9 Days Kilimanjaro Hiking or Climbing via Northern Circuit route

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is often seen as the ultimate bucket list adventure for hikers and thrill-seekers alike. This 9-day guided tour via the Northern Circuit route promises a balanced mix of challenging ascents, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance. While I haven’t personally summited myself, reviews from past adventurers reveal a compelling story of a well-organized, authentic experience that combines stunning views with good value.

Three things particularly stand out: the knowledgeable guides, the unparalleled vistas along the route, and the well-paced acclimatization schedule that increases your chances of reaching the summit. That said, the physical demands can be intense, especially if you’re new to high-altitude trekking. The tour is best suited for those with a decent fitness level and a desire to experience one of Africa’s most iconic peaks in a more relaxed, less crowded way.

This tour’s price of $1,584 per person might seem steep, but considering it covers all fees, park permits, and accommodations before and after the climb, the value is clear. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a guided, comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience with a route designed to enhance acclimatization and minimize altitude sickness.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price covers permits, park fees, and accommodations before/after the climb, ensuring no hidden costs.
• Northern Circuit route offers a longer, less crowded, and more acclimatization-friendly ascent, increasing summit chances.
• Expert guides and crew are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and support.
• Lodging options before and after the trek are arranged, making logistics smoother.
• Early summit push starts around midnight, demanding physical stamina but offering incredible sunrise views.
• Good value for money considering the thorough itinerary and inclusive pricing.
• Intensive 9-day schedule balances adventure with proper high-altitude adjustment.
• Group size can be large but is managed well to provide personalized support.
• Weather considerations may affect the experience; flexible cancellation policies are helpful.

What to Expect from the 9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

Day 1: From Moshi to Londorossi Gate and Mti Mkubwa Camp

Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, a journey of about four hours. Here, you’ll complete entry formalities before heading to the Lemosho trailhead—an ideal starting point for this route. Expect a drive through lush landscapes before beginning your hike through untouched rainforests.

The first leg involves a 3-4 hour walk covering roughly 6 km on a trail that winds through thick forest. Expect to see vibrant greenery and the sounds of local birdlife. Many reviews mention the peacefulness of this rainforest walk, which sets a relaxing tone for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: From Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Leaving the rainforest behind, you’ll ascend into a savannah of grasses, heather, and volcanic rock. The trail winds across rolling hills, streams, and rocky outcrops—each step revealing new vistas. You’ll climb roughly 2,000 feet over 5-6 hours, with the landscape transforming into a more open, lunar-like terrain.

Reviewers love the Shira Plateau for its wide-open views and wildflower meadows. As one noted, “We catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau,” which excites most trekkers. The habitat here shifts from lush rainforest to heathland, giving you a taste of what’s to come.

Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

This moderate walk of about 3-4 hours takes you across the Shira Plateau, a vast, high-altitude desert landscape. It’s characterized by wildflowers, unique plant species like Senecio, and impressive volcanic formations. The walk offers plenty of time to acclimate, which reviewers say is crucial to success.

Day 4: From Shira 2 to Lava Tower and Moir Hut

This day is a highlight, as you ascend to Lava Tower at over 15,000 feet—a volcanic formation that’s both a challenge and a marvel. The ascent involves about 3-4 hours of hiking, crossing rugged terrain in the alpine desert zone. Many reviewers appreciate this as an excellent acclimatization opportunity.

After reaching Lava Tower, you descend to Moir Hut, which sits below Lent Hills. The hike down is a good rest for your legs, and Lent Hills offers options for further walking to help your body adjust. Expect to encounter less traveled paths, giving you a more wilderness-like experience.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

This stretch covers about 7 miles over 5-7 hours, crossing rock fields and open plains. The trail is gently undulating, with great vistas of the plains north of Kilimanjaro. Reviewers highlight the remote wilderness feel as a unique feature, away from crowded routes.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

This section takes you along Buffalo Ridge into more barren terrain, with a trail that’s seldom used. Expect a sense of remoteness as you trek through valleys on the northern slopes of the mountain. The environment feels wild and untouched—an aspect many hikers appreciate.

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut

Climber’s day to rest the legs and prepare for the summit push. The climb is steady, taking about 4-5 hours, with the terrain becoming more alpine desert. Resting at School Hut before the final ascent is a strategic move, allowing your body to recover.

