Tanzania · Trekking

9-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Trek with High Summit Success

9 Days Round trip from Shira Evacuation Rd Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Highest success rate among Kilimanjaro routes thanks to excellent acclimatization
02 Less crowded trail offering solitude and pristine wilderness
03 Trek through diverse landscapes from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and the arctic summit
04 Enjoy 360-degree views of the mountain and the surrounding plains

Embark on a 9-day trek on Mount Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit Route, the mountain's longest and most remote trail. Approaching from the west, the route crosses the Shira Plateau, circles the northern slopes, and continues to the summit with panoramic views along the way. Its extended duration allows for excellent acclimatization and gives this route one of the highest success rates on Kilimanjaro. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter, less crowded, and more scenic experience.

Its extended duration allows for excellent acclimatization and gives this route one of the highest success rates on Kilimanjaro.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages Dutch, English, French, German, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp Through Rainforest

Altitude: 2,100m to 2,650m
Distance: ~7 km
Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Start with registration at Londorossi Gate, then drive to the trailhead and hike through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp).

Day 02

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Altitude: 2,650m to 3,610m
Distance: ~8 km
Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
The trail climbs steadily with views of the Shira Plateau.

Day 03

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp Across the Plateau

Altitude: 3,610m to 3,850m
Distance: ~7 km
Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Enjoy a gentle hike across the plateau with excellent views of the Western Breach.

Day 04

Shira 2 to Moir Hut as the Northern Circuit Begins

Altitude: 3,850m to 4,200m
Distance: ~10 km
Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Move northwards, away from the crowds, as the Northern Circuit begins. An afternoon acclimatization hike is optional.

Day 05

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp via Lava Tower

Altitude: 4,200m to 4,020m
Distance: ~12 km
Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization, then descend to Buffalo Camp.

Day 06

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Altitude: 4,020m to 3,870m
Distance: ~8 km
Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Continue east around the mountain on a quiet trail with great views.

Day 07

Third Cave to School Hut for Summit Preparation

Altitude: 3,870m to 4,750m
Distance: ~5 km
Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
A short but steep ascent leads to School Hut. Rest and prepare for the summit push.

Day 08