Overview:

Experience the most comprehensive and secluded route to the Roof of Africa with our VIP 9-Day Northern Circuit climb. As Kilimanjaro’s longest and newest established trail, the Northern Circuit offers unmatched acclimatization, minimal foot traffic, and breathtaking scenery—making it the top choice for climbers seeking a truly immersive and high-success summit experience.
Your journey begins at Londorossi Gate, following the scenic Lemosho Trail across the dramatic Shira Plateau. At Moir Hut, the route branches north, taking you far from the busier southern routes and into the remote wilderness of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. This rarely traveled path offers sweeping views over Kenya, quiet trails, and a deep connection with the mountain’s untamed beauty.
With its extended 9-day itinerary, the Northern Circuit provides the best acclimatization profile on the mountain, significantly increasing your chances of a successful summit. The VIP experience ensures your comfort and safety every step of the way—with deluxe camping accommodations, personalized service, gourmet meals, and a highly experienced mountain crew.
The adventure culminates in a thrilling early morning ascent to Uhuru Peak, followed by a descent via the Mweka Route, allowing you to witness Kilimanjaro from nearly every angle. Ideal for trekkers who prioritize both comfort and success, this VIP expedition offers the ultimate Kilimanjaro climb.

Details:

Key Details of the Northern Circuit Route:
• Duration: 9 Days
• Distance: Approximately 98 kilometers (61 miles)
• Starting Elevation: 7,742 ft (2,360 m)
• Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (5,895 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Accommodation: Tents
• Best Time to Climb: June to October and December to March

ITINERARY :

Arrival Day
On arrival in Moshi, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, we will conduct a detailed orientation and gear check to ensure you are well-prepared for the climb. You’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary, safety protocols, and answer any questions. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and rest for the adventure ahead.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
• Elevation: 7,742 ft (2,360 m) to 9,498 ft (2,895 m)
• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
After breakfast, we drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and permits. From there, a short drive takes us to the trailhead, where the trek begins. The trail winds through dense rain forest with chances to spot monkeys and exotic birds. You’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
• Elevation: 9,498 ft (2,895 m) to 11,500 ft (3,505 m)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Heath
Leaving the rain forest behind, the trail climbs steadily into a heather and moorland zone. Along the way, you’ll cross streams and enjoy sweeping views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Peak in the distance. Overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
• Elevation: 11,500 ft (3,505 m) to 12,598 ft (3,840 m)
• Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
A short but scenic hike across the Shira Plateau takes you to Shira 2 Camp. The plateau is a unique landscape with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and plains. You’ll enjoy a leisurely pace today, which is helpful for acclimatization.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
• Elevation: 12,598 ft (3,840 m) to 13,800 ft (4,206 m)
• Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
The trail heads eastward and passes close to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation. After lunch, you’ll continue to Moir Hut, a less-crowded campsite with opportunities for short acclimatization hikes on the nearby Lent Hills.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
• Elevation: 13,800 ft (4,206 m) to 13,200 ft (4,025 m)
• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
This is the start of the Northern Circuit proper. The trail takes you around the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering stunning and rarely seen views of the Kenyan plains. The trek to Buffalo Camp is relatively gentle, allowing for further acclimatization.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
• Elevation: 13,200 ft (4,025 m) to 12,700 ft (3,870 m)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Habitat: Semi-Alpine Desert
The trail continues eastward around the mountain, gradually descending and ascending through alpine desert terrain. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the towering cliffs of Kilimanjaro and the open wilderness of Kenya. Overnight at Third Cave Camp.

Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
• Elevation: 12,700 ft (3,870 m) to 15,600 ft (4,750 m)
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine DesertToday’s hike takes you to School Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. The steep trail leads up to the rocky slopes of Kilimanjaro’s crater rim. Upon arrival, you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent to the summit.

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
• Elevation: 15,600 ft (4,750 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) to 10,065 ft (3,070 m)
• Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
• Hiking Time: 12-16 hours
• Habitat: Arctic, then Rain Forest
You’ll wake up around midnight for the summit push. The trail ascends steeply to Gilman’s Point (18,650 ft), where you’ll catch the sunrise over the African plains. From there, a final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
• Elevation: 10,065 ft (3,070 m) to 5,380 ft (1,640 m)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
On the final day, you’ll descend through the lush rain forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will meet you at the gate to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi for a celebratory meal and rest.

PRICE (USD)

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Airfare to and from Tanzania
• Personal travel insurance
• Visa
• Tips for the support team
• Sleeping bags and other personal gear
• Rental gear
• Lunch and dinner at the hotel
• Drinks and snacks