9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit Route – The Longest & Most Scenic Summit Journey. Our 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit Route is the longest and newest official route on Africa’s highest mountain, offering unmatched scenery, the highest acclimatization time, and the best summit success rates of any Kilimanjaro trek. Starting on the quieter western side, the trail crosses the spectacular Shira Plateau, then diverts north around the remote flanks of the mountain before joining the summit approach from the east.
This route is perfect for trekkers who want a less crowded, more immersive Kilimanjaro experience with diverse landscapes and wildlife encounters along the way. With Ahambi Tours’ expert guides and full mountain crew, you’ll enjoy a safe, comfortable, and rewarding adventure to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Why Choose This 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking via Northern Circuit Route
- Longest route on Kilimanjaro for ultimate acclimatization and success rates
- Remote and less crowded than other routes
- Cross the Shira Plateau and trek through pristine northern slopes
- Experience key highlights: Lava Tower, Karanga Valley
- Trek with experienced Ahambi Tours guides, chef, and porters
- Perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and serious trekkers
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via Northern Circuit Route
The best months to trek Kilimanjaro are January to March and June to October. These periods offer clearer skies, more stable weather, and better trail conditions, making your climb safer and more enjoyable. The January–March window is generally quieter, while June–October coincides with the main climbing season, attracting more trekkers. Avoid April–May and November when heavy rains can make the trails muddy and visibility poor.
Detailed 9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Distance: 6 km | Trek Time: 3–4 hrs | Start: 2,100m | End: 2,785m
Transfer from Moshi (3–4 hrs) or Arusha (4–5 hrs) to Londorossi Gate for registration. Continue to the trailhead and trek through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira Camp 1
Distance: 8 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Start: 2,785m | End: 3,505m
Ascend through the heath zone to Shira Ridge before reaching Shira Camp 1.
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 – Shira Camp 2
Distance: 7 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs | Start: 3,505m | End: 3,840m
Trek across the Shira Plateau to Shira Camp 2, with time for acclimatization hikes.
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 – Lava Tower – Moir Hut
Distance: 14 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs | Start: 3,840m | High Point: 4,650m | End: 4,200m
Climb to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to the remote Moir Hut.
Day 5: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp
Distance: 12 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Start: 4,200m | End: 4,020m
Trek over rugged terrain to Buffalo Camp, enjoying views of the plains below.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp
Distance: 8 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Start: 4,020m | End: 3,870m
Continue around the northern slopes to Third Cave Camp.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp – School Hut
Distance: 15 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs | Start: 3,870m | End: 4,800m
Climb steadily to School Hut, your final base before summit night.
Day 8: School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Distance: 21 km | Trek Time: 11–14 hrs | Start: 4,800m | Summit: 5,895m | End: 3,110m
Begin the summit push at midnight, reaching Stella Point for sunrise before continuing to Uhuru Peak. Descend to Mweka Camp.
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi/Arusha
Distance: 10 km | Trek Time: 3–4 hrs | Start: 3,110m | End: 1,640m
Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
Kilimanjaro Trekking Cost – 9 Days Northern Circuit Route
| Number of People | Cost per Person (USD) |
| 1 Person | 3,600 |
| 2 People | 3,420 |
| 3+ People | 3,150 |
Included in the Price
- Round-trip transport from Moshi or Arusha to Kilimanjaro National Park gate and back
- Certified English-speaking Kilimanjaro trekking guide for the full climb
- Experienced mountain chef to prepare all meals
- Porter services to carry main luggage (up to 15 kg per person)
- All meals during the trek (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available)
- Drinking water throughout the trek (boiled & filtered)
- Camping accommodation with tents and sleeping mats provided
- Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Summit certificate upon completion
- Pulse oximeter checks and basic first aid kit
- All government taxes and levies
Not Included in the Package
- Trekking gear (available for rent)
- Hotel accommodation before/after the trek (we can arrange in Moshi or Arusha)
- Domestic or international flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Tips for guides, chef, and porters
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs)
Gear List for Kilimanjaro Trekking – Northern Circuit Route
Clothing & Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots, gaiters
- Warm base layers (top/bottom)
- Fleece and insulated jacket
- Waterproof jacket & trousers
- Warm hat, gloves, buff
Trekking Gear
- Sleeping bag (-10°C or lower)
- Trekking poles, headlamp with spare batteries
- Daypack (30–35L), duffel (90–100L)
Accessories
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Hydration system, snacks
- Personal first aid kit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Is the Northern Circuit the best route for summit success?
Yes, its length and acclimatization profile give the highest success rates of any Kilimanjaro route.
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Is it more challenging than other routes?
It’s physically demanding due to the duration but less steep than some shorter routes.
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How remote is it?
The northern slopes are among the least visited areas of Kilimanjaro.
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What is the accommodation like?
Full-service camping with high-quality tents and sleeping mats is provided.
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Can this trek be combined with a safari?
Yes, Ahambi Tours can arrange a safari before or after your climb.