward Gilman’s Point (5681 m), reached after approximately 4–5 hours. From here, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5895 m), the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating and taking photos, descend via Stella Point (5739 m) to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Millennium Camp (3950 m) for dinner and overnight.
Distance covered: 14 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast and lunch included
Descend through lush montane rainforest to Mweka Gate. After completing park formalities, you will receive your official summit certificate — green for Gilman’s Point and gold for Uhuru Peak.
Later in the evening or the following day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. Alternatively, we can arrange a cultural tour or safari to Tanzania’s top destinations, including Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park & Zanzibar.
Trek Pricing
Number of Travelers | Price per Person |
1 Person | 2790 USD |
2 - 4 people | 2680 USD |
5 - 9 people | 2640 USD |
10+ people | 2590 USD |
Tipping Guidelines
- Tips for porters / cooks ($10 – $15 per porter per day).
- Tips for the guides ($20 – $25 per person per day or a group amount)
Climbing Cost Includes
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
- Group transport to and from Moshi to the trail head
- Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees, rescue fees and Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Expert guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
- Bottled oxygen, for emergency rescue only
- Four season, 3 person mountain tents, double occupancy
- Sleeping pad, foam, 1.5 inches thick
- Mess tents, tables, chairs, lanterns
- Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain
- Breakfast at hotel
Climbing cost excludes
- Airfare
- Beverages at hotel
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips
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