Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking – 9‑Day Northern Circuit Route

Machame Camp > Shira Camp > Lava Tower – Barranco Camp > Karanga Camp> Karanga Camp > Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Overview

  • Duration:10 days 9 nights
Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking via the Northern Circuit Route is the most comprehensive, least crowded, and most successful way to reach the summit of Africa’s highest mountain. This route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho trail, then circles around the rarely visited northern slopes before approaching the summit from the east.

With nine days on the mountain, the Northern Circuit offers unmatched acclimatization, allowing trekkers to adapt gradually to altitude. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and gives climbers the highest summit success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes. It is the ultimate choice for travelers who value safety, scenery, and a quieter, more immersive mountain experience.
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Highlights

  • Highest success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes
  • Longest itinerary with excellent acclimatization
  • Very low traffic and remote northern trails
  • 360‑degree views around the mountain
  • Diverse landscapes across all climate zones
  • Fully supported climb with experienced guides

Includes/Excludes

  • Professional Kilimanjaro mountain guides
  • Porters and cook
  • All park, camping & rescue fees
  • Quality tents and mountain equipment
  • All meals during the trek
  • Drinking water on the mountain
  • Airport and hotel transfers
  • Fair porter treatment & wages
  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Alcoholic drinks

Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

  • Distance: ~6 km

  • Walking Time: 3–4 hours

  • Altitude: 2,100 m → 2,650 m

The trek begins through lush rainforest filled with ancient trees and birdlife. The pace is slow and comfortable, allowing trekkers to ease into the climb while enjoying the quiet forest atmosphere.

Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp

  • Distance: ~8 km

  • Walking Time: 5–6 hours

  • Altitude: 2,650 m → 3,500 m

The forest thins as you enter the heath and moorland zone. Wide open landscapes replace dense vegetation, and views across the Shira Plateau begin to unfold.

Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp

  • Distance: ~7 km

  • Walking Time: 4–5 hours

  • Altitude: 3,500 m → 3,850 m

A gentle acclimatization day across the Shira Plateau. The slow pace allows your body to adjust while enjoying panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak.

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Moir Hut

  • Distance: ~11 km

  • Walking Time: 6–7 hours

  • Altitude: 3,850 m → 4,600 m → 4,200 m

Climb to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending slightly to Moir Hut. This is where the Northern Circuit separates from the Machame route, entering far quieter terrain.

Overnight: Moir Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp

  • Distance: ~12 km

  • Walking Time: 5–6 hours

  • Altitude: 4,200 m → 4,020 m

Traverse the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. This section is peaceful and scenic, with sweeping views toward Kenya and minimal foot traffic.

Overnight: Buffalo Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp

  • Distance: ~8 km

  • Walking Time: 4–5 hours

  • Altitude: 4,020 m → 3,870 m

A shorter trekking day designed to support further acclimatization. The landscape is stark and beautiful, reinforcing the feeling of true wilderness.

Overnight: Third Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Third Cave Camp – School Hut

  • Distance: ~6 km

  • Walking Time: 4–5 hours

  • Altitude: 3,870 m → 4,800 m

Ascend gradually toward School Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. The rest of the day is dedicated to rest, hydration, and mental preparation.

Overnight: School Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

    • Distance: ~18 km

    • Walking Time: 12–15 hours

    • Altitude: 4,800 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m

    The summit push begins around midnight. After reaching Gilman’s Point, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Mweka Camp.

    Overnight: Mweka Camp
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate

  • Distance: ~10 km

  • Walking Time: 3–4 hours

  • Altitude: 3,100 m → 1,640 m

A final descent through lush rainforest brings you to Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast