8-Day Lemosho Route
A scenic western approach with a gradual mountain journey, crossing the Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit.
Explore Lemosho →
Kilimanjaro Climbing Expedition
9-Day Northern Circuit Route
Explore Kilimanjaro's remote northern slopes on a longer mountain journey designed to give you more time on the trail, varied landscapes and a gradual approach towards Africa's highest summit.
9 Days
8 Nights on the route
5,895 m
Uhuru Peak
$3,540
Starting price / person
Camping
Mountain accommodation
A longer Kilimanjaro journey through forest, open moorland and the remote northern mountain slopes.
Discover the Northern Circuit
A Longer Journey Around the Roof of Africa
The Northern Circuit is one of Kilimanjaro's longest trekking routes. Beginning on the western side of the mountain, the trail crosses the Shira Plateau before turning towards the quieter northern slopes.
Over nine days, you experience changing mountain environments, wide-open views and a more extended approach to the summit. The route eventually joins the southern descent trail after reaching Uhuru Peak.
Remote Northern Slopes
Explore quieter sections of Kilimanjaro away from the busier trails.
Extended Itinerary
Nine days on the mountain with eight nights of camping.
Changing Landscapes
Rainforest, heath, moorland and alpine desert environments.
Uhuru Peak
Reach the highest point in Africa at 5,895 metres.
Route Highlights
What Makes the Northern Circuit Special?
A complete mountain experience combining a longer trail, remote scenery and a memorable summit attempt.
Uhuru Peak
Stand at 5,895 metres above sea level at the highest point in Africa.
Shira Plateau
Cross the dramatic open plateau with expansive views across the mountain.
Northern Traverse
Walk along quieter mountain terrain on the northern side of Kilimanjaro.
Mountain Camping
Spend eight nights at mountain camps as the landscape changes with altitude.
Your Mountain Journey
9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
Follow the route from Londorossi Gate through the Shira Plateau and around Kilimanjaro's northern slopes before your summit attempt and descent through the Mweka route.
DAY01
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
2,100 m → 2,650 m · Rainforest
+
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
2,100 m → 2,650 m · RainforestYour Northern Circuit adventure begins with a drive from Moshi towards Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After registration and park entry procedures, continue to the trailhead and begin trekking through the beautiful montane forest.
The forest trail is rich in vegetation and birdlife. Walk at a comfortable pace with your mountain crew before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp.
Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp. Your first day is focused on settling into the mountain environment.
DAY02
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
2,650 m → 3,610 m · Heath and Moorland
+
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
2,650 m → 3,610 m · Heath and MoorlandAfter breakfast, leave the forest behind as the trail climbs towards the open heath and moorland zone. The vegetation becomes shorter and the landscape gradually opens up as you gain altitude.
Continue towards the Shira Plateau, where the views become wider and the mountain begins to reveal its dramatic volcanic terrain. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for dinner and overnight rest.
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp. Take time to hydrate and follow your guide's recommended walking pace.
DAY03
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
3,610 m → 3,850 m · Shira Plateau
+
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
3,610 m → 3,850 m · Shira PlateauToday's trek continues across the broad Shira Plateau. Compared with the previous day, the route offers a more gradual walk through open terrain, with impressive views of Kibo and the surrounding mountain landscape.
Your guide will maintain a steady pace and allow time for rest stops along the way. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, where you can enjoy the high-altitude surroundings before dinner.
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp. Your body continues adjusting to the increasing altitude.
DAY04
Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
3,850 m → approximately 4,200 m · Alpine Moorland
+
Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
3,850 m → approximately 4,200 m · Alpine Moorland
Leave Shira 2 Camp and continue towards the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The trail moves through increasingly rugged terrain as you approach the higher alpine environment.
Depending on the selected trail variation and mountain conditions, the route may pass near the Lava Tower area before continuing towards Moir Hut. Your guide will determine the appropriate route and walking pace for the group.
Moir Hut sits in a remote high-altitude setting beneath the northern slopes, offering a quieter overnight stop.
Overnight at Moir Hut. The exact trail variation and any acclimatization excursion are guided by the mountain team.
DAY05
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Approximately 4,200 m → 4,020 m · Northern Slopes
+
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Approximately 4,200 m → 4,020 m · Northern SlopesToday you continue around the northern side of the mountain. The trail crosses open alpine terrain and passes beneath the slopes of the Lent Hills before moving towards Buffalo Camp.
