9 Days Northern Circuit Route - Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour

You will be picked up from the airport. From there you will go to the hotel in Moshi for an orientation on your trek. Your guides will be there to provide you with details on your trek and will also check your trekking gear.

• Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
• Your Northern Circuit adventure begins at Londorosi Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. After registration procedures, a short drive takes you to the trailhead where the trek starts through the lush montane rainforest. This rich ecosystem is home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and numerous bird species. The gentle ascent leads to Mti  Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp), where you will spend your first night on the mountain.

Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours

Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail climbs steadily through heath and moorland vegetation. As the forest opens up, spectacular views of the Shira Plateau emerge. The route offers excellent opportunities to observe unique alpine flora while gradually gaining altitude. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours

Today's trek crosses the expansive Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on earth. The gradual ascent allows for proper acclimatization while offering magnificent views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp for dinner and overnight

Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today's trek is one of the most important acclimatization days on the Northern Circuit Route. After leaving Shira 2 Camp, the trail gradually ascends across the vast alpine desert toward the iconic Lava Tower, a towering volcanic rock formation standing at approximately 4,630 meters above sea level.

As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic, with sweeping views of Kibo Peak, ancient lava flows, and the surrounding volcanic terrain. Reaching Lava Tower provides an excellent opportunity for acclimatization as your body adjusts to the thinner air at higher elevations.

 The route leaves the main southern trails and heads north toward the remote Moir Valley. The descent to Moir Hut allows trekkers to benefit from the "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy while enjoying spectacular views of the northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Located beneath the impressive Lent Hills, Moir Hut is one of the most peaceful and scenic camps on the mountain. The surrounding landscape features unique volcanic formations, open alpine terrain, and breathtaking panoramic views, making it an ideal location for rest and acclimatization before continuing around the Northern Circuit.

Distance: 12 km | Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours

Today's route follows the rarely traveled Northern Circuit Trail. Enjoy stunning panoramic views across Kenya's plains to the north while trekking through remote alpine landscapes. Buffalo Camp offers a peaceful setting with spectacular views and a true wilderness experience

Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours

Continue traversing Kilimanjaro's northern slopes beneath the rugged eastern flank of Kibo. The trail provides outstanding views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding wilderness. Arrive at Third Cave Camp, where you will rest and prepare for the higher elevations ahead

Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours

A shorter but steeper trek leads from Third Cave to School Hut. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as you enter the alpine desert zone. Upon arrival, enjoy an early dinner and rest, as the summit attempt begins shortly after midnight. Proper hydration and relaxation are essential for the climb ahead.

Distance: 16 km | Hiking Time: 10–14 Hours

Summit day begins around midnight. The climb ascends steadily through scree slopes toward Gilman's Point on the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Reaching the summit at sunrise rewards climbers with breathtaking views of glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and the African plains below. After celebrating your achievement, descend via Stella Point and Barafu Camp before continuing to Millennium Camp for a well-earned rest.

Distance: 12 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours

The final day follows a scenic descent through lush montane rainforest. The lower slopes of Kilimanjaro are rich in wildlife, giant trees, and tropical vegetation. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, climbers receive their summit certificates and celebrate the successful completion of the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek, one of the most scenic and rewarding routes on Mount Kilimanjaro

Our packages include departure day services. Enjoy breakfast and a morning sightseeing in the city or join us for one of our Safari Adventures. If you are returning home our driver will bring you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to catch your flight back home.