Address: Kiligolf B26 Arusha, 10155

The 10 Days 9 Nights Northern Circuit Route is the longest, most scenic, and one of the most successful routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters). This premium itinerary is designed for trekkers who want the best possible acclimatization, breathtaking scenery, and the highest chance of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

The Northern Circuit begins on Kilimanjaro’s western side at Londorossi Gate and follows the famous Lemosho Route through lush rainforest and the spectacular Shira Plateau before branching north around the mountain’s remote slopes. Unlike the busier southern trails, the Northern Circuit offers quiet paths, panoramic 360-degree views, and an incredible wilderness experience. The route circles almost the entire mountain before approaching the summit from the east and descending via the scenic Mweka Route. It is widely recognized as the route with the best acclimatization profile and among the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro.

Whether you are a first-time climber or an experienced adventurer, Adventure Makers Tanzania provides professional mountain guides, experienced porters, quality camping equipment, and personalized support to ensure a safe and unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa.

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Later, meet your mountain guide for a detailed climbing briefing, equipment inspection, and preparation for your expedition.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: Dinner


Day 2: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing to the Lemosho trailhead. Begin trekking through dense rainforest filled with giant trees, colorful birds, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first overnight stay on the mountain.

  • Elevation: 2,100m – 2,750m
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Walking Time: 3–4 Hours

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp


Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp

Today’s trail climbs through heath and moorland while offering spectacular views of Mount Meru and the Shira Ridge.

Arrive at Shira 1 Camp in the afternoon.

  • Elevation: 2,750m – 3,500m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Walking Time: 5–6 Hours

Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp


Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp

Cross the magnificent Shira Plateau, one of the world’s highest volcanic plateaus.

Spend the afternoon enjoying an acclimatization hike around the campsite while admiring breathtaking mountain scenery.

  • Elevation: 3,500m – 3,900m
  • Distance: 7 km
  • Walking Time: 4–5 Hours

Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp


Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Moir Camp

Today’s hike follows the important acclimatization strategy of “climb high, sleep low.”

Ascend to the famous Lava Tower before descending to peaceful Moir Camp located on Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes.

  • Elevation: 3,900m – 4,630m – 4,200m
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Walking Time: 6–7 Hours

Accommodation: Moir Camp


Day 6: Moir Camp – Buffalo Camp

Leave the popular trails behind as you enter the quiet Northern Circuit.

Enjoy panoramic views across the Kenyan plains while trekking through remote alpine terrain toward Buffalo Camp.

  • Elevation: 4,200m – 4,020m
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Walking Time: 6–7 Hours

Accommodation: Buffalo Camp


Day 7: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp

Continue your journey around the northern side of Kilimanjaro.

The trail offers incredible solitude and uninterrupted views before arriving at Third Cave Camp.

  • Elevation: 4,020m – 3,870m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Walking Time: 5–6 Hours

Accommodation: Third Cave Camp


Day 8: Third Cave – School Hut

Today’s trek gradually climbs toward School Hut, your final base camp before the summit attempt.

After arriving, enjoy an early dinner and rest before your midnight ascent.

  • Elevation: 3,870m – 4,800m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Walking Time: 4–5 Hours

Accommodation: School Hut


Day 9: School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Around midnight, begin your summit attempt.

Climb steadily to Gilman’s Point before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Watch the sunrise from the Roof of Africa before descending through Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

  • Elevation: 4,800m – 5,895m – 3,100m
  • Distance: 18 km
  • Walking Time: 12–14 Hours

Accommodation: Mweka Camp


Day 10: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Arusha

After breakfast, descend through beautiful rainforest to Mweka Gate.

Receive your official Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate before returning to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

  • Elevation: 3,100m – 1,640m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Walking Time: 3–4 Hours

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

You Trek Includes:

  • Arrival transfer from Kilimanjaro/Arusha Airport to hotel
  • Pre trek accommodation at the Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha
  • Return transport from Arusha to Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Guide, Assistant Guide, Chef and Porters
  • Non participation, full service camping on Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Meals as specified and drinking water
  • All national park entry and climbing fees
  • Rescue fee
  • Post trek accommodation at the Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha
  • Departure transfer from hotel to Kilimanjaro/Arusha Airport
  • All current Government taxes and surcharges

Price:

Please contact us for a tailor-made itinerary and price.

Upgrade Your Accommodation:

We also offer accommodation located in the heart of Arusha as well as at coffee lodges and 5-star hotels. Upgrade to one of our 5-start hotels – The Arusha Hotel or the Mount Meru Hotel for just $35 per person, per night. If you would like to upgrade your pre or post safari accommodation in Arusha please ask us for recommendations and availability.

Enhance Your Safari Experience:

A Tanzanian holiday is a dream come true and a once in a lifetime experience for most of our clients. We understand that every traveller is different and we are proud to offer a range of optional activities to enhance your safari experience.

Arusha Day Tours

We offer Arusha City Tours (half or full day), Coffee Farm Tours, Night Tours with Dinner or visit the Lengo Football Academy with Village Walk. Please ask us for a detailed tour description and prices.

Your Safari Excludes:

  • Drinks at lodge in Arusha.
  • Sleeping bag.
  • Tips (tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of any African safari. We are often asked for tipping guidelines and we recommend $15-20 USD for your Guide, $10-15 for your Assistant Guide, Chef and Porters per person per day. It is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the East African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, as an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. The number of Guides, Assistant Guides, Chefs and Porters varies for each route so please ask us for a detailed list).

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