Tanzania · Trekking

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Trek to Uhuru Peak via Lemosho

9 Days Round trip from Moshi Easy pace

Witness majestic sunrise views at Mount Kilimanjaro

Trek through the picturesque Mount Kilimanjaro

Traverse through serene landscapes at Kilimanjaro

The journey

Trip highlights

01 A comprehensive nine-day trek showcasing the full grandeur of Kilimanjaro
02 Ascend via the scenic Lemosho route to the stunning Shira Plateau
03 Encounter the impressive Lava Tower amid Kilimanjaro's rugged landscape
04 Circle the summit massif on a mesmerizing clockwise traverse
05 Benefit from gradual acclimatization designed to reduce the risk of altitude sickness
06 Enjoy tranquility and solitude on less-frequented mountain trails
07 Traverse diverse habitats from lush forest to arid alpine slopes
08 Reach Uhuru Peak for stunning glacial vistas from Africa's highest summit

Embark on a nine-day odyssey that unveils the grandeur of Kilimanjaro in all its splendor. Beginning on the Lemosho route's western flank, you'll ascend to the Shira Plateau and encounter the rugged beauty of Lava Tower before continuing in a mesmerizing clockwise circumnavigation of the summit massif. Merging with the Rongai route, this trek reveals a rich tapestry of habitats and panoramic views, from lush rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and glacial summit scenery. Designed for gradual acclimatization, the Northern Circuit offers a quieter, more immersive Kilimanjaro experience on less-frequented trails.

Prepare for the ultimate challenge: a demanding 11-15 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), where you'll be greeted by stunning glacial vistas.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Moshi and Trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Start your journey after breakfast with a ride from your hotel to Londorossi Gate. Excitement fills the air!
You'll enjoy a leisurely 3-4 hour hike through the lush rainforest of the lower slopes, arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp, located at 2,780 meters (9,120 feet). It's a peaceful way to begin appreciating the mountain's natural beauty.

Day 02

Hike from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Set off on a 5-7 hour hike through varied landscapes, climbing to Shira 1 Camp at 3,610 meters (11,845 feet).
As you ascend, the moorland unfolds, showcasing Kilimanjaro's distinctive plants and animals.
Sense the altitude and excitement mounting as you find your stride on the trail.

Day 03

Cross the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp

Today, you'll hike from Shira 1 Camp at 3,610 meters (11,845 feet) to Shira 2 Camp at 3,850 meters (12,630 feet), which takes 3-5 hours.
As you trek across the Shira Plateau, you'll enjoy vast vistas of the landscape, giving you a taste of the heights ahead. The tranquil atmosphere of the campsite promises a memorable evening under the stars.

Day 04

Trek via Lava Tower to Moir Hut

Prepare for a challenging 7-9 hour hike to Lava Tower, reaching an altitude of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) before descending to Moir Hut at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
The semi-desert terrain offers a glimpse into Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems, priming you for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 05

Traverse to Buffalo Camp

Embark on a 5-7 hour hike from Moir Hut at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) to Buffalo Camp at 4,020 meters (13,190 feet).
As you traverse, experience the rugged beauty of Kilimanjaro's semi-desert terrain, forging a deeper connection to its wilderness along the way.

Day 06

Descend to Rongai Third Cave Camp

Begin a 5-7 hour hike from Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave Camp, descending to 3,800 meters (12,470 feet).
Traverse through the alpine desert terrain, where the stark beauty of Kilimanjaro unfolds around you.

Day 07

Climb to School Hut Camp

Climb from 3,800 meters (12,470 feet) to 4,800 meters (15,750 feet), using Rongai Third Cave as a stepping stone toward School Hut Camp.
A 5-7 hour hike prepares you for the summit day ahead. Witness the expansive alpine desert, instilling a profound sense of achievement as you ascend.

