Kilimanjaro Tours

9 Day Northern Circuit Route – Kilimanjaro Climb

Tour Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the best chance of successful acclimatization and summit success. Beginning on the western slopes via the Lemosho Route, it traverses around the northern face of the mountain, far from the crowds, before approaching the summit from the east. It’s the ultimate trail for those who want a slower-paced climb with stunning panoramic views. This 9-day itinerary provides an immersive trekking experience through Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecological zones—from lush rainforest and heath to alpine desert and glacier-carved ridges. The trail is designed for gradual elevation gain, giving your body ample time to adjust to high altitude. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Shira Plateau, Kibo Peak, and even the distant plains of Kenya. Less trafficked than other routes, the Northern Circuit offers solitude, unique scenery, and a rewarding approach to Uhuru Peak. With expert guides and a full support team, this extended trek offers both challenge and comfort, making it ideal for those seeking an unforgettable high-altitude adventure on Africa’s highest mountain.

Tour Gallery

Day by Day

Arrival in Tanzania – Transfer to Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet your guide, who will transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Settle in, relax after your flight, or explore the vibrant town. In the evening, attend a detailed pre-climb briefing with your guide covering safety, equipment check, altitude tips, and the day-by-day plan. Enjoy dinner and rest well in preparation for the start of your Kilimanjaro adventure

After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. From there, continue to the Lemosho starting point. The trek begins through lush montane rainforest, with a chance to spot blue monkeys and exotic birdlife. The trail is gentle but steadily climbing. After 3–4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, located within the forest zone. Dinner and overnight at camp as your adventure begins.

Today’s trail climbs out of the forest into the heath and moorland zone. The landscape opens up with sweeping views of the Shira Plateau. The trail passes through giant heather and volcanic rock formations as you steadily gain altitude. After 5–6 hours, you’ll reach Shira 1 Camp on the plateau’s western edge. From here, enjoy views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak as you settle in for the night.

A more relaxed trekking day across the plateau allows time for acclimatization. The trail gently ascends through heather, wildflowers, and unique alpine vegetation. You’ll pass scenic ridges and open moorlands before reaching Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll camp with clear views of Kibo Peak. Optional acclimatization walks are encouraged after lunch. The trek takes about 3–4 hours, giving your body time to adjust to higher elevation.

You’ll leave the main trail and head northeast toward Moir Hut, located in a remote, rarely visited valley. The route passes Lava Tower (4,600m), offering excellent acclimatization. Afterward, you’ll descend slightly to camp at Moir Hut. The landscape transitions into high alpine desert with panoramic views. After 5–7 hours of trekking, settle into camp and, if energy allows, take a short acclimatization hike to the Lent Hills above the valley.

Start the day with a moderately steep climb out of the Moir Valley. The trail then contours around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering views over the vast Kenyan plains. This section of the Northern Circuit is remote and peaceful. You’ll trek through alpine desert, stopping for lunch along the way. After 5–6 hours, arrive at Buffalo Camp, located near a grove of evergreen trees. Dinner and overnight at camp.

After breakfast, continue across the northern slopes, trekking through rocky and undulating terrain with more sweeping vistas of Kenya to your right. Today is a slightly shorter day, lasting 4–5 hours, allowing continued acclimatization. The trail leads to Third Cave Camp, set in a sheltered valley at the base of the eastern ridge. Enjoy dinner, rest, and prepare for the higher altitudes to come.

Today’s route ascends steadily toward the eastern base of Kibo, passing through arid, wind-swept terrain. It’s a shorter but more intense hike that brings you to School Hut, your final camp before the summit push. Arriving in the early afternoon allows you to rest, eat an early dinner, and prepare your gear for the midnight departure. Guides will give a final summit briefing before you get a few hours of sleep.

Summit day begins at midnight. Ascend slowly in the dark, navigating switchbacks up the steep slope to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), then continue around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Reaching the summit at sunrise is a moment of pure triumph. After celebrating, begin your descent back to School Hut, then down further to Mweka Camp. The long day (12–14 hours) ends with dinner and deep rest at camp.

After breakfast, complete your final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. The trek takes 3–4 hours. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to your mountain crew. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Celebrate your accomplishment with a hot shower, warm meal, and well-earned rest. You’ve conquered the Northern Circuit and stood on the Roof of Africa!

This Tour Includes

  • Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International)
  • Pre and post-trek hotel accommodation in Moshi
  • All park fees and mountain rescue fees
  • Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
  • Accommodation in mountain huts
  • All meals on the mountain
  • Drinking water and oxygen cylinder (emergency use)
  • Government VAT and climbing permits

This Tour does Not Includes

  • International flights
  • Tanzanian visa
  • Tips for crew (recommended)
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Snacks, drinks, and personal items

TOUR PRICE

From

$ 3350

Per Person

WHY BOOK WITH US?

Tour Price

Number of people
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
5 Pax
6 Pax
7 Pax
Tour Price
$ 3070
$ 2375
$ 2160

$ 2092

$ 2040

$ 1950

$ 1900

* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets

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