Mount Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route
9 Days Northern Circuit Route
Overview
The Northern Circuit is the longest and newest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering excellent acclimatization and breathtaking views of the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Currently, only a limited number of trekkers have explored this trail, making it a peaceful and uncrowded experience.
This route is ideal for those who enjoy long trekking in remote wilderness, with minimal crowds around. It takes at least nine days to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit, which contributes to its very high success rate. An extended 9-day climb with crater camping provides an incredible wilderness adventure on Africa’s highest volcano.
Why Choose the 9 Days Northern Circuit Route?
The 9-Day Northern Circuit Route offers one of the most gradual and comprehensive ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, giving climbers more time to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the mountain without rushing. Its longer itinerary makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable pace and a stronger focus on acclimatization before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
The journey explores the western and northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, taking you through lush rainforest, open moorland, alpine desert, and remote mountain landscapes. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks while experiencing quieter trails and less-crowded sections of the mountain.
With an extra day compared with the 8-day itinerary, the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route provides more time for acclimatization, rest, and enjoying the surrounding scenery. Combined with experienced local guides and a dedicated mountain crew, it is an excellent option for travelers looking for a scenic, gradual, and rewarding Kilimanjaro climbing experience.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Once there, our expert guide will meet you to brief you on the trek ahead, followed by an equipment check to ensure you’re fully prepared with the right gear for the mountain. Afterward, you’ll rest for the night at your hotel before the adventure begins.
Day 1 – Lemosho Gate (2100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m)
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
The Northern Circuit begins at Londorossi Gate (2100m) in the west, the same starting point as the Lemosho Route. The drive to the gate takes about two hours from Moshi. After completing registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, you will be driven further up the mountain to the trailhead. Along the way, you may spot large wildlife like elephants, giraffes, and buffalos, which sometimes emerge from the rainforest onto the path. Dinner and overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m).
Day 2 – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m) to Shira I Camp (3600m)
Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest / Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Today, you will spend the first hour trekking through the rainforest before entering the low alpine moorland zone leading to the Shira Plateau. The trek is relatively short and gradual, ending at Shira Camp I (3600m).
Day 3 – Shira I Camp (3600m) to Moir Hut Camp (4200m)Day 3 – Shira I Camp (3600m) to Moir Hut Camp (4200m)
Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Low alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
On day three, the trek crosses the Shira Plateau and heads directly to Moir Hut Camp (4200m). This is a short day with excellent acclimatization benefits, as you trek close to the Shira Plateau and descend slightly before reaching Moir Hut for lunch and overnight.
Day 4 – Moir Hut Camp (4200m) to Pofu Camp (4000m)
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 5-7 hours
Habitat: High alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Today, you’ll face a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. Trekkers can take a small detour to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill (4375m) before returning to the Grand Traverse trail. The route continues around the northern slopes of Kibo to Pofu Camp (4000m), offering stunning vistas of the plains stretching toward the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. Arrive at Pofu Camp just after midday for lunch, dinner, and overnight.
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 5-7 hours
Habitat: High alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Today features a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. Trekkers can take a small detour to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4375m before returning to the Grand Traverse trail. The route continues around the northern slopes of Kibo to Pofu Camp (4000m), offering stunning vistas of the plains that extend toward the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Pofu Camp.
Day 5 – Pofu Camp (4000m) to Rongai Third Cave Camp (3800m)
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
On day five, the trek starts with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge and continues east along the northern slopes to Rongai Third Cave Camp (3800m). The trek is shorter than the previous day, and you should be feeling well acclimatized to the altitude by now. Arrive at the Third Cave by mid-afternoon.
Day 6 – Rongai Third Cave Camp (3800m) to School Hut (4800m)
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 4-5 hours
Habitat: High alpine zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
On day six, you’ll experience a steady incline up and over the Saddle, a pass between Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Afterward, continue to School Hut (4800m). Upon arrival, you’ll have an early dinner and prepare for your summit attempt, which begins later that night.
Day 7 – Summit Day – School Hut (4800m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) and then down to Millennium Camp (3950m)
Distance covered: 16 km
Approximate time taken: 12 hours
Habitat: Glacial zone and all preceding zones
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
You will wake up early around 5:00 AM and have a full breakfast before starting your summit attempt at approximately 6:00 AM. The first checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave, where you will take a short break. The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5681m), which will take 4-5 hours. Take a moment to enjoy the sunrise and incredible views of Mawenzi Peak. From Gilman’s Point, push to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After a brief stay at the summit, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp (4680m) for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3950m) for your final night on the mountain.
Day 8 – Millennium Camp (3950m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
Distance covered: 14 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Glacial zone and all preceding zones
Meal: Breakfast and lunch included
On the final day, you will descend through the dense montane rainforest from Millennium Camp (3950m) to Mweka Gate (1630m). At the gate, you will sign out with the authorities, who will provide you with your official certificate, a green certificate for those who made it to Gilman’s Point and a gold certificate for those who reached Uhuru Peak.
Day 9 – Depart Tanzania/Other Destination in Tanzania
Later in the evening or the next day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your home-bound flight. We can also organize an affordable safari trip to one of Tanzania’s best wildlife parks, such as Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.
End of Tour
ENQUIRE THIS TOUR
Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route??
High Success Rate
The extended 8-day trek offers gradual altitude gain, giving climbers more time to acclimatize, which significantly increases the chances of successfully reaching the summit.
Wildlife Encounters
The Lemosho Route often provides sightings of wildlife, especially in the early days as trekkers pass through the lush forests, adding a unique experience to the journey.
Scenic Variety
Lemosho is known for its breathtaking scenery, passing through diverse landscapes, including forests, heathlands, and panoramic views of the Shira Plateau.
Fewer Crowds
Compared to other popular routes like Marangu or Machame, Lemosho is less crowded, offering a more peaceful and secluded climbing experience.
Help Links
- Food on Mt. Kilimanjaro
- How hard is Baranco Wall
- Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro
- Daily Routine on the kilimanjaro
- Lemosho Route vs Machame Route
- The Complete Kilimanjaro Packing
- Chance Venture Tours Tipping Guide
- Why Climbing Kilimanjaro Costs So Much
- When is the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro
- Can you Climb Kilimanjaro Without a Guide
- Trusted Mountain Guides on Mount Kilimanjaro
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
| No. of Pax | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2350 USD |
| 2–4 People | $1940 USD |
| 5–9 People | $1890 USD |
| 10+ People | $1797 USD |
Included in the price
- 2 Nights Hotel in Moshi: Bed & Breakfast
- Private transport to / from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel in Moshi
- Qualified guides with mountain crew
- National Park fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees and services
- All camping accommodations
- Mountain tents
- Transport
- Rescue fees
- All needs on the mountain (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Guides and porters’ accommodations and their entry fees on the mountain
- Pulse oximeter
- First aid kit
- Emergence oxygen
- Sleeping mats and sleeping bags
- Treated water through the trek
- Fair wages to guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park authority
Not included in the price
- Flights
- Visa
- Tips to mountain crew
- Private toilet ($120 per group)
- Laundry services
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