9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour

Join us on 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour Experience nature wonder conquer challenges and revel in breathtaking vistas

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour Itinerary

The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit route is one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro, offering nearly360 degrees of beautiful scenery including the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit also has the most acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate. Thus, the Northern Circuit route is highly recommended. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west.

Tour Highlights:

  • Day 1 : From Moshi hotel to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Via Londorossi Gate
  • Day 2 : From Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Hiking to Shira I Camp
  • Day 3 : Shira I Camp to Shira Camp II Kilimanjaro Hiking
  • Day 4 : From Shira II to Lava Tower to Moir Camp (4,200 m)
  • Day 5 : Hiking from Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp
  • Day 6 : From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
  • Day 7 : Kilimanjaro Hiking from Third Cave Camp to School Hut camp (4,800 m)
  • Day 8 : From School Hut to Uhuru Peak Back to Mweka Camp
  • Day 9 : Final Kilimanjaro Hiking From Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
  • Day 1: From Moshi hotel to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Via Londorossi Gate

    From Moshi hotel to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Via Londorossi Gate

    Your journey begins with an early and invigorating wake-up at your Moshi hotel. After a hearty breakfast, you'll depart for the Londorossi Park Gate, venturing through the captivating townscapes of Boma N’gombe, where you'll get a glimpse of the local culture. At the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities' registration, our team will organize all your gear and supplies. From there, our friendly chefs and guides will accompany you to the starting point of your trek. The first leg of your adventure takes you through a lush rainforest filled with ancient botanical wonders, and if you're lucky, you might spot Black and White Colobus Monkeys and other fascinating wildlife. Your resting place for the night will be the Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 m), where you can rejuvenate for the days to come

    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: From Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Hiking to Shira I Camp

    From Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Hiking to Shira I Camp

    Today marks the longest and most breathtaking day of your hike. Leaving the rainforest behind, you'll enter the Low Alpine moorland zone, adorned with rare flora, including magnificent violet lobelias. As you cross the vast Shira Plateau, you'll be in awe of the collapsed remnants of an ancient volcanic crater. The day's hike concludes at Shira Camp 1 (3,600 m), where you'll set up camp for the night

    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: Shira I Camp to Shira Camp II Kilimanjaro Hiking

     Shira I Camp to Shira Camp II Kilimanjaro Hiking

    Following a hot breakfast, you'll venture through the untouched beauty of the exposed moorland zone. Few travelers have explored this section of Kilimanjaro, giving you a unique and serene experience. As you emerge from the Shira Plateau, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing view of Kilimanjaro's peak before reaching Shira Camp 2 (3,810 m). Enjoy your free time to explore the remarkable surroundings, including the stunning Shira Cathedral, a rock buttress surrounded by spire formations, and let your body continue acclimatizing.

    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 II to Lava Tower to Moir Camp (4,200 m)

    From Shira II to Lava Tower to Moir Camp (4,200 m)

    Today's hike will take you eastward into the High Alpine desert zone. As you progress, you'll encounter curious desert plant species and witness the iconic Shark's Tooth volcanic rock formation on your way to Lava Tower. The gradual ascent to higher altitudes will further aid in your acclimatization process. You'll end the day at Moir Camp (4,200 m), nestled behind the majestic Lent Hills, where you can relax and savor a delicious meal.

    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: Hiking from Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

    Hiking from Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

    Awake to the crisp mountain air and enjoy breakfast before leaving Moir Valley. A short detour leads you to the summit of Lent Hills, offering breathtaking views. As you continue along rolling terrain, you'll circumnavigate the northern slopes of Kibo, eventually arriving at Buffalo Camp, which offers panoramic vistas of the Kenyan plains below.

    Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp

    Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite

      public camp site

    Bufallo Campsite
    Bufallo Campsite
    Bufallo Campsite
    Bufallo Campsite

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

    Day 6: From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

    From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

    The adventure continues as you climb 'Buffalo Ridge' in the morning, followed by a journey through High and Low Alpine scenery, with increasingly sparse vegetation. You'll reach the Rongai Third Cave Camp, where you'll be fully acclimatized to the high altitude.

    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: Kilimanjaro Hiking from Third Cave Camp to School Hut camp (4,800 m)

    Kilimanjaro Hiking from Third Cave Camp to School Hut camp (4,800 m)

    This is the final leg before your last ascent to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. You'll hike up and over The Saddle, a lunar landscape between the Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. Rest at School Hut (4,800 m) to prepare for the ultimate challenge ahead.

    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: From School Hut to Uhuru Peak Back to Mweka Camp

    From School Hut to Uhuru Peak Back to Mweka Camp

    Your last morning on the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit will begin early. With your guides, you'll make your way through the darkness to Gilman's Point on the main crater rim, witnessing spectacular ice cliffs and glaciers. Just in time for sunrise, you'll reach the summit and celebrate the momentous achievement. After taking in the breathtaking views, you'll descend on the Mweka Route to Mweka Camp, where you'll spend your last night on the mountain.

    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: Final Kilimanjaro Hiking From Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

    Your final hike is a short one, leading you to Mweka Gate. You will have Gold Summit Certificate and celebrate your incredible accomplishment. Our drivers will be waiting to take you back to Moshi, where you can enjoy a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and fresh clothes.

