What is the Northern Circuit Route, and why is it popular?

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

How difficult is the 9-day Northern Circuit climb?

The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is considered moderately challenging. Gradual ascents and ample acclimatization time make it suitable for fit climbkers with some CLIMBING experience.

What is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit Route?

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

Do I need prior climbing experience to attempt the Northern Circuit Route?

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

What kind of accommodations are available during the climb?

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

Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Northern Circuit Route?

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

What is the altitude and distance covered on the Northern Circuit Route?

The climb 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.

Are there any age restrictions for the Northern Circuit Route?

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

What kind of food is provided during the climb?

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

What permits and documentation do I need for the Northern Circuit Route?

You will need a Kilimanjaro climbing 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 climbing.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit Route a Roof of Africa

Price $2139 pp

Book this tour

9 Days Kilimanjaro climbing via northern circuit route package

The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is a thrilling and picturesque climbing adventure that takes you through Tanzania\'s majestic Kilimanjaro region. As one of the newest and less frequented trails, it offers a unique and less crowded experience compared to other routes.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : ALL WEATHER ADVENTURES - START OF AN EPIC JOURNEY
Day 2 : INTO THE ALPINE MOORLAND
Day 3 : FROM MOORLAND TO ALPINE DESERT
Day 4 : TOWARDS BUFFALO CAMP
Day 5 : EXPLORING RONGAI THIRD CAVE
Day 6 : THE PREPARATION FOR SUMMIT
Day 7 : REACHING THE ROOFTOP OF AFRICA
Day 8 : DESCENDING THROUGH THE RAINFOREST
Day 9 : FAREWELL AND NEW BEGINNINGS

Day 1 : ALL WEATHER ADVENTURES - START OF AN EPIC JOURNEY

Today, we gather at Londorossi Gate, located at an altitude of 2,100 meters, in the Western part of Kilimanjaro. This is the same starting point as the Lemosho Route, and the drive here from Moshi takes about two hours (longer from Arusha). At the gate, we'll complete registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities, and then we'll proceed further up the mountain to the trailhead, our actual starting point. After a brief stop for lunch provided by our dedicated tour operators, we embark on our first day's climb to Mti Mkubwa Camp. The trail takes us through the lush rainforest zone, and if we're fortunate, we might catch glimpses of magnificent wildlife like elephants and buffalos that sometimes emerge onto the path. The day's climb covers approximately 5.5 kilometers (around 3 miles) and should take us 3 to 4 hours to reach our first campsite, Mti Mkubwa, situated at 2,820 meters above sea level.

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 : INTO THE ALPINE MOORLAND

As the sun rises, we begin the second leg of our journey, leaving behind the last section of the rainforest and entering the low alpine moorland zone, leading up to the vast Shira Plateau. The climb today is relatively short and gradual, covering about 8 kilometers (approximately 5 miles), and should take us 5 to 6 hours to reach Shira Camp 1, nestled at an elevation of 3,610 meters. During our journey, we'll enjoy nourishing breakfast and lunch, as well as a sumptuous dinner upon reaching Shira Camp 1.

Accommodation for day 2

Shira 1 Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : FROM MOORLAND TO ALPINE DESERT

Day three promises to be a long and exciting climb, taking us eastward through the 'Garden of the Senecios' and into the high alpine desert zone. Our morning will be dedicated to ascending to the iconic Lava Tower and the breathtaking Shark's Tooth rock formation, both at around 4,600 meters. Here, we'll pause for lunch before joining the northern circuit, which will lead us down to Moir Camp at an altitude of 4,200 meters. This day is particularly important for acclimatization, as we experience higher altitudes and then sleep at a lower one. The day's climb spans approximately 15 kilometers (about 8 miles) and should take 5 to 7 hours, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided to keep us energized.

Accommodation for day 3

Moir Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : TOWARDS BUFFALO CAMP

Today's journey involves a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley, offering an opportunity to take a brief detour to summit Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters, granting us stunning panoramic views. Afterward, we rejoin the Northern Circuit trail, climbing through inclines and declines along the northern slopes of Kibo, affording us vast vistas of the northern plains of Kilimanjaro, stretching towards the Kenyan/Tanzanian border. We'll reach Buffalo Camp, located at 4,020 meters, just after midday. This leg of the climb covers around 12 kilometers (approximately 7 miles) and should take 5 to 7 hours, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Accommodation for day 4

Buffalo Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : EXPLORING RONGAI THIRD CAVE

On day five, we start with a climb up Buffalo Ridge, descending into Porfu Camp for lunch. The climb then continues east, tracing the northern slopes until we reach Rongai Third Cave at an elevation of 3,800 meters. As the journey becomes shorter, our acclimatization to the altitude should be at its peak. We'll arrive at Rongai Third Cave in the mid-afternoon, where we'll have breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Accommodation for day 5

