Overview
9 Days Northern circuit Route – Join me on this 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro climb and discover one of the world’s 7 summits! On this 9 days adventure in Tanzania, we will explore one of the most amazing mountains in the world as we climb to the top of the famous Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro is an emblematic mountain in Tanzania, and at 5,895 m, it is the highest mountain in Africa. There are many ways to tackle this breathtaking peak, however, the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro route has the highest summit success rate. It is also the longest route, which allows for the most acclimatization time. The route approaches Mount Kili from the west and departs from Londorosi Gate. The descent is through the Mweka route and ends at the Mweka Gate.
On this 9-day adventure, we will have the chance to tackle the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro route. We will set off with porters, tents, and all the necessary equipment and food for the trip. Keep in mind that you will need to have a good fitness level as we will enjoy an average of 3-6 hours of trekking every day and different terrains and climatic conditions. Of course, one of our guides will be there to help you every step of the way. So, are you ready to tackle the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro climb? Then book your place now and let’s start planning this unforgettable mountaineering adventure!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
We will transfer you from Kilimanjaro Airport to your hotel in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel or exploring the town of Moshi. We will brief you about the trek in the evening.
Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
We depart Moshi for Lomosho Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete the entry formalities. Upon arrival at the trailhead, we begin hiking through an undisturbed forest that winds to the first campsite.
- Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
- Distance: 6 km/4 miles
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.
- Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
- Distance: 8 km/ 5miles
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees.
- Elevation: 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft
- Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little-used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
- Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 7 km | 4 miles
- Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,580 ft
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.
- Elevation: 13,580 ft to 13,200 ft
- Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely traveled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys onto the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave.
- Elevation: 13,200 ft to 12,700 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 8: Third Cave to School Hut
We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
- Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Day 9: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
- Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft
- Distance: 6 km / 6 miles
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
- Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
- Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Price includes:
- Trekking tour according to the itinerary
- Accommodation in tents and hotels as indicated in the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Personal porter
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Accommodation in tents and hotels as indicated in the itinerary
- Transfers as indicated in the itinerary
- Camping equipment – tents, sleeping mattresses, and camping furniture
- National park fees
- Rescue fees
Price excludes:
- Flights (international and domestic)
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Beverages other than water (alcohol and soft drinks)
- Visa, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance
- Sleeping bag (can be rented, please ask us at the time of the booking)
