1. Q: What is the Northern Circuit Route, and why is it popular?

A: The Northern Circuit Route is a scenic and less crowded trek that encircles Mount Kilimanjaro. Its popularity stems from the opportunity for acclimatization, maximizing chances of summit success, and its varied landscapes.

2. Q: How difficult is the 9 days Northern Circuit trek?

A: The 9 days Northern Circuit Route is considered moderately challenging. Gradual ascents and ample acclimatization time make it suitable for fit trekkers with some TREKKING experience.

3. Q: What is the best time to trek the Northern Circuit Route?

A: The best time for this trek is during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October. These months offer better weather and clearer views.

4. Q: Do I need prior trekking experience to attempt the Northern Circuit Route?

A: While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Regular exercise and physical fitness are crucial, and having experience at high altitudes can be advantageous.

5. Q: What kind of accommodations are available during the trek?

A: The Northern Circuit Route offers tented camping throughout the journey. Comfortable tents and necessary camping facilities are provided by trekking companies.

6. Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Northern Circuit Route?

A: Yes, hiring a certified guide is mandatory for all trekkers. Guides are essential for safety, navigation, and providing valuable insights about the mountain and its surroundings.

7. Q: What is the altitude and distance covered on the Northern Circuit Route?

A: The trek covers approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) over 9 days. The highest point is Uhuru Peak, standing at an altitude of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

8. Q: Are there any age restrictions for the Northern Circuit Route?

A: While there is no official age limit, trekkers should be at least 12 years old. Participants should also be in good physical health and consult with a doctor before attempting the trek.

9. Q: What kind of food is provided during the trek?

A: Trekking companies typically offer a variety of nutritious meals, including soups, vegetables, fruits, and local dishes. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

10. Q: What permits and documentation do I need for the Northern Circuit Route?

A: You will need a Kilimanjaro trekking permit, which your tour operator will arrange. You should also have a valid passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance with coverage for high-altitude trekking.

9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Expedition via Northern Circuit Route

Price $2109 pp

Book this tour

9 Days Kilimanjaro trekking Expedition via Northern circuit route Tour

The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro. The 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 allows for the best acclimatization time and the highest summit success rate, therefore this route is highly recommended. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Starting Kilimanjaro Trekking Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)
Day 2 : Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa) to Shira 1 Camp
Day 3 : Trekking From Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Day 4 : Trek to Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Via Lava Tower
Day 5 : From Moir Hut Camp Trekking to Buffalo Camp
Day 6 : From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Day 7 : Leaving Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp 7th of 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking
Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp Summit Day!
Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate - Return to Moshi

Day 1 : Starting Kilimanjaro Trekking Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)

Meet your trekking team in Moshi for a briefing and equipment check. Drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250m) for registration and entrance formalities. Begin the trek through the lush rainforest, where you might spot some wildlife. Reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite at an elevation of 2,820m. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa camp.

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 : Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa) to Shira 1 Camp

Early in the morning we starting our Kilimanjaro trekking from Big Tree camp and Continue through the rainforest, and as you gain altitude, the vegetation will change. Enter the heath and moorland zone, with stunning views of Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 camp (3,610m) for the night. Today’s trek offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Trekking From Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

After breakfast, begin trekking towards Shira 2 camp (3,850m). As you trek, you'll have a chance to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. The trail offers panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its glaciers. Reach Shira 2 camp, set against the backdrop of Shira Cathedral. Overnight at Shira 2 camp.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : Trek to Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut Via Lava Tower

Today's trek involves reaching a higher altitude, aiding in acclimatization. Trek to the Lava Tower (4,640m), an impressive rock formation. Descend to Moir Hut (4,200m) for the night, where you'll be surrounded by unique landscapes. This day helps your body adjust to the altitude before heading to higher altitudes.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : From Moir Hut Camp Trekking to Buffalo Camp

Leave Moir Hut and hike to Buffalo Camp (4,020m). Traverse through the alpine desert, which offers breathtaking views. Buffalo Camp is located in a picturesque valley and is known for its tranquil surroundings. Overnight at Buffalo Camp.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : From Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Continue your ascent to the Third Cave (3,870m). The trail takes you through rocky terrain with sparse vegetation. As you gain altitude, you may experience a drop-in temperature. Third Cave offers a peaceful setting for the night's campsite.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Leaving Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp 7th of 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking

Trek from Third Cave to School Hut (4,800m). You’ll notice a significant change in the landscape as you approach the alpine desert. Prepare for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. Rest early and get ready for the summit attempt.

