What is the Northern Circuit route on Kilimanjaro?

The Northern Circuit route is a less-traveled 9-day trek on Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. It offers a unique and gradual ascent, maximizing acclimatization and increasing the chances of a successful summit.

Is the Northern Circuit suitable for beginners?

While the Northern Circuit allows for better acclimatization, it is still a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and previous TREKKING experience. It is recommended for intermediate to advanced trekkers.

How long is the Northern Circuit route?

The Northern Circuit route typically takes 9 days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 91 kilometers (56 miles) to reach the summit and return.

What are the highlights of the Northern Circuit trek?

The Northern Circuit offers breathtaking views of the mountain's western face, lush rainforests, the expansive Shira Plateau, and the unique experience of encircling the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.

Are there camping facilities along the Northern Circuit route?

Yes, camping is the primary accommodation option on the Northern Circuit. Well-equipped campsites with basic facilities are available at designated locations along the route.

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

The best time for the Northern Circuit trek is during the dry seasons, which are typically from January to March and June to October. These periods offer more stable weather and clearer views.

Do I need to hire a guide and porters for the trek?

Yes, hiring a licensed guide and porters is mandatory for all treks on Kilimanjaro. Guides provide valuable expertise, while porters help carry the majority of the equipment, leaving you to focus on the trek itself.

How challenging is the summit day on the Northern Circuit route?

Summit day, regardless of the route, is physically and mentally demanding. The Northern Circuit's gradual ascent helps with acclimatization, but the final push to the summit will still require determination and perseverance.

What permits do I need for the Northern Circuit trek?

For the Kilimanjaro trek, you'll need a Kilimanjaro National Park entry permit, which is typically organized by your tour operator as part of the package.

Can I combine the Northern Circuit with other attractions in Tanzania?

Yes, many trekkers choose to combine their Kilimanjaro adventure with a safari in Tanzania's renowned national parks, such as Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, for an unforgettable and diverse African experience.

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour

Price $.1383 pp

Book this tour

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour package

Embark on a 9 day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek for an unforgettable journey to Africa tallest peak. Traverse diverse landscapes including lush glades Shira Plateau and the stark beauty of Lava Tower Challenge yourself with a night climb to Uhuru Peak before descending to Mweka Gate An adventure of awe inspiring views and personal triumph awaits

Tour highlights

Day 1 : Hotel to londorossi to lemosho to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp
Day 5 : Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp
Day 6 : Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave
Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut
Day 8 : : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Day 9 : Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel

Day 1 : Hotel to londorossi to lemosho to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After enjoying a hearty breakfast and receiving the final briefing, we'll head to Londorossi Park Gate, which takes around 3 hours by road. From there, our journey into the wild begins as we follow a forest track in a 4WD vehicle leading to Lemosho Glades. Your first hike will be through the enchanting Montane Forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp, aptly named after a grand tree that stands tall in the campsite. The elevation gains from 1830m to 2650m, and the distance covered is approximately 6km, making it a pleasant 2-3 hours of Treking. Delight in the lush montane forest habitat surrounding you. Lunch and dinner will be provided to keep your energy high.

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 to Shira 1 Camp

Today, as we embark on the trail, you'll notice the terrain slowly transforming into the giant heather moorland zone. The hike leads us across streams and over the Shira Ridge, eventually descending to Shira 1 Camp, situated by a serene stream on the Shira Plateau. This lovely journey takes around 4-5 hours, covering 8km. The elevation increases from 2650m to 3500m, allowing you to experience the moorland habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided to fuel your trekking spirit.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Rising to a new day, you'll be greeted by a gentle hike across the Shira Plateau, revealing the beautiful moorland meadows surrounding Shira 2 Camp. With an elevation gain from 3500m to 3850m, this 8km trek takes around 4-5 hours. Enjoy the ample opportunities for acclimatization and breathe in the refreshing moorland air. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will keep you energized and ready for the journey ahead.

Accommodation for day 3

Shira 2 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp

Today, a longer but rewarding trek awaits, as we venture eastward through the 'Garden of the Senecios' and enter the high alpine desert zone. As you ascend to Lava Tower and Shark's Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, you'll have lunch amidst stunning views. Afterward, we join the Northern Circuit, descending to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This strategic day ensures you experience higher altitudes before sleeping lower, aiding the acclimatization process. The hike covers 14km over 5-7 hours and offers an opportunity to explore the moorland habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will keep you energized.

Accommodation for day 4

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

Prepare for a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley and an optional hike to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters. As we proceed, the trail skirts around the northern slopes of Kibo, offering magnificent views. The day's destination is Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters, and the hike covers 12km over 5-6 hours through the high alpine habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Accommodation for day 5

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave

Today, we embark on a shorter trek, climbing up the Buffalo ridge and descending into Porfu Camp, where lunch awaits. The trail then takes us around the northern slopes to Rongai Third Cave. As you arrive at the Third Cave around mid-afternoon, you'll feel well-acclimated to the altitude. The hike covers 8km over 5-7 hours, offering splendid views of the high alpine habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Accommodation for day 6

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut

Prepare for a steady incline up and over the Saddle, nestled between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Trekkers continue southwest to School Hut, where an early dinner awaits, and the final summit attempt will begin before midnight. Get some rest, as this night's sleep is crucial before the big day. Ensure all your gear, warm clothing, and essentials are ready before heading to bed. The hike covers 15km over 4-5 hours, granting you a glimpse of the alpine desert habitat. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided

Accommodation for day 7

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

It's summit day Awake around 11:30 PM to start the steep incline up Kibo's slopes under the shroud of darkness. Pass by Hans Meyer Cave and Gilman's Point as you head towards Uhuru Peak, reaching the summit at sunrise. Take in the breathtaking views and capture cherished memories before retracing your steps back to Stella Point. Afterward, descend to Barafu Camp and finally reach Millennium Camp for your last night on the mountain. Today's journey is the most challenging, covering 6km uphill and 11km downhill over 14-16 hours. You'll trek through the stone scree and ice-capped summit habitats. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will fuel your triumph.

Accommodation for day 8

Millenium Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 9 : Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel

As the sun rises on your final day on Kilimanjaro, bid farewell to Millennium Camp and descend to Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. Be prepared for wet and muddy terrain at lower elevations. Once at the gate, our team will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relish in the achievement of conquering Kilimanjaro. The descent covers 10km over 3-4 hours through the forest habitat. Breakfast will be served before departure.

Accommodation for day 9

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

Costs for 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour

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
$ 2174	$ 2149	$ .2149	$ .2149	$ .1383	$ 1383	$ 1383	$ 1383	$ 1383	$ 1358	$ 1358	$ 1358	$ 1358	$ 1358	$ 1358	$ 1358

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

Park fees

A professional driver/guide

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

Price exclusions

Bath towels

Porterage

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

Tips: tipping guideline

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

MIGRATION SEEKERS SAFARIS

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.migrationseekerssafaris.com

MIGRATION SEEKERS SAFARIS CO LTD specialized in providing and make you able to learn about wildlife and ensuring that you witness Tanzania experience. We offer the best Package of Serengeti Migration, Tanzania Safari like, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara and Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour. As we ensure the quality service with better standard.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there photography workshops or tutorials during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Some operators offer photography-focused Camping Group Join Safari s with workshops led by professionals.

Can I request a private dinner or picnic during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Private dinners or picnics might be available as special arrangements. Inquire with the operator.

What's the policy on drone usage at the lodges and campsites?

Drones are often not allowed in lodges and campsites due to privacy and safety concerns.

Can I request specific wildlife species to be highlighted during guided tours?

Guides focus on providing comprehensive experiences but can respond to specific interests.

Can I bring my own camping stove for cooking during the Camping Group Join Safari?

Most campsites provide cooking facilities. Inquire if bringing your own stove is necessary.

How are medical emergencies communicated to nearby facilities?

Communication devices are used to coordinate with nearby medical facilities in case of emergencies.

Can I participate in the Camping Group Join Safari if I'm not an experienced hiker?

Camping Group Join Safari s involve minimal hiking, and participants of various fitness levels can enjoy them.

Can I request a specific type of game drive vehicle?

Some operators offer various vehicle options, including open-sided and closed vehicles.

Can I bring my own portable fridge for the Camping Group Join Safari?

Some vehicles might have refrigeration facilities. Inquire if you need to bring your fridge.

Can I request a specific guide for the entire duration of the Camping Group Join Safari?

Some operators allow guide requests, but availability and scheduling might vary.