Kilimanjaro Tours

9 Days Northern Circuit Route – Mount Kilimanjaro

From

$ 3,150

Per Person

Overview

The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers excellent acclimatization and the highest summit success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes. The trail circles the remote northern slopes, providing breathtaking views, fewer crowds, and diverse landscapes before reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Trek Itinerary

DAY 0

Arrival in Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where a Frontline Safari Tanzania representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a full climb briefing, equipment inspection, and safety discussion. This preparation session ensures you are ready for the Northern Circuit adventure beginning the next day.

DAY 1

Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Transfer to Lemosho Gate for registration and begin trekking through dense rainforest. The trail is peaceful and less crowded, offering chances to see colobus monkeys and unique birdlife. After 3–4 hours of hiking, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2,650 meters. Enjoy dinner prepared by your mountain crew and rest while adjusting to the altitude.

DAY 2

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Climb steadily out of the rainforest into the heath and moorland zone. The landscape opens dramatically with views across the Shira Plateau. Trek for about 5–6 hours to reach Shira 1 Camp at 3,610 meters. The slower ascent supports acclimatization while allowing trekkers to appreciate expansive scenery and the towering presence of Kibo Peak.

DAY 3

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Cross the Shira Plateau with panoramic mountain views and fascinating volcanic rock formations. The trek is moderate and allows time for altitude adjustment. Reach Shira 2 Camp at 3,850 meters after approximately 4–5 hours. Optional short acclimatization walks may be arranged before dinner, helping improve your body’s response to increasing elevation.

Day 4

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut

Ascend toward Lava Tower at 4,630 meters for an important acclimatization climb. After spending time at this altitude, descend slightly to Moir Hut at around 4,200 meters. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps the body adjust while offering dramatic views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic landscape.

Day 5

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Leave the main trail and trek across the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The path passes through quiet alpine terrain with wide views toward Kenya. After 5–7 hours of trekking, arrive at Buffalo Camp at approximately 4,020 meters where you enjoy dinner and rest in this peaceful and rarely visited area of the mountain.

Day 6

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Continue crossing the northern side of the mountain with gentle ascents and scenic ridgelines. The trail offers incredible views of Kilimanjaro’s northern glaciers and distant landscapes. After about 5 hours of hiking, reach Third Cave Camp at 3,800 meters where you relax and prepare for the final approach toward the summit route.

Day 7

Third Cave Camp to School Hut

Trek steadily toward School Hut at 4,800 meters, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The trail crosses an alpine desert landscape beneath the massive slopes of Kibo Peak. Arrive in the afternoon for an early dinner, summit briefing, and rest before beginning the midnight climb.

Day 8

School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Begin the summit ascent shortly after midnight, trekking slowly toward Gilman’s Point and continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. Celebrate reaching the highest point in Africa at sunrise before descending to Barafu Camp for a short rest and then continuing down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters.

Day 9

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Descend through beautiful rainforest trails to Mweka Gate where you receive your official summit certificate. After signing out of the park, transfer back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-earned rest and celebration of your successful Kilimanjaro adventure.