9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro, Northern Circuit Route, Tanzania
| 9 Days |
Max People : 100 |
Every Day |
| Min Age : 10+ |
Pickup : Airport |
Language - English, French, German, Chinese |
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route offers a longer, scenic journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, with a more gradual ascent and breathtaking views. This route begins on the northern side of the mountain, passing through lush rainforests, heathlands, and open savannahs, before reaching the stunning alpine desert.
Starting at the Lemosho Gate, you'll embark on a trek that takes you through diverse ecosystems, each offering a unique perspective of Kilimanjaro. As you ascend, you'll witness dramatic changes in landscape, from lush jungles to arid highlands, with panoramic views of both Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding areas.
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is one of the most scenic and least crowded paths up Kilimanjaro. The gradual ascent allows for better acclimatization, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing your chances of summiting. This route gives you ample time to adjust to the high altitudes while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the mountain.
As you approach the summit, you’ll enjoy incredible vistas of glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and sweeping views of Tanzania. The Northern Circuit connects to the other popular routes, such as the Lemosho Route, giving you a unique opportunity to experience different aspects of Kilimanjaro.
The route is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more secluded trek, with less foot traffic and more time to appreciate the stunning surroundings. With a dedicated team of guides, porters, and chefs to support you, the 9-day Northern Circuit Route ensures a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding Kilimanjaro adventure.
Departure & Return Location
Moshi, Tanzania (Google Map)
Accommodation
Mountain camps (Mti Mkubwa, Shira 1, shira 2, Moir Hut, Buffalo camp/ pofu, third cave, School Hut and Mweka Camp)
Departure Time
Early Morning Start (Around 8:00 AM)
Return Time
Mid to Late Afternoon on Day 9
9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Itinerary
Day 0 - Arrival in Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi to rest and prepare for your adventure ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may have a briefing session to discuss the details of your climb.
Meals: Dinner included (depending on arrival time)
Day 1 - Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Your journey begins at Londorossi Gate, where you will register before heading into the rainforest. Trek through the lush forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp, surrounded by vibrant vegetation and wildlife.
Elevation: 2,100m/6,888ft to 2,750m/9,022ft
Distance: 7km/4.3mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 2 - Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp
After breakfast, you'll begin your trek towards Shira I Camp, leaving the rainforest behind for the moorland zone. The trek offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding areas.
Elevation: 2,750m/9,022ft to 3,610m/11,844ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Shira I Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 3 - Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp
Continue across the Shira Plateau, where the landscape changes dramatically as you head towards Shira II Camp. This day offers excellent panoramic views.
Elevation: 3,610m/11,844ft to 3,850m/12,630ft
Distance: 7km/4.3mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Shira II Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 4 - Shira II Camp to Moir Camp
On this day, the trail leads you through the alpine desert zone, offering fantastic views of the summit. You’ll also have a chance to experience the unique landscape of the high-altitude environment.
Elevation: 3,850m/12,630ft to 4,200m/13,780ft
Distance: 9km/5.6mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Moir Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 5 - Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp
Today, you continue trekking through the desert-like terrain to Buffalo Camp. This section provides exceptional views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit, which will be the goal of your journey.
Elevation: 4,200m/13,780ft to 4,500m/14,764ft
Distance: 6km/3.7mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 6 - Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave
Continue on your path to Rongai Third Cave, passing through alpine desert and rocky terrain. The route offers panoramic views and an opportunity to acclimatize as you gain altitude.
Elevation: 4,500m/14,764ft to 3,900m/12,795ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Rongai Third Cave
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 7 - Rongai Third Cave to School Hut
The trek continues towards School Hut, located near the Kibo Crater. This day will take you through more varied terrain, offering spectacular views of the summit.
Elevation: 3,900m/12,795ft to 4,800m/15,748ft
Distance: 7km/4.3mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: School Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 8 - School Hut to Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Mweka Camp
The final summit day starts early, heading towards the summit via the Stella Point and finally to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. After summiting, descend to Mweka Camp for rest and recovery.
Elevation: 4,800m/15,748ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (summit) to 3,100m/10,171ft
Distance: 5km/3.1mi to summit and 13km/8mi down
Hiking Time: 10-13 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 9 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Your final descent takes you from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your certificate. From here, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved celebration.
Elevation: 3,100m/10,171ft to 1,640m/5,381ft
Distance: 10km/6.2mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included
Table Price
| Group Size |
Estimated Price per Person (USD) |
| 2-4 Travelers |
$2,810 |
| 5-7 Travelers |
$2,754 |
| 8-10 Travelers |
$2,698 |
| 11 + Travelers |
$2,500 |
Price Includes
- Park entry fees (for non-residents)
- Camping fees or hut accommodation
- Professional and experienced mountain guides
- Porters to carry equipment and supplies
- All meals on the mountain
- Drinking water and hot drinks
- Return transport from Moshi/Arusha to the park gate
- Oxygen cylinder and pulse oximeter
- All government taxes and VAT
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, chairs, and tables)
Price Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Accommodation before and after the climb (unless paid)
- Personal items (e.g., gear, toiletries, snacks)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Additional transport services outside the itinerary
- Portable toilet rental (available on request)
- Meals not mentioned in the package
