9 Days Northern Circuit
Duration
Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed using six established routes. Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe approach the mountain from the south. Lemosho and Shira approach from the west. Rongai approaches from the north near the Kenyan border. All routes descend via the Mweka Route except Marangu and Rongai.
The Northern Circuit Route is considered one of the finest routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers close to 360-degree panoramic views and access to the remote and rarely visited northern slopes of the mountain. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, it provides the most comprehensive acclimatization profile and consistently delivers the highest summit success rates.
Landscape and Scenery
The route begins on the western side of the mountain after a longer drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. It passes through rainforest before reaching the Shira Plateau.
From there, the route turns north and circles the mountain clockwise, passing through remote areas near Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, and School Hut. The northern slopes are quieter and more expansive, offering wide open views that are not accessible on other routes.
Acclimatization and Summit Success
The Northern Circuit’s extended length allows climbers to adapt gradually to altitude. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude-related issues and makes it the most reliable route for summit success.
The slow altitude gain and extended time on the mountain make this route ideal for climbers who prioritize safety, comfort, and success over speed.
Summit Attempt
The summit attempt is made from the eastern side of the mountain. Climbers reach the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak. Due to the excellent acclimatization profile, climbers often arrive at summit night in better physical condition compared to shorter routes.
Route Characteristics
-
Duration: 9 or 10 days
-
Difficulty: Medium
-
Scenery: Excellent
-
Traffic: Low
-
Accommodation Style: Fully supported camping
Arrival and Pre-Climb Briefing
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, climbers are transferred to a hotel near the mountain for overnight accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.
Before the climb, the head guide conducts a detailed briefing and gear inspection. Any required equipment can be arranged locally prior to departure.
Pricing
8 Days | 7 Nights . Price Per Person (USD)
Group Size | Price Per Person
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | USD 2,670 |
Solo & Supplement Charges (USD)
| Charge Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Solo Climber Add-On | USD 350 |
| Single Supplement | USD 300 |
Prices are indicative and subject to current government-regulated park fees at the time of departure.
Typical Crew Composition (2 Climbers)
-
1 Lead Guide
-
1 Assistant Guide
-
1 Cook
-
1 Waiter
-
1 Toilet Porter
-
10 Porters
Included/Exclude
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the agreed itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide (Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified)
- Proper ration and support of the mountain crew (cook & porters)
- Pre- and post-trek accommodation (2 nights, Bed & Breakfast)
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- All meals on the mountain as per the itinerary (full board)
- Safe drinking water throughout the trek
- All National Park fees, hut/camping fees, crew permits, and VAT
- Fair and sustainable wages for all mountain crew
- Gate transfers
- Complimentary oxygen cylinder (for emergency use)
- Private portable toilet with a dedicated porter
- Use of quality, imported trekking equipment
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory – recommendations available)
- Gamow (hyperbaric) bag
- Personal medications
- Tips for porters and mountain crew
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
- Energy foods and beverages, including alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal hire gear (e.g. trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.)
- Additional accommodation costs in case of early descent from the mountain
Tour Plan
Departing from Moshi a 3 hours drive will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here.
After a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, we leave the forest behind now, the trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Temperatures begin to drop.
Our trek crosses the Shira one of the highest plateaus on Earth, from Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp. Nine-day climbs will stay the night at Shira II Camp joining climbers ascending from the Machame Route. At Shira II Camp it is worth the extra energy to go a bit higher up the plateau to enjoy the stunning view across the valley below and view the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro above. The plateau is exposed so be prepared for a cold night with temperatures getting below zero.
Note: 8 Day Climbs continue East to Shira Plateau Ridge to Lava Tower (4,600 meters) and descend to Moir Camp (4,200 meters)
Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the Kibo peak before we then continue, South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we come to a second junction, which leads to the Arrow Glacier. We then continue to descend to overnight at Barranco Camp.
We begin with a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. If you wish, take a small detour here to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. The route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp. Spectacular views of plains north of Kilimanjaro that stretches as far as the eye can see to the Kenyan / Tanzanian border. You will arrive at Buffalo Camp just after midday, where you will have lunch and have time to rest.
Day six starts with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge and down into Pofu Camp where lunch is served. We continue East around the Northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave. Today’s climb is shorter than the day before and you should be feeling better acclimatized to the altitude at this point. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon
A steady ascent and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Continue Southwest to School Hut where you will be served an early dinner and the rest as you will begin just before midnight to start your summit attempt. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp, and camera before going to bed.
Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.
We continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.
Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!
After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment. We begin our steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for uncooperative loose gravel and volcano ash terrain. Well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain. Overnight Mweka Camp.
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.
From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!
Book Now
Max Guests
Min Age
Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent questions and answers
I am item content. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Trips can be arranged as private or shared, depending on the package and group size. Private trips offer more flexibility, while shared trips can reduce costs.
Packing depends on the destination and activity. After booking, we provide clear packing guidance to help you prepare properly and comfortably.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers. It should cover medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation where applicable.
Yes. Please inform us in advance about any dietary needs or allergies so we can plan accordingly.
Trips may be adjusted for safety reasons due to weather or local conditions. Any necessary changes are communicated clearly, with safety always as the priority.
Our team is available before and during your trip to assist with questions, updates, or support. Contact details are shared upon confirmation.
100% Tanzania-focused expertise
We specialize in Tanzania, allowing us to design trips with real local insight, accurate timing, and destination-specific knowledge.
Private Safaris with Dedicated Vehicles
Travel in your own private safari vehicle with an experienced guide, ensuring flexibility, comfort, and a personalized pace every day.
Local travel specialists based in Tanzania
Our team lives and works in Tanzania, giving you first-hand advice, up-to-date conditions, and on-the-ground support throughout your journey.
Carefully Planned Itineraries, Not Generic Tours
Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed based on seasons, wildlife movement, and travel flow. No rushed schedules or copy-paste routes.
Personalized Support Before, During, and After Your Trip
From planning and preparation to on-trip assistance and follow-up, we support you at every stage for a smooth, stress-free experience.
Fast, Clear, and Reliable Communication
We respond quickly, explain clearly, and keep you informed, so you always know what to expect and feel confident in your plans.