9 Days Northern Circuit Trek
Scenic views, Great choice for first-time climbers
Trek Overview
The Northern Circuit route is known for its gradual elevation gain, making it easier for climbers. It starts on the western side like the Lemosho Route but offers a unique journey around Kilimanjaro’s quieter northern slopes, showcasing stunning vistas.
Lasting 9 days, it’s the longest route, providing a serene experience with fewer climbers and aiding acclimatization, ideal for beginners adjusting to high altitudes.
Why choose this Trek
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views across the Shira Plateau and diverse landscapes
- High Success Rate: allows for better acclimatization, higher chance of reaching the summit.
- Less Crowded: fewer climbers, allowing for a more peaceful trek amidst Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.
What to Expect on the Northern Circuit Trek
Lush Rainforest
Trek through a dense rainforest, you'll encounter vibrant flora and fauna, including unique plant species, colorful birds, and playful monkeys.
Shira Plateau
The Shira Plateau is a vast, high-altitude plateau, formed from the remains of an ancient volcanic caldera. This plateau offers panoramic stunning views .
Lava Tower
A dramatic volcanic rock formation, Lava Tower stands at 4,600 meters and provides stunning panoramic vistas. It's also a crucial point for acclimatization
Itinerary
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Meet your guide for a pre-climb briefing and equipment check, then relax and prepare for the adventure ahead
After breakfast at your hotel, we’ll take you to Londorossi Gate, where your trek begins. The sight of the lush rainforest covering Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes will fill you with excitement. On your first day, you’ll enjoy a leisurely 3-4 hour hike through this beautiful rainforest, gradually starting your ascent. The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll spend the night
Today, you’ll head to the historic Shira Plateau, a crater formed by a volcano long ago. From there, you’ll see stunning views of the Kibo peak, the highest point you aim to reach. As you climb, you’ll notice how the landscape changes, showing different parts of the mountain’s environment. When you camp on Shira Plateau, you’ll enjoy amazing views all around you
Today, we trek across the expansive Shira Plateau, where we’ll be treated to stunning views of Kibo Peak. This gentle hike not only allows us to enjoy the scenery but also helps us acclimatize to the altitude. We’ll settle into Shira 2 Camp, nestled amidst the beautiful surroundings, ready to explore and soak in the unique high-altitude environment.
The Northern Circuit offers a challenging yet fulfilling trek! Hike for 7-9 hours across varied landscapes. Begin on the Shira Plateau, ascend the western slopes of Kibo to Lava Tower, with stunning views. Descend to Moir Hut for a well-deserved rest, crucial for acclimatizing to high altitudes.
You’ll hike for 5-7 hours on the Northern Circuit to reach Buffalo Camp .Starting from Moir Hut, you’ll climb the Lent Hills for amazing views and experience Kilimanjaro’s with its unique landscapes. As you cross rocky terrain, you’ll enjoy scenic plains stretching towards Kenya, offering views of Mt. Meru and the Kenyan plains before reaching Buffalo Camp to rest.
You’ll trek through valleys filled with volcanic rocks and unique plants, taking about 6-8 hours. Explore the seldom-traveled Buffalo Ridge, experiencing the thrill of discovering Kilimanjaro’s wild north side. End your day at Third Cave Camp, where you’ll overnight and soak in panoramic views of the mountain’s expansive northern slopes.
Today, enjoy a 5-7 hour trek through a refreshing high-altitude desert. Ascend steadily to School Hut Camp, where you’ll admire stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. After leaving Third Cave Camp, prepare at School Hut for your summit night adventure with rest and an early dinner.
Summit Day! It’s an unforgettable night climbing to the summit under a sky full of stars. You’ll trek through tough terrain to see the stunning sunrise from the edge of Kibo Crater. Reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, is a testament to your strength and determination! After this big achievement, you’ll safely descend to Barafu Camp for a good rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp at a lower altitude for the night.
Today marks our final descent from Horombo hut through the lush rainforest, retracing our steps back to Marangu Gate takes 5-6 hours walk. As we descend, we reflect on our incredible journey and the achievements we’ve made together. From there, we transfer back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.
Price Includes
Pre and post-trek stays in comfortable lodgings.
Professional guides, skilled cooks, and dedicated porters
Convenient transfers to and from the mountain gate.
Park entry, camping, rescue fees, and VAT covered.
Double-layered sleeping mats for a good night’s rest.
Nutritious and delicious meals served three times daily on the mountain
Access to filtered water throughout the trek and hot water for washing
Pick-up and drop-off services at the airport.
Price Excludes
Any fees from your bank for international transactions are not covered
Costs for personal items and services like souvenirs or extra snacks are your responsibility.
It’s customary to tip the guides, cooks, and porters for their hard work and support.
You must arrange your visa and travel insurance, but we can help guide you through the process.
Any costs for personal communication, laundry services, or internet use are not included in the package.