9 Days Northern Circuit Route
Overview
Take the ultimate adventure to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain via the Northern Circuit Route — the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro. This 9-day itinerary offers a 360° journey around the mountain, with fewer crowds, diverse landscapes, and unbeatable acclimatization.
Starting on the western side, you’ll pass through lush rainforests, the vast Shira Plateau, the northern slopes with panoramic views of Kenya, and finally, conquer Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) the “Roof of Africa.”
This is the most scenic and successful route for climbers seeking a slower-paced, immersive Kilimanjaro experience.
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you’ll be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, meet your head guide for a detailed pre-climb briefing, gear check, and introduction to your crew. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the trek ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Moshi – Londorossi Gate (2,250m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,800m)
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and briefing with the park authorities. Begin your trek through the lush rainforest, where you may spot monkeys and tropical birds. The trail ascends gently to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, your first night on the mountain.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 7 km
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
Continue trekking from the forest into the heather and moorland zone. You’ll climb steadily through the rolling hills before reaching the expansive Shira Plateau, offering magnificent views of Mount Meru in the distance. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for overnight.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
A shorter day of trekking across the stunning Shira Plateau. The trail is gentle and allows time for acclimatization as you enjoy views of Kibo Peak and Shira Cathedral. Spend the afternoon resting and exploring around camp.
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 7 km
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,600m) – Moir Hut (4,200m)
Today’s hike takes you east up to Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization before descending slightly to Moir Hut, a remote and quiet campsite at the base of Lent Hills. This “climb high, sleep low” approach is essential for acclimatization. Optional short hikes around Moir Valley in the afternoon for additional acclimatization.
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Distance: 10 km
Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Depart Moir Hut and join the Northern Circuit trail, a less-traveled route that loops around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. Hike over undulating terrain with sweeping views across the Kenyan plains. Arrive at Buffalo Camp for a peaceful evening away from the crowds.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 12 km
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp (3,900m)
Continue eastwards through the alpine desert, gradually descending before climbing again to reach Third Cave Camp. The trail offers excellent acclimatization with expansive mountain and valley views.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Accommodation: Third Cave Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 8: Third Cave – School Hut (4,750m)
Today is a steady climb to School Hut, your final camp before the summit attempt. The air becomes thinner, and the environment more barren. You’ll arrive in the afternoon to rest, have an early dinner, and prepare for your midnight ascent to the summit.
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Accommodation: School Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 9: School Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Rise around midnight for your final push to the summit. Ascend slowly to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your incredible achievement before descending via Stella Point and Barafu to Mweka Camp for your last night on the mountain.
Trekking Time: 10–14 hours total
Distance: 17 km
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
Price Included
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before and after climb)
All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
Professional guides, porters, and cook
3 meals per day while on the mountain
Drinking water and hot beverages
Camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs)
Price Excluded
International flights and visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, poles, etc.)
Tips for guides and porters
Extra meals and drinks in Moshi
Tour Highlights
Remote and scenic Lemosho trail start
Stunning Shira Plateau crossing
Lava Tower Acclimatization Hike
Northern Circuit traverse with views of Mount Kenya
Barranco Wall ascent (“Breakfast Wall”)
Crater Rim summit to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
High success rate due to gradual altitude gain
Professional mountain crew and full expedition support