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9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek
Kilimanjaro

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek

The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route offers 9 full days of trekking on Kilimanjaro's longest and most extraordinary route — a complete 360-degree circumnavigation of the majestic Kibo Peak. Covering ap...

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Duration9 Days
DifficultyModerate
Group size1 – 12
Summit5,895 m
PriceUSD 2,350
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At a glance

Trip Overview

Duration 9 Days
Difficulty Moderate
Group Size 1 – 12
Summit 5,895 m
Trip overview

What to Expect

The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route offers 9 full days of trekking on Kilimanjaro's longest and most extraordinary route — a complete 360-degree circumnavigation of the majestic Kibo Peak. Covering approximately 90 km, this is the only route that takes you around the entire mountain, traversing its remote northern slopes that very few trekkers ever see. Starting from Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) on the western side — the same start as the Lemosho Route — the Northern Circuit then diverges north instead of south, circling the mountain anticlockwise through pristine, untouched wilderness.

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Why this journey

Trip Highlights

Full 360-degree circumnavigation of Kibo Peak — the only route that circles the entire mountain
95% summit success rate — the highest on Kilimanjaro thanks to 9 days of optimal acclimatisation
Remote northern traverse with unparalleled solitude and views of Kenya's Amboseli plains
Tented camping throughout for an authentic wilderness expedition feel
Start from Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) on the lush western slopes
Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via the eastern crater rim at Gilman's Point
10 trekking days

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1 Day

Welcome to Tanzania – Arrival in Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing and gear check before your trek begins.

Altitude890 m / 2,920 ft
HikingNone
StayPark View Inn Moshi (or similar)
MealsD
What you'll do: Meet your mountain team for a complete trek briefing, review your equipment, ask questions, and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.
What's included today: Airport transfer, hotel accommodation, dinner, pre-climb briefing, professional guide consultation, and equipment inspection.
Good to know: This is a rest day — not counted in your 9 trekking days. Ensure all hiking gear is ready and get plenty of rest. Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins tomorrow.
2 Day

Londorossi Gate → Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) — approximately 3–4 hours through the lush foothills of Kilimanjaro. After park registration, begin your trek through the dense montane rainforest, following a winding trail shaded by a towering canopy. The forest here is alive with colobus monkeys, birdsong, and giant ferns. Your destination is Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 m), whose name means 'Big Tree' in Swahili — named for the enormous fig trees that dominate the campsite. This gentle introductory hike sets the rhythm for your 9-day circumnavigation.

Altitude2,250 m → 2,820 m
Distance6 km / 3.7 mi
Hiking3 – 4 h
StayMti Mkubwa Camp (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: Short drive to the gate, then a gentle 3–4 h introductory hike through the rainforest to settle into the rhythm of the trail.
What's included today: Park fees, mountain crew support, all meals, tented camping equipment, drinking water, professional guides, and porter services.
Good to know: The Londorossi Gate start is higher than most route gates, giving you an immediate altitude advantage. The forest section is lush and can be muddy after rain — gaiters are useful.
3 Day

Mti Mkubwa → Shira Camp 2

Leave the forest behind as the trail climbs steadily through a transition zone of heather and moorland vegetation. The path emerges onto the vast Shira Plateau — one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world, formed by an ancient volcanic caldera. As you gain altitude, the vegetation gives way to open alpine moorland with giant lobelias and senecios dotting the landscape. Shira Camp 2 (3,850 m) sits on the edge of the plateau with commanding views of the western breach of Kibo Peak. The expansive skies and rolling plains stretch endlessly before you, offering a first glimpse of the circumnavigation ahead.

Altitude2,820 m → 3,850 m
Distance10 km / 6.2 mi
Hiking5 – 6 h
StayShira Camp 2 (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 5 – 6 h of trekking through the transition zone onto the Shira Plateau, with ample time to absorb the dramatic change in landscape.
What's included today: Stay at Shira Camp 2 (tented) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: The Shira Plateau sits at over 3,800 m, so altitude effects may begin to be noticeable today. This is normal — drink plenty of water and maintain the 'pole pole' pace.
4 Day

Shira 2 → Moir Hut

A shorter day designed to aid acclimatisation while traversing the upper edge of the Shira Plateau. The trail heads north across gentle undulating terrain, passing through sparse alpine desert with scattered volcanic rocks and hardy tussock grass. This is where the Northern Circuit diverges from the Lemosho Route — instead of turning south, you continue north towards the remote Moir Valley. Moir Hut (4,200 m) is a basic camp nestled in a glacial valley at the base of the northern ice fields. The afternoon offers a fantastic acclimatisation opportunity with a hike up the slopes above camp to approximately 4,400 m before descending back to sleep.

Altitude3,850 m → 4,200 m
Distance5 km / 3.1 mi
Hiking3 – 4 h
StayMoir Hut (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 3 – 4 h of trekking followed by an optional acclimatisation hike in the afternoon — climb high, sleep low in action.
What's included today: Stay at Moir Hut (tented) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: This short day is intentional — use the extra time to explore the Moir Valley. The hike up the valley wall offers a preview of the northern traverse you'll tackle tomorrow.
5 Day

Moir Hut → Pofu Camp

Today is the highlight of the Northern Circuit — the remote northern traverse that few Kilimanjaro trekkers ever experience. The trail crosses the northern slopes of Kibo at around 4,000 m, traversing a pristine alpine desert landscape that feels a world away from the busy southern routes. The terrain is a mix of volcanic scree, ancient lava flows, and hardy alpine plants adapted to the harsh environment. To your north, the Great Rift Valley stretches to the horizon, with views across Kenya's Amboseli National Park and Tanzania's wild northern plains. Pofu Camp (4,020 m) — named for the eland antelope — is a wilderness camp perched on the northern side with uninterrupted views of the seemingly endless African plains below.

Altitude4,200 m → 4,020 m
Distance10 km / 6.2 mi
Hiking5 – 6 h
StayPofu Camp (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 5 – 6 h of extraordinary trekking along the remote northern slopes with spectacular views of both Kibo above and the African plains below.
What's included today: Stay at Pofu Camp (tented) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: The northern traverse is the most exposed section of the route — wind protection is essential. The sense of remoteness here is unmatched on any other Kilimanjaro route. This is the day you'll remember forever.
6 Day

Pofu Camp → Buffalo Camp

Continue the northern traverse eastwards, maintaining altitude as you cross more alpine desert terrain. The trail follows the contour of Kibo's northern flank, with the massive bulk of the mountain looming constantly to your south. The landscape is stark and beautiful — volcanic rocks in shades of brown, red, and black scattered across a vast open plain. Buffalo Camp (4,050 m) sits on a ridge offering commanding views north to Kenya and south towards the eastern slopes you'll descend later in the trek. The camp is named for the buffalo that occasionally roam these high slopes, a reminder that Kilimanjaro is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with diverse wildlife.

Altitude4,020 m → 4,050 m
Distance8 km / 5 mi
Hiking4 – 5 h
StayBuffalo Camp (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 4 – 5 h of trekking across the northern alpine desert, maintaining a moderate elevation with gentle ascents and descents.
What's included today: Stay at Buffalo Camp (tented) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: By now you're well into the circumnavigation. The consistent elevation around 4,000 m over multiple days is excellent for acclimatisation — your body is adapting beautifully for summit success.
7 Day

Buffalo Camp → Third Cave Camp

Today you begin the transition from the northern side to the eastern side of the mountain, descending slightly as you curve around Kibo's north-eastern flank. The terrain changes subtly as you enter the eastern saddle zone, with the distant jagged silhouette of Mawenzi Peak becoming visible ahead. Third Cave Camp (3,870 m) is named for a distinctive cave formation in the area, a remnant of ancient volcanic activity. This slight descent to 3,870 m is a deliberate 'climb high, sleep low' strategy — you'll be sleeping lower than the previous two nights, giving your body a valuable recovery opportunity before the summit push.

Altitude4,050 m → 3,870 m
Distance8 km / 5 mi
Hiking4 – 5 h
StayThird Cave Camp (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 4 – 5 h of trekking around the north-eastern flank with a gentle descent, setting you up perfectly for the ascent to high camp.
What's included today: Stay at Third Cave Camp (tented) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: Sleeping at 3,870 m after two nights above 4,000 m is a deliberate acclimatisation technique. You'll feel noticeably stronger and more rested in the morning.
8 Day

Third Cave → School Hut

A steep ascent day as you climb the eastern slopes of Kibo towards the high camp. The trail ascends consistently through the alpine desert zone, crossing the eastern saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. As you gain elevation, the vegetation disappears entirely, leaving only volcanic scree and rock. The views backwards over the vast northern plains you've traversed over the past days are breathtaking. School Hut (4,800 m) is the high camp on the eastern side, a basic shelter perched high on Kibo's slopes. After an early dinner, your guide will brief you on the summit attempt, and you'll rest in preparation for an early start.

