From $2,143 to $2,948
per person sharing
The 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest trekking trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the best acclimatization profile and the highest summit success rate. Starting on the western slopes at Londorossi Gate, the route crosses the beautiful Shira Plateau before curving around Kilimanjaro’s remote northern side.
Unlike the busier Machame or Marangu routes, the Northern Circuit provides tranquil trails, panoramic views, and fewer crowds. With nine days on the mountain, trekkers gain plenty of time to adapt to the altitude, making this one of the safest and most rewarding options to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa.
This route is ideal for trekkers who want a longer, scenic adventure with the best chance of summit success.
After breakfast in Moshi, drive to Londorossi Gate (2,100m) for registration. Begin trekking through lush rainforest, spotting monkeys and exotic birds along the way. After 3–4 hours, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,785m) for dinner and overnight.
The trail climbs out of the forest into the heath and moorland zone, opening to expansive views across the Shira Plateau. Trekking takes about 5–6 hours before reaching Shira 1 Camp (3,505m).
Enjoy a gentle hike across the plateau with wide landscapes and views of Mount Meru in the distance. This shorter day, about 4–5 hours, helps with acclimatization before reaching Shira 2 Camp (3,850m).
Ascend gradually to the Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization and lunch. From here, descend to the quiet and scenic Moir Hut (4,200m), a less-crowded campsite on the northern side. Trekking time is 6–7 hours.
Today, you head onto the Northern Circuit proper, away from the busier southern trails. Trek across ridges with sweeping views of the northern plains before reaching Buffalo Camp (4,020m) after 5–6 hours.
The trail continues eastwards, with undulating terrain and stunning vistas. After about 5–6 hours, you’ll arrive at Third Cave Camp (3,800m) for dinner and overnight.
A steady climb today leads to School Hut (4,800m), the final base camp before the summit attempt. Arrive in the afternoon for an early dinner and rest before the midnight ascent. Hiking time: 4–5 hours.
Summit day begins around midnight. Trek through steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After enjoying the sunrise and photos, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short break before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Trekking time: 10–14 hours.
The final descent takes 3–4 hours through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From here, transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower and well-deserved relaxation.
