9-Day Northern Circuit Route – "The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Trek"
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9-Day Northern Circuit Route Overview
Ideal for: Those who want maximum acclimatization and a unique experience.
Highlights:
- Longest route with highest summit success rate (90%+).
- Less crowded, offering a true wilderness experience.
- Spectacular 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro.
📌 Best time to climb: June – October & December – March.
Tour Plan
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp – Rainforest Gateway
Start at Londorossi Gate (2,100m), hiking 6 km through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m). The 3-4 hour trek features monkeys and vibrant flora. Settle into tents after a warm dinner from your crew, immersed in the forest’s serenity. This gentle beginning launches your ultimate Kilimanjaro journey with nature’s embrace.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp – Moorland Majesty
Trek 8 km from Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) over 5-6 hours, shifting from rainforest to moorland. Enjoy expansive views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak. Camp amid heather under a vast sky, dining on a hot meal. The route’s early beauty and gradual climb set the tone for success.
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp – Plateau Panorama
Hike 7 km across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m) in 4-5 hours, soaking in panoramic vistas of Kilimanjaro’s western flank. The gentle ascent aids acclimatization. Rest in tents with dinner, surrounded by open moorland, as the Northern Circuit’s quieter path reveals its scenic charm and peaceful isolation.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Moir Hut – Northern Wilderness
Trek 10 km over 5-7 hours from Shira 2 to Moir Hut (4,200m), veering north through rugged moorland. Pass Lava Tower’s base, enjoying solitude on this less-traveled route. The gradual climb boosts acclimatization amid dramatic landscapes. Camp near volcanic formations, dining under stars, feeling the remote thrill of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp – Remote Northern Traverse
Hike 8 km from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m) in 5-6 hours, traversing the northern circuit’s wild, untouched terrain. Descend slightly for acclimatization, surrounded by alpine desert and distant Kibo views. Rest in tents after a hearty meal, embracing the solitude and vastness that define this ultimate trek’s unique appeal.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp – Steady Progress
Trek 8 km over 4-5 hours from Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870m), continuing along the northern slopes. The gentle descent through sparse vegetation enhances acclimatization. Camp in a quiet, sheltered spot with dinner, reflecting on the route’s serene beauty and your steady advance toward Kilimanjaro’s summit.
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut – Summit Base Approach
Climb 5 km from Third Cave to School Hut (4,750m) in 4-5 hours, ascending through alpine desert to your summit base. Conserve energy with an early dinner and briefing from guides. Rest in tents under a stark, rocky expanse, preparing for the midnight push to Uhuru Peak on this well-paced route.
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp – Summit Glory
Begin at midnight, climbing 5 km to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) in 6-8 hours through scree and snow, summiting at sunrise. Revel in Africa’s highest point, then descend 10 km to Mweka Camp (3,100m) over 5-7 hours. After a celebratory dinner, sleep in tents amid rainforest, exhausted but victorious from the Northern Circuit’s ultimate achievement.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Descent & Farewell
Descend 10 km from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) in 3-5 hours through lush rainforest. Collect your summit certificate, bid farewell to your crew, and transfer to Arusha or Moshi. Celebrate the ultimate trek’s success, ending with rest and memories of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic route.
Price Included:
- Accommodation: Tents with sleeping mats on the mountain, pre/post-climb lodging in Arusha/Moshi (1 night each).
- Meals: All meals on the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), prepared by camp cooks.
- Transportation: Transfers to/from Machame Gate and Arusha/Moshi.
- Support: Professional guides, porters, cook, camping gear (tents, tables, chairs).
- Fees: Kilimanjaro National Park entry, camping, and rescue fees.
- Safety: First aid kit, pulse oximeter for altitude monitoring.
Not Excluded:
- International Flights: Airfare to/from Tanzania.
- Travel Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory for evacuation coverage).
- Visas: Tanzanian visa fees.
- Gear: Personal climbing gear (e.g., sleeping bag, trekking poles, clothing rentals available).
- Beverages: Bottled water (boiled water provided), alcohol, soft drinks.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, porters, and cook (customary).
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional nights, or upgrades.
- Extra Activities: Optional pre/post-climb tours or extensions.
Booking Inquiry​
Ready to embark on your African adventure? Reach out to us for booking inquiries and let’s make your dream trip a reality!
