Day 1
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Register at the gate and begin your trek on the western approach through lush montane forest to your first camp.
Kilimanjaro · The Grand Traverse
Northern Circuit · 9 Days
The longest route with near 360° views of the mountain and the highest success rate of any route.
All Kilimanjaro routes
- Duration
- Difficulty
- Sleeping
- Summit
Overview
About the route
This is the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience. As the longest route, it circles the quiet northern slopes and offers nearly 360-degree views of the mountain and the plains of Kenya and Tanzania.
It has the highest success rate of any route because the 9-day pace allows almost anyone to adjust to the altitude — perfect for those wanting the most complete Kilimanjaro experience in pristine wilderness.
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 2
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Ascend to the Shira Plateau through the moorland zone, watching the vegetation change as you gain altitude.
Day 3
Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Explore the moorland plateau with stunning views, walking across the volcanic caldera with Kibo peak in sight.
Day 4
Shira 2 to Moir Hut
Head north away from the crowds via Lava Tower into remote wilderness, enjoying solitude on this less-travelled section.
Day 5
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Explore the remote northern slopes with panoramic views of the mountain and the plains stretching into Kenya.
Day 6
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Continue along the northern circuit through alpine desert landscape, with dramatic sunsets over the plains.
Day 7
Third Cave to School Hut
The final approach to base camp. Rest and prepare mentally and physically for the summit attempt.
Day 8
School Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Mweka Camp
Summit day! A midnight start to reach Uhuru Peak around sunrise, then descend to Mweka Camp to celebrate.
Day 9
Descent to Mweka Gate
Final descent through rainforest. Receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement back in Moshi.
Route map
Northern Circuit map
Included
- 2 transfers between Moshi and Londorossi Gate
- 3 meals per day while trekking (veg / non-veg)
- 9 days Kilimanjaro trek on the Northern Circuit
- Camping accommodation while trekking
- Pre/post nights B&B at Zebra Hotel or equivalent
- All park entrance fees and government levies
- Professional, licensed mountain guides, cook and porters
- Summit certificate
Not included
- Personal mountain gear
- Meals outside the regular itinerary
- Tips for guides and porters
- Airfares and airport taxes
- Double room supplement for hotel
- International visas & medical/travel insurance
Health & preparation
Most able-bodied people aged 10+ can hike Kilimanjaro, but preparation and care are essential. We recommend at least one month of physical training and waterproof equipment for the rainy season. Your guides check your health twice daily on the mountain.
Compare
Other Kilimanjaro routes
The Whiskey Route
Machame Route
7D / 6NModerate–ChallengingCamping
Steeper and more challenging with excellent acclimatization. The climb-high, sleep-low profile offers spectacular views throughout.
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The Coca-Cola Route
Marangu Route
6D / 5NModerateHuts
The oldest and most established path, with hut accommodation. Ideal for a classic climb without sleeping in tents.
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The Scenic Route
Lemosho Route
8D / 7NModerate–ChallengingCamping
Widely considered the most beautiful route, with a remote wilderness feel and excellent acclimatization over 8 days.
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Ready to climb the Northern Circuit?
Private departures any day of the year. Add a safari or Zanzibar beach break after your summit and we'll plan it all.