9-Day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek (Group) package
The Northern Circuit 9 days group Kilimanjaro trek is the most scenic and longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering unmatched panoramic views and the highest summit success rate. This group adventure is perfect for climbers who want to share the experience, reduce costs, and enjoy a supportive team atmosphere. The route circles the remote northern slopes of the mountain, allowing excellent acclimatization while passing through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic zones. With experienced professional guides, porters, and cooks, this trek ensures safety, organization, and an unforgettable journey to Uhuru Peak.
| Mountain |
Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) |
| Route |
Londorossi(9 Days / 8 Nights) |
| Starting Point |
Londorossi Gate |
| Duration |
9 Days |
| Difficulty |
Moderate to Challenging |
| Accommodation |
Mountain Camping (tents provided) |
| Best For |
Fit trekkers seeking scenic and gradual ascent routes |
| Included |
- Park fees
- Professional mountain guides
- Camping equipment
- All meals on mountain
- Porters and cook team
- Rescue services
|
| Not Included |
- International flights
- Personal hiking gear
- Travel insurance
- Tips for crew
- Visa fees
- Hotel before/after climb
|
| Return |
Descent to Moshi after summit attempt (Uhuru Peak) |
Detailed Itinerary
The 9-day group Kilimanjaro trek via the Northern Circuit begins with a drive to Londorossi Gate followed by a gentle hike through rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp. The trail then crosses the Shira Plateau with expansive views before heading to Lava Tower for acclimatization and descending to Moir Hut. This route circles the quiet northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering fewer crowds and a gradual altitude gain for optimal acclimatization. Throughout the journey, climbers share the experience, build friendships, and benefit from the support of experienced guides and a well-organized crew. The trek culminates in a midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak, followed by descent via the Mweka Route.
01
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue to the trailhead. Begin trekking through rainforest with chances to spot wildlife. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,650m
- Distance: 6–7 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
02
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
After breakfast, Drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue to the trailhead. Begin trekking through rainforest with chances to spot wildlife. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
- Elevation: 2,650m to 3,500m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
03
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Trek across the Shira Plateau with gentle elevation gain. Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak and surrounding landscapes.
- Elevation: 3,500m to 3,850m
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
04
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Ascend gradually toward Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Moir Hut through scenic valleys. This “climb high, sleep low” day is important for altitude adaptation.
- Elevation: 3,850m to 4,630m to 4,200m
- Distance: 10–12 km
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
05
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Trek across the remote northern slopes with rolling terrain and fewer climbers. Enjoy wide-open views.
- Elevation: 4,200m to 4,020m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
06
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Continue trekking across the northern circuit with scenic views and sparse vegetation. This day allows further acclimatization.
- Elevation: 4,020m to 3,800m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
07
Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut
Trek to School Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. Arrive early for rest and preparation.
- Elevation: 3,800m to 4,750m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
08
Day 8: Summit Uhuru Peak – Descend to Mweka Camp
Begin the summit attempt at midnight, reaching Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After sunrise views, descend to Mweka Camp.
- Elevation: 4,020m to 3,800m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
07
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate where you receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
- Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Tour Location
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in northern Tanzania, East Africa, near the border with Kenya. It
stands within Kilimanjaro National Park and rises from the surrounding plains of the East African
savannah, creating one of the most iconic mountain landscapes in the world.
Climber Reviews & Experience Breakdown
Feedback from climbers on the Northern Circuit 9 Days Group Kilimanjaro Trek reflects a well-balanced trekking experience with
gradual acclimatization, diverse landscapes, and supportive mountain crews. The ratings below
summarize
key aspects of the journey, including trail conditions, camp comfort, meals, and overall guiding
support
throughout the climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Ella George
Kilimanjaro Climber
“The Northern Circuit 9 Days Group Kilimanjaro Trek offered a steady and well-paced ascent with enough time for
acclimatization.
The guides were attentive and professional, the camps were well organized, and meals were
consistently
nutritious. The variation in landscapes—from rainforest to alpine desert—made the experience both
challenging and rewarding.”
Overall Experience
Rated 4.8 out of 5
Trail & Scenery
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Guide Support
Rated 4.9 out of 5
Camp Comfort
Rated 4.5 out of 5
Safety
Rated 4.8 out of 5
