Nine Day Northern Circuit Tour
9 days—Nine Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour - this is the most popular routes to climb Kilimanjaro the highest mountain in Africa
$2300-3000 USD
pp
Safari summary
Welcome to our 9 Days Northern Circuit, Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour - this is one of the most popular routes to climb Kilimanjaro the highest mountain in Africa. The Nine Days Northern Circuit is one of the most popular routes to climb Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. It's known for its stunning scenery, varied terrain, and gradual acclimatization profile, which contributes to a higher summit success rate compared to other routes. This 9 Days Northern Circuit, Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour is an unforgettable experience. You'll climb the highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro, and each day will bring new challenges and beautiful views. Get to know the local ways, take it slow to adjust to the height, and reach the tippy-top called Uhuru Peak. The 9 Days Northern Circuit, Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour is not just a climb, it's a really cool trip on Kilimanjaro that you'll remember for a long, long time.
Highlights for the 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour
- Unleash Your Explorer - Forget the crowds, conquer Kilimanjaro's hidden north face on the exclusive 9-Day Northern Circuit. Discover untouched valleys, ancient glaciers, and jaw-dropping panoramas.
- Climb Like a King (or Queen) - Nine days mean gradual ascent, giving your body time to adapt and boost your summit success rate. Take it slow, savor the journey, and conquer the peak on your terms.
- Nature's Hidden Gems - Ditch the well-worn trail and dive into the lost world of the Barranco caldera, trek across the vast Shira Plateau, and stand in awe before Kibo's rarely-seen northern face. Every bend reveals a new masterpiece.
- Find Your Solitude- Escape the crowds and embrace the serenity of the Northern Circuit. Connect with nature's raw power, find quiet reflection amidst the mountain's majesty, and make this climb your own personal pilgrimage.
Itinerary for the 9 Days Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi and pre-trek briefing.
Day 2: Drive to Londorossi Gate and trek through rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 3: Ascend Shira Ridge and camp at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 4: Trek across the Shira Plateau and reach Shira 2 Camp. (Optional: Climb Shira Cathedral)
Day 5: Acclimatization hike in Moir Valley, then reach Buffalo Camp.
Day 6: Ascend through rock fields and camp at Rongai Third Cave.
Day 7: Steep climb to School Hut, followed by a short trek to Barafu Camp.
Day 8: Summit bid via Gilman's Point and descend to Millennium Camp.
Day 9: Trek down Mweka Route and return to Moshi.
5 Reasons to Climb Kilimanjaro Like a Boss: Choose the 9-Day Northern Circuit Tour
- Secret Path, Epic Views - Forget the crowded trails! This 9-day adventure takes you around Kilimanjaro's quiet north side, where valleys hide like secrets and glaciers whisper ancient stories. Get ready for jaw-dropping panoramas you won't find anywhere else!
- Climb Smart, Conquer Strong - Nine days mean you climb slow and steady, letting your body adjust to the thin air like a champ. This boosts your chances of reaching the top AND lets you enjoy the journey, not just the finish line.
- Nature's Playground, All Yours - Ditch the crowds and find your own rhythm on the Northern Circuit. Explore hidden valleys, climb volcanic craters, and stare into the lost world of the Barranco caldera. This is your Kilimanjaro adventure, your way.
- Breathe Deep, Find Peace - Leave the hustle behind and soak in the mountain's magic. This secluded route lets you connect with nature's raw power and find moments of quiet reflection. Take a deep breath, listen to the silence, and feel your soul recharge.
- Summit High, Celebrate Big - Nine days mean you can adjust your pace, savor the scenery, and reach Uhuru Peak on your own terms. Celebrate every step, take in the views, and reach the top with memories that will last a lifetime. This is your Kilimanjaro victory, your way.
5 Awesome Things You'll Do on the 9-Day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb
- Secret Path, Epic Views Skip the busy crowds and explore Kilimanjaro's hidden north side! Find secret valleys, ancient glaciers, and mind-blowing mountain views you won't see anywhere else.
- Climb Smart, Feel Strong Take 9 days to conquer Kilimanjaro the easy way! Your body gets used to the thin air slowly, increasing your chances of reaching the top AND letting you enjoy the whole journey, not just the finish line.
- Nature's Playground, All Yours Leave the crowds behind and discover this secret side of Kilimanjaro. Explore hidden valleys, climb cool volcanic craters, and stare into the mysterious Barranco caldera. This adventure is just for you!