Third Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : THE PREPARATION FOR SUMMIT

After breakfast, we embark on the path leading to Barafu Summit Camp (4,640 meters), the starting point for the night's summit attempt on Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). The climb takes us across barren scree slopes, devoid of vegetation, making it challenging due to the altitude. Our team will have already set up a camp for us, including tents and sleeping bags, to ensure our comfort during this part of the journey. After resting, we'll complete an acclimatization hike towards the intermediate Kosovo Summit Camp (4,800 meters) before returning to Barafu Camp. A nourishing hot dinner awaits us, and we'll spend the remainder of the day resting and sleeping in preparation for the night's summit.

Accommodation for day 6

School Hut Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Day 7 : REACHING THE ROOFTOP OF AFRICA

Today marks a momentous occasion as we awaken before dawn to embark on our summit approach. We aim to reach Uhuru Peak in the early afternoon when there are fewer groups around, granting us a more serene experience. After conquering the peak, we descend to Crater Camp, a unique spot set amidst soft sands near the renowned Furtwangler Glacier. Crater Camp presents an extraordinary opportunity, available only to the most adventurous climbers, to spend a night in the crater's bowl. This awe-inspiring experience will surely be cherished forever. Afterward, we proceed to Millennium Camp, descending a total of 6 kilometers (around 3.5 miles) and climbing for 6 to 8 hours for the ascent and 4 to 6 hours for the descent. Throughout this momentous day, we'll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner to sustain us.

Accommodation for day 7

Millenium Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 8 : DESCENDING THROUGH THE RAINFOREST

The journey continues as we gently climb downward through the lush rainforest, making our way to Mweka Gate. At the gate, we'll complete the necessary park formalities and receive certificates to commemorate our exceptional achievement. Our vehicles will be waiting to take us back to the hotel in Moshi, where a well-deserved shower and celebration with refreshing drinks await. Tonight, we'll rest comfortably at our arranged hotel, reminiscing about the amazing experiences shared on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Accommodation for day 8

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Lunch

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel - Kilimanjaro pre and Post Climb Accommodation

Day 9 : FAREWELL AND NEW BEGINNINGS

On this day, it's time to bid farewell to the remarkable Kilimanjaro region. Our vehicles will transport us back to Moshi, where you may embark on your next adventure, whether it's continuing with a safari or flying to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar. We offer various reasonably priced trips and safaris in the area, so if you choose to explore further, we'll gladly arrange it for you. For those heading home, our vehicles will ensure a timely transfer to the airport, and as you depart, remember to cherish the memories of this extraordinary expedition.

Accommodation for day 9

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Costs for Kilimanjaro Climbing Northern Circuit Route a Roof of Africa

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
$ 2214	$ 2189	$ 2189	$ 2189	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2164	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139	$ 2139

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

TANZANIA ROYAL TOURS AND SAFARIS

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.tanzania-royal-tour.com/

Discover luxury tours featuring all the iconic destinations in Tanzania travel on unique itinery made possible by our team of experts from the wild plans of serengeti to the pristine beacher of Zanzibar. We are here to make your experience exceptional.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How are medical supplies handled during heritage site visits?

Basic medical supplies might be available during heritage site visits to address minor incidents.

Can I bring my own telescope for stargazing during guided night sky observations?

Bringing your telescope for stargazing during guided night sky observations can enhance your astronomical experiences.

What's the policy on interacting with historical reenactors during guided tours?

Historical reenactors offer insights into the past during guided tours, enhancing the cultural and educational experience.

Can I request a specific location for an educational session on local flora and fauna?

Some operators offer customizable educational session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own field guides or reference materials for educational sessions?

Bringing your field guides or reference materials can enhance educational sessions and your understanding of the ecosystem.

How are medical supplies handled during guided educational sessions?

Guides might have basic medical supplies on hand during educational sessions to address minor incidents.

Can I bring my own microscope for microscopic exploration during guided sessions?

Bringing a portable microscope can add to your microscopic exploration during guided educational sessions.

What's the policy on interacting with geological features during guided geological explorations?

Geological explorations prioritize observing and learning about geological features while respecting their preservation.

Can I request a specific geological site for a discussion on rock formations?

Some operators offer customizable geological discussion session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own rock samples or geological tools for discussions during guided sessions?

Bringing rock samples or geological tools can contribute to discussions during guided geological explorations.

How are medical supplies handled during guided geological explorations?

Guides might have basic medical supplies on hand during guided geological explorations to address minor incidents.