9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Mid-Range Climbing Via Northern Circuit Route
Safari Duration
- 9 Days
- 8 Nights
Tour Type
- Mid Range Kilimanjaro
- price start from $2895
Price per Person - Based on 11 + persons
Overview
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). It offers the best acclimatization profile, making it one of the highest success rate routes on the mountain. Unlike other trails, the Northern Circuit takes a 360-degree approach, circling the entire northern side of Kilimanjaro, which is remote and less crowded. This route is ideal for climbers who want a gradual ascent, breathtaking landscapes, and a high chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
The trek begins at Londorosi Gate (2,100m), passing through the lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) on day one. On day two, climbers reach the Shira Plateau, arriving at Shira 1 Camp (3,500m). The journey continues to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m) on day three, offering stunning views of Kibo Peak. On day four, hikers ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization before heading toward the Northern Circuit, camping at Moir Hut (4,200m).
Day five leads through the remote northern slopes to Buffalo Camp (4,020m), offering unique perspectives of Kenya’s landscapes. On day six, the trail continues to Third Cave Camp (3,870m), preparing climbers for the final ascent. On day seven, trekkers reach School Hut (4,800m), the last stop before the summit push. The summit attempt begins at midnight on day eight, ascending via Gilman’s Point (5,685m) before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After a brief celebration, climbers descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m).
The final day involves a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where climbers receive their summit certificates.
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is perfect for those seeking a longer, well-paced trek with maximum acclimatization. The best months to climb are January–March and June–October for the most favorable weather conditions. While it requires more days on the mountain, the reward is a less crowded, incredibly scenic, and successful summit experience.
1 person | 2-5 person | 6-10 person | 11+ person |
USD 2895 | USD 2895 | USD 2895 | USD 2895 |
Per person | Per person | Per person | Per person |
trek itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Moshi.
Arrival: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Our dedicated representative will be eagerly waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it, ready to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome.
Transfer: From the airport, a seamless and comfortable transfer service will whisk you away to our enchanting hotel.
Check-In and Meal: Upon arrival at the hotel, you will check in and be served a delicious meal to help you relax and recharge.
Briefing: Later in the day, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will provide a pre-trekking briefing. This exciting session will cover essential information and give you a glimpse of the wonders that await you on your upcoming expedition. During the briefing, there will be an equipment check to ensure that you have everything needed to make your climb comfortable and safe. Should you require any equipment, it can be rented locally at a fair price and is of good quality.
Please note that if your arrival is at night, the briefing and equipment check may be conducted early the next morning instead. This ensures that you are well-prepared and fully equipped before starting your adventure.
Overnight: Stay at the hotel and get a good night’s rest before the adventure begins.
Day 2: Moshi to Lemosho Park Gate / Mti Mkubwa Camp
Altitude: 2,200 m – 2,780 m
Hiking distance: 7 km
Hiking time: 5 hours
Terrain: Dense rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
After breakfast and a briefing from your guide at the hotel, you’ll be transferred to Lemosho Park Gate (2,100m) via a 1.5-hour drive. At Londorossi Gate, you’ll complete the registration before starting your trek along scenic forest trails to Mti Mkubwa Campsite (2,750m), a 3-hour hike. Upon arrival, porters will set up the tents, and the chef will prepare lunch. After enjoying your meal, you’ll have time to relax until dinner. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing about the next day’s trek.
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa camp
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 2
Altitude: 2,780 m – 3,840 m
Hiking distance: 12 km
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Terrain: Moorlands
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Begin your day with an early breakfast before setting out on your trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp. The trail will lead you through diverse landscapes, including moorlands and stunning views of Kibo Volcano. After approximately 5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Shira Camp 1 for a hot lunch prepared by our chef. Following lunch, continue trekking to Shira Camp 2, a further 2–3 hours away.
Shira Camp 2 is located at a higher altitude, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival, porters will set up your tents, and you’ll have time to relax and acclimate before dinner. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the following day’s trek.
Overnight: Shira Camp 2
Day 4:Shira II Camp to Moir Hut
Altitude: 3,878 m – 4,200 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Terrain: Giant heather moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Start your day with an early breakfast at Shira II Camp, then begin your trek towards Moir Hut. The trail gradually steepens as you enter the giant heather moorland zone and cross Shira Ridge. This route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. By early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Moir Hut (4,200 m), where you can relax and acclimate. This section of the trek combines gentle ascents with spectacular vistas, preparing you for the more challenging days ahead. The peaceful environment at Moir Hut provides an ideal setting to recharge for the journey to come.
Overnight: Moir Hut
Day 5:Moir Hut to Pofu Camp
Altitude: 4,200 m – 4,025 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Terrain: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Start your trek with breakfast at Moir Hut. Proceed out of the moorland and into the alpine desert, ascending a steep ridge off the main trail. This climb will take about 5 to 7 hours to reach Pofu Camp (4,025 m). As you trek, enjoy the magnificent views of Kenya’s wild lands to the north. This challenging section of the journey offers a dramatic contrast to the lush moorland previously experienced, highlighting the stark beauty and vast expanse of the alpine desert. Upon arriving at Pofu Camp, you’ll have the opportunity to take in these breathtaking landscapes and prepare for the next stages of your adventure.
