9-Day Northern Circuit Climb – Mount Kilimanjaro

9-Day Northern Circuit Climb – Mount Kilimanjaro

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route, the longest and most scenic path to the summit. This 9-day itinerary allows for excellent acclimatization, fewer crowds, and sweeping views across Tanzania and Kenya. With our expert guides, top-quality gear, and unmatched service, you’ll be in the best hands for reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the Roof of Africa.

Itinerary Summary

Day 1
Arrival in Tanzania
Day 2
Londorossi Gate (2,100m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Day 3
Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Day 4
Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Day 5
Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,600m) – Moir Camp (4,200m)
Day 6
Moir Camp – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
Day 7
Buffalo Camp – Rongai Third Cave Camp (3,800m)
Day 8
Third Cave – School Hut (4,800m)
Day 9
School Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Millennium Camp (3,950m)
Day 10
Millennium Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi
Day 11
Departure Day

Price Rates

2 persons
4 persons
6+ persons
$2200.00
$1840.00
$1790.00

Plan My Trip

Tour
  • STEP 1
  • STEP 2
Day 1
Arrival in Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Meet your professional mountain guide for a trek briefing and equipment check. Any missing gear can be rented in town.

Meals Plan:

Lunch, Dinner
kilimanjaro-airport-

Accommodations:

Panama Garden

Day 2
Londorossi Gate (2,100m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

Register with Kilimanjaro National Park at Londorossi Gate. From there, drive to the trailhead (2,360m) and begin your trek through lush rainforest. Wildlife sightings may include monkeys, buffalo, or elephants. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)

Climb out of the forest and into moorland, enjoying panoramic views across the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, one of the most beautiful spots on the mountain.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

Cross the high-altitude Shira Plateau to reach Shira 2 Camp, where trekkers from the Machame Route converge. Optional short hikes to higher viewpoints help improve acclimatization.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,600m) – Moir Camp (4,200m)

Ascend to Lava Tower, a key acclimatization point, then descend to Moir Camp through alpine desert landscapes. This “climb high, sleep low” day is essential for preparing your body for summit night.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Moir Camp – Buffalo Camp (4,020m)

Hike out of the Moir Valley, optionally summit Little Lent Hill (4,375m), and continue around Kilimanjaro’s northern flanks. Enjoy views of the Kenyan plains as you reach Buffalo Camp.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Buffalo Camp – Rongai Third Cave Camp (3,800m)

Continue east across ridges and valleys to Third Cave Camp. By now, your body should be well adapted to the altitude, increasing your chances for a successful summit.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Third Cave – School Hut (4,800m)

Cross the Saddle, a dramatic high-altitude desert between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Reach School Hut by early afternoon. Rest, hydrate, and prepare gear for the summit push.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
School Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Millennium Camp (3,950m)

Summit Day! Wake at 11:30 PM for hot tea and begin your ascent under the stars. Pass Gilman’s Point (5,681m) and Stella Point (5,739m) before reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak around sunrise. After celebration photos, descend to Millennium Camp via Barafu for a well-earned rest.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Millennium Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi

A final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate (gold for Uhuru Peak). Return to Arusha for a hot shower and celebration dinner.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
Departure Day

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or extend your adventure with a Zanzibar beach escape or safari to Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.

Meals Plan:

Breakfast

Included

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Excluded

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