9 Days Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail — offering 360° views of the mountain, excellent acclimatization, and the highest summit success rate. Over 9 days, this route circles the mountain from the western Lemosho trail, crossing pristine wilderness and quiet landscapes before reaching Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Route: Northern Circuit Route
Mountain: Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m)
Tour Type: Extended Trekking Adventure
Starting Point: Arusha / Moshi, Tanzania
Ending Point: Arusha / Moshi, Tanzania

Trek Highlights

Longest and most scenic Kilimanjaro route.
360° panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
Excellent acclimatization and highest success rate.
Crosses Shira Plateau, Moir Hut, and Northern slopes.
Ideal for trekkers seeking a quiet, immersive experience.

🗓️ Itinerary Overview

🗓️ Day 1 – Arrival in Moshi / Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), meet your guide, and transfer to your lodge in Moshi or Arusha. Receive a full briefing and gear check before your climb begins.
Accommodation: Parkview Inn or similar
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast

🗓️ Day 2 – Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 m)

After breakfast, drive to Lemosho Gate for registration. Start trekking through lush rainforest teeming with wildlife until you reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp.
Trekking Distance: 7 km (4–5 hrs)
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 3 – Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500 m)

Leave the forest and hike up to the Shira Plateau, with magnificent views of Shira Ridge and Mount Meru.
Trekking Distance: 8 km (5–6 hrs)
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 4 – Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,840 m)

Continue across the Shira Plateau through open high moorland, allowing your body to acclimatize gradually.
Trekking Distance: 7 km (4–5 hrs)
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 5 – Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (4,200 m)

A steady climb takes you to Moir Hut at the base of Lent Hills. In the afternoon, enjoy an optional acclimatization hike for panoramic views over the Shira Plateau.
Trekking Distance: 10 km (5–6 hrs)
Accommodation: Moir Hut
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 6 – Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020 m)

Trek across the rugged northern slopes with expansive views of Kenya’s plains. The terrain changes to alpine desert as you approach Buffalo Camp.
Trekking Distance: 12 km (5–7 hrs)
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 7 – Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,900 m)

A gradual ascent followed by a gentle descent brings you to Third Cave Camp. The quiet environment enhances acclimatization and rest.
Trekking Distance: 8 km (5–6 hrs)
Accommodation: Third Cave Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 8 – Third Cave Camp to School Hut (4,800 m)

Ascend steadily toward School Hut, your base for the final summit push. Early dinner and rest before your midnight climb to the top of Africa.
Trekking Distance: 5 km (4–5 hrs)
Accommodation: School Hut
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 9 – Summit Day (Uhuru Peak 5,895 m) & Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m)

Begin the final ascent around midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise — the Roof of Africa. Celebrate and take photos before descending to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
Trekking Distance: 16 km (10–13 hrs total)
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

🗓️ Day 10 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Departure

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive summit certificates. Transfer to Moshi or Arusha for relaxation or onward journey.
Trekking Distance: 10 km (3–4 hrs)
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch