Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit — 9 Days
About this journey
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's newest and longest route — a 9-day grand traverse that circumnavigates the entire mountain. Starting from the Lemosho trailhead, you cross the Shira Plateau then diverge north onto the quiet, untouched northern slopes. You'll have the mountain virtually to yourself for three days before rejoining the standard routes for the summit push. With the best acclimatization profile possible, success rates approach 98%. This is the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience.
Day by day
Drive to Londorossi Gate, then trek through pristine western rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Accommodation
Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m / 9,022ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Ascend through heather zone onto the Shira Plateau with panoramic views.
Accommodation
Shira 1 Camp (3,505m / 11,499ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Cross the Shira Plateau. Optional hike to Shira Cathedral for acclimatization.
Accommodation
Shira 2 Camp (3,850m / 12,631ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, then descend to Moir Hut. This is where you diverge from all other routes onto the remote northern slopes.
Accommodation
Moir Hut (4,200m / 13,780ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Trek across the quiet northern slopes with views of Kenya and the northern ice fields. You'll have the mountain virtually to yourself. Sparse, lunar landscape.
Accommodation
Buffalo Camp (4,020m / 13,189ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Continue the northern traverse with 360-degree mountain views. The terrain is alpine desert — stark and beautiful. Excellent acclimatization day.
Accommodation
Third Cave Camp (3,870m / 12,697ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Cross the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, then ascend to School Hut — your summit base camp with views of the northern glaciers.
Accommodation
School Hut (4,750m / 15,584ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Midnight push to the summit via Gilman's Point and Stella Point. Reach Uhuru Peak at dawn. Descend to Millennium Camp via the Mweka route.
Accommodation
Millennium Camp (3,820m / 12,533ft)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experiences
Final descent through rainforest. Certificate, celebration, transfer to Moshi.
Accommodation
Hotel in Moshi
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Experiences
Included & excluded
Included
- Park fees & rescue fees
- Professional KINAPA-licensed mountain guide
- Assistant guides (1:2 ratio)
- Porters and cook
- All meals on the mountain
- Camping equipment (4-season tents, sleeping mats)
- Portable toilet
- Pulse oximeter & first aid kit
- Airport transfers
- 2 nights hotel in Moshi (pre & post climb)
- Drinking water & snacks
Not Included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear & clothing
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Tips for guides & porters
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
Investment
| Group Size | Travelers | Price per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Solo / Couple | 1-2 pax | $3,100 |
| Small Group | 3-5 pax | $2,790 |
| Group | 6+ pax | $2,542 |
Pay in installments available
Split your payment into manageable monthly installments. Choose your plan at checkout.
Meet your operator
Authentic Kilimanjaro
VerifiedMoshi, Tanzania
Kilimanjaro summit specialists — expert local guides, proven routes, and 95%+ success rates on Africa's highest peak.
Frequently Asked
What is included in the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit — 9 Days?
The tour includes accommodation, meals as specified in the itinerary, professional guide services, park fees, and all transfers during the 9-day journey. See the "Included & Excluded" section above for full details.
How do I book the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit — 9 Days?
Use the booking widget on this page to select your dates and group size, then submit a booking inquiry. Authentic Kilimanjaro will confirm availability within 24 hours. Payment is processed securely through PesaPal.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 30 days before departure for a full refund. Cancellations 15-29 days before receive a 50% refund. Less than 15 days: no refund. Some operators may have specific policies that differ.
How difficult is this tour?
This tour is rated as challenging. Good physical fitness is recommended. Some days involve extended walking or altitude.
Is Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania safe for tourists?
Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is a popular and well-established safari destination. Your guide from Authentic Kilimanjaro will be with you throughout the journey, and all activities follow established safety protocols. We recommend travel insurance for all trips.
From
$3,100
per person
Solo / Couple pricing applied
No payment is taken at this step. We confirm availability with the operator first.
From $3,100
per person
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