Altitude3,870 m → 4,800 m
Distance8 km / 5 mi
Hiking4 – 5 h
StaySchool Hut (tented)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 4 – 5 h of steady climbing to reach the high camp. Rest, hydrate, and prepare mentally for the summit push ahead.
What's included today: Stay at School Hut (tented) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: At 4,800 m, this is the highest you'll sleep before summit night. Take it extremely easy — even small movements feel strenuous. Organise your summit layers and pack before dark.
9 Day

Summit Day — School Hut → Gilman's Point → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut

Wake at midnight for hot tea and snacks, then begin the final ascent by headlamp under a canopy of stars. The trail climbs steeply up the eastern scree slope towards the crater rim at Gilman's Point (5,681 m). The gradient is relentless, but the 9-day acclimatisation programme means your body is optimally prepared. Arrive at Gilman's Point in time for a spectacular sunrise over the eastern ice fields — a moment of pure magic at the Roof of Africa. From Gilman's Point, follow the crater rim trail for another hour along the edge of the vast crater to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa. Celebrate with photos and a quiet moment of triumph before descending via the normal route to Horombo Hut (3,720 m), where a warm meal and comfortable dormitory await.

Altitude4,800 m → 5,895 m → 3,720 m
Distance16 km / 10 mi
Hiking12 – 14 h
StayHorombo Hut (dormitory)
MealsB / L / D
What you'll do: 12 – 14 h of trekking — summit Africa's highest peak by starlight, celebrate at Uhuru Peak, then descend to the comfort of Horombo Hut.
What's included today: Stay at Horombo Hut (dormitory) · Meals: B / L / D
Good to know: Dress in all your warm layers — summit night temperatures fall to −20 °C with windchill. Keep your camera inside your jacket to preserve battery life. The 9-day acclimatisation gives you the best possible chance of success — 95% of our Northern Circuit climbers reach the summit.
10 Day

Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate → Moshi (Overnight)

A triumphant descent through the moorland and lush rainforest of the Marangu route. The trail passes through Horombo's giant heather fields, past Mandara Hut, and winds down through dense forest alive with birdlife and ancient trees. At Marangu Gate (1,870 m), you complete park formalities and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate — a proud moment commemorating your 360-degree circumnavigation and summit achievement. Your vehicle meets you for the drive back to Moshi, where a hot shower, celebration dinner, and a comfortable hotel bed await.

Altitude3,720 m → 1,870 m → 890 m
Distance18 km / 11.2 mi
Hiking5 – 7 h
StayPark View Inn Moshi (or similar)
MealsB / L
What you'll do: 5 – 7 h of descent through the moorland and rainforest, certificate presentation, and transfer back to Moshi for a well-earned overnight rest.
What's included today: Park fees, guide support, lunch, and hotel night in Moshi. Departure transfer can be arranged for the next morning or later the same evening on request.
Good to know: Unlike some operators who schedule same-day departure, we include a hotel night after the trek so you can rest properly. Departure transfers can be arranged for the next morning or later the same evening on request.
What's covered

Included & Excluded

Everything you need for a seamless journey — and a clear view of what to arrange yourself.

What's included

  • 2 nights at Park View Inn (or similar) in Moshi on B&B (1 before + 1 after the trek)
  • Airport pick-up on arrival and drop-off on departure
  • Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro park gate
  • Kilimanjaro Park entrance, camping & rescue fees
  • Tented camping throughout — all 9 nights on the mountain in high-quality expedition tents
  • Professional KINAPA-licensed lead guide, assistant guides, cooks & porters
  • Three freshly prepared meals daily + filtered drinking water
  • Hot water for washing
  • Fair wages for mountain crew per KINAPA & KIATO regulations
  • Portable oxygen cylinders & pulse oximeter for daily health checks
  • Private portable flush toilet with toilet tent (groups of 4+)
  • Official Kilimanjaro summit certificate
  • Mountain communication radio & emergency protocols
  • All government taxes & VAT (18%)

Not included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Tanzania visa (USD 50 on arrival)
  • Travel & evacuation insurance (mandatory — must cover trekking above 4,000 m)
  • Tips for the mountain crew (recommended USD 300–350 per climber)
  • Personal climbing gear (rentable in Moshi)
  • Meals and drinks at the hotel (before and after the trek)
  • Single tent supplement (USD 20 per day)
  • Laundry services at the hotel
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Pack smart

Packing list

A category-by-category checklist tailored to this journey. Items marked essential should not be skipped — rentals are available in Moshi and Arusha.

