9 Days Northern Circuit Route
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Overview
This 9 Days Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, offering excellent acclimatisation and a high success rate. Spanning 9 Days Northern Circuit Route, this route circles the mountain’s northern slopes, providing trekkers with stunning panoramic views and fewer crowds. Starting from Londorossi Gate, the trail ascends through rainforest, Shira Plateau, and around the remote northern flank of Kilimanjaro. It merges with the summit path near School Hut, allowing for a quieter and more gradual ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). The descent follows the Mweka Route. This route is ideal for those seeking a unique, immersive, and rewarding Kilimanjaro experience. Book 9 Days Northern Circuit Route
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)
Your adventure begins with a drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration. After formalities, continue to the Lemosho trailhead where your trek starts through lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and forest wildlife. The hike is short and scenic, leading you to Mti Mkubwa Camp where you spend the night.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 7 km
Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
The trail continues through the forest before opening up to moorland and heather landscapes. Today’s hike includes a steady climb onto the Shira Plateau, offering your first panoramic views of Kibo Peak. You’ll arrive at Shira 1 Camp in the afternoon.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Today is a gentle trek across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp, allowing more time for acclimatisation. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Meru in the distance and the ever-closer summit of Kilimanjaro.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 7 km
Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Shira 2 to Moir Hut (4,200m)
You head northeast across the plateau and ascend steadily towards Moir Hut, a secluded and quiet campsite at the base of Lent Hills. Optional hikes in the afternoon provide further acclimatisation and incredible views.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Leaving Moir, you trek along the northern circuit route with beautiful vistas across Kenya’s plains. Today involves a climb over a ridge and descent to Buffalo Camp, with gradual altitude gain aiding acclimatisation.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Distance: 12 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
The trail continues east across remote valleys and alpine terrain. This quiet and less-travelled path brings you to Third Cave Camp, located near the foot of Mawenzi Peak.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Habitat: Semi-desert
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut (4,750m)
A steady ascent today takes you to School Hut, your final base camp before the summit attempt. You’ll arrive early afternoon and rest before the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 8: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
You’ll begin your summit push at around midnight. Climb steeply via Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim, then continue to the highest point in Africa – Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After a brief celebration and photos, descend to Barafu Camp for rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Distance: 21 km
Habitat: Arctic at the summit, moorland lower down
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Arusha
Enjoy a final breakfast on the mountain before descending through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. Your driver will transfer you back to Arusha for rest or onward travel.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Rainforest
Our Package Includes
- Transport from/to park gate & airport transfer
- Pre and post climb accommodation (B&B) in Moshi
- Park, camping & rescue fees
- Mountain tent & mattress
- Professional English speaking guide(s), porters & chef
- 10 breakfasts; 9 lunches; 8 dinners
- Water; tea and coffee with meals
Not Included
- Flights
- Lunch & dinner in Moshi
- Travel insurance
- Visa and passport fees
- Increases in park fees where applicable
- Personal equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Tips for guide(s), porters & cook
- Soda and Alcoholic beverages