Climb Kilimanjaro

Northern Circuit Route (9 Days)

Northern Circuit Route (9 Days)

Overview

The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's ultimate grand expedition. Beginning in the west at Londorossi Gate like Lemosho, it deviates north from Shira Plateau to traverse the remote, seldom-visited northern slopes overlooking the Kenyan plains. With 9 days on the mountain, climbers experience a gradual, natural acclimatization pace that results in the highest summit success rate (>95%) of any route.

Tour Schedule

Day 1 — Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (2,820m)

Drive to Londorossi Gate and hike through unspoiled rainforest to Big Tree Camp.

Day 2 — Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)

Hike through heath and moorland onto the vast western expanse of the Shira Plateau.

Day 3 — Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut (4,200m)

Traverse the plateau past Shira Cathedral to the isolated gorge of Moir Hut for altitude adaptation.

Day 4 — Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)

Trek along the northern slopes through alpine desert with sweeping vistas of Kenya's Amboseli plains.

Day 5 — Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave (3,800m)

Gentle descent and traverse through valleys on the remote northern side of the mountain.

Day 6 — Third Cave to School Hut (4,800m)

Ascend steadily into the alpine desert beneath Kibo's eastern crater rim to School Hut.

Day 7 — Summit Push: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Descend to Millennium Camp

Midnight push via Gilman's Point to Uhuru Peak. Revel at Africa's summit before descending to Millennium Camp.

Day 8 — Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate (1,650m) & Moshi

Descend through lush cloud forest to Mweka Gate. Celebrate with certificates and transfer to Moshi.

Day 9 — Moshi Relaxation & Airport Departure

Rest, enjoy a massage at the hotel, explore Moshi coffee culture, or depart via JRO airport.

Why Travelers Love It

Local Experts

All tours guided by certified local experts who share mountain secrets and wildlife tracking knowledge.

Flexible Timings

Choose your preferred schedule — slow acclimatization pacing, flexible game drives, and private departures.

Scenic Spots

Capture the most iconic viewpoints, Barranco Wall, Shira Plateau, and breathtaking Serengeti sunsets.

Additional info

Tours may be rescheduled or adjusted in case of severe mountain weather. Light clothing, broken-in trail boots, and sun protection are recommended. Refreshments, park permits, camping/lodge fees, and safety equipment are included.

Included in this itinerary:

  • Private round-trip airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport - JRO)
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (1 night before and 1 night after the trek, Bed & Breakfast)
  • All Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees, camping/hut fees, and rescue fees
  • Professional, certified wilderness-trained mountain guides, cooks, and porters
  • Three freshly prepared, nutritious meals daily on the mountain plus hot drinks and purified water
  • High-quality 4-season geodesic sleeping tents, 1.5-inch mattresses, dining tent, chairs, and tables

FAQ

Is the Northern Circuit worth the extra days?

Absolutely. It is the most peaceful, scenic, and successful route on the mountain with zero crowded camps on the northern traverse.

Duration: 9 Days
Meeting point: Moshi / Arusha, Tanzania
Group Size: Up to 6-8 people / Private
Tour TypeKilimanjaro / Adventure
ScheduleYear-round
Level / DifficultyModerate
LanguagesEnglish / Swahili
$2,260/ per person
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