9-Day Kilimanjaro Climb – Northern Circuit Route
Trek Snapshot
The Longest, Quietest & Best-Acclimatized Route
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s newest and longest route, offering unbeatable acclimatization, minimal crowds, and 360-degree views of the mountain. It circles around the remote northern slopes before approaching the summit from the east. This is the route with the highest success rate and the most peaceful trekking days — ideal for trekkers who want safety, scenery, and solitude.
Your Day-to-Day
Day 1: Arusha/Moshi → Londorossi Gate → Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 m)
Arrive at Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue to the trailhead. Trek through quiet rainforest with chances to spot monkeys and birdlife. Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp in the late afternoon.
Hiking: 3–4 hours | Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa → Shira 1 Camp (3,500 m)
Climb through dense forest and onto the heather zone. The trail opens up into the Shira Plateau — one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic areas. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp with wide views of Kibo Peak.
Hiking: 5–6 hours | Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 → Shira 2 (3,840 m)
A short acclimatization day across the Shira Plateau. Enjoy gentle trekking with views of the mountain’s glaciers. Arrive early at Shira 2 Camp and relax or do a short walk for extra acclimatization.
Hiking: 3–4 hours | Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 → Lava Tower (4,630 m) → Moir Hut (4,200 m)
Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to the secluded Moir Hut. This area is remote and quiet, making it perfect for altitude adjustment.
Hiking: 6–7 hours | Overnight: Moir Hut
Day 5: Moir Hut → Buffalo Camp (4,020 m)
Climb over a small ridge and circle into the rarely visited northern slopes. Enjoy sweeping views of Kenya to the north. The trail is peaceful and excellent for gradual acclimatization.
Hiking: 5–7 hours | Overnight: Buffalo Camp
Day 6: Buffalo Camp → Third Cave (3,900 m)
Trek across the northern circuit trail, enjoying gentle slopes and minimal foot traffic. Arrive at Third Cave Camp for a calm evening preparing for the summit approach.
Hiking: 5–7 hours | Overnight: Third Cave
Day 7: Third Cave → School Hut (4,800 m)
Ascend steadily toward School Hut, your final base before the summit. Rest early, hydrate, and prepare your gear for the midnight climb.
Hiking: 4–5 hours | Overnight: School Hut
Day 8: School Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Mweka Camp
Start your summit attempt around midnight. Climb gradually to Gilman’s Point, continue to Stella Point, and reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Barafu for a break, then continue to Mweka Camp.
Hiking: 11–15 hours | Overnight: Mweka Camp
Day 9: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Arusha/Moshi
Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificate and drive back to your hotel for a well-deserved hot shower and rest.
Hiking: 3–4 hours | Accommodation: End of Tour
INCLUDES
All arrival and departure transfers
Professional, licensed mountain guides
Experienced assistant guides, cooks, and porters
All national park entrance fees and rescue fees
All camping equipment (tents, dining tent, chairs, tables) where applicable
Mountain hut accommodation on Marangu Route
Full-board meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Treated and safe drinking water throughout the trek
All government taxes and charges
EXCLUDES
International and domestic flights
Tanzanian visa fees
Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Personal hiking gear (sleeping bag, boots, clothing, poles, etc.)
Snacks, energy bars, or personal supplements
Extra nights in hotels before or after the climb (unless included in a package)
Portable flush toilet (available on request)
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