9 Days Most Kilimanjaro Hiking Northern Circuit Route

Embark on an epic adventure with our 9 day Kilimanjaro hiking via the northern circuit route Conquer the highest peak in Africa

9 Days Most Kilimanjaro hiking northern circuit route package

The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is a thrilling and less-trodden path to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Offering a unique and immersive experience, this route takes you through a variety of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to arid high-altitude deserts. As the longest route available, it provides ample time for acclimatization, increasing your chances of a successful summit.

Tour Highlights:

  • Day 1 : Begin hike From, Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa campsite
  • Day 2 : Proceed hiking From, Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3610m)
  • Day 3 : Hiking From, Shira 1 Camp (3610m) to Shira 2 Camp (3940m)
  • Day 4 : From Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp (4140m), Kilimanjaro hiking
  • Day 5 : From Moir Camp proceed hike (4140m) to Pofu (4024m)
  • Day 6 : From Pofu (4024m) to Third Cave Camp(3871m), Kilimanjaro hiking
  • Day 7 : hike from, Third Cave Camp (3871m) to School Hut Camp(4755m)
  • Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp, Ultimate challenge hike
  • Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1860m) - Final hike day
  • Day 1: Begin hike From, Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa campsite

    Begin hike From, Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa campsite

    Embarking on a memorable journey, our expedition begins at the Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. Following a 2-hour drive from Moshi, we register with the national park and receive a packed lunch for the adventure ahead. The drive to the gate involves a bumpy forest track, requiring 4WD vehicles. As we set foot on the trail, be on the lookout for the playful Colobus monkeys in the Montane Forest habitat. At the end of the day, we reach Mti Mkubwa campsite (2750m), where our dedicated porters have already set up our tents and provided refreshing drinking water. The chef treats us to a delightful evening snack and dinner.

    Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp

    Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

      public camp site

    Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Campsite
    Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Campsite
    Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Campsite
    Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Campsite
    Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 2: Proceed hiking From, Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3610m)

    Proceed hiking From, Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3610m)

    Having rested well, we continue our journey from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3610m) through the Moorland habitat. The temperature starts to drop as we ascend, so we don our long underwear, HIKING pants, liner gloves, and jackets to stay warm. The breathtaking Shira Plateau awaits us, offering panoramic views of Mount Meru. This is an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. The porters, once again, take care of our needs, ensuring we have enough drinking and washing water. Our chef prepares a delicious dinner, fueling us for the days ahead.

    Destination: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp

    Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite

      public camp site

    Shira 1 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 1 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 1 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 1 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 1 Campsite
    Shira 1 Campsite
    Shira 1 Campsite
    Shira 1 Campsite
    Shira 1 Campsite

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 3: Hiking From, Shira 1 Camp (3610m) to Shira 2 Camp (3940m)

    Hiking From, Shira 1 Camp (3610m) to Shira 2 Camp (3940m)

    Today, we explore the vastness of Shira Plateau, a full-day gentle walk leading to Shira 2 Camp (3840m) in the Moorlands. The plateau's beauty is said to be unrivaled in Africa, and we take the time to soak in its splendor. Properly dressed for the altitude, we hike onward, with each step bringing us closer to our dreams.

    Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp

    Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite

      public camp site

    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Shira 2 Campsite Kilimanjaro

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 4: From Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp (4140m), Kilimanjaro hiking

    From Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp (4140m), Kilimanjaro hiking

    Leaving Shira 2 Camp after breakfast, we hike out of the Moir Valley and reach the summit of Lent Hills (4140m), offering us breathtaking views. Our journey continues along the northern circuit trail, traversing the Moorlands until we reach Moir Camp (4140m). The evening treats us to snacks and a satisfying dinner.

    Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Moir Hut Camp

    Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite

      public camp site

    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite
    Moir Hut Campsite

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 5: From Moir Camp proceed hike (4140m) to Pofu (4024m)

    From Moir Camp proceed hike (4140m) to Pofu (4024m)

    From Moir Camp, we proceed to Pofu (4024m) through the Alpine Desert habitat. The cold becomes more noticeable as we ascend, prompting us to wear multiple layers to preserve energy. This is an important acclimatization day, preparing us for the challenges that lie ahead.

    Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp

    Accommodation: Pofu Campsite

      public camp site

    Pofu Campsite
    Pofu Campsite
    Pofu Campsite
    Pofu Campsite

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 6: From Pofu (4024m) to Third Cave Camp(3871m), Kilimanjaro hiking

    From Pofu (4024m) to Third Cave Camp(3871m), Kilimanjaro hiking

    Today's hike takes us from Pofu to Third Cave Camp (3871m) in the Alpine Desert. As the temperature drops, we bundle up with our HIKING gear and raingear safely stored in our day bags. The captivating northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro accompanies us along our traverse.

    Destination: Pofu Camp To Third Cave Camp

    Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite

      public camp site

    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite
    Third Cave Campsite

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 7: hike from, Third Cave Camp (3871m) to School Hut Camp(4755m)

    hike from, Third Cave Camp (3871m) to School Hut Camp(4755m)

    Continuing on the northern side of the mountain, we make our way to School Huts Camp (4755m) through the Alpine Desert. An early dinner is served, followed by a well-deserved rest, as the next day holds the culmination of our journey.

    Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp

    Accommodation: School Hut Campsite

      public camp site

    School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
    School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
    School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
    School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
    School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro
    School Hut Campsite Kilimanjaro

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp, Ultimate challenge hike

    School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp, Ultimate challenge hike

    The time has come for the ultimate challenge - reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Summit night is cold and demanding, with temperatures ranging from -10 to -20 degrees. We don several layers, ski trousers, gaiters, warm hats, balaclavas, and head torches to make our way to the summit. The ascent to Stella Point on the crater rim is mentally and physically demanding, but the breathtaking sunrise at Gillman's Point (5756m) serves as a reward. From Stella Point, the final hour leads us to the pinnacle of Uhuru Peak (5895m), where we witness an awe-inspiring sunrise.

    Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp

    Accommodation: Mweka Campsite

      public camp site

    Mweka Campsite
    Mweka Campsite
    Mweka Campsite
    Mweka Campsite
    Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro
    Mweka Campsite Kilimanjaro

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

    Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1860m) - Final hike day

    The final leg of our hike takes us from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1860m) through the lush Rain Forest. As we descend, the temperature rises, and we remove layers accordingly. At the gate, we sign our names to receive certificates of completion, celebrating our achievements together. Following a last meal with the team, we head back to the Hotel in Moshi for celebrations.

    Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Drinking water

    TOUR PRICE/COST

    We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Private (Shared) Price

    No of pax Adult Child
    1 pax $2,214  pp $1,661  pp
    2–4 pax $2,189  pp $1,642  pp
    5–9 pax $2,164  pp $1,623  pp
    10–15 pax $2,139  pp $1,604  pp
    16+ pax $2,139  pp $1,604  pp

    Group joining price

    AdultChild
    $2,189  pp $1,642  pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Sleeping bag or bed linen
  •  Rental vehicle
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Park fees
  •  A professional driver/guide
  •  All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  Bath towels
  •  Porterage
  •  Roundtrip airport transfer
  •  All flights during the tour
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 9 Days Most Kilimanjaro Hiking Northern Circuit Route

    1. Is the 9-day Northern Circuit Route suitable for beginners?

    While the Northern Circuit Route is less challenging than some other routes, it still requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. Prior HIKING experience and adequate preparation are recommended for a successful hike.

    2. What is the best time of year to hike the Northern Circuit Route?

    The best time to embark on this hike is during the dry seasons, which are January to February and June to October. These months offer more stable weather conditions and clearer skies, enhancing your overall hiking experience.

    3. How cold does it get during the hike?

    As you ascend, temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night. At higher elevations, the temperatures can reach below freezing. It's essential to bring appropriate cold-weather gear, including warm layers and a reliable sleeping bag.

    4. Are there any age restrictions for the Northern Circuit Route?

    There is no strict age limit, but participants should be at least 12 years old, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. It's essential to consult with a doctor before the hike, especially for older participants.

    5. Are there any restroom facilities along the route?

    Restroom facilities are available at designated campsites along the Northern Circuit Route. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes, the facilities become more basic, and you might need to use portable toilets or find a suitable spot in nature.

    6. How is drinking water supplied during the hike?

    Safe drinking water is provided throughout the hike. Porters will refill your water bottles from purified water sources at campsites. It's crucial to stay hydrated, so bring a reusable water bottle and consider using water purification tablets.

    7. Is altitude sickness a concern on the Northern Circuit Route?

    Altitude sickness can be a potential risk on any high-altitude hike, including the Northern Circuit Route. The gradual ascent of this route helps with acclimatization, but it's essential to pay attention to your body, stay hydrated, and inform your guide of any symptoms.

    8. Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?

    You will not need to carry camping equipment as it will be provided by the hiking company. This includes tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats for a comfortable night's rest.

    9. Can I charge my electronic devices during the hike?

    Some campsites along the Northern Circuit Route may have limited charging facilities available. It's best to bring portable chargers and conserve energy on your devices throughout the hike.

    10. What happens in case of an emergency during the hike?

    Our guides are trained to handle emergencies, and they will have communication devices to seek assistance if needed. Helicopter rescue is available for severe cases. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is highly recommended before the hike.

    REVIEWS FOR 9 Days Most Kilimanjaro hiking northern circuit route package

    Write a Review

    Best Kilimanjaro Hiking Experience with Burigi Chato Safaris

    0/5

    The 9 Days Most Kilimanjaro Hiking Northern Circuit Route with Burigi Chato Safaris was the best adventure I have ever taken. The route was scenic and peaceful, with fewer crowds and breathtaking landscapes. The guides were professional, the porters tireless, and the food exceeded expectations. I successfully reached Uhuru Peak, thanks to their e...
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    By: ricardo pepi
    From: Flag US

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    Unforgettable Journey on the Northern Circuit

    5/5

    Climbing Kilimanjaro through the Northern Circuit was unforgettable. Burigi Chato Safaris made the 9-day hike smooth with their organization, safety checks, and hospitality. The route gave us time to acclimatize, making summit day achievable. It was tough but rewarding, and I am grateful for the encouragement of the entire crew.

    By: ruben bommel
    From: Flag FR

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    Highly Recommended Northern Circuit Climb

    5/5

    I highly recommend Burigi Chato Safaris for the 9 Days Most Kilimanjaro Hiking Northern Circuit Route. Their guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help. The porters worked incredibly hard, and the meals were surprisingly good for the mountain. The slower pace of this route gave me the best chance to succeed—and I did!

    By: kamel van perre
    From: Flag IT

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    Professional and Supportive Team Throughout

    5/5

    The professionalism of Burigi Chato Safaris was outstanding. Every detail of the 9-day Northern Circuit trek was handled with care, from the campsites to the meals. The team provided daily health checks, safety briefings, and constant encouragement. Without them, I wouldn’t have conquered Kilimanjaro.

    By: rob schoofs
    From: Flag DE

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    Short & Straightforward

    5/5

    Fantastic route! The Northern Circuit gave me the best acclimatization, fewer crowds, and magnificent views from every angle. The trek was well-paced, the food was great, and the guides were outstanding. Summit night was tough but absolutely worth it. I wouldn’t choose any other route.

    By: Daniel Billgate
    From: Flag DE

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    “A Journey of Challenge and Triumph”

    5/5

    For anyone who loves adventure and solitude, the Northern Circuit Route is a dream. The trail winds through quieter, untouched sections of the mountain, and the views of Kibo from the northern side are jaw-dropping. Every day brought something new—lava formations, sweeping valleys, and endless sky. Our crew made camp feel like home, even at 4,500 m...
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    By: Brooke Russell
    From: Flag IT

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