This section is known for its remote atmosphere and broad views across the surrounding landscape. The route includes gentle ascents and descents, so maintain a consistent pace and take regular breaks as advised by your guide.
Overnight at Buffalo Camp on the northern side of Kilimanjaro.
DAY06
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
4,020 m → 3,870 m · Alpine Desert
+
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
4,020 m → 3,870 m · Alpine DesertContinue eastwards across the northern slopes, following a quieter section of the circuit. The landscape remains open and rugged, with views towards the Kenyan plains on clear days.
The trail gradually moves towards Third Cave Camp. This section gives you another opportunity to experience the less-travelled side of Kilimanjaro while continuing your gradual approach to the summit zone.
Overnight at Third Cave Camp. Rest well before the ascent towards School Hut.
DAY07
Third Cave Camp to School Hut
3,870 m → approximately 4,750 m · High Alpine Zone
+
Third Cave Camp to School Hut
3,870 m → approximately 4,750 m · High Alpine Zone
After breakfast, begin the climb towards the eastern side of Kibo. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the high-altitude summit base area.
Arrive at School Hut, your final overnight camp before the summit attempt. Your mountain crew will provide an early dinner and explain the summit schedule. Prepare your warm clothing, headlamp, water and essential summit equipment before resting.
Overnight at School Hut. The summit attempt usually begins around midnight or during the early hours, depending on conditions and the guide's instructions.
DAY08
School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Mweka Camp
4,750 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m · Summit Day
+
School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Mweka Camp
4,750 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m · Summit DayThis is the most demanding and memorable day of your climb. Begin the summit ascent from School Hut under the night sky, following your guide towards the crater rim.
Continue towards Gilman's Point or Stella Point, depending on the route conditions and your progress. From the crater rim, proceed towards Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres, the highest point in Africa.
After time for photographs and celebration at the summit, begin the long descent on the southern side of the mountain. Continue through the Barafu area and descend towards Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Summit success is not guaranteed. Your guide may adjust or stop the ascent if altitude symptoms, weather or safety conditions require it.
DAY09
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Moshi
3,100 m → 1,640 m · Rainforest Descent
+
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Moshi
3,100 m → 1,640 m · Rainforest DescentEnjoy breakfast at Mweka Camp before beginning your final descent through the lush rainforest towards Mweka Gate. The trail can be damp and slippery in places, so take care and follow your guide's instructions.
At the gate, complete the park exit procedures and collect your climbing certificate where applicable. Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi, marking the end of your 9-Day Northern Circuit expedition.
Transfer to Moshi after completing the mountain descent and park exit formalities.
Altitude & Preparation
Take Your Time. Respect the Mountain.
The Northern Circuit gives climbers a longer itinerary around Kilimanjaro, but spending more days on the mountain does not remove the risks associated with high altitude.
A steady walking pace, proper hydration, regular meals and honest communication with your guides are important throughout the climb. Your mountain team should monitor your condition and respond to altitude-related symptoms.
✓
Walk slowly and follow the pace recommended by your mountain guide.
✓
Drink water regularly and maintain your energy with the meals provided.
✓
Tell your guide immediately if you experience headache, nausea, dizziness or unusual weakness.
✓
Follow the guide's safety decisions, including turning back or descending when necessary.
Climbing Cost
9-Day Northern Circuit Price
Plan your Kilimanjaro climb with a clear starting price. Contact our team for a detailed quotation based on your travel dates, group size and preferred arrangements.
Northern Circuit Expedition
9-Day Mountain Climb
$3,540
Starting price per person. Final quotation is subject to group size and confirmed arrangements.
9 days · 8 nights · Uhuru Peak 5,895 m
Plan Your Expedition
- 9-day Northern Circuit itinerary
- Eight nights on the mountain
- Professional mountain crew arrangements
- Camping-based mountain accommodation
- Summit attempt at Uhuru Peak
The displayed starting price should be reconfirmed with GoAccessAfrica before booking. Ask for a written quotation showing all included services, exclusions and applicable fees.
Your Climb Arrangements
What's Included and Not Included?
Understand the main arrangements to discuss when requesting your Northern Circuit quotation.
Typical Climb Inclusions
- Kilimanjaro National Park entry and applicable mountain fees as stated in your quotation.