Overnight: Pofu camp
Day 6: Pofu Camp to Third Caves Camp
Altitude: 4,025 m – 3,600 m
Hiking distance: 12 km
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Terrain: Alpine desert and moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Begin your trek from Pofu Camp with a hearty breakfast. Continue eastward through valleys and ridges in the alpine desert and moorland. This trek, which takes approximately 5 to 7 hours, rewards you with expansive views of the vast mountain wilderness. As you progress, the rugged terrain and panoramic vistas offer a dramatic backdrop to your journey. Upon arrival at Third Caves Camp (3,600 m), you’ll have ample time to rest and acclimate, soaking in the serene surroundings. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you prepare for the next day’s adventure and savor a well-deserved dinner amidst the stunning landscapes.
Overnight: Third caves camp
Day 7: Third Caves Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Altitude: 3,600 m – 4,315 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 3–5 hours
Terrain: Rugged
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Begin your trek steadily upward to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,315 meters, nestled at the base of the steep and dramatic ridges of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest peak. This segment of the trek takes you through rugged terrain, and as you climb, the landscape becomes increasingly majestic. Upon arrival at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the tranquil tarn that adds to the camp’s serene atmosphere. The peaceful setting provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and acclimatization, allowing you to fully appreciate the grandeur of your surroundings and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 8: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
Altitude: 4,315 meters (14,157 feet) – 4,720 meters (15,486 feet)
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Terrain: Barren lunar landscape
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a trek across the vast, barren lunar landscape known as the “Saddle,” which stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is desolate yet mesmerizing, with rugged vistas and the summit looming ahead in the distance. Though the trail is long, it maintains a gentle incline, allowing for a steady pace as you approach the final stage of your journey. Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest and enjoy an early dinner to conserve energy for the summit attempt. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing, as the ascent to Uhuru Peak begins shortly after midnight.
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Day 9: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Altitude: 4,700 m – 5,895 m – 3,110 m
Hiking distance: 17 km
Hiking time: 15+ hours
Terrain: Switchbacks and loose rock
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Wake up around midnight to start your summit trek. Begin hiking at 1 am, navigating switchbacks and loose rock as you ascend to Gillman’s Point (5,685 m). From there, continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), where you can enjoy breathtaking views and spend a brief time at the summit. After taking in the magnificent scenery, descend to Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to rest for the night. The challenging climb to the summit and subsequent descent will be both physically demanding and rewarding, making the evening’s rest at Millennium Camp a well-deserved reprieve.
Overnight: Millennium Camp
Day 10: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi
Altitude: 3,110 m – 1,830 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 2-3 hours
Terrain: Forested
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Descend from Millennium Camp (3,110 m) to Mweka Gate (1,830 m) in approximately 2 to 3 hours. Upon arrival, the Great Time Experience (GTE) team will be waiting to celebrate your achievement with a medal ceremony. Following this, you will receive your summit certificate from the government and be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await, giving you a chance to reflect on your incredible journey and celebrate your successful climb.
After a short rest, join us in the evening for a brief celebration where we will present you with an award from our company to commemorate your achievement and bid our farewells. If you’re interested in extending your adventure, you can meet with our safari coordinator to explore options such as a thrilling wildlife safari or a relaxing beach getaway in Zanzibar. Additionally, we offer various day trips to nearby attractions, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the local culture and natural beauty of the region.
Overnight: Rest at the hotel and enjoy a good night’s sleep before your departure.
Day 11: Departure from Moshi.
Activity: Relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, explore Moshi town or visit local markets before heading to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure
Kindly note: If you wish to extend your adventure, consider adding a day trip to your itinerary. You can explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in local culture for a truly enriching experience. For more details, we invite you to visit our Day Trip page.
Alternatively, you can continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches or wish to delve into the island’s rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Discover the perfect package for your next excursion by exploring our Zanzibar page.
If you’re interested in adding a safari experience, please visit our Safari page. Here you will find detailed information on our exciting safari options, allowing you to further extend your adventure with a thrilling wildlife experience.
Additionally, our team is always available to help customize your extended itinerary, ensuring you have the most memorable and enjoyable experience possible.
Price Included:
- Qualified guides with mountain crew
- National Park fees
- Hut/camping fees and tents
- Tents foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and (Cutlery / Crockery) eating utensils.
- Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
- Pulse oximeters
- First aid kit
- Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
- Boiled water on the mountain
- Airport transfers (JRO – Kilimanjaro International Airports)
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Not Excluded:
- Single rooms supplement.
- Guides, Porters, Cook & Waiters tips
- Meals and drinks not specified
- Mountain equipment (eg sleeping bags)
- Gear for your climb, some equipment is available for rent.
- Car Supplement USD$145 per car for clients who go through Lemosho/Rongai/Shira Routes
- Items of personal nature (expenses)
- Emergency Oxygen
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Where to Stay
When planning your safari, there are plenty of great places to stay from lodges and camps to hotels. Each option offers a comfortable and unique way to experience the beauty of nature. Discover the perfect spot to relax after a day of adventure for this tour.
