Package Overview
The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route is an officially recognized Kilimanjaro route that approaches the mountain from the western side and then traverses the rarely visited northern slopes before the summit attempt. This itinerary is designed to allow gradual altitude gain and extended time above 4,000 meters before summit night.
The route circles the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, providing diverse scenery that includes rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and wide views toward Kenya’s Amboseli plains.
DETAILED DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Lemosho Gate → Mti Mkubwa Camp
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Altitude: 2,100 m → 2,650 m
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Distance: ~7 km
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Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
After registration at Lemosho Gate, the trek begins through dense rainforest. The trail is gentle and shaded, allowing a relaxed introduction to the climb.
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp → Shira 1 Camp
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Altitude: 2,650 m → 3,610 m
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Distance: ~8 km
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Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
The forest gradually thins into heath and moorland. The terrain opens onto the Shira Plateau with expansive views of Kibo Peak.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp → Shira 2 Camp
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Altitude: 3,610 m → 3,850 m
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Distance: ~7 km
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Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
A shorter day across the plateau, allowing acclimatization. Afternoon acclimatization walks are typically conducted near camp.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp → Lava Tower → Moir Hut
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Altitude: 3,850 m → 4,630 m → 4,200 m
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Distance: ~11 km
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Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Climb toward Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Moir Hut. This day follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle.
Overnight: Moir Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Moir Hut → Buffalo Camp
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Altitude: 4,200 m → 4,020 m
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Distance: ~12 km
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Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
The route turns north and begins the true Northern Circuit traverse. The trail is quieter, with broad views of the northern plains.
Overnight: Buffalo Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Buffalo Camp → Third Cave Camp
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Altitude: 4,020 m → 3,870 m
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Distance: ~8 km
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Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
A gentle traverse beneath the northern slopes of Kibo. The terrain is dry and open, allowing steady pacing and recovery.
Overnight: Third Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Third Cave Camp → School Hut
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Altitude: 3,870 m → 4,800 m
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Distance: ~5 km
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Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Ascent continues toward School Hut, located beneath the summit slopes. Afternoon rest and early dinner in preparation for summit night.
Overnight: School Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: School Hut → Uhuru Peak → Millennium Camp
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Altitude: 4,800 m → 5,895 m → 3,820 m
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Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Summit attempt begins around midnight. The ascent reaches Gilman’s Point before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Descent follows the southern route to Millennium Camp.
Overnight: Millennium Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Millennium Camp → Mweka Gate
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Altitude: 3,820 m → 1,640 m
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Distance: ~10 km
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Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Final descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where park exit procedures and summit certificates are completed.
Meals: Breakfast
INCLUSIONS
✔ Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees
✔ Northern Circuit Route climbing permits
✔ Professional mountain guide, cook, and porters
✔ All mountain accommodation (tents)
✔ All meals during the climb
✔ Drinking water on the mountain
✔ Transfers to and from trailheads
✔ Government taxes
EXCLUSIONS
✘ International flights
✘ Tanzania visa fees
✘ Travel insurance
✘ Personal trekking equipment
✘ Alcoholic and soft drinks
✘ Tips for mountain crew
The 9 Days Northern Circuit Route 2026 & 2027 is a complete Mount Kilimanjaro climbing itinerary designed to follow the mountain’s longest and most gradual trail. This package can be scheduled for private or group departures and adjusted to match specific travel dates, logistical requirements, and accommodation preferences.