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp Summit Day!

Begin the summit attempt in the early hours of the morning, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise. The trek to the summit is challenging but rewarding, as you conquer the highest point in Africa. Witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit and take memorable photos. Descend back to School Hut for a short rest and then proceed 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 the trek takes you through the lush rainforest. Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you'll complete exit formalities. Say farewell to your trekking team and receive certificates of achievement. Transfer back to Moshi, where you can celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro adventure.

Accommodation for day 9

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Costs for 9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Expedition 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
$ 2184	$ 2159	$ 2159	$ 2159	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2134	$ 2109	$ 2109	$ 2109	$ 2109	$ 2109	$ 2109

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

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

SMILE WIDE EXPEDITION

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.smilewideexpedition.com

SMILE WIDE EXPEDITION CO LTD Offers different packages for day trips, Tanzania safaris, Migration Safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing tours, we take you in the unique cultures live in harmony with wildlife in extraordinary landscapes in a travel dream that goes beyond of your expectation. We make you reach your Tanzania destination at a reasonable price.

Tour offered

6 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro via Machame Route

Welcome on a 6 days Machame Route Expedition, scaling Kilimanjaro, Africa highest peak. Traverse rainforests, heather moorlands, and alpine deserts, witnessing ...

6 Days Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Adventure Tour

Join our Kilimanjaro Climbing adventure on the Marangu Route, a 6 days itinerary with a gradual slope and direct path to the summit. Safety and success are our ...

8 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure via Lemosho Route

Begin on an unforgettable Kilimanjaro trekking with 8 Days Lemosho Route, conquer Africa highest peak via Lemosho Route. Immerse in breathtaking vistas as you j...

6 Days Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Trekking

The Rongai route is one of the easier routes up Kilimanjaro. Rongai is the only route to approach Kilimanjaro from the north and the descent is via the Marangu ...

9 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Expedition via Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro. The Northern Circuit route is one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro, offering nearly ...

7 Days Summit Kilimanjaro via Machame Route Climbing

Join our extraordinary 7 Days to Summit Kilimanjaro Machame Route Climb. Conquer Africa highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, through lush rainforests to alpine dese...

6 Days Hiking Kilimanjaro Through Umbwe Route to the Summit

Commence on an awe inspiring adventure with our Hiking Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route 6 Days to the Summit expedition, where you'll conquer the iconic Mount Kilimanjar...

1 Day Tales of the Wild Lake Manyara Group Safari

Nature Unveiled: Experience the extraordinary on our premier group safari to Lake Manyara National Park. This is your chance to immerse yourself in a day of adv...

1 Day Tranquil Encounters Lake Manyara Private Safari

Escape to the serenity of Lake Manyara National Park on a private 1-day safari, where the promise of diverse wildlife and captivating landscapes beckons. This e...

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a specific location for a birdwatching session?

Some operators offer customizable birdwatching session locations. Discuss your preferences with the operator.

Can I bring my own musical instruments for community interactions?

Bringing musical instruments can be a wonderful way to engage in community interactions, but inquire with the guide or lodge.

How are medical supplies handled during hot air balloon Camping Group Join Safaris?

Medical supplies are often available on hot air balloon Camping Group Join Safari s for minor incidents.

Can I request a specific location for a guided yoga session?

Some operators offer customizable guided yoga session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I request a specific wildlife conservation activity to participate in?

Wildlife conservation activities are often organized separately. Inquire with the operator for opportunities.

How medical supplies are handled during boat Camping Group Join Safari s?

Medical supplies might be available on boat Camping Group Join Safari s for minor incidents.

Can I bring my own musical instruments for boat trips?

Bringing musical instruments can add to the enjoyment of boat trips, but check with the operator.

What's the policy on interacting with wildlife during boat Camping Group Join Safari s?

Boat Camping Group Join Safari s prioritize wildlife observation from a safe distance to minimize disturbance.

Can I request a specific location for a wildlife photography session?

Some operators offer customizable wildlife photography session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own painting materials for artistic activities?

Bringing painting materials can enhance your artistic experiences during leisure time.

How are medical supplies handled during village visits?

Basic medical supplies might be available during village visits for minor incidents.

Can I bring my own telescope for birdwatching during boat Camping Group Join Safari s?

Bringing your telescope for birdwatching on boat Camping Group Join Safari s is possible. Consider portability.