Day 08

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Camp

Prepare for the ultimate challenge: a demanding 11-15 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), where you'll be greeted by stunning glacial vistas.
After reaching the summit, descend to Horombo Camp at 3,720 meters (12,200 feet), where you can celebrate your triumph over the mountain.

Note: Horombo has huts for those using the Marangu Route, while those descending from the Northern Circuit Route will sleep in tents.

Day 09

Final Descent to Marangu Gate

Embark on a final 5-6 hour descent through the rainforest, bringing you back to Marangu Gate at 1,830 meters (6,000 feet).
Our driver will then take you back to Moshi, where you'll bid farewell to your mountain crew and have the chance to tip them.

Where this trip takes you

Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Moshi 3 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Kilimanjaro International Airport transfers to and from your accommodation in Moshi
2 nights of accommodation before and after the climb
Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
Park entry fees, camping fees, and Kilimanjaro Rescue fees
4-season mountain tents
Double-layered sleeping mats
Professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
Enough treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Fair treatment and payment of our crew
Portable oxygen tanks and ox meter
Portable flush toilet with a toilet tent
Emergency first-aid kit and portable oxygen tanks and ox meter

What's Not Included

Lunches, dinners, and drinks at your hotel before and after the climb
Travel insurance
Flights
Laundry (available at the hotel)
Personal items and toiletries
Tips for guides, porters, and cook

What to bring

Clothing

Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
Insulating Layer: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
Outer Layer: Waterproof and breathable jacket and pants.
Hiking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying fabric; consider zip-offs for versatility.
Warm Hat and Gloves: For colder temperatures at higher altitudes.
Buff or Neck Gaiter: For warmth and sun protection.

Footwear

Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for relaxing at camp.

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping Bag: Rated for low temperatures (ideally -10°C to -15°C).
Sleeping Pad: Insulated pad for comfort and warmth.

Backpack

Daypack: 30-40 liters for daily essentials, snacks, and water.

Hydration

Water Bottles: At least 2 liters capacity; consider a hydration reservoir.
Water Purification: Tablets or filter, especially if refilling from streams.

Trekking Gear

Trekking Poles: Useful for stability on steep trails.
Headlamp/Flashlight: With extra batteries for night-time use.

Personal Items

Sunscreen: High SPF for UV protection.
Lip Balm: With SPF to protect against sun and wind.
Insect Repellent: Especially for lower altitudes.
Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and toilet paper.

Extras

Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or trail mix for quick energy boosts.
Camera: For capturing the stunning views.
First Aid Kit: Include personal medications, pain relievers, and blister treatments.
Guidebook or Map: For reference and navigation.

Optional

Gaiters: For extra protection against mud and dust.
Sunglasses: With UV protection for high-altitude glare.
Portable Battery Charger: For charging devices on the go.

Know before you go

Dubbed the Grand Traverse or the 360 Route, this expedition promises the quintessential Kilimanjaro experience, immersing you in a tapestry of habitats and vistas that span the mountain's entirety. As you traverse lesser-trodden paths, you'll relish unparalleled acclimatization and breathtaking scenery, from the verdant forests of the west to the arid slopes of the east. Unlike other routes, the Northern Circuit offers a gradual altitude gain, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness as you ascend toward Kikelewa or Third Caves camp. With each day's journey spanning less daunting elevation changes, you'll savor every step of the 96-kilometer trek, reveling in the tranquility of the less-frequented trails and the awe-inspiring beauty that unfolds with each turn. For those seeking a more direct ascent, an alternate route beckons, scaling the northern slopes from School Hut in a 79-kilometer adventure that offers its own unique allure. Whether you opt for the grand traverse or the northern ascent, Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit promises an unforgettable expedition, where every stride brings you closer to nature's majesty.

Alternate Northern Ascent: For a more direct route, an alternate path from School Hut offers a 79-kilometer adventure with its own unique appeal.
Unforgettable Experience: Whether opting for the Grand Traverse or the northern ascent, the Northern Circuit promises an unforgettable journey through nature's majesty.

Logistics