9-Day Northern Circuit Route

9-Day Northern Circuit Route – Mount Kilimanjaro

Experience Mount Kilimanjaro's longest and most scenic route, offering exceptional acclimatization, breathtaking panoramic views, remote wilderness, and one of the highest summit success rates on Africa's highest mountain.

πŸ”οΈ 95%+ Summit Success βœ” TATO Licensed πŸ‘₯ Private & Group Climbs πŸ•’ Free Quote within 24 Hours
Duration

9 Days

Route

Northern Circuit

Difficulty

Moderate–Challenging

Maximum Altitude

5,895 m

Success Rate

95%+

Distance

98 KM

Highest Summit Success

Longer itinerary allows outstanding acclimatization for a safer summit experience.

Expert Mountain Guides

Professional licensed Kilimanjaro guides with years of high-altitude experience.

All-Inclusive Expedition

Park fees, camping, meals, mountain crew, rescue fees and transfers included.

24/7 Support

Dedicated assistance before, during and after your Kilimanjaro adventure.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

9 Days Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit Route is widely regarded as the ultimate Mount Kilimanjaro experience. As the mountain's longest route, it offers exceptional acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, and one of the highest summit success rates of all Kilimanjaro routes. Beginning on the western slopes through the lush Lemosho rainforest, the trail gradually circles the remote northern side of the mountain before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), Africa's highest point.

This carefully designed nine-day itinerary allows climbers to experience every ecological zone found on Mount Kilimanjaroβ€”from dense rainforest and open moorland to alpine desert and the arctic summit. The extended duration gives your body more time to acclimatize naturally, greatly improving your chances of a successful summit while enjoying a relaxed trekking pace and spectacular panoramic views.

Ideal for first-time climbers, photographers, adventure seekers and those looking for the highest probability of reaching the summit, the Northern Circuit combines outstanding safety, unforgettable scenery and a truly immersive mountain adventure with the support of Lowen Safaris' professional mountain guides and experienced climbing crew.

Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?

βœ“ Highest Summit Success Rate
βœ“ Excellent 9-Day Acclimatization
βœ“ Quiet Northern Slopes
βœ“ Spectacular 360Β° Mountain Views
βœ“ Crosses Every Ecological Zone
βœ“ Longer, Less Demanding Daily Treks
βœ“ Professional Mountain Guides
βœ“ Descend via Marangu Route
CLIMB ITINERARY

9-Day Northern Circuit Route Itinerary

Follow your unforgettable nine-day journey around Mount Kilimanjaro via the spectacular Northern Circuit, offering outstanding acclimatization, remote wilderness, and the highest summit success rate on the mountain.

DAY 1

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

6 KM β€’ 3–4 Hours
Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation

2,100m β†’ 2,820m

Distance

6 KM

Hiking Time

3–4 Hours

Habitat

Rainforest

After breakfast, you'll drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek begins through lush montane rainforest filled with towering trees, colorful birdlife, and playful colobus monkeys. The trail gently ascends to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you'll enjoy your first night on Mount Kilimanjaro while your body begins acclimatizing to the altitude.

DAY 2

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

8 KM β€’ 5–6 Hours
Shira 1 Camp
Elevation

2,820m β†’ 3,505m

Distance

8 KM

Hiking Time

5–6 Hours

Habitat

Heather & Moorland

Leaving the rainforest behind, today's trail climbs steadily into the beautiful heath and moorland zone. Giant heathers, volcanic rock formations, and spectacular views begin to dominate the landscape as you cross onto the famous Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp with magnificent views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding wilderness.

DAY 3

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

7 KM β€’ 3–4 Hours
Shira 2 Camp
Elevation

3,505m β†’ 3,850m

Distance

7 KM

Hiking Time

3–4 Hours

Habitat

Moorland

Today's hike is relatively short, allowing your body additional time to acclimatize while crossing the expansive Shira Plateau. The open landscapes provide breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance. Upon arrival at Shira 2 Camp, enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by one of Kilimanjaro's most scenic camping areas.