Clothing & Layers

  • 3× moisture-wicking base layer tops
  • 2× thermal base layer bottoms
  • Fleece or soft-shell mid layer
  • Insulated down jacket (summit night)
  • Waterproof + windproof hard-shell jacket and trousers
  • Trekking trousers (2 pairs) + shorts
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff/neck gaiter
  • Liner gloves + insulated waterproof gloves
  • 4× hiking socks, 1× thermal socks for summit

Daypack & Summit Kit

  • 20–30 L daypack with rain cover
  • 2–3 L water bladder or two 1 L bottles
  • Sunscreen SPF 50, lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses (UV 400)
  • Personal first aid kit: blister kit, paracetamol, rehydration salts
  • Quick-dry towel, hand sanitiser, wet wipes
  • Camera + spare batteries, power bank
  • Headlamp + spare batteries (essential for summit)
  • Trekking poles (collapsible)
  • Thermos for hot drinks on summit night
  • Hand and toe warmers

Footwear & Sleeping

  • Waterproof hiking boots, broken in
  • Camp shoes / trainers
  • Gaiters (recommended)
  • 4-season sleeping bag (-15 °C comfort rating)
  • Inflatable pillow

Documents & Money

  • Passport (6+ months validity) and visa
  • Travel insurance documents (printed + digital)
  • Vaccination certificate if applicable
  • Credit card + USD cash in small notes (post-2009, no rips)
  • Emergency contacts and trip voucher
Before you book

Important information

Practical details every traveller should read before confirming. We'll cover everything again in your pre-departure pack.

Visa & Entry

Most nationalities need a Tanzanian tourist visa (USD 50, or USD 100 for US passports). You can apply online or get a visa on arrival at JRO. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is mandatory. For Kilimanjaro and high-altitude treks the policy must explicitly cover trekking above 4,000 m and helicopter rescue.

Health & Vaccinations

Yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from a yellow fever country. Anti-malaria prophylaxis is recommended. Consult a travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.

Payment & Deposits

A 30% deposit confirms your booking; the balance is due 45 days before arrival. We accept bank transfer and card (3% fee). Free rescheduling up to 30 days before departure.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and an important part of crew income. Guidelines are shared in your pre-trip pack — typically USD 300–350 total per climber for a Kilimanjaro crew.

Group Size & Privacy

This trip runs in groups of 1 – 12. Private departures with your own guide and vehicle are available year-round on request — ask us for a custom quote.

Altitude & Fitness

You'll sleep above 4,000 m and summit at 5,895 m. No technical climbing skills are needed, but you should be able to walk 5–7 hours per day on consecutive days. We do daily pulse-oximeter checks and carry emergency oxygen.

KPAP-Registered Operator

We follow Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) standards: fair wages, three meals a day for porters, proper gear, and a 20 kg load limit. Your booking directly supports ethical mountain employment.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your climb. Can't find your answer? Get in touch.

You should be able to walk 5–7 hours per day on consecutive days. No technical climbing skills are required, but good cardiovascular fitness and mental determination are essential. We recommend starting a fitness programme at least 8 weeks before your trek.
Success rates vary by route and duration. Longer itineraries (7–9 days) have higher success rates (85–95%) because they allow better acclimatisation. Our expert guides use proven strategies to maximise your chances.
Our guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. They monitor your health daily. If symptoms become severe, immediate descent is arranged. Helicopter evacuation is available for emergencies (covered by your mandatory travel insurance).
Accommodation depends on the route. Marangu Route uses mountain huts (dormitory beds). All other routes use high-quality 4-season tents with 10 cm foam mattresses. Mess tents with tables and chairs are provided for meals.
The best months are January–March and June–October. These are the driest periods with the clearest views. The wettest months are April–May and November–December, though climbing is still possible.
No. Our porters carry your main luggage (up to 15 kg) between camps. You only carry a small daypack with water, snacks, camera, rain gear, and personal items.
Our cooks prepare three fresh meals daily: breakfast (porridge, eggs, toast, fruit), lunch (soup, main course, snacks), and dinner (main course, vegetables, dessert). Dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) are accommodated with advance notice.
Limited. Signal is available at some lower camps but disappears above 4,000 m. Our guides carry satellite communication radios for emergencies. We recommend downloading offline maps and informing family of limited contact.
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+255 783 884 129
+255 783 884 129
info@bushliontours.com

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9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek

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Price per person $2,350
Number of travelers × 1
Total Price $2,350
Deposit to confirm (20%) $470

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