9-Day Northern Circuit Route | Kilimanjaro Explore
A 9-day hiking adventure from $2,464 per person (2 travelers)
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the most spectacular routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the western side of the mountain, it follows the scenic Lemosho Route before circling the remote northern slopes of Kibo, where trekkers experience breathtaking views and far fewer crowds than on other routes.
As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit provides the best acclimatization profile, giving climbers ample time to adjust to the altitude. This results in one of the highest summit success rates of any route. The trail traverses diverse landscapes, including lush rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and glacial terrain, before ascending to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via School Hut.
The extended itinerary is ideal for trekkers who want a more relaxed pace, a quieter mountain experience, and the highest chance of reaching the summit. Although it requires more trekking days and a larger budget than shorter routes, the exceptional scenery, reduced crowds, and outstanding acclimatization make it one of the finest ways to climb Africa's highest mountain.
The Northern Circuit Route is perfect for adventurers seeking a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience. With expert guides from Kilimanjaro Explore, you'll enjoy professional support, quality camping equipment, nutritious meals, and a safe, well-organized expedition to the Roof of Africa.
Safari Route Map
Explore your journey through Tanzania's wilderness
Explore the detailed day-by-day itinerary
Arrival at JRO; meet Kilimanjaro Explore staff and transfer to your hotel. Evening briefing.
Group tour packages typically include shared airport transfers for your group. Extra charges may apply for separate transfers — coordinate arrival times with your consultant.
Hotel Check-in: From 2:00 PM
Hotel Check-out: By 10:00–11:00 AM (depending on the hotel). Early check-in and late check-out may be available upon request and subject to availability.
Accommodation
Keys Hotel Mbokomu
Morning briefing, then drive ~3–4 hours to Londorossi Gate, register, and continue by vehicle toward the high drop-off (~3,414 m / 11,200 ft). Short trek to Shira 1 — gentle start with time to acclimatize.
Please note: Hydrate well from day one; report symptoms early.
Trekking time: ~1 hour | Distance: ~4 km (2.4 mi)
Accommodation
Shira 1 Camp
Easy day to Shira 2 with modest altitude gain; enjoy views and endemic plants. After lunch, optional acclimatization walk toward Lava Tower (~260 m extra gain) to sleep lower afterward.
Acclimatization hike: Shira 2 (~3,850 m) toward ~4,110 m — ~2 km, 1–2 hours.
Trekking time (main): 3–4 hours | Distance: ~7 km (4.3 mi)
Accommodation
Shira 2 Camp
From Shira 2, hike to Lava Tower (~4,600 m) for lunch — a demanding segment for many. After lunch and rest, continue to Moir Hut on the quiet northern side of the mountain.
Trekking time: 5–7 hours | Distance: ~14 km (8.7 mi)
Accommodation
Moir Huts
Exit Moir Valley with a short steep pull, then traverse northern slopes with views toward Kenya on clear days. Rolling ups and downs without extreme jumps.
Trekking time: 5–7 hours | Distance: ~12 km (7.4 mi)
Accommodation
Moir Huts
Shorter day as the trail approaches the line used by Rongai. By now you should feel comfortable near 3,800 m.
Trekking time: 4–6 hours | Distance: ~8 km (4.9 mi)
Accommodation
Kilimanjaro mountain camp (tented)
Trek to School Hut summit camp (~4,800 m / 15,744 ft). Sleep early; avoid heavy exertion; drink heavily. Summit night begins around midnight.
Trekking time: 4–5 hours | Distance: ~5 km (3.1 mi)
Accommodation
Kilimanjaro mountain camp (tented)
From School Hut, night ascent to Uhuru Peak. One guide typically supports two climbers. After sunrise at the summit, descend to Barafu for lunch and rest, then continue to Millennium Camp in the forest.
Please note: Roughly nine in ten mountain injuries happen on descent — watch every step.
Trekking time: 10–13 hours | Distance: ~16 km (9.9 mi)
Accommodation
Kilimanjaro mountain camp (tented)
Rainforest descent to Mweka Gate; certificates; celebratory handshakes with crew; hotel transfer.
Trekking time: 4–5 hours | Distance: ~12 km (7.4 mi)
Accommodation
Keys Hotel Mbokomu
Hotel rest and airport transfer. Please note: Check-out often 11:00 AM.
What's included
All transfers in Tanzania as per programme (airport pick-up and drop-off, hotel ↔ park gate / trailhead)
Hotel accommodation before and after the climb (typically bed & breakfast; shared twin unless single supplement)
Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping or hut fees, and rescue fee contributions as applicable
Professional mountain guides, assistant guides, cook(s), and porter crew
All meals on the mountain; mess / kitchen tent and group dining equipment
Four-season mountain tents (shared, two per tent by default), group sleeping mat, group camping furniture
Safety: emergency oxygen, comprehensive group medical kit, daily health monitoring with guides
Summit certificates after a successful climb
International flights to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Tanzania visa fees (confirm current rate before travel)
Travel and high-altitude evacuation insurance (mandatory — confirm coverage for trekking to 6,000 m)
Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (budget per consultant advice)
Personal trekking clothing, boots, and sleeping bag (rental may be available)
Lunch and dinner at the hotel before/after the climb unless stated otherwise
Single room or single tent supplements; optional portable toilet hire; optional private tent surcharge
Personal expenses, drinks, laundry, and phone/data charges
Pricing
Price per person
| Solo | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9-day | $2,640 | $2,464 | $2,319 |
Group rates: Prices shown for 1–3 travelers. Contact us for groups of 4 or more.
Philbert
OnlineLooking for a private 9-day hiking adventure for your dates?
Contact us. Our team is always here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this 9-day hiking adventure
This package includes: All transfers in Tanzania as per programme (airport pick-up and drop-off, hotel ↔ park gate / trailhead), Hotel accommodation before and after the climb (typically bed & breakfast; shared twin unless single supplement), Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping or hut fees, and rescue fee contributions as applicable All transportation, expert guides, and most activities are included in the price.
The best time for hiking in Kilimanjaro National Park is during the dry season (June to October) when animals gather around water sources. However, this 9-day adventure is available year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
This is a group adventure that can accommodate multiple travelers. The price per person decreases with more travelers, making it perfect for families and groups.
Essential items include: comfortable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera with extra batteries, binoculars, and a light jacket for early mornings. We provide a detailed packing list upon booking confirmation.
Cancellation policies vary by season and timing. Generally, cancellations made 30+ days before departure receive a full refund minus processing fees. Please contact us for specific cancellation terms for your travel dates.
Stay in touch on Instagram
Follow our latest photos and stories from Tanzania—curated from our team.
BEFORE YOU CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO ⛰️ I answer all your FAQs.
Not everyone comes to Kilimanjaro for the mountain.
Some come to prove something to themselves.
Some come searching for adventure.
Others come chasing a dream they’ve had for years.
I’m grateful to help travelers from around the world reach the summit of Africa’s highest mountain and experience the beauty of Tanzania beyond the climb.
Would you climb Kilimanjaro one day?
Other Hikings
Discover more amazing hiking experiences