DAY 4

Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Moir Hut

14 KM β€’ 6–8 Hours
Lava Tower
Elevation

3,850m β†’ 4,630m β†’ 4,200m

Distance

14 KM

Hiking Time

6–8 Hours

Habitat

Alpine Desert

Today's trek is one of the most important acclimatization days of your expedition. Ascend gradually toward the impressive Lava Tower, standing at 4,630 metres above sea level. After lunch and time to acclimatize at high altitude, descend to Moir Hut where you'll spend the night. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy greatly improves your body's adaptation to altitude and significantly increases your summit success.

DAY 5

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

12 KM β€’ 5–7 Hours
Buffalo Camp
Elevation

4,200m β†’ 4,020m

Distance

12 KM

Hiking Time

5–7 Hours

Habitat

Alpine Desert

Today you leave the busy southern routes behind and enter the remote Northern Circuit. Trek across expansive alpine terrain with spectacular panoramic views over Kenya, the Amboseli plains and Kilimanjaro's northern glaciers. This peaceful section of the mountain sees very few climbers, allowing you to experience Kilimanjaro's untouched wilderness before reaching Buffalo Camp.

DAY 6

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

8 KM β€’ 5–6 Hours
Third Cave Camp
Elevation

4,020m β†’ 3,870m

Distance

8 KM

Hiking Time

5–6 Hours

Habitat

Alpine Desert

Continue your journey around Kilimanjaro's quiet northern slopes while enjoying uninterrupted mountain scenery and exceptional opportunities for photography. The gentle terrain allows your body to continue acclimatizing naturally before tomorrow's ascent to School Hut. Arrive at Third Cave Camp in the afternoon for rest, hydration and preparation for the final summit approach.

DAY 7

Third Cave Camp to School Hut

5 KM β€’ 4–5 Hours
School Hut
Elevation

3,870m β†’ 4,800m

Distance

5 KM

Hiking Time

4–5 Hours

Habitat

Alpine Desert

Today's trek is relatively short but takes you into the high alpine desert where the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic. The trail gradually ascends toward School Hut, the final campsite before your summit attempt. Upon arrival, enjoy an early dinner, organize your summit gear, and rest before waking around midnight for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.

DAY 8

School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

21 KM β€’ 12–15 Hours
Uhuru Peak
Elevation

4,800m β†’ 5,895m β†’ 3,720m

Distance

21 KM

Hiking Time

12–15 Hours

Habitat

Arctic Summit

Around midnight, begin your summit attempt under a sky filled with stars. Climb steadily past Gilman's Point and Stella Point before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 metres), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your incredible achievement while enjoying spectacular sunrise views over the glaciers and surrounding plains. After taking photographs and celebrating your success, descend carefully to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut for a well-earned overnight stay.

DAY 9

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

20 KM β€’ 5–7 Hours
Marangu Gate
Wrapper Link Need Help
Elevation

3,720m β†’ 1,860m

Distance

20 KM

Hiking Time

5–7 Hours

Habitat

Rainforest

Your final day begins with a scenic descent through Kilimanjaro's beautiful heathland before entering the lush rainforest surrounding Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you'll receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate in recognition of your achievement. After celebrating with your mountain crew, you'll be transferred back to Arusha where a comfortable hotel and a well-deserved rest await, marking the successful completion of your unforgettable Northern Circuit adventure.

9-Day Northern Circuit Route Prices

Our Northern Circuit Route prices are quoted per person in US Dollars and vary according to group size. Every expedition includes professional mountain guides, experienced porters, camping equipment, park fees, rescue fees, meals, airport transfers, and all services outlined in this itinerary.

