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Trekkers on the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit
Home / Kilimanjaro Climbing / Northern Circuit · 9 Days
9 Days / 8 Nights · Camping Route

Northern Circuit, 9 days.

One of the longest and most comprehensive Kilimanjaro routes, circling the mountain's quiet northern slopes for outstanding acclimatization.

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Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Best For
Maximum acclimatization
Style
Camping, full-service
Difficulty
Moderate – Long Duration
Overview

The longest, most immersive route

The Northern Circuit is one of the longest and most comprehensive routes, circling the quieter northern slopes before joining the summit route.

  • Outstanding acclimatization
  • Quiet northern slopes
  • Long and immersive mountain experience
Mount Kilimanjaro summit view from the Northern Circuit
Day By Day

Your 9 days itinerary

Day 1Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Trek begins at Londorossi Gate through rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 2Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Climb out of the forest onto the Shira Plateau, reaching Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Cross the open Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp, gaining altitude gradually.
Day 4Shira 2 via Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Pass the Lava Tower before branching north to the quiet Moir Hut.
Day 5Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Traverse the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro to Buffalo Camp.
Day 6Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Continue circling the mountain's quiet northern side to Third Cave.
Day 7Third Cave to School Hut
Climb to School Hut, the final camp before the summit push.
Day 8Summit Uhuru Peak; descend to Mweka Camp
A pre-midnight start for the summit push to Uhuru Peak, followed by a long descent to Mweka Camp.
Day 9Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate; return to Moshi/Arusha
A final descent through forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before transferring back to Moshi or Arusha.
What's Included

Included in this climb

  • Park and conservation fees as quoted
  • Professional mountain guide(s) and crew
  • Camping arrangements for the Northern Circuit
  • Meals on the mountain
  • Transfers specified in the itinerary
  • Safety equipment and emergency procedures as appropriate
Not Included

Not included

  • International flights
  • Visa costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips/gratuities
  • Alcoholic and personal beverages unless specified
Prepare For The Climb

Packing & FAQs

General guidance below — our team sends a full, route-specific packing list and briefing once your climb is booked.

Essential packing list

  • Layered clothing for rainforest to arctic conditions
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
  • Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
  • Headlamp with spare batteries, for the summit night
  • Trekking poles and gaiters
  • Sun protection and personal first-aid kit
Why choose the 9-day Northern Circuit?
It's the longest route on the mountain, circling the quiet northern slopes for outstanding acclimatization — giving you the best statistical chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
No technical climbing skills are required, but a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience will make the trek more enjoyable.
Can this route be done as a private climb?
Yes — this itinerary can be arranged privately for your dates and group size, or joined as part of a scheduled group departure.
Kilimanjaro camp on the Northern Circuit
Customize This Trip

Ready to climb the Northern Circuit?

This itinerary can be adjusted for private groups, family climbs and special requests — and combined with a safari or Zanzibar extension afterwards. Tell us your dates and group size for a personalized quote.

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