Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro | 9-Day Itinerary

Northern Circuit Route landscape on Mount Kilimanjaro

PUBLISHED SANITY TRIP

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

The Northern Circuit starts on the western Lemosho trail, crosses the Shira Plateau and then turns away from the busier southern paths to circle Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes. The changing views of Kibo, distant plains and high volcanic terrain make it the longest and most expansive of the commonly offered routes.

The nine-day package provides a gradual journey through Mti Mkubwa, Shira, Moir, Buffalo, Third Cave and School Hut before the summit attempt. Extra time can create useful acclimatization opportunities, but the approximately 97-kilometre route still demands endurance, careful preparation and respect for altitude.

All starting prices are USD per person and exclude hotel accommodation. Pre- or post-trip hotel stays can be arranged on request at an additional cost.

This page follows the published 9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route package. The displayed duration counts 9 mountain days only; arrival and departure are not included.

Trekking duration: 9 days
Route distance: 97 km gate to gate
Starting price: $3,265
Accommodation options: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps, Mount Meru Hotel, Arusha planet loge

DAY 1

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

RouteDrive to Londorossi Gate, complete registration and begin through Kilimanjaro rainforest to Big Tree Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 3–4 hours
Distance: Approximately 7 km
Habitat: Montane forest

Listen for birds and look for colobus monkeys as the first day follows the shaded western trail for approximately three to four hours.

The opening day is deliberately measured. Rain and mud are possible in the forest, so keep waterproof layers accessible and use the walk to adjust boots, poles and your daypack.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route — day 1

DAY 2

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

RouteLeave the forest for heath and moorland and climb onto the Shira Plateau.

Hiking time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Habitat: Heath and moorland

As the trees thin, broad views of Kibo appear ahead. The day usually takes approximately five to seven hours.

The growing elevation becomes more noticeable today. Drink regularly, protect yourself from sun and wind and keep the pace slow enough to speak comfortably while walking.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route — day 2

DAY 3

Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

RouteCross the Shira Plateau at a comfortable pace with time for rest or an acclimatization walk.

Hiking time: Approximately 3–4 hours
Distance: Approximately 7 km
Habitat: Heath and moorland

The shorter day highlights the plateau's volcanic landscape and sweeping mountain views.

A gentle afternoon acclimatization walk may be included in the final plan. Recovery, hydration and honest communication about symptoms matter more than covering the ground quickly.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

Northern Circuit Route — Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

DAY 4

Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

RouteWalk toward the western slopes of Kibo and continue to the quieter Moir Hut area.

Hiking time: Approximately 5–7 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

Depending on conditions and the guide's assessment, the route may pass near Lava Tower before descending to camp.

The trail may rise and fall as it approaches camp, adding useful exposure to elevation. Conditions are more exposed, so keep warm and waterproof layers ready throughout the day.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

Northern Circuit Route — Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

DAY 5

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

RouteBegin the traverse around Kilimanjaro's northern side across a series of ridges.

Hiking time: Approximately 5–7 hours
Distance: Approximately 12 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

The trail rises and falls while revealing the mountain above and distant plains below. This is one of the route's quietest sections.

Repeated climbs and descents make this stage more demanding than the map may suggest. Eat and drink consistently and allow the guide to control the group’s pace across the high country.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

Northern Circuit Route — Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

DAY 6

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

RouteContinue east beneath Kibo's northern slopes through stark high-altitude terrain.

Hiking time: Approximately 5–7 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

Wide skies and distant horizons define the five- to seven-hour walk toward Third Cave Camp.

The body is adapting, but altitude symptoms can still develop or worsen. Use the quieter afternoon to rest, stay warm and prepare for the move toward summit base.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

Northern Circuit Route — Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

DAY 7

Third Cave to School Hut

RouteClimb to School Hut, eat early and prepare for the summit attempt.

Hiking time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

After the guide's briefing, organize warm layers and headlamp, then rest before the late-night departure.

Sleep may be limited at this elevation, so focus on resting and keeping warm. Carry only the necessary summit items and follow the guide’s advice on water, timing and clothing.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route — day 7

DAY 8

Uhuru Peak and Mweka Camp

RouteClimb from School Hut to the crater rim and Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 12–16 hours
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Habitat: Arctic summit and alpine desert

The cold night ascent and long descent can take 12 to 16 hours. The guide sets the pace and makes decisions based on conditions and group health.

This is the longest, coldest stage of the nine-day package. Summit success is not guaranteed; guides monitor altitude, weather and fatigue, and the long descent requires concentration after the ascent.

Meals: Full BoardStay: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route — day 8

DAY 9

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

RouteDescend through rainforest to Mweka Gate and transfer to the hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

Hiking time: Approximately 3–4 hours
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Habitat: Montane forest

Say goodbye to the mountain crew and return to town after seeing Kilimanjaro from nearly every side.

The final trail can be muddy and hard on tired knees. Meet the onward transfer at the gate; hotel accommodation and any safari or Zanzibar extension are confirmed in the proposal.

Meals: Breakfast and lunchStay: Mount Meru Hotel / Arusha planet loge

Northern Circuit Route — Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Trekkers climbing through Kilimanjaro montane forest

A MOUNTAIN OF MANY WORLDS

Environments of Kilimanjaro

YOUR CLIMB, TAKEN CARE OF

What’s Included in Your Climb

Use this package checklist when planning your enquiry. Hotel accommodation is separate from the climbing rate and can be added on request.

01 / PREPARATION

Before the climb

The arrangements around your journey.

Transfers

Transfers between your hotel in Moshi or Arusha and the park gate.

Accommodation

Mountain camps for every night of the climb. Hotels before or after can be added.

02 / CLIMB & CAMP

On the mountain

Your team and everyday trail essentials.

Mountain

A full mountain crew sets up and packs down camp each day.

Food

Full-board meals on the mountain, cooked fresh by our cook.

Guides & Crew

Licensed Kilimanjaro guides, assistant guides, porters and a cook.

Park Fees

Kilimanjaro National Park fees are shown in your written quote.

03 / ONGOING CARE

Support & safety

Support throughout your climb.

Safety

Daily check-ins with your guide and AMREF Flying Doctors evacuation cover.

THE MOUNTAIN’S MOST DEMANDING MOMENT

Summit Night

Slow steps. Cold air. The possibility of sunrise above the clouds.

A summit attempt usually means an early start in darkness, very cold temperatures and a slow, steady ascent. The aim is Uhuru Peak, with sunrise a memorable part of the high-mountain experience when conditions allow.

Reaching the top is never guaranteed. Guides assess conditions and your ability along the way; turning around may be the right decision. A long descent follows any summit attempt.

Plan your climb

PREPARE FOR CHANGING CONDITIONS

What Should You Bring?

Pack for a progression from lower trails to a cold, exposed summit environment.

Clothing

Layers, warm insulation and weather protection.

Footwear

Broken-in hiking boots and suitable socks.

Sleeping

A warm sleeping bag (rated to about -10°C) and a mat. Both can be rented in Arusha.

Personal Items

Sun protection, toiletries and personal medication.

Documents

Travel documents, insurance and any required permits.

Optional Gear

Trekking poles, a camera and other useful extras.

Ask for a packing list

CARE BEFORE THE SUMMIT

Your Safety Comes First

Reaching the summit is never more important than coming home safely. Here's how we look after you.

Experienced mountain guides on Kilimanjaro

Experienced mountain guidesOur Tanzanian guides are licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park and have led climbers for over a decade.

Acclimatization strategyOur itineraries follow 'climb high, sleep low', with a slow 'pole pole' pace.

Emergency proceduresWe are covered by AMREF Flying Doctors for emergency evacuation. Guides carry a first-aid kit.

Guide-to-client ratiosSmall groups with assistant guides, so someone can always walk down with a climber who needs to descend.

Mountain equipmentTents and full-board meals are taken care of. Rental gear is available in Arusha.

Health monitoringYour guide checks in with you at every camp and watches for signs of altitude sickness.

Talk to a Guide

PLAN WITH THE CURRENT ITINERARY

Confirm the route details before booking

Compare the published trip duration, destinations, accommodation and package price with the plan for your dates. Ask the local team about any details not listed here.

Need help choosing?

Talk through your timeframe and experience with the team.

Plan your climb

What our customers say

Real stories from travelers who climbed, explored, and relaxed with Betheli Expeditions.

5.0 Reviews23 verified reviews

Tanzania Safari

5.0

ViktorJanuary 2026 • Friends

“Tanzania is a beautiful and amazing country!”

Every minute of the safari was fantastic and impressive, we left satisfied and are already planning to return. It was professionally organized, congratulations! Sam, our guide, demonstrated exceptional professional expertise, and it was a pleasure to listen to him during the daily tours.

FriendsSafariExpert guide

Marangu Route

5.0

KataJanuary 2025 • Solo

“Unforgettable Adventure with Betheli Expeditions”

Our guides were incredible — they were experienced, knowledgeable, and made sure we were well taken care of every step of the way. The hike itself is beautiful, with lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and spectacular views of the mountain.