Best Summit Success: The 9-Day Northern Circuit is Mount Kilimanjaro's longest route, offering outstanding acclimatization and one of the highest summit success rates. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during the peak climbing seasons from June to October and December to March.
2 Climbers

US$2,650

per person
  • Private Expedition
  • Professional Mountain Crew
  • Airport Transfers
  • Camping Equipment
  • Park Fees Included
6+ Climbers

Request Quote

Best Group Rates
  • Custom Group Pricing
  • Private Expedition
  • Dedicated Mountain Crew
  • Airport Transfers
  • Full Mountain Support

Price Includes

  • βœ“ Private Northern Circuit Expedition
  • βœ“ Professional English-speaking Mountain Guides
  • βœ“ Assistant Guides, Cook & Porters
  • βœ“ Kilimanjaro National Park Fees
  • βœ“ Camping & Rescue Fees
  • βœ“ All Meals During the Climb
  • βœ“ Airport Transfers
  • βœ“ Emergency Oxygen & First Aid Kit

What's Included & Excluded

Our 9-Day Northern Circuit Route package is carefully designed to provide everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and successful Mount Kilimanjaro expedition. Below is a complete breakdown of what is included in your climb and what should be arranged separately before your adventure.

βœ“

Included

  • Kilimanjaro National Park Entry Fees
  • Camping Fees
  • Rescue Fees
  • Professional English-speaking Mountain Guides
  • Assistant Guides
  • Experienced Mountain Cook
  • Dedicated Mountain Porters
  • Private Climbing Crew
  • High-Quality Four-Season Mountain Tents
  • Dining Tent with Tables & Chairs
  • Comfortable Sleeping Mattress
  • All Meals During the Climb
  • Boiled & Purified Drinking Water
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
  • Daily Pulse Oximeter Health Monitoring
  • Comprehensive First Aid Kit
  • Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)
  • 2 Hotel Nights in Arusha (Before & After the Climb)
  • Government Taxes & VAT
  • Summit Certificate Upon Successful Completion
βœ•

Not Included

  • International Flights
  • Tanzania Visa Fees
  • Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
  • Personal Climbing Equipment
  • Sleeping Bag (Available for Hire)
  • Tips for Guides, Porters & Cook
  • Personal Expenses
  • Alcoholic & Soft Drinks
  • Laundry Services
  • Additional Hotel Accommodation
  • Personal Medication
  • Portable Toilet (Available on Request)
  • Equipment Rental
  • Optional Excursions & Safari Extensions

Important Information

Lowen Safaris proudly follows the KPAP (Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project) guidelines to ensure all mountain crew receive fair wages, proper equipment, and ethical working conditions. Your safety remains our highest priority throughout the expedition, with certified mountain guides conducting daily health assessments, carrying emergency oxygen, first-aid equipment, and maintaining constant communication to ensure a safe and successful climb on the Northern Circuit Route.

Kilimanjaro Packing List

Having the right equipment is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb. Below is our recommended packing checklist for the 7-Day Rongai Route. Most specialized equipment can also be rented in Arusha before your climb.

πŸ₯Ύ

Clothing

  • Moisture-Wicking Base Layers
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Down Jacket
  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Waterproof Trousers
  • Hiking Pants
  • Thermal Underwear
  • Warm Hat
  • Sun Hat
  • Gloves (Inner & Outer)
πŸ‘’

Footwear

  • Waterproof Hiking Boots
  • Camp Shoes
  • Wool Hiking Socks
  • Gaiters (Optional)
πŸŽ’

Backpacks

  • Daypack (30–40L)
  • Duffel Bag (90–120L)
  • Rain Cover
πŸ›οΈ

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping Bag (-15Β°C)
  • Inflatable Pillow
  • Sleeping Bag Liner
πŸ“·

Electronics

  • Headlamp
  • Extra Batteries
  • Power Bank
  • Camera
  • Charging Cables
🧴

Personal Items

  • Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries
  • Wet Wipes
  • Personal Medication
  • Water Bottles
πŸ“„

Documents

  • Passport
  • Travel Insurance
  • Flight Tickets
  • Visa Documents
  • Emergency Contacts
⭐

Optional Extras

  • Trekking Poles
  • Binoculars
  • Energy Snacks
  • Playing Cards
  • Notebook
  • Portable Speaker

Need to Rent Equipment?

Lowen Safaris offers high-quality mountain equipment rental including sleeping bags, trekking poles, waterproof jackets, hiking boots, duffel bags, gaiters, and more. Simply let us know what you need before your arrival, and everything will be prepared for you in Arusha.

Request Rental Information β†’