9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit Route

A Closer Look at the 9-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Trek

Planning a trek to the roof of Africa? The 9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit Route offers adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to challenge yourself on Africa’s highest peak. This guided expedition, offered by SABILOM KENYA TOURS & SAFARIS, promises an immersive experience through a variety of landscapes—from lush forests to high-altitude deserts—with a focus on safety, comfort, and authentic connection to the mountain.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the route itself—the Northern Circuit—is renowned for being one of the most scenic and less crowded paths. Second, the expert guides and well-organized logistics ensure a smooth experience, vital for such a demanding climb. Third, the comprehensive package includes all essential park fees, meals, and safety equipment, making it a transparent and stress-free option.

However, a potential consideration is the price point at $2,785 per person. While this covers many essentials, travelers should factor in additional costs like flights, visas, or personal gear. This trek is ideal for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure with plenty of time for acclimatization and enjoying the mountain’s diverse environments.

Key Points

• Route Choice: The Northern Circuit offers some of the most scenic and less crowded views on Kilimanjaro.
• Length & Difficulty: Spanning 9 days, it emphasizes gradual acclimatization for higher chances of summit success.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes park fees, experienced guides, meals, rescue fees, and safety equipment, reducing unexpected costs.
• Authentic Experience: Trek through forests, moorlands, and volcanic landscapes, with guides sharing local insights.
• Summit Experience: Reaching Uhuru Peak involves a pre-dawn start, but rewards with incredible sunrise views.
• Environmental & Cultural Respect: The tour emphasizes fair treatment of porters and responsible mountain etiquette.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa

Your adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where you’ll complete entry formalities. From there, a scenic drive takes you to the trailhead at the Lemosho route. The initial hike through dense, untouched forest is a gentle start, winding approximately 4 miles over 3-4 hours. Expect lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, setting a calm tone for the days ahead. This early walking stage is crucial for acclimatization and getting used to the altitude.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Today, you’ll ascend through tall grass savannah, heather, and rocky volcanic terrain. The route offers your first views of the Shira Plateau and Mt. Kibo in the distance—a thrill for first-time Kilimanjaro explorers. The trek takes about 5-6 hours across 5 miles, with a gradual climb that allows your body to adjust. You’ll camp at Shira 1, a spot where wildlife and wildflowers are abundant, and the landscape opens up dramatically.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

The journey continues eastward across the Shira Plateau, a gentle, rolling walk over 4 miles in about 3-4 hours. The terrain is characterized by moorlands and wildflowers, offering stunning vistas of volcanic landscapes. The highlight? The chance to see unusual Senecio trees and enjoy the tranquility of one of the highest plateaus on the planet. Many trekkers comment on how this day’s scenery is both inspiring and calming.

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Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower via Lent Hills

This section is notable for the ascent to Lava Tower (13,580 ft)—a striking volcanic formation. The walk spans roughly 8 miles over 5-7 hours, including a detour to Moir Hut on Lent Hills, which is a less-traveled spot perfect for acclimatization. The varied terrain, including rocky fields and lava formations, keeps the journey interesting. Many reviewers mention that the Lent Hills walk offers a great opportunity to build altitude resilience.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

You’ll trek out of Moir Valley, with a moderate climb and panoramic views across the plains. The trek covers 7 miles in 5-7 hours, crossing rocky outcrops and undulating terrain. The highlight for many is the chance to see distant plains and the tranquility of remote wilderness. This stage is often praised for its striking scenery and quieter trail, giving a sense of solitude far from the busy routes.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

Today takes you along Buffalo Ridge through sparse terrain, with fewer fellow climbers. The remote valleys and northern slopes make for an isolated trekking experience, with about 5 miles over 5-7 hours. Reaching Third Cave offers a sense of accomplishment, and many appreciate the opportunity to trek on less-visited parts of the mountain, contributing to better acclimatization.

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut

This day involves a steady climb up to 15,600 ft at School Hut—your last camp before the summit. Covering 3 miles in 4-5 hours, you’ll traverse between Kibo and Mawenzi ridges. The atmosphere here is one of anticipation, as climbers prepare for the final push. The guides ensure you rest well, and many mention the helpfulness of the group camaraderie.

Day 8: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak

The most challenging day begins around 1 a.m., with a pre-dawn start on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree. The goal is Stella Point, where a short rest allows you to enjoy the sunrise—an unforgettable moment. From there, you’ll cross glaciers and snowfields to reach Uhuru Peak, at 19,341 ft. The descent takes you through Barafu Camp, ending at Mweka Camp after about 6-8 hours on the move. Many reviews emphasize the stunning vistas and sense of achievement upon reaching the summit.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Your descent continues through lush forest, passing the School Hut on the way down. Once at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate—a proud reminder of your achievement. The drive back to Moshi or Arusha wraps up your adventure, and most travelers feel a satisfying mix of exhaustion and accomplishment.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Guides and Support

The tour includes professional, experienced guides committed to safety and environmental respect. Reviewers often praise the guides—many are local experts who share mountain lore and tips. The team’s focus on fair treatment of porters and safety procedures ensures you’re in good hands.

Accommodation and Meals

While accommodations outside the mountain aren’t included, the trek itself provides large, quality mess tents with tables and chairs, where you’ll enjoy fresh, nutritious meals. The food is hearty enough to fuel the demanding days, and purified drinking water is provided. The trek’s logistics—such as rescue fees and park fees—are all covered, which helps avoid surprises.

Transportation & Logistics

Starting from Moshi, you’ll drive to the trailhead, a scenic journey that prepares you for the adventure. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The tour also includes airport transfers, simplifying travel logistics.

Cost and Value

At $2,785, this all-inclusive package offers good value considering the comprehensive support, experienced guides, park fees, and safety equipment like oxygen and medical kits. While the price might seem steep, it includes many essentials—guides, porters, meals, and safety measures—that are often add-ons elsewhere. For many, this ensures a smoother, safer climb, especially important given the altitude challenges.

What to Pack and What Not to Bring

Expect to need comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The tour explicitly prohibits smoking, alcohol, and littering—respect for the mountain is key. Remember, acclimatization days are vital, so pack light but include all necessary gear to stay comfortable and safe.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 9-day trek suits adventurous travelers who want a thorough, scenic journey up Kilimanjaro, with plenty of time to acclimate and enjoy the diverse environments. It’s perfect for those seeking a well-supported, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and a route that minimizes crowds.

If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding way to tick off Africa’s tallest mountain with the reassurance of medical support and experienced leadership, this tour offers solid value.

However, if you prefer a shorter, less physically demanding climb, or have budget constraints, exploring other options might be wise. Still, for those ready to embrace the climb and the wild beauty of Kilimanjaro, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

FAQs

How many days does the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit route take?
This specific tour lasts 9 days, giving you ample time for acclimatization and a more relaxed ascent.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While suitable for most climbers with good health, the 9-day schedule is designed to help with altitude acclimatization, making it accessible for those willing to prepare physically.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers all park fees, professional guides, porters, meals on the mountain, rescue fees, medical kits, oxygen, and safety procedures.

Are accommodations outside the mountain included?
No, but the trek package includes all necessary camping facilities on the mountain. Accommodation in Moshi or Arusha is not included.

What’s the main highlight of this route?
You’ll love the scenery, especially crossing the Lava Tower and the remote northern slopes, which make the experience less touristy and more adventurous.

How difficult is the summit day?
It’s demanding, starting around 1 a.m., with a steep climb through loose scree to reach Stella Point and Uhuru Peak, but the guides prepare you well.

Do I need to bring any special gear?
Yes, pack warm clothing, sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and other essentials. The tour provides guidance on gear, but personal comfort items are up to you.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and keep your plans flexible with the reserve and pay later option.

This Kilimanjaro tour offers a balanced mix of challenge, scenery, and support—ideal for travelers eager to experience Africa’s highest peak in a memorable, safe way. Whether you’re after the stunning vistas, the thrill of summiting, or simply wanting to step into a wild landscape, this expedition is a remarkable choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: