9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

• Elevation: 2,100m to 2,750m

• Activity: Trekking & Transfer
• Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

The Northern Circuit Route begins at Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters) in the West, the same start point as the Lemosho Route. The drive to Londorossi Gate takes approximately two hours from Moshi and considerably longer from Arusha. Registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities occurs at the gate and then you will be driven further up the mountain to the trailhead starting point.

• Elevation: 2,750m to 3,500m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Leaving the rainforest behind, you emerge into the moorland zone, characterized by open grasslands and heather. The trail ascends steadily, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Here, you are treated to expansive vistas of the Shira Plateau and its unique geological features. The day follows the confirmed itinerary at a comfortable pace, with the guide adapting timing to local conditions and the needs of the group. Before setting out, the team will explain the route, expected activities and any practical items to keep close. Time is allowed for questions, photographs and short breaks without losing the purpose of the day. The aim is a well-organized experience that feels informative, unhurried and connected to the destination.

• Elevation: 3,500m to 3,850m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The plateau is exposed so be prepared for a cold night with temperatures getting below zero. The mountain team will set a measured pace that suits the terrain and supports steady acclimatization throughout the day. Regular pauses allow time for water, snacks and changing weather layers while the guide monitors trail conditions and group wellbeing. As the landscape changes, your guide will explain the route ahead and the natural features around you. Reaching the day’s destination is approached calmly, with safety and consistency taking priority over speed.

• Elevation: 3,850m to 4,200m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day four is a long trek heading east which passes through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ and then enters the high alpine desert zone. The morning is spent trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where you will have lunch. This is an important day in your trek as you will get to experience high altitude and then sleep low, which is good for the acclimatization process.

• Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day five involves a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley. Trekkers can take a small detour here to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail. The trek gives great vistas out across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan / Tanzanian border.

• Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. The trek is shorter than the day before and by now you should be feeling well acclimatised to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.

• Elevation: 3,870m to 4,800m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day seven involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamp and camera before going to bed. The mountain team will set a measured pace that suits the terrain and supports steady acclimatization throughout the day. Regular pauses allow time for water, snacks and changing weather layers while the guide monitors trail conditions and group wellbeing. As the landscape changes, your guide will explain the route ahead and the natural features around you. Reaching the day’s destination is approached calmly, with safety and consistency taking priority over speed.

• Elevation: 4,800m to 5,895m (summit) then down to 3,080m

• Activity: Trekking
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness. Your first check-point is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break. The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), which will be around 5-6 hours after departing School Hut. Take a moment to enjoy the approaching dawn and incredible view out and across to Mawenzi Peak, but remember you still have 2 hours trekking to reach Uhuru Peak so dig deep for the energy. The slope flattens as you head west around the crater rim and you should arrive at the summit at or just after sunrise. Your stay here will be brief so get as many pictures as you can of the incredible views and surrounding glaciers. In total you will be trekking for 14-16 hours on day eight so it is important to pace yourself, remain hydrated and keep your blood sugar levels up. Note: some tour operators return via Gilman’s Point to Horombo Hut using the Marangu Route

• Elevation: 3,080m to 1,640m

• Activity: Trekking & Transfer
• Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

The final day of the trek involves a descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you officially complete your Kilimanjaro climb. The trail winds its way down the mountain, offering glimpses of exotic flora and fauna along the way. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your guides and fellow trekkers. A transfer will be waiting to take you back to Moshi, where you can reflect on your incredible journey and celebrate your achievement.