Northern Circuit – Longest & Quietest
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro—and also the quietest. With a full 9-day trek, it offers unmatched time for acclimatization, maximizing your chances of reaching the summit successfully while enjoying the mountain in near solitude.
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights (trekking)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highest Elevation: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
Starting Point: Londorossi Gate (Western Kilimanjaro)
Route Type: Camping, Traverse Loop
Success Rate: Highest among all routes
Route Highlights
Longest route = best acclimatization and highest success rate
Follows scenic Lemosho path through rainforest and Shira Plateau
Circles the rarely seen northern side of Kilimanjaro
Low crowds and quiet campsites
Panoramic views from all sides of the mountain
Amazing wildlife sightings and varied landscapes
Itinerary Overview (9-Day Trek)
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Begin through lush rainforest with possible sightings of monkeys and exotic birds.
⛺ Overnight at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp).
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Climb up to the Shira Plateau with expansive views and open skies.
⛺ Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Cross the plateau to Shira 2 for great views of Kibo and a relaxed acclimatization day.
⛺ Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Moir Hut (4,200m)
A short but steep climb to a quiet and remote camp. Optional hike to Lent Hills.
⛺ Overnight at Moir Hut.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Climb over the northern ridges of Kilimanjaro with incredible views of the plains below.
⛺ Overnight at Buffalo Camp.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
Continue along the northern circuit with gentle ups and downs.
⛺ Overnight at Third Cave Camp.
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut (4,800m)
Final climb before summit night. Rest early and prepare for the summit attempt.
⛺ Overnight at School Hut.
Day 8: Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then descend to Mweka Camp
Begin summit push at midnight. Reach the top of Africa at sunrise, then descend to Mweka Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final walk through rainforest. Receive your certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
End of climb.
✅ What’s Included
Kilimanjaro park fees and conservation charges
All camping equipment and mountain crew (guide, porters, cook)
All meals and drinking water on the mountain
Daily health checks and oxygen (if needed)
Round-trip transport from Moshi/Arusha
Emergency support and climbing certificate
❌ What’s Not Included
Flights and Tanzania visa
Sleeping bags and personal gear
Tips for crew (guide, cook, porters)
Pre/post climb accommodation (optional)
Personal expenses and travel insurance