Day 8: The Summit Day — Uhuru Peak

This is the most demanding day. The ascent begins around midnight, requiring stamina and mental strength. You’ll climb in darkness for 6-8 hours, taking brief breaks, with the goal of reaching the summit at sunrise. Gilmans Point offers spectacular views, and reviewers recall that “the sunrise over Mawenzi Peak is unforgettable.”

After summiting, you descend to Mweka Camp, completing a full circle of elevation change. The early start and challenging conditions test your limits but reward you with the iconic view from Africa’s tallest point.

Day 9: Descent from Mweka Camp to Gate

On your final day, you walk about 6 miles through rainforests back to Mweka Gate. Expect muddy, wet terrain at lower elevations. Once you finish the walk, you’ll receive your summit certificate—a tangible reminder of your achievement. From here, a vehicle will take you back to Moshi, completing the journey.

Why This Route and Tour Offer Great Value

The Northern Circuit route is often praised for its approachability and effective acclimatization. It’s longer than other routes, which reduces the risk of altitude sickness, a common concern for climbers. Many reviews mention that this route gave them a better chance of reaching the summit successfully, with some calling it “less crowded” and more scenic.

The price of $1,584 includes all fees, permits, park entrance, and pre/post accommodations. Many travelers find this a fair deal considering the comprehensive itinerary, expert crew, and logistical support. The inclusion of airport pickups, transfers, and hotel stays makes the process smoother, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

The tour is supported by knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, which reviewers point out as a key factor in their success and enjoyment. The guides’ experience, often backed by positive reviews, adds to the sense of safety and encouragement during the climb.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour caters to most travelers, it’s important to be prepared physically. The demanding schedule, especially the nighttime summit push, requires good stamina. Many reviewers mention that proper acclimatization and pacing are vital, which this route supports well.

Weather can be unpredictable; snow, rain, and cold are part of the experience. Packing the right gear and layering is essential. The tour includes meals, but personal hiking gear is not provided, so be sure to bring or rent quality equipment.

Group sizes can be large, but the guides manage support well. Tipping the crew is customary but not included in the price—consider rewarding their effort, especially if they help you reach the summit.

The Sum Up

This 9-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Northern Circuit route offers a well-rounded, supportive experience for those looking to summit Africa’s highest peak without the rush or overcrowding of other routes. The combination of scenic diversity, effective acclimatization, and professional guides creates a safe, memorable adventure.

Ideal for travelers who want a thorough, guided ascent with plenty of time to adjust, this tour balances challenge with comfort. The inclusive price, flexible cancellation policy, and positive reviews make it a compelling option for serious hikers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a motivated beginner, this route provides the conditions and support to help you reach the summit and create unforgettable memories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All fees and taxes, airport pickup and drop-off, gate transfer, crew wages, pre and post-trek accommodations, and the full Kilimanjaro climbing operation cost are covered. Meals during the trek are also included.

Are there accommodations before and after the climb?
Yes, hotel stays are included before and after the trek, and can be booked through the tour provider, either by you or them.

What is the duration of the trek?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 days, with most days dedicated to trekking, acclimatization, and rest.

Is the Northern Circuit route suitable for beginners?
While the route is designed to improve acclimatization and minimize altitude sickness, some level of fitness and previous hiking experience are recommended for a successful ascent.

How physically demanding is the climb?
The schedule involves long days of hiking, with the most strenuous effort on summit night, starting around midnight. Good stamina and mental determination are necessary.

What should I bring?
Personal hiking gear is not included, so bring proper layers, hiking boots, a headlamp, and other essentials. The tour includes meals but check if additional gear is needed.

Will I encounter bad weather?
Weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable, with cold, snow, and rain possible. Packing appropriately is key to comfort and safety.

How many people usually join the tour?
While group sizes can be large, guides manage support well, offering personalized attention despite the size.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy—if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

In the end, this Kilimanjaro tour offers a realistic chance for many to reach the summit, backed by experienced guides, scenic variety, and thoughtful planning. It’s an adventure that balances challenge, support, and spectacular views—perfect for those ready to take on “the roof of Africa.”