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9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro: Itinerary and Price
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro: Itinerary and Price
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Price
$1975.00
Trip Overview
Itinerary
FAQs
Other Tour Details
Trip Overview
Overview
The 9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro itinerary is a nine-day mountain trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft), offering more time for acclimatization than shorter Kilimanjaro routes. Starting at Londorossi Gate, the trail crosses the rainforest and Shira Plateau before circling Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes through Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, and Third Cave Camp. The route continues to School Hut before the summit attempt and descent to Millennium Camp, then exits through Mweka Gate.
The Northern Circuit is known for its extended itinerary, quieter northern trails, and wide views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the surrounding plains. Although the longer schedule provides more time to adjust to altitude, summit day remains physically demanding, and reaching Uhuru Peak is never guaranteed.
This guide covers the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route itinerary, daily camp elevations, trekking distances, hiking times, difficulty, and price. You can also review package inclusions, accommodation, meals, park fees, transfers, and available departure dates before booking your Kilimanjaro climb with WeWild Travel.
Key Facts About the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route
- Duration: 9 days on the mountain; typically 10 to 11 days or more including arrival and departure, depending on travel arrangements.
- Total Trekking Distance: Approximately 96 km (60 miles), depending on the route measurements used.
- Starting Point: Londorossi Gate, approximately 2,100 m, on Kilimanjaro’s western side.
- Descent Route: Mweka Route, finishing at Mweka Gate on the southern side of the mountain.
- Summit: Uhuru Peak, 5,895 m (19,341 ft), the highest point in Africa.
- Summit Success Rate: Results vary by operator, itinerary, and climber. Publish a specific percentage only when you can support it with reliable data for the stated route and duration.
- Crowd Levels: The northern slopes are generally quieter than some of Kilimanjaro’s more frequently used trails, although visitor numbers vary by season.
- Acclimatization: The nine-day schedule provides more time for gradual altitude adjustment than shorter itineraries, but altitude-related illness remains possible.
9-Day Northern Circuit Route: Highlights and Practical Information
- Hotel Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha, subject to your confirmed package and booking arrangements.
- Departure and Return: Transfer from Arusha or Moshi to Londorossi Gate at the start of the trek. After the climb, descend to Mweka Gate and transfer to your confirmed hotel or onward destination.
- Departure Time: Pickup is usually planned for the morning. Confirm your exact pickup time with WeWild Travel before the trek.
- Return Time: Arrival at your hotel or airport depends on the descent time and transfer arrangements. Allow flexibility on the final trekking day.
- What to Wear: Bring comfortable trekking clothes, broken-in hiking boots, warm layers, a waterproof jacket and trousers, gloves, a warm hat, and sun protection.
- Mountain Accommodation: Camping throughout the nine-day mountain trek. Hotel accommodation before or after the climb depends on your package.
- Customizations: Ask about private departures, group options, travel dates, and additional accommodation.
- Extensions: Safari trips and Zanzibar holidays can be arranged on request.
- Best Season: January to early March and June to October are popular periods for climbing. Weather conditions vary throughout the year.
- Who Should Choose This Route: Trekkers who have time for a longer expedition and want a gradual itinerary with quieter trails. Good physical preparation is important, even with the extended schedule.
- Pros: The Northern Circuit offers a long route around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, varied landscapes, and more time for acclimatization than shorter itineraries. Trekkers experience rainforest, the Shira Plateau, alpine desert, and remote northern views towards Kenya.
- Cons: The nine-day trek requires more time and usually costs more than shorter routes. The long duration and high altitude can still be physically demanding, and the route does not eliminate altitude-related risks.
Best Time to Climb the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route
The best time to climb the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is generally during the drier periods from June to October and January to February. These months often bring more favorable trekking conditions, although weather can change quickly at high altitude.
June to October is a popular climbing season, with generally drier conditions and good opportunities for mountain views. January and February also offer favorable conditions, often with clearer skies between periods of cloud. Both seasons attract climbers, so crowd levels depend on your travel dates and the camps along your route.
You can plan a Northern Circuit climb during other months, but wetter weather, muddy trails, and reduced visibility may make trekking more challenging. The longer route offers time to explore Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, but it does not eliminate weather-related risks. Choose your dates based on your flexibility, weather preferences, and comfort with changing mountain conditions.
Cost Includes/Excludes
- Two way private airport transfers
- All park fees collected by the National Park
- Hotel ccommodations one night before and one night after the expedition
- Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro
- All meals on the hike
- All group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery and cutlery)
- Oxygen cylinders and oximeters
- Complete Expedition medical kits
- Professional guides licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park
- Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.)
- Government taxes
- Crew salaries
- Medical evacuations with AMREF Flying doctors
- Purified water while on the mountain
- Portable tented private flush toilet
- Personal Climbing gears
- Tanzania Visa on arrival
- Mountaineering Insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Itinerary
Arrival in Tanzania and Transfer to Arusha
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins when you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Tanzania. A WeWild Travel representative will meet you and arrange your transfer to Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha, according to your confirmed booking.
The drive from JRO to Arusha takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. After checking in, you can rest, eat, and recover from your journey before the trek.
Later, your mountain guide will conduct a pre-climb briefing. You will review the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route itinerary, discuss altitude awareness and mountain safety, and check your trekking equipment. Use this opportunity to ask questions and identify any items you still need before departure.
Get a good night’s rest and prepare for the journey to Kilimanjaro’s western side the following day.
- Transfer: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha
- Distance: Approximately 50 km
- Driving Time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours
- Hotel: Mount Meru Hotel, Arusha, subject to your confirmed package
- Meals: Confirm according to your booking and arrival time
- Trekking: No trekking today
Today’s Highlights
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Meet your WeWild Travel representative, as arranged.
- Transfer to your hotel in Arusha.
- Rest after your international flight.
- Attend the pre-climb briefing with your mountain guide.
- Review the itinerary and check your trekking equipment.
- Prepare for the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
The first trekking day of the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route begins at Londorossi Gate on Kilimanjaro’s western side. After park registration and final preparations with your mountain crew, you travel to the trailhead and start hiking through the montane rainforest.
The trail passes beneath a dense canopy of trees, with thick vegetation and a cool, shaded environment. Listen for forest birds and look out for monkeys along the route, although wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Today’s hike introduces you to Kilimanjaro’s forest terrain and gives you time to establish a steady walking pace. Follow your guide’s instructions, drink water regularly, and take breaks when needed as you begin the climb.
You then reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp, where you spend your first night on the mountain. Your crew helps set up camp and prepares your meals while you rest and get ready for the next day’s trek toward Shira 1 Camp.
- Route: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Starting Elevation: Confirm the trailhead elevation used by WeWild Travel
- Camp Elevation: Approximately 2,780 m, subject to verification
- Distance: Confirm against your actual itinerary
- Trekking Time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the trailhead and pace
- Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, according to your package
- Habitat: Montane rainforest
Today’s Highlights
- Complete park registration at Londorossi Gate.
- Meet your mountain guide and trekking crew.
- Hike through Kilimanjaro’s montane rainforest.
- Look for forest birds and monkeys.
- Settle into a steady trekking pace.
- Spend your first night at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
After breakfast at Shira 1 Camp, you continue across the Shira Plateau toward Shira 2 Camp. The trail crosses open moorland, with wide views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic landscape and Kibo Peak rising ahead.
Unlike the forest trails of the first two days, this section passes through more exposed terrain with low vegetation and expansive mountain scenery. The open plateau provides opportunities to photograph the landscape and appreciate the scale of Kilimanjaro as you move farther from the western trailhead.
Although the hike is shorter than some of the days ahead, the increasing altitude can make walking more demanding. Follow your guide’s pace, drink water regularly, and take breaks when needed. A gradual ascent supports acclimatization, but individual responses to altitude vary.
You reach Shira 2 Camp, where you can rest, enjoy your meals, and prepare for the next stage of the Northern Circuit. Tomorrow, the route continues toward Moir Hut and the more rugged terrain beyond the Shira Plateau.
