What is the Northern Circuit route, and why is it unique?

The Northern Circuit route is the newest and longest path to the summit of Kilimanjaro. It offers a more secluded and less crowded trek, passing through diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts.

How difficult is the 9-day Northern Circuit route?

The 9-day Northern Circuit route is considered moderately challenging. Its gradual incline and extended duration allow for better acclimatization, increasing the chances of successful summiting.

What is the best time of the year to trek the Northern Circuit route?

The best time to trek the Northern Circuit route is during the dry seasons of January to March and June to October, as the weather is generally more favorable for climbing.

Do I need prior trekking experience to attempt the Northern Circuit route?

While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. A good level of fitness, determination, and mental preparedness are essential for any Kilimanjaro trek, including the Northern Circuit.

Are there age restrictions for the Northern Circuit route

The minimum age requirement for the Northern Circuit trek is usually 12 years old. However, it's crucial for participants to be in good physical health and obtain medical clearance.

What kind of accommodations are provided during the trek?

The Northern Circuit route offers camping accommodations. High-quality tents and camping gear are provided at designated campsites along the trail.

How are meals handled during the trek?

Nutritious and balanced meals are prepared by experienced cooks throughout the trek. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if informed in advance.

Are there any wildlife encounters on the Northern Circuit route?

The Northern Circuit is rich in wildlife, and you may encounter various species of birds, monkeys, and other animals along the lower parts of the trail.

Are there rest days included in the 9-day itinerary?

Yes, the 9-day Northern Circuit route includes strategic rest days at certain campsites to aid acclimatization and ensure a safe and successful ascent.

What safety measures are taken during the trek

Safety is a top priority. Experienced guides accompany each group, and they closely monitor trekkers' health and well-being throughout the journey. The guides are trained to handle altitude-related issues and emergencies, and they carry necessary communication equipment for any unforeseen circumstances.

9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Northern Circuit Route

Price $1887 pp

Book this tour

9 Days Kilimanjaro climbing via northern circuit route

The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit route is one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro, offering nearly 360 degrees of beautiful scenery including the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit also has the most acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate. Thus, the Northern Circuit route is highly recommended. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Hike from Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa Camp climb to Shira 1 Camp
Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp climb to Shira 2 Camp
Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp climb to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Day 5 : Moir Hut climb to Buffalo Camp
Day 6 : Buffalo Camp climb to Third Cave
Day 7 : Third Cave climb up to School Hut
Day 8 : School Hut climb up to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate - Return to Moshi

Day 1 : Hike from Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Meet your trekking team in Moshi for a briefing and equipment check.Drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250m) for park registration and entry formalities.Begin your trek through the lush rainforest, witnessing diverse flora and fauna.Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) and settle in for your first night on the mountain.

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

Continue your ascent through the rainforest, gradually leaving the tree line behind.Enter the heath and moorland zone, offering sweeping views of the Shira Plateau.Arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3,610m), where you'll be mesmerized by the vastness of the plateau.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp climb to Shira 2 Camp

Trek from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m), situated near the Shira Cathedral.As you gain elevation, the landscape transforms, providing unique photo opportunities.Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and spend the night at Shira 2 Camp.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

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

Begin the day by hiking to the Lava Tower (4,640m), a significant landmark.Descend to Moir Hut (4,200m) to aid in acclimatization. The alpine desert environment at Moir Hut offers a remarkable change in scenery.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Moir Hut climb to Buffalo Camp

Continue your ascent from Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m).Traverse through the picturesque alpine desert, surrounded by stunning vistas.Rest and rejuvenate at Buffalo Camp, taking in the beauty of the high-altitude landscapes.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Buffalo Camp climb to Third Cave

Trek from Buffalo Camp to Third Cave (3,870m).Experience the transition to a rocky terrain with sparse vegetation.Third Cave provides a tranquil setting for your overnight stay.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Third Cave climb up to School Hut

Hike from Third Cave to School Hut (4,800m), your last camp before the summit.Prepare for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak and acclimatize to the higher altitude.Rest early to be well-prepared for the summit attempt.

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : School Hut climb up to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Begin the summit attempt in the early hours, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise.Experience the overwhelming sense of accomplishment as you stand atop Africa's highest point.Descend to School Hut for a brief rest and continue to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for the night.

Accommodation for day 8

Mweka Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate - Return to Moshi

The final day of your trek leads you through the lush rainforest once again.Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) to complete exit formalities.Receive your well-earned summit certificates and bid farewell to your trekking team.Transfer back to Moshi, where you can celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro expedition.

Accommodation for day 9

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

Costs for 9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Northern Circuit Route

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax	11 pax	12 pax	13 pax	14 pax	15 pax	16 pax
$ 1962	$ 1937	$ 1937	$ 1937	$ 1912	$ 1912	$ 1912	$ 1912	$ 1912	$ 1887	$ 1887	$ 1887	$ 1887	$ 1887	$ 1887	$ 1887

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

Rental vehicle

Rescue fee

All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

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

Tips: tipping guideline

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Climbing gear

Roundtrip airport transfer

All flights during the tour

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

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHY SAFARIS

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.chiefphotographysafaris.com

We are international team dedicated to share the beauty and wonder of Africa. With both local offices and international offices, our team is a multicultural, multilingual family who are passionate about Africa’s wildlife, culture, The Photography safaris designed for best photo opportunities (for wildlife and light) and give enough time for photographers to take their best shot in Serengeti Wildebeest Migration safaris and natural beauty, we are here to bring that photography experience to the world.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the duration of each game drive?

Game drives usually last a few hours, depending on the park and wildlife sightings.

Can I see rhinos in Ngorongoro?

Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to see rhinos in Tanzania.

What's the best way to handle currency exchange?

Exchange currency at reputable banks or authorized exchange offices in towns or cities.

Can I bring a drone for aerial photography?

National parks often have strict regulations against drone usage. It's best to leave them behind.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?

Most operators can accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.

Are there medical professionals on-site?

Campsites might have basic first aid facilities, but it's advisable to bring personal medications.

Can I swim in Lake Manyara?

Swimming is generally not allowed due to wildlife and potential health risks.

What should I do if I encounter dangerous animals?

Your guide will know how to handle such situations. Follow their instructions.

Is there a chance to see cultural performances?

Some lodges might offer cultural performances in the evenings.

Can I bring pets on the Camping Group Join Safari?

Pets are usually not allowed due to park regulations and wildlife safety.