    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 $2,184  pp $1,638  pp
    2–4 pax $2,159  pp $1,619  pp
    5–9 pax $2,134  pp $1,601  pp
    10–15 pax $2,109  pp $1,582  pp

    Group joining price

    AdultChild
    $2,159  pp $1,619  pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Sleeping bag or bed linen
  •  Rescue fee
  •  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
  •  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 Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour

    1. Q: What is the Northern Circuit Route, and how does it differ from other routes?

    A: The Northern Circuit Route is a longer and less crowded trail around Kilimanjaro's northern slopes. It offers a more scenic and off-the-beaten-path experience compared to other popular routes like the Machame or Marangu.

    2. Q: How long is the 9-day Northern Circuit Route?

    A: The Northern Circuit Route spans 9 days, providing ample time for acclimatization and increasing the chances of a successful summit attempt.

    3. Q: What is the difficulty level of the Northern Circuit Route?

    A: The Northern Circuit is considered to have a moderate difficulty level. While it is longer, the gradual ascent and extra acclimatization days make it suitable for fit and determined hikers.

    4. Q: Are there any age restrictions for the Northern Circuit hike?

    A: The minimum age to participate in the Northern Circuit trek is 12 years old. However, individuals of all ages should be in good physical health and well-prepared for high-altitude hiking.

    5. Q: Is previous hiking experience required for the Northern Circuit Route?

    A: While prior hiking experience can be beneficial, it is not mandatory. However, participants should maintain a regular fitness routine and be prepared for multiple days of TREKKING at high altitude.

    6. Q: What is the highest point on the Northern Circuit Route?

    A: The highest point reached during the Northern Circuit trek is Uhuru Peak, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

    7. Q: What is the best time of year to undertake the Northern Circuit hike?

    A: The optimal time to hike the Northern Circuit is during the dry seasons, which are January to mid-March and June to October. These periods offer stable weather conditions and clearer skies.

    8. Q: Are there any wildlife encounters on the Northern Circuit?

    A: Yes, the Northern Circuit Route offers opportunities to spot various wildlife, including monkeys, antelope, and various bird species, especially in the lower rainforest zones.

    9. Q: What type of accommodation is provided during the hike?

    A: Accommodation during the Northern Circuit trek is in tents at designated campsites along the route. All necessary camping gear, such as tents and sleeping bags, is usually provided.

    10. Q: Is it safe to hike the Northern Circuit route?

    A: Yes, hiking the Northern Circuit route is generally safe with experienced guides and well-trained support staff. However, hikers must follow the instructions of their guides and adhere to safety protocols to ensure a secure journey.

    REVIEWS FOR 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour Itinerary

    Write a Review

    Incredible 9-Day Northern Circuit Adventure with Burigi Chato Safaris

    5/5

    The 9-day Northern Circuit hike with Burigi Chato Safaris was the adventure of a lifetime. This route gave me the most stunning views of Kilimanjaro from every angle, and the longer trek helped me acclimatize well. The guides were highly professional and made sure we stayed safe, healthy, and motivated throughout. The porters impressed me with th...
    ... Read more

    By: james tarkowski
    From: Flag US

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    Unforgettable Kilimanjaro Trek with a Fantastic Team

    5/5

    I chose the Northern Circuit for its beauty and fewer crowds, and Burigi Chato Safaris delivered an unforgettable experience. Each day brought new and breathtaking landscapes—from lush rainforest to rugged alpine terrain and snowy peaks. Our guides were knowledgeable and supportive, always checking on our oxygen levels and making sure we were acc...
    ... Read more

    By: merlin rohl
    From: Flag DE

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    Best Kilimanjaro Experience with Burigi Chato Safaris

    5/5

    The 9 Days Northern Circuit tour was perfectly organized by Burigi Chato Safaris. Everything—from the airport pickup to equipment checks and daily camp setups—was smooth and professional. The guides were outstanding, always offering encouragement and sharing stories about the mountain. The meals were surprisingly delicious for such high altitudes...
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    By: thierno barry
    From: Flag FR

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    Challenging Yet Rewarding Kilimanjaro Journey

    5/5

    This 9-day trek via the Northern Circuit was challenging, but Burigi Chato Safaris made it an incredibly rewarding experience. The route was long but scenic, allowing us to gradually adjust to the altitude. Our guides were patient and motivating, always putting safety first. The porters were amazing, working tirelessly to set up camp and carry eq...
    ... Read more

    By: james garner
    From: Flag IT

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    Exceeded Expectations Every Step of the Way

    5/5

    Burigi Chato Safaris exceeded all my expectations during the 9 Days Northern Circuit Route hike. The professionalism of the guides, the warmth of the porters, and the efficiency of the logistics made the journey smooth. The scenery along this route is spectacular and far less crowded, which made the adventure feel more personal and connected to n...
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    By: donyell malen
    From: Flag AU

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    A Once-in-a-Lifetime Kilimanjaro Trek

    5/5

    Choosing the 9-day Northern Circuit route with Burigi Chato Safaris was the best decision I could have made. The longer trek gave me the time to enjoy the incredible landscapes and acclimatize properly. The guides were knowledgeable, encouraging, and always attentive to our needs. The porters worked like heroes behind the scenes, and the cooks am...
    ... Read more

    By: matty cash
    From: Flag ES

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