Northern Circuit 9 days
Description:
The Northern Circuit is the longest and most scenic route to Uhuru Peak, offering a quieter and more gradual ascent that maximizes acclimatization and summit success. Spanning 9 days, this trail takes you on a unique journey around the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, away from the busier southern routes.
Starting from the Lemosho trailhead, the route follows the western approach before veering north around the mountain, offering panoramic views, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds. With plenty of time to adjust to the altitude, this route boasts one of the highest summit success rates.
You’ll traverse varied terrains—from lush rainforests and alpine meadows to high desert plains and glacial landscapes. The summit attempt typically begins just after midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak in time for a breathtaking sunrise from the Roof of Africa at 5,895 meters.
The descent is via the Mweka Route, allowing you to experience even more of Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.
| 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
$2,183 |
$1,282 |
$1,088 |
$951 |
$901 |
Northern Circuit 9 days
DAY 1
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Your adventure begins at the Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After completing registration formalities, you’ll drive through the rainforest to the trailhead. The hike kicks off with a gentle walk through dense forest, where you might spot black-and-white colobus monkeys swinging through the trees. After 3–4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp) for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Mti mkubwa
Meal Plan:Breakfast included
DAY 2
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Today, you’ll leave the forest behind and ascend into the heather and moorland zone. The trail opens up to vast views as you cross the Shira Plateau—one of the highest plateaus in the world. After a steady climb, you’ll reach Shira 1 Camp, where you'll begin to feel the altitude. The scenery begins to shift dramatically, with giant lobelias and volcanic rock formations becoming more prominent.
Accommodation
Shira 1 camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 7
DAY 7
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
This day is more relaxed, allowing your body to acclimate. You’ll continue across the Shira Plateau, passing surreal landscapes of lava ridges and valleys. Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy clear views of Kibo Peak in the distance. Tonight’s camp, Shira 2, sits at a higher altitude, preparing you for greater heights ahead.This day is more relaxed, allowing your body to acclimate. You’ll continue across the Shira Plateau, passing surreal landscapes of lava ridges and valleys. Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy clear views of Kibo Peak in the distance. Tonight’s camp, Shira 2, sits at a higher altitude, preparing you for greater heights ahead.
Accommodation
Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
A lesser-used route takes you to Moir Hut, located beneath the Lent Hills. This is one of the quietest camps on the mountain, offering solitude and a perfect environment for acclimatization. An optional acclimatization hike in the afternoon leads up the Lent Hills, providing stunning views and helping your body adjust to the elevation.
Accommodation
Kibo Hut
Meal Plan:Ful Board
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Today, you’ll begin the northern circuit proper—circling around the rarely visited northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail is quieter and more remote, with sweeping views of Kenya to the north. The route gently undulates as you traverse alpine terrain to reach Buffalo Camp, where you’ll rest and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Accommodation
Buffalo Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
You’ll continue your scenic journey along the northern face of Kilimanjaro. The trail climbs gently before descending slightly into the Third Cave Camp area. The landscape becomes more barren, and the altitude starts to kick in more noticeably. This is another day designed for gradual acclimatization and building endurance.
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meal Plan: Include Breakfast
Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
Today’s trek to School Hut brings you to the base of your summit attempt. The trail is steeper and more challenging, but by now, your body will be better adjusted to the altitude. After a hot meal and a thorough briefing from your guide, you’ll rest early in preparation for your midnight summit push.
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meal Plan: Include Breakfast
Day 8: Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Today’s trek to School Hut brings you to the base of your summit attempt. The trail is steeper and more challenging, but by now, your body will be better adjusted to the altitude. After a hot meal and a thorough briefing from your guide, you’ll rest early in preparation for your midnight summit push.
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meal Plan: Include Breakfast
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day is a descent through lush montane forest, filled with birds and exotic plant life. After about 3–4 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From there, it’s a short drive back to your hotel for a hot shower, a warm meal, and the sweet satisfaction of completing one of the world’s greatest trekking adventures.
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meal Plan: Include Breakfast
- Included in cost
- Park fees & rescue fees
- Guides, porters, and cook
- 2 nights hotel (before & after climb)
- Mountain tents & sleeping mats
- All meals & drinking water on the mountain
- Transport (airport & gate transfers)
- Safety gear (first aid kit, oximeter, emergency oxygen)
- The price does not include
International flights & visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal gear (sleeping bag, etc.)
Tips for crew
Extra hotel nights/meals in town
Snacks & personal expenses
Optional portable toilet or personal porter
