8-9Day Northern Circuit Route
The 8-9Day Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
By circling the quieter northern slopes, this route offers excellent acclimatization, fewer crowds, and one of the highest summit success rates.
Kilimanjaro Pricing
8–9 Days Northern Circuit Route
Prices are per person (pp). Choose the trip length column you need.
Group Size
9 Days ($)
8 Days ($)
1 Person
2–5 People
6–10 People
11+ People
Northern Circuit Route – The only route that traverses the remote northern side of Kilimanjaro.
Best Acclimatization Profile – Longer time on the mountain allows the body to adjust naturally to altitude.
High Summit Success Rate – Widely regarded as the most successful route to Uhuru Peak.
Low Crowds – Far fewer climbers compared to Machame or Marangu routes.
Outstanding Scenery – Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and wide northern mountain views.
Camping Experience – Comfortable mountain camping with professional support crew.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate → Mti Mkubwa (Rainforest)
Meet your guide, drive to Londorossi Gate for permits and registration, then start trekking through lush rainforest. Expect mossy trees, birds, and possible monkey sightings. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa → Shira 1 Camp
Climb out of the forest into moorland and open views. The trail crosses heather and volcanic terrain as Mount Meru may appear in the distance on clear days. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 → Shira 2 Camp (Shira Plateau)
A shorter day to help acclimatization. Walk across the Shira Plateau with big views of Kibo. You may do an acclimatization walk in the afternoon. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 → Lava Tower (Acclimatization) → Moir Hut
Trek toward the Lava Tower for altitude exposure (“climb high, sleep low”), then descend to the remote northern side. Terrain becomes more alpine and rocky. Overnight at Moir Hut.
Day 5: Moir Hut → Buffalo Camp (Northern Slopes)
Continue across the northern slopes with wide panoramic views and fewer crowds. The trail is gentle but you’ll feel the altitude. Overnight at Buffalo Camp.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp → Rongai Third Cave Camp
Cross valleys and ridges on the quieter north side. The landscape is dry and open with huge skies. Overnight at Third Cave Camp.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp → School Hut (Base Camp)
A steady climb to base camp. After arrival, rest, hydrate, and prepare gear for summit night. Early dinner and early sleep at School Hut.
Day 8: School Hut → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
Start around midnight for summit push. Climb to Gilman’s Point, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, then descend back past base camp and down to Mweka Camp for overnight.
Day 9: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate
Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate for certificates, then transfer back to your hotel.
Climb Includes
Park entrance and climbing fees
Professional mountain guide, porters, and cook
All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
All meals during the climb
Drinking water on the mountain
Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport
Climb Excludes
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal climbing gear (available for rent)
Tips for mountain crew
Personal expenses
Booking
Route: 7-Day Northern Circuit Route