What is the northern circuit route on Mount Kilimanjaro?

The northern circuit route is a lesser-known trail that encircles the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking scenery and lower traffic compared to other routes.

How difficult is the northern circuit route compared to other routes?

The northern circuit route is considered moderately challenging. Its longer duration allows for better acclimatization, making it suitable for climbkers with good physical fitness and determination

How long does the 9-day northern circuit climb take?

The 9-day climb covers approximately 70 kilometers, providing ample time for acclimatization and ensuring a higher chance of successful summit.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the northern circuit route?

The best times to attempt the northern circuit route are during the dry seasons, which typically fall between January to mid-March and June to October

What permits and documentation are required for the climb?

Climbers need a Kilimanjaro National Park permit and, if applicable, a Tanzanian visa. Your tour operator will assist with obtaining the necessary permits

What type of accommodation can I expect during the climb?

The northern circuit route offers comfortable tents at designated campsites, equipped with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant rest each night.

Is prior climbing or mountaineering experience required for the northern circuit route?

While prior experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. However, maintaining good physical fitness and participating in training climbs is highly recommended.

How safe is the northern circuit route?

Safety is a top priority during the climb. Experienced guides and support staff are present throughout the journey to assist and ensure a secure climbing experience.

Are there age restrictions for climbing Kilimanjaro via the northern circuit?

Generally, climbers must be at least 12 years old to attempt the northern circuit route. Younger climbers may be allowed with special consideration and proper preparations.

What equipment do I need for the 9-day northern circuit climb?

Proper gear such as CLIMBING boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and climbing poles are essential. A detailed equipment list will be provided by your tour operator to ensure you are well-prepared.

9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour Northern Circuit Route

Price $2114 pp

Book this tour

9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour via Northern Circuit Route

The 9-day Kilimanjaro climbing tour via the northern circuit route is a captivating expedition that takes you on an awe-inspiring journey to conquer the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned for its scenic beauty and lower footfall, the northern circuit route offers a unique and less crowded experience compared to other trails.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Londorosi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa Camp Climb to Shira 1 Camp
Day 3 : Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp Climbing to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Day 5 : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Day 6 : Climb From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut
Day 8 : Climbing From School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Day 1 : Londorosi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2100m to 2850m After a hearty breakfast, we'll head to the Londorossi Gate on the western flank of Kilimanjaro. Here, we'll meet our team of porters and guides. While they take care of the necessary formalities and equipment preparations, we can take a moment to rest and capture some amazing photos. Our climb begins as we ascend gradually through the lush mountain forest. As we reach our first camp, Mti Mkubwa, which is already set up for our comfort, we'll be surrounded by the enchanting sounds of birds and velvet monkeys, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Accommodation for day 1

Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Big Tree (Mti Mkibwa) Campsite Kilimanjaro

Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa Camp Climb to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2850m to 3505m Leaving the jungle behind, we'll enter the heath and moorland zone, where breathtaking panoramic views await us. The journey to Shira 1 Camp will challenge your body's acclimatization, but our experienced guides will ensure we take short, regular breaks to help you acclimatize. Once we reach the Shira Plateau, we'll be rewarded with stunning vistas from the rim.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2

Elevation: 3505m to 3840m Today is a shorter day in terms of elevation gain. We'll climb gently to gain about 350 meters in elevation, allowing your body to reset and acclimatize. This day also presents an opportunity to explore the scenic Shira Plateau and catch glimpses of Kibo, Kilimanjaro's majestic volcanic cone.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp Climbing to Lava Tower to Moir Hut

Elevation: 3840m to 4600m to 4200m A crucial day for acclimatization, we'll have lunch at Lava Tower before descending to Moir Hut, taking a different route from the main trail. This strategic approach ensures your body is better prepared for the challenges ahead.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Elevation: 4200m to 4033m We start the day with a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley, making a short diversion to the summit of Little Lent Hill for stunning views. The trail then winds around Kibo's northern slopes, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. Buffalo Camp awaits us, where we'll have lunch and rest.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Climb From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Elevation: 4033m to 3936m Today's ascent involves climbing Buffalo Ridge and descending into Pofu Camp for lunch. We then continue eastward to the Rongai Third Cave, situated on the mountain's northern slopes. By now, you should be feeling well acclimatized to the altitude, making the journey smoother.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut

Elevation: 3936m to 4800m The gradual ascent to the saddle, a lunar landscape between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, will prepare us for the final push to the summit. We'll arrive at School Hut in the early afternoon, taking time to rest and ready ourselves for the summit day.

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : Climbing From School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4800m to 5895m to 3106m We embark on the most challenging part of the climb, starting around 00:30 a.m. The path takes us through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman's Point, where we witness a breathtaking sunrise above Mawenzi. From there, we proceed to Uhuru Peak, passing beautiful glaciers and ice cliffs on the way. After savoring the triumphant moment at the peak, we descend to Mweka Camp via Barafu Camp.

Accommodation for day 8

Mweka Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Non-alcoholic drinks (such as soda)

Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3106m to 1640m Our final descent through the thick forest is made more enjoyable by the presence of colobus and blue monkeys, as well as the soothing sounds of birdsong. As we reach Mweka Gate, we'll be awarded our summit certificates before returning to Moshi, bringing an epic journey to a close.

Accommodation for day 9

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Costs for 9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour Northern Circuit Route

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	5 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax	11 pax	12 pax
$ 2196	$ 2171	$ 2171	$ 2171	$ 2146	$ 2146	$ 2146	$ 2146	$ 2114	$ 2121	$ 2121	$ 2121

Tour activities

Game drive tours

Getting around/Walking

Hotel resting

Photographs

Tour features and style

Private tour
You can do safari privately for solo, couple, family, or in group.

Group tour
Join a group with your fellow tourists through this tour.

Budget tour
You can compute the price for budget for the whole tour

Customizable
You can customize the itinerary, price inclusions, accommodations, and also the price.

First aid/Rescue
First aid and rescue during the tour is assured.

Price inclusions

Sleeping bag or bed linen

Rescue fee

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)

Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Climbing gear

International flights to/from the start/end of the tour

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips: tipping guideline

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

KILIMANJARO BASE TO SUMMIT

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.kilimanjarobasetosummit.com

KILIMANJARO BASE TO SUMMIT CO L.T.D is a private owned tour operator and the best Tanzania Serengeti safari and Mount Kilimanjaro based in Tanzania. We are offering a memorable Kilimanjaro Hiking tours Experience to Tanzania and When you travel with us, you are not a client but you become part of our family, share your life time experience by Hiking the Highest Mountain in Africa

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit a local school or community project during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Some Camping Group Join Safari s include community visits as part of cultural interactions.

Are there opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts?

Yes, Tanzania is a paradise for birdwatchers with over 1,100 bird species.

Can I learn about local plants and their traditional uses?

Guides often share insights about local flora and their significance.

Is there a weight limit for luggage on the Camping Group Join Safari vehicles?

There might be weight limits due to vehicle capacity. Check with the operator.

Can I bring my own food and snacks for the Camping Group Join Safari?

Bringing snacks is acceptable, but avoid leaving any waste in the parks.

Can I see tree-climbing lions during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Lake Manyara is known for tree-climbing lions, but sightings can't be guaranteed.

Are there charging facilities for electric vehicles at the campsites?

Charging facilities for electric vehicles might be limited. Check with the operator.

What's the policy on single-use plastics during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Many lodges and operators promote eco-friendly practices, including reducing single-use plastics.

Can I bring a camping chair for added comfort?

Some campsites provide seating, but bringing a camping chair is a personal preference.

How do I handle payments for optional activities during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Check with the operator if payments for optional activities can be made in advance or on-site.

Can I bring my own guide if I have a personal wildlife expert?

Some operators allow participants to bring their own guides, but inquire about arrangements.