9 Days: Kilimanjaro Northern circuit Route Trekking
$2995 Per Person
Overview
The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route is one of the most scenic, successful, and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its exceptional acclimatization profile, remote wilderness trails, and breathtaking panoramic views, the Northern Circuit is considered one of the best routes for trekkers seeking a quieter and more immersive Kilimanjaro experience. This spectacular route circles around the northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing climbers to experience nearly 360-degree views of Africa’s highest mountain while significantly increasing their summit success rate.
Unlike shorter and busier routes, the Northern Circuit offers more time for acclimatization, making it ideal for trekkers who want a safer and more comfortable ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The route passes through diverse ecological zones including lush rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit terrain. Trekkers enjoy dramatic scenery, peaceful campsites, stunning sunrise views, and unforgettable trekking experiences throughout the journey.
Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Hotel Stay
- Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Camp
- Day 6: Moir Hut Camp to Buffalo Camp
- Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
- Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp
- Day 9: School Hut Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route: Day-by-Day Detailed Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), an Mangalo Expeditions representative will greet you and provide a smooth, prearranged transfer to your hotel, included in the package. Your accommodation offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot showers, polite and helpful staff, a refreshing swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi access. This relaxing environment is perfect for recovering from your journey and preparing for your Mount Kilimanjaro climb. In the evening, you’ll attend a detailed pre-climb briefing with our expert managers and guides. They will go over the trekking itinerary, check your gear, discuss safety procedures, and answer any questions to ensure you’re fully prepared
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by the Mangalo Expeditions team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, your mountain guide conducts a detailed briefing about the climb, checks your trekking equipment, and prepares you for the adventure ahead. You can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro while preparing for your expedition.
Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,750m
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, you drive to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing to the trailhead. The trek begins through dense rainforest filled with giant trees, colorful birds, and tropical vegetation. This peaceful forest section offers opportunities to spot monkeys and other wildlife as you gradually ascend toward Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night on the mountain.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,750m to 3,500m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours
- Habitat: Moorland
The trail leaves the rainforest behind and enters the heath and moorland zone where the scenery opens dramatically. Trekkers enjoy spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes and the Shira Plateau. Giant lobelias and unique alpine plants dominate the landscape as you continue ascending toward Shira 1 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,500m to 3,900m
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Today’s trek crosses the magnificent Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. The route offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Meru and the snow-capped summit of Kilimanjaro. The gradual ascent supports excellent acclimatization while allowing trekkers to fully enjoy the mountain scenery.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
- Elevation: 3,900m to 4,200m
- Distance: 9 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trek continues into the alpine desert zone where the terrain becomes more rugged and dramatic. Climbers hike through volcanic landscapes and rocky terrain surrounded by expansive mountain views. Moir Hut Camp lies beneath the striking Lent Hills and provides excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today the route circles around Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes, offering stunning views toward Kenya and the northern plains. The peaceful wilderness and low number of climbers make this one of the most unique trekking experiences on the mountain. Buffalo Camp provides incredible sunset views and a quiet camping environment.
Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
- Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trek continues across the northern circuit with breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and rugged mountain landscapes. This section allows further acclimatization while maintaining a comfortable hiking pace before the summit push.
Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp
- Elevation: 3,870m to 4,800m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s hike ascends steadily toward School Hut Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The terrain becomes barren and rocky with dramatic views of Kibo Peak towering above. After an early dinner, trekkers rest and prepare for the midnight summit climb.
Day 9: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,800m to 5,895m to 3,100m
- Distance: 16 km
- Hiking Time: 10–14 Hours
- Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Around midnight, climbers begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The challenging summit climb takes trekkers through arctic terrain beneath a sky filled with stars before reaching the summit at sunrise. Standing at Uhuru Peak is an unforgettable achievement and one of Africa’s greatest adventures.
After celebrating at the summit, climbers descend carefully through alpine desert and rainforest zones to Mweka Camp where they spend the final night on the mountain.
Accommodations
Welcome to Mvuli Hotels
Whether you’re seeking the ultimate safari retreat near the stunning Ngorongoro Crater or a peaceful escape in the heart of Arusha, our hotels offer a blend of luxury, tranquility, and authentic hospitality. From the boutique safari experience in Karatu to the lush, garden-surrounded charm of Mvuli Hotel, each destination is designed to provide an unforgettable stay, seamlessly combining modern comfort with the beauty of Tanzania’s landscapes.
Mountain Camps
Your ultimate comfort camping experience features all-weather tents customized with upgraded zippers, flysheets, and insulating full-ground pads. We ensure privacy with daily private toilet tents and communal dining in solar-lit tents. You’ll enjoy hot, fresh meals prepared by our dedicated chef, and we provide afternoon treats of hot drinks and snacks.
What the Price Includes & Excludes
- All transfers to the mountain and back to your hotel
- Quality mountain tent and Sleeping Mattress
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Conservation fees (part of park fees)
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides
- VAT (18% charged by the Government)
- Clean, purified drinking water
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
- Meals
- Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
- Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
- Rescue fees (part of park fees)
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
- Tanzania Visa
- Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Transfers (available as an optional addon)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel (available as an optional addon)
What Our Guests Have to Say?
Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
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