9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Route Overview

The Northern Circuit is the longest and newest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, celebrated for its exceptional acclimatization profile and stunning panoramas across the remote northern slopes. Because only a small number of trekkers choose this trail, it remains one of the quietest and least crowded routes on the mountain.

This route is ideal for adventurers who enjoy extended trekking in pristine wilderness, away from the busier paths.

Requiring a minimum of eight days, the Northern Circuit offers an impressive summit success rate thanks to its gradual ascent. For those seeking an even more immersive high-altitude experience, a 9-day Northern Circuit climb with crater camping is also available—an extraordinary adventure on Africa’s highest volcano.

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Itinerary

Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our driver and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, your head guide will conduct a comprehensive trek briefing, perform a gear inspection, and finalize preparations for your journey.
Overnight in Moshi (Hotel).

Day 1 – Lemosho Gate (2,100m) → Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Lemosho Gate for registration. The trail begins through pristine rainforest filled with towering trees, birds, and the chance to spot colobus monkeys. A gentle ascent leads to Mti Mkubwa Camp, your first overnight stop.
Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2 – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) → Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Ascend out of the forest and enter the moorland zone. Enjoy expansive views of Shira Ridge and volcanic formations. The trail continues across open terrain toward the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in Africa.
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3 – Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) → Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)

Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A relaxed day designed for acclimatization. Trek across the Shira Plateau with stunning panoramic views of Kibo Peak. Optional short hikes are available in the afternoon to boost acclimatization.
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.

Day 4 – Shira 2 Camp (3,840m) → Lava Tower (4,630m) → Moir Hut (4,200m)

Distance: 14 km | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Climb steadily to Lava Tower for a high-altitude acclimatization stop, then descend into the remote Moir Valley. This is one of the quietest locations on the mountain, offering dramatic scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight at Moir Hut.

Day 5 – Moir Hut (4,200m) → Buffalo Camp (4,020m)

Distance: 12 km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Start the day with a short, steep climb out of Moir Valley, then follow a scenic trail across the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy endless views toward Kenya’s plains.
Overnight at Buffalo Camp.

Day 6 – Buffalo Camp (4,020m) → Third Cave Camp (3,900m)

Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A relatively gentle day as you continue eastward across the seldom-visited northern flank. The landscape transitions from desert slopes to open moorland.
Overnight at Third Cave Camp.

Day 7 – Third Cave Camp (3,900m) → School Hut (4,800m)

Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Climb steadily toward School Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the early-morning ascent.
Overnight at School Hut.

Day 8 – School Hut (4,800m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Distance: 14 km | Hiking Time: 10–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic → Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin your summit trek around midnight. A challenging climb leads to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), where sunrise breaks over Mawenzi. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating, descend to Barafu and then to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Overnight at Mweka Camp.

Day 9 – Mweka Camp (3,100m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Moshi

Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Meet your driver for the transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower and relaxation.

Departure or Safari Extension

You will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for departure.
Alternatively, Auresta Tanzania Travel can arrange safari extensions to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, or a beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Included in the price

✅ 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (Bed & Breakfast)
✅ Private transport to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
✅ Qualified, professional mountain guides and full support crew
✅ All Kilimanjaro National Park fees (conservation, camping & crew fees)
✅ 18% VAT on all tour services
✅ All camping accommodations on the mountain
✅ High-quality, four-season mountain tents
✅ All ground transport to and from the trailhead
✅ Rescue fees as required by the park authority
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
✅ Guide and porter accommodations plus their mountain entry fees
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit carried by the lead guide
✅ Emergency oxygen cylinder for altitude-related issues
✅ Sleeping mats and sleeping bags
✅ Treated, safe drinking water throughout the trek
✅ Fair wages for guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority

Not included in the price

❌ International flights
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
❌ Private portable toilet (available for $120 per group)
❌ Laundry services