- Mountain guides, porters and cook support for the expedition.
- Mountain camping arrangements and camping equipment as confirmed.
- Meals and drinking water arrangements during the climb as specified.
- Transfers between the agreed Moshi location and the mountain gates.
- Applicable rescue arrangements and park procedures.
Typically Not Included
- International flights to and from Tanzania.
- Tanzania visa and personal travel documentation.
- Travel and medical insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
- Tips for mountain guides, porters and support crew.
- Personal expenses, additional hotel nights and services not listed in your quotation.
Final inclusions and exclusions must be confirmed in your written booking quotation.
Before You Climb
Preparing for the Northern Circuit
Good preparation helps you approach the mountain with realistic expectations and the right equipment.
Physical Fitness
Build your endurance with regular walking, hiking, stair climbing and aerobic exercise before travelling to Tanzania.
Trekking Equipment
Prepare suitable hiking boots, warm layers, waterproof clothing, a sleeping bag and essential personal mountain gear.
Altitude Awareness
Understand the possible effects of altitude and discuss relevant medical concerns with a qualified healthcare professional.
Travel Insurance
Arrange suitable insurance that specifically covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Personal Preparation
Bring your passport, required travel documents, personal medication and any recommended medical supplies.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow the mountain team's instructions and communicate honestly about how you feel throughout the expedition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About the 9-Day Northern Circuit
Find helpful information about the route, preparation, accommodation, cost and summit attempt before planning your Kilimanjaro climb.
Ask Our Team →How long is the Northern Circuit Route?
This itinerary takes nine days and includes eight nights on the mountain. It starts at Londorossi Gate, crosses the Shira Plateau, follows the northern slopes and descends through the Mweka route.
How difficult is the 9-Day Northern Circuit?
It is a challenging high-altitude trek that requires good physical preparation, endurance and mental commitment. The summit attempt is particularly demanding because of the altitude, cold and long hours of walking.
What is the highest point on this route?
The highest point is Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres above sea level. It is the highest point in Africa and the main summit objective of the expedition.
Where do climbers sleep during the Northern Circuit?
Climbers stay at designated mountain camps along the route. This itinerary includes Mti Mkubwa, Shira 1, Shira 2, Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, Third Cave, School Hut and Mweka Camp.
Is the Northern Circuit less crowded?
The northern traverse is generally quieter than some of the more frequently used Kilimanjaro trails. However, visitor numbers vary depending on the season and the number of climbers on the mountain.
Does nine days guarantee successful acclimatization?
No. A longer itinerary can provide more time for gradual altitude exposure, but no route or number of days can guarantee successful acclimatization or prevent altitude sickness. Your guide must monitor your condition throughout the climb.
When is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit?
The commonly preferred drier climbing periods are January to March and June to October. Weather conditions on Kilimanjaro can change at any time, so suitable clothing and preparation are important in every season.
What happens if I cannot continue to the summit?
Your safety comes first. If you develop concerning altitude symptoms or cannot safely continue, your guide may arrange a descent in accordance with mountain safety procedures. Reaching Uhuru Peak cannot be guaranteed.
What is the price of the 9-Day Northern Circuit?
The current advertised starting price is $3,540 per person. Contact GoAccessAfrica Safaris for a detailed quotation based on your group size, travel dates and confirmed package arrangements.
Can I combine the Northern Circuit with a Tanzania safari?
Yes. You can discuss adding a wildlife safari to destinations such as Tarangire, Serengeti or Ngorongoro before or after your mountain climb. Our team can help you plan the extra days.
Explore More Kilimanjaro Routes
Compare Other Kilimanjaro Routes
Every Kilimanjaro route offers a different experience. Explore these alternatives if you are comparing duration, scenery and trekking style.
7-Day Machame Route
A popular scenic route with varied landscapes, the Barranco Wall and a southern approach to the summit.
Explore Machame →7-Day Rongai Route
Approach Kilimanjaro from the northern side near the Kenyan border, with a different perspective of the mountain.
Explore Rongai →
Your Kilimanjaro Story Starts Here
Ready to Take on the 9-Day Northern Circuit?
Let GoAccessAfrica Safaris help you plan your Kilimanjaro expedition. Speak with our team about your preferred dates, preparation, package arrangements and the journey to Uhuru Peak.