Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit — 9 Days
Overview
The longest and most remote route on Kilimanjaro. The Northern Circuit circumnavigates the entire mountain, offering unparalleled solitude, all-round views, and the highest summit success rate of any route thanks to 9 days of gradual acclimatisation.
Trip Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m). Trek through pristine montane rainforest to Forest Camp (2,750 m). Look out for forest elephants and buffalo.
Cross the upper forest boundary and ascend onto the Shira Plateau. Camp at Shira 1 (3,500 m) with impressive western views.
Cross the Shira Plateau past the Cathedral rock formation to Shira 2 Camp (3,840 m). Optional acclimatisation walk.
Acclimatise at Lava Tower (4,630 m) then head north — the point where the Northern Circuit diverges from Machame/Lemosho. Descend to Moir Hut (4,200 m), an area very few trekkers ever visit.
Continue the northern traverse through the remote northern slopes with unique views of the Shira Plateau and Kenya. Camp at Buffalo Camp (3,987 m). Complete solitude guaranteed.
Pass the Second Cave campsite and reach Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m) beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak. Afternoon acclimatisation walk.
Cross the alpine desert of The Saddle to Kibo Huts (4,703 m). Rest, eat, sleep early. Summit tonight.
Midnight assault on Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via Gilman's Point and the crater rim. Summit at sunrise. Descend to Horombo Huts (3,720 m).
Final descent to Marangu Gate (1,879 m). Summit certificate. Transfer to Moshi for celebrations.
Route Map
Map shows approximate camp locations along the route. Elevation data shown in meters and feet.
About This Package
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's longest route, completing a full circumnavigation of the mountain from the western Lemosho approach to a northern summit attempt before descending via the Marangu route. With only a few groups on the mountain at any one time, this is a genuinely remote and wilderness experience. The 9-day itinerary provides the most gradual acclimatisation profile on Kilimanjaro, with a summit success rate of 96%. If you want the best possible chance of reaching Uhuru Peak and a truly premium mountain experience, the Northern Circuit is the route to choose.
What's Included
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- All park & conservation fees (KINAPA)
- Professional KINAPA-certified lead guide
- Experienced assistant guides (1 per 2 climbers)
- Porters for all group camping equipment
- Porter for personal luggage up to 15 kg
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining tent)
- Emergency oxygen cylinder & pulse oximeter
- Rescue evacuation insurance (helicopter)
- First-aid kit & emergency medication
- Pre-climb briefing & gear check
- Summit certificate
- Hotel accommodation (1 night pre + 1 night post trek)
Not Included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal hiking gear & sleeping bag (rentals available)
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Phone charging & Wi-Fi (available at some camps for a fee)
- Personal snacks & energy bars
- Extra hotel nights
$3,295
per personFree cancellation up to 90 days before departure
Quick Facts
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Contact us now and start planning your Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit — 9 Days expedition.