9 Days 8 Nights Northern Circuit | Kilimanjaro Trekking

9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route

9 Days / 8 Nights
Tanzania

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MOUNT KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE OVERVIEW

The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering 360-degree views of the mountain as you circle around the northern slopes. Starting on the western side at the Lemosho Glades, it follows the Lemosho trail for the first few days before veering north around the rarely visited backside of the mountain.

This route allows excellent acclimatization, making it one of the most successful summit routes. It’s also the least crowded, providing a true wilderness experience, diverse landscapes, and panoramic views of both Kenya and Tanzania.

Best Time: January–March, June–October, December.

Perfect for Adventure Seekers and Nature Lovers.

  
Route: Northern Circuit Route.
Starting Point: Londorossi Gate (2,250m).
Summit Point: Uhuru Peak (5,895 M / 19,341 Ft). 
Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m). 
Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging.  

  TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
    Experience 360° circuit around Mount Kilimanjaro — the most scenic route on the mountain. 
Hike through lush rainforest, heather moorlands, alpine desert, and glacial summit zones.
Excellent acclimatization profile with gradual ascent.
Cross the vast Shira Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak, Amboseli Plains, and the Northern Face.
Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
Descend via the beautiful Mweka rainforest trail.
Less crowded — ideal for trekkers seeking peace and authentic adventure.

WHY CHOOSE NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE

With an extended itinerary of 8–9 days, the Northern Circuit provides the best acclimatization profile of all Kilimanjaro routes. The gradual ascent allows your body to adjust slowly to the altitude, resulting in a summit success rate of over 95% — the highest on the mountain.
As the only route that completely circles the mountain, the Northern Circuit offers panoramic views from every side — including the rarely seen northern slopes near Kenya. Trekkers experience a unique perspective that no other route provides.
Unlike the busier Machame or Marangu routes, the Northern Circuit is quiet and less crowded, especially on the northern flank of Kilimanjaro. This solitude creates a more intimate and immersive wilderness experience.
The route begins along the Lemosho trail, traverses the Shira Plateau, and continues around the northern slopes through beautiful alpine deserts and scenic valleys. The gradual pace and “climb high, sleep low” pattern ensure optimal acclimatization.
This route is ideal for trekkers looking for a longer, more adventurous, and less-traveled path to the summit — combining physical challenge, natural beauty, and a high likelihood of success.

ITINERARY

Distance: 6 Km, Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours and Habitat: Rainforest.

After registration at Londorossi Gate, meet your guides and porters. Begin your trek through dense rainforest rich with wildlife — colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and tropical birds. The path leads gradually to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp).

Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner.

Distance: 8 Km ,Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours and Habitat: Moorland.

Leave the forest behind and climb into the heather and moorland zone. The trail opens to panoramic views of Shira Ridge and Mount Meru. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau for dinner and rest.

Overnight: Shira 1 Camp.