Is the Northern Circuit Route suitable for beginners?

Yes, the 9-day itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization, making it suitable for beginners with good fitness.

How difficult is the trek?

It is moderately challenging due to altitude and daily walking distances, but the slow pace helps manage difficulty.

Do I need technical climbing skills?

No technical skills are required. It is a non-technical trekking route.

How cold is summit night?

Temperatures can drop below –15°C, so proper layering is essential.

Can I combine the trek with a safari or Zanzibar trip?

Yes, many climbers extend their trip with a safari or beach holiday after Kilimanjaro.

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek

Transportation
Airport pickup, transfers, and Transport
Accomodation
3- or 4-star hotels & Tented Camps
Departure From
Arusha or Moshi
Best Season
January to March and June to October
Tour type
Tour & Hiking
Meals
All meals, with snacks and drinks
Language
Preferred Language
Fitness Level
Cardio, endurance, and strength training
Group Size
2-15
Insurance Coverage
Should cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, & evacuation.
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

More Info

FAQs

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek-Overview

The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek is the longest and most scenic route to Africa’s highest peak. It offers excellent acclimatization, a high success rate, and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, valleys, and landscapes. Ideal for beginners and experienced hikers who want a more peaceful and immersive trekking experience.

Trip Highlights

Longest and quietest route on Kilimanjaro
Excellent acclimatization with high summit success
Diverse and untouched landscapes
Panoramic views of glaciers, valleys, and plains
Sunrise at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro -Itinerary

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The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest trail, offering a quiet, scenic journey through diverse landscapes. Hikers experience dense rainforests, moorlands, rocky ridges, and glaciers while gradually acclimatizing to reach the summit. This route provides stunning panoramic views, high summit success rates, and a unique wilderness experience.

Arrival Day

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Take time to relax, prepare your gear, and attend a short briefing about your trek. A good night’s rest is essential before starting your adventure

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Trek

Day 1 :

Moshi / Arusha to Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

Distance: 8 km
Walking hours: 4–5 hrs
Elevation: 2,000 m - 2,700 m
Start the trek from Londorossi Gate through beautiful rainforest, spotting wildlife along the trail. Camp overnight at Mti Mkubwa.

Day 2 :

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Distance: 10 km
Walking hours: 5–6 hrs
Elevation: 2,700 m - 3,500 m
Climb through mossy forests and reach the Shira Plateau, offering wide panoramic views. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3 :

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Distance: 5 km
Walking hours: 3–4 hrs
Elevation: 3,500 m - 3,850 m
Trek across the plateau and approach Shira 2 Camp near lava towers. Enjoy expansive mountain scenery

Day 4 :

Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut via Lava Tower

Distance: 12 km
Walking hours: 6–7 hrs
Elevation: 3,850 m - 4,750 m
Ascend slowly via Lava Tower to help acclimatization, then descend slightly to Moir Hut for overnight camp

Day 5 :

Moir Hut to Barranco Camp

Distance: 10 km
Walking hours: 5–6 hrs
Elevation: 4,750 m-3,950 m
Trek through alpine desert, enjoying views of Kibo and the Barranco Wall. Camp at Barranco Camp

Day 6 :

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Distance: 7 km
Walking hours: 4–5 hrs
Elevation: 3,950 m → 4,000 m
Climb the famous Barranco Wall and continue to Karanga Valley, the last camp before Barafu

Day 7 :

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Distance: 5 km
Walking hours: 3–4 hrs
Elevation: 4,000 m → 4,600 m
Trek through rocky terrain to Barafu Camp, preparing for the final summit attempt. Rest during the day

Day 08 :

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Distance: 12 km

Walking hours: 12–14 hrs

Elevation: 4,600 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m
Start pre-dawn to reach Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Descend to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.

Day 09 :

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi

Distance: 10 km
Walking hours: 3–4 hrs
Elevation: 3,100 m -1,640 m
Finish your trek at Mweka Gate and transfer back to Moshi for celebration and rest.

All About Your Trek

The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro, offering hikers a unique experience with breathtaking landscapes and high success rates for summit attempts. Over 9 days, trekkers explore lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and glacial terrain while enjoying panoramic views. This route is ideal for those seeking a quieter trail, gradual acclimatization, and an unforgettable adventure on Africa’s highest peak

9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climb

Route & Terrain

The trail passes through lush forests, open plateaus, volcanic ridges, and rocky high-altitude zones. Hikers face varied terrain, from gentle slopes to steep climbs near the summit, making it challenging yet rewarding.

Duration & Pace:

This 9-day trek allows for slow and steady walking, helping with altitude acclimatization. Daily distances range from 5 km to 12 km, with 3–7 hours of trekking on average, and longer on summit day.

Accommodation & Facilities:

Accommodation includes comfortable hotels in Moshi or Arusha, well-equipped mountain camps, and tents with sleeping mats. Basic amenities are provided, and meals are prepared by trained trekking staff.

Cultural Experience:

The trek offers a glimpse into local Chagga culture near Kilimanjaro’s base. You may meet village communities, see traditional farming practices, and experience Tanzanian hospitality at hotels and lodges.

Best Time to Visit:

The best periods are January–March and June–October, when weather is dry and skies are clear. Rainy months (April–May, November) make trekking more difficult and slippery.

Preparation & Packing Tips:

Hikers should train with long walks and stair climbing while carrying a backpack. Essential gear includes layered clothing, trekking poles, sturdy boots, sun protection, and a good sleeping bag.

Health & Safety:

Stay hydrated, walk slowly to adjust to altitude, and use sunscreen. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is essential, and guides monitor your health throughout the trek.

Environmental Responsibility:

Carry out all waste, avoid single-use plastics, and respect wildlife and local communities. Guides follow strict park rules to minimize environmental impact.

Additional Support:

Trekking crews provide meals, set up camps, carry gear, and assist with acclimatization. Guides offer advice, encouragement, and first aid support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.