9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
Overview
The Northern Circuit is the longest and most scenic route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Offering excellent acclimatization and the highest success rate, this route circles around the quiet and less-traveled northern slopes before reaching Uhuru Peak. Ideal for those who want a quieter trek with stunning views and the best chance of reaching the summit.
Tour Highlight
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your mountain guide for a briefing and equipment check before the climb begins the following day.
Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and then continue to the Lemosho starting point. Begin your trek through the lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Climb steadily through the forest and into the heather moorland zone. Reach Shira Ridge and descend to Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau.
Day 4: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
A gentle hike across the plateau that leads to Shira 2 Camp. You’ll have great views of the Western Breach and Mount Meru in the distance.
Day 5: Shira 2 to Moir Hut (4,200m)
Today involves an acclimatization trek across the Shira Plateau to Moir Hut, located beneath Lent Hills. Optional acclimatization hike in the afternoon.
Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Ascend out of the Moir Valley and onto the Northern Circuit proper. Hike across the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro with panoramic views before descending to Buffalo Camp.
Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
Trek through remote and rarely visited terrain with expansive views of Kenya to the north. Camp at the peaceful Third Cave Camp.
Day 8: Third Cave to School Hut (4,800m)
A short but steep climb to the School Hut, the final base camp before the summit. Rest and prepare for your early morning summit attempt.
Day 9: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Start the summit push around midnight. Trek via Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend back to Barafu and continue to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Moshi
Final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.
- INCLUSIONS
- Transport form arrival point to Moshi
- Transport form Moshi to Departure point
- Accommodation before climb
- Accommodation after climb
- All accommodation in huts on the mountain
- Park fees on Kilimanjaro
- Rescue fees on mountain (by car)
- 3 meals daily on the mountain
- Sleeping and the dining huts
- Guide and porters
- Cook and waiters
- Firs aid kit
- Service of an English speaking mountain guide
- Transportation to the mountain
- All government taxes
- EXCLUSIONS
- Extras in the hotel
- Drinks rather than water
- Tips to mountain Crews
- Meals in Moshi
- Personal gears like sleeping bags, hiking poles, etc.
- Flights
- And all not listed above
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