- Route: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,500 m
- Camp Elevation: Approximately 3,850 m
- Distance: Confirm against your final itinerary
- Trekking Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
- Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, according to your package
- Habitat: Moorland and high-altitude plateau
Today’s Highlights
- Cross the open Shira Plateau.
- Trek through high-altitude moorland.
- Enjoy views of Kibo and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
- Experience the more exposed terrain above the forest zone.
- Maintain a steady pace as the altitude increases.
- Rest overnight at Shira 2 Camp before continuing toward Moir Hut.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
After breakfast at Shira 2 Camp, you leave the Shira Plateau and trek toward Moir Hut on Kilimanjaro’s remote northern side. This stage crosses rugged moorland and increasingly barren alpine terrain as the trail approaches the Lava Tower area.
The route climbs toward Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic rock formation at approximately 4,630 m. From this higher point, the trail continues toward Moir Hut, descending into a sheltered valley beneath the Lent Hills. The changing terrain offers broad views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo’s western slopes when the weather is clear.
This is a demanding day because the trail reaches a higher elevation before descending to camp. Walk at a steady pace, drink water regularly, and follow your guide’s advice on rest breaks. Spending time at higher elevation before sleeping lower can form part of an acclimatization strategy, but it does not remove the risk of altitude sickness.
Moir Hut is a quieter overnight stop away from some of Kilimanjaro’s busier trails. After arriving, settle into camp, enjoy your evening meal, and rest before continuing across the northern slopes toward Buffalo Camp.
- Route: Shira 2 Camp via Lava Tower to Moir Hut
- Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,850 m
- Highest Point: Lava Tower, approximately 4,630 m
- Camp Elevation: Approximately 4,150 to 4,200 m; confirm the figure used in your route plan
- Distance: Approximately 14 km if following the standard route via Lava Tower
- Trekking Time: Approximately 5 to 7 hours
- Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp (tents)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, according to your package
- Habitat: Moorland and alpine desert
Today’s Highlights
- Leave the Shira Plateau and enter rugged alpine terrain.
- Trek toward the Lava Tower area.
- Reach a high point of approximately 4,630 m, if included in your route.
- Descend toward the secluded Moir Hut campsite.
- Enjoy views of Kibo and the surrounding high-altitude landscape.
- Rest at Moir Hut before the trek toward Buffalo Camp.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
After breakfast at Buffalo Camp, you continue eastward along Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes toward Third Cave Camp. The trail crosses open, rugged terrain, with sparse vegetation, volcanic rocks, and wide views across the remote northern side of the mountain.
The route includes gentle ascents and descents as you approach the area beneath Kibo. Compared with the forest and moorland encountered earlier in the climb, the landscape is increasingly exposed and rocky. Clear weather may reveal views across the northern plains toward Kenya.
Although this stage involves less elevation gain than some earlier sections, trekking at around 4,000 m can still feel strenuous. Maintain a steady pace, eat and drink regularly, and tell your guide if you develop symptoms of altitude sickness.
You arrive at Third Cave Camp and settle in for the night. Rest and prepare your equipment for the next day’s climb toward School Hut, where you will spend your final night before the planned summit attempt.
- Route: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
- Starting Elevation: Approximately 4,020 to 4,033 m, subject to verification
- Camp Elevation: Confirm the figure used in WeWild Travel’s itinerary
- Distance: Approximately 8 to 10 km, subject to route confirmation
- Trekking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
- Accommodation: Third Cave Camp (tents)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, according to your package
- Habitat: Alpine desert and sparse moorland
Today’s Highlights
- Continue eastward across Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.
- Trek through exposed, rocky high-altitude terrain.
- Enjoy views of the northern plains when visibility allows.
- Reach Third Cave Camp beneath Kibo.
- Rest before the ascent to School Hut.
- Prepare for the upcoming summit attempt.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Day 8 of the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro itinerary is summit day and the most physically demanding stage of the climb. You wake around midnight at School Hut and begin the ascent toward Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa.