Solo travelerKilimanjaroMarangu Route

Mount Kilimanjaro

5.0

Elena PJanuary 2025 • Friends

“Beautiful experience on Mount Kilimanjaro”

Unique and indescribable experience as beautiful as , we spent 5 days trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro and our guides and all of them were unique and really good in accompanying us in this adventure! Rating 10, thank you!!!

Friends5-day trekKilimanjaro

Machame Route

5.0

Daniela BOctober 2019 • Friends

“Kilimanjaro trekking Machame Route 7 days”

Wonderful trekking and fantastic team. We met serious, kind and specialized people. They attended us on the trek making us feel at home. All of us reached the top of the mountain!!! I highly recommend Betheli expedition

Friends7-day trekMachame Route

Mount Meru

5.0

Islastyle6June 2019 • Friends

“Great trip with wonderful guides, chefs and porters!”

Our trip up Mt. Meru with Richard, Paul, Kennedy and all the guides and porters was excellent. Betheli Expedition staff catered to our every need and request with no complaints and always with a smile on their faces. We were a group of 12 women on our yearly trek together and we truly enjoyed ourselves!

FriendsMount MeruGroup trek

Mount Meru

5.0

Ralph TMarch 2019 • Couples

“A great trip to the top of Mount Meru”

Betheli organised a fantastic trek up to the top of Mount Meru at short notice. We were supported on the trip by a fantastic team - led by our guide Richard - who provided tasty food, carried everything we could possibly need, kept us going up the tricky climb, and even taught us some Swahili along the way!

CouplesMount MeruSummit trek

Kilimanjaro

5.0

Arpad BFebruary 2026 • Friends

“Amazing trip with amazing people”

Very well organized, professional, helpful, dedicated team, ready to fulfill each request at any time with experienced and devoted guides.

FriendsProfessional team5-star review

COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

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Machame Route

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Lemosho Route

A quieter western start through forest, opening onto the broad Shira Plateau.

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The hut-based trail, with a direct approach and the same route for the descent.

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Rongai Route

Approach from the north, with a gentler early gradient and quieter trails.

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BEFORE YOU CHOOSE YOUR CLIMB

Northern Circuit Route Frequently Asked Questions

The essentials, answered. Package-specific details will be confirmed during planning.

How difficult is the Northern Circuit Route?

A difficulty rating is not included in the published trip record. Share your hiking experience and health considerations with the team for route-specific advice.

How many days should I choose?

The published 9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route climb has 9 trekking days. Arrival and departure are not included in that number.

How far is the Northern Circuit Route?

97 km gate to gate. Distance can vary slightly with the exact camps and trail variation confirmed for your departure.

Is Northern Circuit suitable for beginners?

Route suitability depends on your experience, fitness, health and the specific itinerary. Discuss these with the local team before booking.

What is the best time to climb?

Mountain weather and trail conditions vary by season and can change quickly. Share your preferred dates for current guidance.

How difficult is summit night?

It is usually the most demanding part of the climb: a cold, early start, slow ascent and long descent. Guides assess conditions and your wellbeing throughout.

Where do we sleep?

The published itinerary lists: Kilimanjaro Mountain Camps, Mount Meru Hotel, Arusha planet loge. Ask the team to confirm availability and final arrangements for your dates.

What happens if I cannot continue?

Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell. The guide will assess the safest next step using the operator’s descent and emergency procedures.

What equipment is provided?

Supplied equipment and rental options are confirmed with your package. Request the itemized equipment list before departure.

How much does the Northern Circuit Route cost?

The 9 days Northern Circuit Route starts from $3,265 USD per person. Hotel accommodation is excluded and can be arranged on request at an additional cost.

What should I pack?

Prepare layered clothing, suitable footwear, cold-weather essentials, personal items and travel documents. Confirm the final list with the team.

Northern Circuit Route

9-Day Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

Third Cave to School Hut

Uhuru Peak and Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Environments of Kilimanjaro

What’s Included in Your Climb

Transfers

Accommodation

Mountain

Food

Guides & Crew

Park Fees

Safety

Summit Night

Slow steps. Cold air. The possibility of sunrise above the clouds.

What Should You Bring?

Clothing

Footwear

Sleeping

Personal Items

Documents

Optional Gear

Your Safety Comes First

Confirm the route details before booking

Need help choosing?

What our customers say

“Tanzania is a beautiful and amazing country!”

“Unforgettable Adventure with Betheli Expeditions”

“Beautiful experience on Mount Kilimanjaro”

“Kilimanjaro trekking Machame Route 7 days”

“Great trip with wonderful guides, chefs and porters!”

“A great trip to the top of Mount Meru”

“Amazing trip with amazing people”

Compare other routes

Machame Route

Lemosho Route

Marangu Route

Rongai Route

Northern Circuit Route Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to climb Northern Circuit?