- Chill Out, Find Peace Take a deep breath and leave the stress behind. This quiet route lets you connect with the mountain's magic and find moments of calm reflection. Relax, listen to the silence, and feel your soul recharge.
- Party on the Peak: Nine days mean you can choose your own pace, enjoy the views, and reach
About this tour
Tour type | Set-date, set-itinerary, group | |
Main focus | Hiking | trekking | |
Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
Best months | All months | |
Countries | ||
Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Walking safari—with armed guard
- Photography safari—with professional guide
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- All drinks
- Hot air balloons
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Laundry
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Spa treatments
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi, Pre-Trek
Kilimanjaro
Arrive in Moshi, Tanzania, and enjoy a comfortable stay at your chosen accommodation. Meet your fellow climbers and tour guides in the afternoon. Attend a comprehensive pre-trek briefing covering the route, safety protocols, and essential mountain gear. Participate in a gear check to ensure you have everything you need for the climb. Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner and get a good night's sleep in preparation for the adventure ahead.
Moshi
Day 2: Lemosho Gate-Mti Mkubwa
Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through the foothills to Londorossi Gate, the trailhead for the Northern Circuit. Begin your Kilimanjaro journey with a gentle trek through the lush rainforest, encountering diverse flora and fauna. Hike past waterfalls and towering trees, soaking in the tranquility of the natural environment. Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, your first campsite set amongst the verdant foliage. Enjoy a hot meal and a warm campfire under the starry African sky.
Mti Mkubwa
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp
Kilimanjaro
Rise early and prepare for a challenging uphill climb through the montane forest. Ascend Shira Ridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and distant peaks. Reach Shira 1 Camp, situated on the high Shira Plateau, characterized by its unique alpine landscape. Enjoy a well-deserved lunch and acclimatization walk within the camp's vicinity. Savor the panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro's majestic dome and surrounding glaciers.
Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2-Lava Tower-Moir Hut
Kilimanjaro
Embark on a scenic hike across the expansive Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Encounter volcanic vents, craters, and unique vegetation adapted to the high altitude. Enjoy a gentle uphill climb with plenty of breaks and opportunities to acclimatize further. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, nestled amidst the dramatic landscape of the plateau. Participate in an optional hike to Shira Cathedral, a massive volcanic remnant, for even more breathtaking vistas.
Moir Hut
Day 5: Acclimatization - Buffalo
Kilimanjaro
Descend into the Moir Valley, a hidden oasis within the volcanic terrain. Enjoy a scenic, relatively flat hike through the valley, exploring its diverse flora and fauna. Engage in acclimatization exercises guided by your experienced team. Ascend to Buffalo Camp, perched on a ridge overlooking the plains below. Relish the stunning views and prepare for the next challenging stage of the climb.
Buffalo Camp
Day 6: Buffalo to Third Cave
Kilimanjaro
Begin the day with a steep climb through loose scree and rocky terrain. Navigate the challenging path, utilizing trekking poles and maintaining a steady pace. Reach Rongai Third Cave, a unique campsite within a natural lava cave formation. Enjoy a hearty meal and prepare for the final push towards the summit. Rest well and mentally prepare for the demanding summit night ahead.
Third Cave
Day 7: School Hut & Barafu Camp
Kilimanjaro
Tackle a steep and demanding uphill climb over loose scree and lava rocks. Reach School Hut, a crucial checkpoint offering stunning views of Kibo Crater. Continue traversing the barren landscape and arrive at Barafu Camp, the final campsite before the summit attempt. Enjoy a light meal and rest for several hours, preparing for the challenging midnight ascent. Gear up for the summit push and receive final instructions from your guides.
Barafu Camp
Day 8: Summit Day - Millennium Camp
Kilimanjaro
Begin the summit bid at midnight, starting with a headlamp-lit trek on a well-defined path. Experience the cold, thin air and challenging terrain while pushing your physical and mental limits. After several hours of ascent, reach Gilman's Point (5,681m), the highest accessible point on Kibo Crater. Celebrate your achievement and savor the breathtaking sunrise panoramas over the African landscape. Begin the descent back to Barafu Camp, following the same route. Descend further to Millennium Camp
Millennium Camp
Day 9: Mweka Gate - Moshi
Kilimanjaro
Begin the final descent following the Mweka Route, known for its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. Traverse the forested paths, enjoying the gradual decline in altitude and the changing scenery. Encounter monkeys, birds, and wildflowers as you make your way down the mountain. Pass through the Mweka Gate, marking the official end of your Kilimanjaro climb. Enjoy a celebratory lunch and receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi.
Moshi
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