9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

From Price

$ 2,300 / PP

Duration

9 Days

Tour Type

Private Tour

Best Season

June to October

Tour Overview

The Northern Circuit is the newest, longest, and arguably the most magnificent route on Kilimanjaro. It offers unparalleled 360-degree scenery, traversing almost the entire mountain and revealing landscapes unseen on other treks. Its extended itinerary provides the best possible acclimatization, leading to the highest success rate of all routes. The trail begins on the same path as the Lemosho route before diverging to circle the quiet, remote northern slopes. This path offers a true wilderness experience with fewer crowds, stunning views of the Kenyan plains, and a comprehensive journey from lush rainforest to arctic summit. It’s the definitive choice for those who prioritize acclimatization, scenery, and a successful summit experience.

Full Tour Details

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)

Elevation: 2,360m to 2,895m
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

After registration at Londorossi Gate, you’ll drive to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek begins with a gentle walk through the lush, verdant rainforest, where you might spot Colobus monkeys. You’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,895m to 3,505m
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest & Moorland

The trail gradually steepens as you leave the rainforest and enter the giant heather moorland zone. You’ll cross several streams and trek over a ridge to the Shira Plateau, where you’ll get your first stunning view of Kibo across the plateau.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,505m to 3,810m
Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland

A gentle day of hiking across the Shira Plateau allows for great acclimatization. You’ll explore the vast moorland and enjoy expansive views. This relatively easy day prepares you for higher altitudes.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

Elevation: 3,810m to 4,200m via Lava Tower (4,600m)
Distance: 14 km / 9 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today you trek east across the Shira Plateau, passing the junction towards the Lava Tower. You’ll climb to the base of the Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Moir Hut, a secluded camp at the base of Lent Hills.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp

Elevation: 4,200m to 4,025m
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

You begin circling the northern side of Kibo. The trail is a series of ascents and descents over rolling hills, offering stunning views of the Kenyan plains to the north. This is a remote and seldom-traveled section of the mountain.

Day 6: Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp

Elevation: 4,025m to 3,870m
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

A shorter day continuing your traverse of the northern slopes. The terrain is relatively flat, allowing you to conserve energy while enjoying the unique, dry landscape and views of Mawenzi peak.

Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut

Elevation: 3,870m to 4,800m
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert / Arctic

Today involves a steady ascent up to the Kibo Saddle, a lunar-like desert between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. You’ll arrive at School Hut, your base for the summit attempt. Rest, eat, and prepare for the final push.

Day 8: Summit Day! School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then down to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,800m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m
Distance: 6 km ascent / 12 km descent
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic / Rainforest

The summit attempt begins around midnight. It’s a challenging, steep climb on scree, but the reward is immense. You’ll reach the crater rim at Gilman’s Point for a spectacular sunrise before continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, you’ll descend rapidly to Mweka Camp, nestled in the upper rainforest.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

A final, beautiful descent through the rainforest brings you to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your official summit certificates and celebrate your incredible achievement with your crew before being transferred back to your hotel.

View Tour Map

Explore the tour map to see your journey at a glance with key destinations, routes, and exciting highlights along the way.

Includes

Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
4-Season mountain tents
Camping Facilities
Sleeping Bag & Pillows
Transportation to & from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
3 meals daily while on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Fair wages for the mountain crew
Portable flush toilet can be provided for free upon client’s request.

Excludes

Flights (International)
Visa fees
Travel or medical insurance
Gamow Bag
Medication
Tips for porters and mountain crew
Personal spending money for souvenirs, etc
Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.

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