9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek
9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek Overview
The 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro route is the most scenic and least crowded route to Africa’s highest peak. As the longest trail on the mountain, it offers excellent acclimatization and the highest summit success rate, making it ideal for those serious about reaching Uhuru Peak.
This remote and peaceful route circles the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, far from the busier trails. It rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and a sense of true wilderness. With more days on the mountain, you enjoy a safer, more gradual ascent.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable, quiet, and awe-inspiring Kilimanjaro experience, the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek is your best choice.
Why the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek is a top choice?
Exceptional Acclimatization
The 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro route allows for gradual altitude gain, with built-in acclimatization days. This greatly improves your comfort and significantly boosts summit success rates.
Unmatched Solitude
Escape the crowds by trekking along Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes. This lesser-traveled route offers rare peace and quiet—perfect for those seeking a more intimate mountain experience.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Take in ever-changing landscapes, from lush rainforests to high-alpine deserts. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of Kenya’s open plains and the dramatic Mawenzi Peak.
Fully Supported Adventure
Climb with confidence, knowing you’re backed by a professional mountain crew. Expert guides, skilled cooks, and dedicated porters ensure your 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,650m
- Distance: 6 km | 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Start with registration and a peaceful walk through thick rainforest to your first camp. Look out for monkeys and exotic birds as you begin your adventure.
Description: Arrive at Lemosho Gate and begin your trek through lush rainforest. As you ascend, keep an eye out for unique wildlife, such as monkeys and colorful birds. The trail leads you to Simba Camp, where you’ll rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,550m)
- Distance: 8km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Terrain: Moorland
Description: Begin your ascent through the dense forest, gradually transitioning into moorland. As you reach Shira 1 Camp, the view of the Shira Plateau opens up, giving you a stunning view of Kilimanjaro’s peak in the distance.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
- Distance: 6km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Alpine Desert
Description: Enjoy a relatively short day as you trek to Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll acclimatize and marvel at the expansive views of Kibo and the surrounding area. This is a great day to take photos and enjoy the serenity of the plateau.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut (4,200m)
- Distance: 8km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Terrain: Alpine Desert
Description: The trail takes you on a detour through the remote Moir Hut. This secluded camp is less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a perfect opportunity for acclimatization. The views from Moir Hut are magnificent, with vistas of the rugged landscape and Kibo’s glacier.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,200m)
- Distance: 6km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Terrain: Moorland and Desert
Description: This day offers some of the most stunning views as you cross through alpine desert terrain, moving towards Buffalo Camp. The path takes you through rocky ridges and barren land, offering a quiet and solitary trekking experience.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Rongai 3 Camp (3,700m)
- Distance: 10km
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
- Terrain: Moorland and Alpine Desert
Description: As you leave Buffalo Camp, the terrain starts to change, with more rocky and exposed landscapes. Rongai 3 Camp offers a great place for a rest before your final summit attempt.
Day 7: Rongai 3 Camp to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
- Distance: 6km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Terrain: Alpine Desert
Description: The journey to Kibo Hut marks the last rest before your summit attempt. The path becomes increasingly barren and windswept as you ascend. Kibo Hut is located at the base of the summit cone, where you’ll rest and prepare for the final climb.
Day 8: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
- Distance: 14km
- Hiking Time: 11–13 hours
- Terrain: Glacial Desert
Description: Begin your summit push around midnight. The final ascent takes you up through steep scree slopes to Gilman’s Point, and then on to the highest point on the continent: Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
- Distance: 10km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Rainforest
Description: After the challenging summit day, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate where you’ll celebrate the successful completion of your trek and receive your certificate of achievement.
What’s Included
- Park Fees & Entry Permits
- Professional Kilimanjaro Guides & Porters
- Accommodation: Mountain huts or campsites
- Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Trekking Equipment: Tents, mattresses, and other gear
- Transportation: Transfers from/to Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha
Not Included
- Flights to/from Tanzania
- Personal Gear (e.g., hiking boots, sleeping bags)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Travel Insurance
9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek Key Highlights
Shira Plateau
- Overview: Cross the wide expanse of the ancient Shira caldera at over 3,500 m.
- Experience: The open landscape reveals the mountain’s grand scale and beauty.
- Tip: Early mornings and evenings here offer spectacular lighting for photography.
Moir Hut & Lent Hills
- Elevation: 4,200 m
- Characteristics: A quiet, high-altitude outpost with optional acclimatization hikes to the Lent Hills.
- Experience: Offers a peaceful retreat with dramatic views of the Shira Ridge and the northern plains.
Buffalo Camp
- Overview: A remote northern camp with views into Kenya.
- Experience: The trail here feels untouched and raw, offering solitude and wildlife sightings.
- Quote: “The silence here is broken only by the crunch of your boots and the call of birds—Kilimanjaro at its most peaceful.” – Chiefs Tours Team
Third Cave
- Overview: Nestled between the mountain’s remote northern slopes and the looming Mawenzi Peak.
- Experience: Offers a serene and strategic stop for acclimatization.
Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 4,673 m
- Characteristics: Your summit launch pad with sweeping views of Mawenzi and Kibo.
- Experience: Rest here before the thrilling midnight summit attempt under a starry sky.
Why Choose the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek?
- Best for Acclimatization: The longer itinerary allows gradual altitude gain, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
- Most Scenic and Remote:It circles nearly the entire mountain, offering rare views and untouched northern wilderness.
- Lowest Crowds: While other routes converge early, Northern Circuit remains uncrowded until the final ascent.
- Top Summit Success Rate: Thanks to its slow pace and acclimatization, it has the highest summit success rate on Kilimanjaro.
climbs.
How the Landscape Changes During 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek
Lush Forests:
The trek starts with dense rainforest at lower altitudes, filled with vibrant plant life and a variety of wildlife.
Shira Plateau
Vast, flat, and dotted with remnants of volcanic rock, the plateau offers expansive views and a perfect vantage point to take in the surrounding beauty.
Moir Hut and Buffalo Camp:
These remote camps are nestled in alpine desert zones, providing solitude and awe-inspiring views of the mountain's upper slopes
Summit Day
The final push to the summit includes breathtaking views of glaciers and the icy dome of Kibo Peak, with the ultimate goal of reaching Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa.
Preparing for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
Fitness Tips:
• Fitness: Train with long hikes, cardio, and strength-building exercises.
• Altitude Acclimatization: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and smoking.
• Packing: Bring proper gear for all conditions waterproof gear, warm clothing, and sun protection.
• Mental Readiness: Stay positive, stay hydrated, and pace yourself.
Packing Essentials:
• Broken-in hiking boots, thermal layers, waterproof jacket
• Beanie, gloves, headlamp
• Reusable water bottles, sunblock, trekking poles
Why Trek With Us?
- Expert Guides: Our guides have decades of experience on Kilimanjaro, ensuring your safety and summit success.
- Customized Experience: We offer personalized itineraries to match your pace and interests.
- Sustainability: We support responsible tourism, minimizing environmental impact.
- High Success Rate: Our acclimatization strategy and careful planning help ensure you reach the summit.
Ready for 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek?
Fill out our Inquiry Form to get started or schedule a free consultation with our Kilimanjaro trekking experts.
Frequently Asked Questions About 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb
Why is the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek so popular?
It offers the best mix of stunning scenery, low crowds, and the highest summit success rate.
How fit do I need to be for the 9 days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek?
Moderate fitness is enough because daily hiking is steady but not extreme.
What makes the Northern Circuit more scenic than other routes?
9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek loops nearly around the whole mountain, revealing ever-changing landscapes and views.
How cold does it get on the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek?
Temperatures drop below freezing at night near the summit, but gear keeps you warm.
When is the best time to do the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek?
The best months are January–March and June–October for clear skies and dry trails.
Is this the best route for avoiding altitude sickness?
Yes, its gradual ascent gives your body time to adjust naturally and safely.
Will I see wildlife on this route?
Yes, especially in the lower forest and moorland zones where colobus monkeys and birds live.
Do I need prior trekking experience?
While prior hiking experience is helpful, the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek is suitable for fit beginners who are prepared for a challenging adventure.
Will I have internet or cell service on the trek?
Limited signal is possible at certain points, but expect to disconnect for most of the journey.
What’s included in the 9 Days Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro trek package?
Guides, porters, meals, tents, permits, and airport transfers are usually included.