The trail climbs steeply across rocky terrain toward Gilman’s Point on Kibo’s crater rim. From there, you continue along the rim past Stella Point toward Uhuru Peak. The thin air, cold temperatures, and sustained uphill effort make this a challenging ascent, so your guide will set a steady pace and schedule rest breaks as needed.
Reaching Uhuru Peak is a major achievement. If conditions allow, you can take photographs and enjoy views across the crater and surrounding mountain landscape. Summit access and visibility depend on weather, your condition, and the guide’s safety assessment.
After the summit, you descend toward Barafu Camp before continuing down the southern slopes to Mweka Camp. This long descent takes you through rocky high-altitude terrain toward lower alpine vegetation. Although the air gradually becomes richer in oxygen as you lose elevation, fatigue can make the descent difficult, so follow your guide’s instructions and take care on loose ground.
At Mweka Camp, you can enjoy your evening meal and rest after the summit attempt. Tomorrow, you will complete the final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate.
- Route: School Hut to Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point and Stella Point, then descend to Mweka Camp
- Starting Elevation: Approximately 4,750 to 4,800 m, depending on the confirmed camp elevation
- Highest Point: Uhuru Peak, 5,895 m
- Camp Elevation: Approximately 3,100 m
- Distance: Approximately 18 km in total, subject to route confirmation
- Trekking Time: Approximately 12 to 15 hours; conditions and individual pace may affect the duration
- Accommodation: Mweka Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, according to your package
- Habitat: Arctic summit zone, alpine desert, and lower alpine terrain
Today’s Highlights
- Begin the summit attempt around midnight.
- Climb toward Gilman’s Point and Stella Point.
- Attempt to reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m.
- Take summit photographs if conditions permit.
- Descend via Barafu Camp toward Mweka Camp.
- Experience changing landscapes as you lose elevation.
- Rest at Mweka Camp after the demanding summit day.
Day 9: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day of the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro itinerary begins at Mweka Camp, where you have rested after the summit attempt. After breakfast, you continue downhill through Kilimanjaro’s montane rainforest toward Mweka Gate, the official exit point for your trek.
The trail winds through dense forest, with tall trees, thick undergrowth, and damp ground in some sections. The cooler forest environment contrasts with the exposed alpine terrain near Uhuru Peak. You may hear forest birds along the way, so take time to appreciate the changing scenery as you descend.
Although you are losing altitude, the downhill trail can put pressure on tired knees and leg muscles after several days of trekking. Walk carefully on uneven or slippery sections, maintain a comfortable pace, and follow your guide’s advice.
At Mweka Gate, you complete the park exit formalities and say goodbye to your mountain crew. Your Kilimanjaro trek officially ends here. Your driver will then transfer you to your confirmed hotel in Arusha or Moshi, where you can shower, eat, and relax after completing the Northern Circuit.
- Route: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,100 m
- Ending Elevation: Approximately 1,640 m
- Distance: Approximately 10 km, subject to route confirmation
- Trekking Time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
- Accommodation: No mountain overnight; hotel transfer after the trek
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch, according to your package
- Habitat: Montane rainforest
Today’s Highlights
- Leave Mweka Camp for the final descent.
- Walk through Kilimanjaro’s montane rainforest.
- Observe the transition from high-altitude terrain to dense forest.
- Reach Mweka Gate and complete the park exit procedures.
- Thank your guides and porters for their support.
- Transfer to your confirmed hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
- Celebrate completing your nine-day Northern Circuit climb.
Departure
After completing your 9-Day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro climb, you can enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before preparing for your onward journey. WeWild Travel will coordinate your departure transfer according to your confirmed travel arrangements.
If you are flying home, your driver can take you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). You may also extend your stay with a wildlife safari in Tanzania or a beach holiday in Zanzibar. If you would like to explore more of the country, our team can help you discuss suitable options for the next part of your trip.
As a thank-you for choosing WeWild Travel, our team will present you with a small farewell gift. We appreciate the opportunity to be part of your Kilimanjaro journey and hope you leave Tanzania with lasting memories of the mountain, its landscapes, and the people who supported your climb.
- Departure Options: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or onward travel to a safari or Zanzibar, according to your arrangements
- Farewell Gift: A small gift from WeWild Travel
- Meals: Breakfast, according to your package
FAQs
What is included in the Kilimanjaro trekking package?
Most Kilimanjaro trekking packages include park fees, professional mountain guides, porters, camping or hut accommodation, meals during the trek, and airport transfers. Please check the itinerary for a complete list of inclusions.
How much luggage can I bring on the mountain?
Your personal duffel bag carried by the porter is typically limited to 15 kg (33 lbs). In addition, you should carry a small daypack for water, snacks, and personal essentials during the hike.
Is there mobile phone signal on Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mobile network coverage is available in some areas of the mountain, but the signal is not guaranteed throughout the trek. As you climb higher, coverage may become limited or unavailable.
Can I charge my phone or camera on the mountain?
No. There are no charging facilities at the camps. Therefore, we recommend bringing fully charged devices and a reliable power bank for the trek.
Is drinking water provided during the trek?
Yes. Safe, treated drinking water is provided every day on the mountain. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder to stay hydrated throughout the climb.
Are portable toilets available on the mountain?
Yes. We provide clean, private portable toilets on all camping routes for added comfort. The Marangu Route uses the mountain’s public toilet facilities because accommodation is in huts.
What happens if I get sick during the climb?
Your guide will monitor your health throughout the trek. If you develop symptoms of altitude sickness or another medical condition, the guide will assess the situation and arrange a safe descent if necessary.
Do you provide airport pick-up and drop-off?
Yes. We provide airport transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport and your hotel before and after your climb, as included in your trekking package.
Who will guide us on Mount Kilimanjaro?
Your climb is led by experienced, licensed mountain guides and supported by professional porters and cooks. Our team is trained to prioritize your safety, comfort, and summit success throughout the trek.
Can I customize my Kilimanjaro itinerary?
Yes. Many itineraries can be customized to suit your travel dates, group size, fitness level, and preferred accommodation. Contact us to discuss the best option for your adventure.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
What should I pack for a Kilimanjaro trek?
Pack warm layered clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, gloves, a hat, a headlamp, trekking poles, and personal items. A detailed packing list will be provided after booking.
Are meals provided on the mountain?
Yes. Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served every day during the trek. Drinking water is also provided throughout the climb.
How difficult is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is physically demanding but does not require technical climbing skills. Success depends on your fitness, acclimatization, and following your guide’s advice throughout the trek.
What is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
The best time to climb is during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October. These months usually offer clearer skies, drier trails, and better trekking conditions.
Do I need previous hiking experience?
No. Most Kilimanjaro routes are suitable for beginners with good physical fitness. However, regular training before your climb will make the trek more comfortable and enjoyable.
What is not included in the tour price?
International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips for the mountain crew, personal expenses, and rental equipment are usually not included unless stated in the package.
Should I tip the mountain crew?
Yes. Tipping is a long-standing tradition on Mount Kilimanjaro and is greatly appreciated by the guides, porters, and cooks. Recommended tipping guidelines will be provided before your climb.
Other Tour Details
Tour Pricing
| Number of People | Cost Per Person in Mid-Range | Cost Per Person in VIP |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $3’833 | $6,400 |
| 2 people | $2’800 | $5,900 |
| 3 people | $2’456 | $5,400 |
| 4 people | $2’285 | $5,200 |
| 5 people | $2,181 | $5,000 |
| 6 people | $2,112 | $4,800 |
| 7 people | $2’063 | $4,600 |
| 8 people | $2’026 | $4,400 |
| 9 people | $1’997 | $4,200 |
| 10 people + | $1’975 | $4,000 |
Tour Accommodations
| Mid-Range Package | VIP (Luxury) Package |
|---|---|
| Two Nights Accommodations on BB at either of the following Ameg Lodge or Salinero Hotels | Two Nights Accommodations at Mount Meru Hotel on FB or at Gran Melia Hotel |
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