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The 9 days Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the highest summit success rate of all routes. This route is perfect for climbers who want excellent acclimatization, fewer crowds, and breathtaking views from all sides of the mountain.
The 9 days Northern Circuit Route starts from the western side of Kilimanjaro and slowly circles around the quiet northern slopes before joining the summit path. Because of the extra days on the mountain, your body has more time to adjust to the altitude, making this route safer and more comfortable, even for first-time climbers.
During the trek, you will pass through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glacial zones. You will enjoy wide open landscapes, peaceful camps, and incredible views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the Kenyan plains. The summit attempt is made after proper acclimatization, giving you the best chance to reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.
The 9 days Northern Circuit Route is ideal for travelers who value safety, comfort, and a truly immersive Kilimanjaro experience. It is a top choice for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to enjoy the mountain without rushing.
You will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and be warmly welcomed by your guide. A short transfer will take you to your hotel in Moshi town where you will meet your team, including your mountain guide. Today is for briefing and equipment check to ensure you have all necessary gear. Any missing equipment can be rented on this day. Relax and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.
Meals: No meals included
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Your adventure begins at Londorossi Gate, the western start point for the Northern Circuit Route. After park registration, a short drive takes you to the trailhead. The first trek is through dense rainforest, often muddy and wet, with chances to spot wildlife such as elephants or buffalo. The trail is gentle but beautiful, offering your first experience of Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystem.
Distance: 5.5 km / 3 miles
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Today, you leave the rainforest behind and gradually enter the low alpine moorland. Trekking along the Shira Plateau, you will enjoy expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes and the distant Mt Meru above Arusha town. The path is moderate, giving your body time to adjust to higher altitudes.
Distance: 14 km / 9 miles
Trekking time: 6-7 hours
Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Cross the beautiful Shira Plateau today, trekking to Shira Camp 2. Optional walks to higher points give panoramic views across valleys and the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro. Nights are cold and temperatures can drop below zero, preparing you for higher altitudes ahead.
Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Low Alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
A full day of trekking begins with the ascent to Lava Tower, a spectacular landmark at 4,600m. Lunch is served here while enjoying views of the high alpine desert. The route then descends to Moir Camp at 4,200m, following the principle of “walk high, sleep low” to aid acclimatization. This is a key day for adjusting to altitude.
Distance: 14 km / 8 miles
Trekking time: 5-7 hours
Zone: Low alpine / High alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
A moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley leads to Little Lent Hill (optional summit at 4,375m). You will then traverse the northern slopes of Kibo towards Buffalo Camp. Today’s trek rewards you with views of the plains north of Kilimanjaro stretching to the Kenyan border. A chance to witness the vast northern wilderness.
Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Trekking time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Trek along the Buffalo Ridge and descend into Porfu Camp for lunch. Continue east around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro to the Third Cave. The trail today is shorter, giving you time to rest and enjoy the acclimatized altitude while soaking in the northern views.
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Trekking time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High alpine / Low alpine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
A steady climb today brings you over the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Arriving at School Hut at 4,800m, you rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt. Ensure all gear, including warm clothes, headlamps, snacks, and camera, is ready. Tonight, sleep early as the summit day is long and strenuous.
Distance: 15 km / 8 miles
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Zone: High alpine / Glacial
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
The summit day begins around 11:30 pm with tea and biscuits. Trek steeply in the dark, reaching Hans Meyer Cave (5,226m) and Gilman’s Point (5,681m) at sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. After taking photos and enjoying the glacier views, descend via Barafu Camp to Millennium Camp for a well-earned rest. Total trekking can last 14-16 hours.
Distance: 6 km / 3.5 miles ascent and 10.5 km / 6 miles descent
Trekking time: 6-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent
Zone: Glacial / All preceding zones
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Your final day on Kilimanjaro is a gentle descent through the montane rainforest to Mweka Gate. At the gate, you will sign out with park authorities and receive your official certificate: green for Gilman’s Point or gold for Uhuru Peak. After celebrating your success, drive back to your hotel in Moshi for a warm shower and rest.
Distance: 10 km / 6.5 miles
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Optional add-ons such as safari or Zanzibar beach holidays can be arranged if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
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