9-Day Northern Circuit Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour
The longest and most scenic route on Kilimanjaro, offering superb acclimatization and panoramic views from every side of the mountain.
Why Choose the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit is the most extended and remote trail up Kilimanjaro. With excellent acclimatization time and fewer crowds, it boasts the highest summit success rate. You’ll circle nearly the entire mountain, approaching from the west via the Lemosho Route and exiting through the south on the Mweka Route. Ideal for those who want the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience with breathtaking views and less traffic
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 Days |
| Route Distance | ~98 km (61 miles) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Accommodations | Tented Camps |
| Best Months | Jan–Mar & Jun–Oct |
9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
Altitude: 2,100m to 2,650m
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After registration at Londorossi Gate, drive to the trailhead and begin your trek through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Altitude: 2,650m to 3,610m
Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Climb steadily out of the forest zone and into the heather-covered moorland of the Shira Plateau. Stunning views begin to unfold.
Altitude: 3,610m to 3,850m
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Cross the Shira Plateau at a gentle pace, taking in views of Kibo and glaciers ahead. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Altitude: 3,850m to 4,600m (Lava Tower), then down to 4,200m
Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Trek to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Moir Hut—one of the least visited and quietest camps on Kilimanjaro.
Altitude: 4,200m to 4,020m
Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Optional hike up Lent Hills before continuing along the Northern Circuit with amazing views into Kenya. Arrive at Buffalo Camp.
Altitude: 4,020m to 3,870m
Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Hike across the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro with expansive, open views. The trail is peaceful and rarely crowded. Overnight at Third Cave Camp.
Altitude: 3,870m to 4,800m
Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Climb steadily up to School Hut, your summit base camp. Rest early and prepare for the summit push.
Altitude: 4,800m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m
Time: 12–15 hours total
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Start around midnight for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point. After sunrise on the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for rest.
Altitude: 3,100m to 1,640m
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Complete your descent through the forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel.
What’s Included in the 9-Day Trek
Kilimanjaro park fees Rescue and camping fees Experienced guide, cook, and porters Mountain tents and sleeping mats All meals and drinking water Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro gate
What’s Not Included
Flights to Tanzania Visa fees Gratuities for crew Personal gear (clothes, boots, sleeping bag, etc.)
| Group Size | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Trekker | USD 3,555 |
| 2–4 Trekkers | USD 3,225 |
| 5-9 Trekkers | USD 3,110 |
| 10+ Trekkers | USD 2,875 |
Discounts available for larger groups. Contact us for custom quotes.
Ready to Climb Kilimanjaro?
Why Trek Kilimanjaro With Tanzania Trip Service?
Local experienced guides
Focus on safety and proper acclimatization
High summit success rate
24/7 WhatsApp support
Faqs
A: The best route depends on your goals. Lemosho and Northern Circuit are great for acclimatization and scenery. Machame is popular and scenic, Marangu has huts, Rongai is dry and quiet, and Umbwe is very steep and challenging.
A: The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are considered the most scenic, offering panoramic views from all sides of Kilimanjaro.
A: The Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate due to its long duration and excellent acclimatization profile.
A: Marangu offers hut accommodations and a gentle trail, but its shorter duration makes acclimatization more difficult. It's more comfortable but not necessarily easier to summit.
A: All routes except Marangu require camping. Marangu is the only route with mountain huts along the way.
A: 6 to 9 days is ideal. Shorter routes are possible but reduce summit success rates due to limited acclimatization time.
A: The best months are January to March and June to October, which are dry seasons with clear skies and stable weather.
A: Yes, guides are mandatory. Kilimanjaro National Park regulations require all climbers to be accompanied by licensed guides and a mountain crew.
A: You don’t need technical climbing skills, but you should be in good physical shape with strong endurance and mental determination.
A: Rongai, Northern Circuit, and parts of Lemosho are quieter and more remote, making them great options for avoiding crowds.