This 9-day northern circuit route for Kilimanjaro climbing is an awe-inspiring adventure that offers a unique and less-traveled journey to the summit of Africa's highest peak. This route starts from Moshi at 6:00 a.m., and its price ranges from $1900 to $2800. The Northern Circuit is the newest route up Kilimanjaro and also the longest. Because of its length, the Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate. The route follows the same route as the Lemosho Route for the first two days and then veers off to circle around the quieter northern slopes on the east side of the mountain. The Northern Circuit approaches the summit via Gilman's Point before descending on the same route as the Machame and Lemosho. This 9-day Northern Circuit route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro enables climbers to reach the Uhuru peak, the highest peak in the world at 5895 meters above sea level.
9-day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb - Request for a free quote, sent direct to your e-mail address
Elevation: 1830m to 2650m,
Distance: 6-8 km,
Climbing Time: 3- 5 hours,
Zone: Rain Forest,
On day one of the Northern Circuit Route, trekkers begin their journey at the Londorossi Gate, where the anticipation of the adventure ahead is palpable. The trail leads through lush montane forests, with sunlight filtering through the canopy, creating a serene atmosphere. After several hours of hiking, the day's destination is reached at Mti Mkubwa, a camp nestled in the heart of the forest, where tired but excited climbers set up their tents, dined under the stars, and rested, preparing for the remarkable days of trekking that lie ahead.
Elevation: 2650m to 3500m
Distance: 7 km
Climbing Time: 3- 4 hours
Zone: Rain Forest
On the second day of the Northern Circuit Route, adventurers leave behind the enchanting Mti Mkubwa camp and venture into the captivating wilderness of Kilimanjaro. The trail leads through the dense montane forest, gradually giving way to moorland and heath landscapes as the altitude increases. As trekkers ascend, the mesmerizing scenery unfolds, revealing the expansive Shira Plateau, where Shira 1 Camp awaits. Nestled on the plateau's edge, this camp offers a stunning first glimpse of Kilimanjaro's vastness, providing a sense of awe and anticipation for the days ahead.
Elevation: 3500m to 3850m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Zone: Low Alpine desert
On this day hikers will leave the picturesque Shira 1 Camp behind, embarking on a journey that showcases the stark beauty of Kilimanjaro's high-altitude landscapes. The trail winds its way across the expansive Shira Plateau, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As the day unfolds, climbers gradually ascend to Shira 2 Camp, situated amidst a lunar-like terrain of rocks and boulders. This camp offers a unique glimpse into the otherworldly landscapes of Kilimanjaro's high alpine zone, marking another day of awe-inspiring adventure on this remarkable trek.
Elevation: 3850m to 4200m
Distance: 14km
Climbing Time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High Alpine zone
This day is a long trek heading east which passes through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ and then enters the high alpine desert zone. The morning is spent trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where you will have lunch. After lunch you will join the Northern Circuit heading down to Moir Camp at 4,200 meters. This is an important day in your trek as you will get to experience high altitude and then sleep low, which is good for the acclimatization process.
Elevation: 4200m to 4020m
Distance: 6 km
Climbing Time: 5-6 hours
Zone: High Alpine zone
On this day, the journey continues from the serene Moir Camp, taking hikers through the rugged and less-traveled terrain of Kilimanjaro. This section of the trek offers a sense of isolation and wilderness, with the trail meandering through alpine deserts and rocky outcrops. As adventurers gain elevation, they reach the remote Buffalo Camp, a high-altitude haven nestled amid the stark beauty of Kilimanjaro's upper slopes. This camp's unique setting and pristine surroundings provide a captivating backdrop for a night of rest and reflection on the remarkable journey so far
Elevation: 4020m to 3800m
Distance: 8km
Climbing Time: 5-7 hours
Zone: High Alpine
On the sixth day of the Northern Circuit Route, climbers leave Buffalo Camp behind and continue their ascent through Kilimanjaro's otherworldly alpine terrain. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, creating a sense of wonder and accomplishment. As trekkers gain altitude, they reach Rongai Third Cave, their overnight destination. This camp, nestled amidst the rocky outcrops, provides a tranquil and remote setting for a well-deserved night's rest as climbers prepare for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead on their journey to the summit.
Elevation: 3800mto 4800m
Distance: 15km
Climbing Time: 4-5 hours
Zone: Glacier zone
Today involves a steady incline up and over the saddle, which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Trekkers then continue walking south-west up to the school hut. After arriving at School Hut, you will be served an early dinner, and then you should get some shut-eye as you will be awoken before midnight to start your summit attempt. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, a headlamp, and a camera, before going to bed.
Elevation: 4800m to 5895m
Down to 3950m
Distance: 6km up and 11km
Climbing Time: 5-7 hours up and 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summi
On the night of your ascent, you'll awaken around 11:30 with hot tea, commencing your steep climb up Kibo's slopes under the shroud of darkness. Your first checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave, a brief pause to catch your breath. The climb intensifies as you near Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), approximately 5–6 hours from School Hut. As dawn approaches, enjoy the incredible view of Mawenzi Peak, but remember, you still have 2 hours to go to Uhuru Peak. The slope flattens as you move west along the crater rim, and you should reach the summit just after sunrise. Your stay here is brief, so capture the remarkable views and surrounding glaciers in photos. Then, retrace your steps around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters), head south, and descend the scree-covered slopes to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters). Take a short break before continuing to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for your final night, trekking for 14–16 hours in total, so pace yourself, stay hydrated, and maintain your energy.
Elevation: 3950m to 1680m
Distance: 14km
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
This is the last day of your Kilimanjaro expedition. You will bid farewell to Millennium Camp before embarking on the final leg of your remarkable journey towards Mweka Gate. Descending through the lush and vibrant rainforests, you'll be serenaded by the melodic calls of exotic birds, surrounded by rich greenery that contrasts sharply with the alpine terrain above. As you continue your descent, you will gradually transition from the forested foothills to the base of the mountain, ultimately arriving at Mweka Gate. This marks the official conclusion of your Kilimanjaro adventure, and from there, you'll be transported to the lively town of Moshi, where you can celebrate your incredible accomplishment and reflect on the memories of this unforgettable expedition.
9-day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb - Request for a free quote, sent direct to your e-mail address
9-day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb
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