Highlights
Challenge yourself and be among the few to trek this new Kilimanjaro route
Reach the summit at 5,895M and savor the unique feeling of standing on the roof of Africa
Enjoy thrilling and safe scrambles on the very edge of Africa's highest mountain
Explore the welcoming region of Moshi town and enjoy ¨Mbege¨ a local brew beer
Itinerary
For experienced trekkers looking for the ultimate Kilimanjaro challenge, the 9 Days Northern Circuit Route is a must. This remote, scenic trail offers a longer, less-crowded ascent with outstanding acclimatization opportunities and sweeping views of the Kenyan plains and Amboseli National Park. Traverse diverse landscapes from the Lemosho Glades to the Shira Plateau, and enjoy two high-altitude acclimatization days for added success. The unique appeal of this trek lies in its status as Kilimanjaro’s longest and most panoramic route, offering seasoned adventurers a rewarding and unforgettable summit experience.
day 1 - Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart Moshi or Arusha for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.
day 2 - Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.
day 3 - Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath
We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees.
day 4 - Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,580 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
day 5 - Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Elevation: 13,580 ft to 13,200 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.
day 6 - Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
Elevation: 13,200 ft to 12,700 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely travelled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys on to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave.
day 7 - Third Cave to School Hut
Elevation: 12,700 ft to 15,600 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. We continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
day 8 - School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mwica Camp
School Hut to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,600 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Artic
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
day 9 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Altitude Map
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Customer Reviews
Read what other travelers have to say about Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking 9 Days Northern Circuit Route
Unforgettable trip
"From the moment I contacted the agency, the tour agency's staff demonstrated a high level of professionalism and attentiveness. They promptly responded to my inquiries, providing detailed information and addressing any concerns I had. Throughout the Kilimanjaro trek, their support staff, including porters and cooks, was incredibly hardworking, ensuring that our needs were met and that we had comfortable accommodations and nourishing meals. The level of teamwork and dedication displayed by the entire staff was truly remarkable. The agency's commitment to providing top-notch equipment and logistics was evident throughout the trek. From quality camping gear to delicious meals prepared at high altitudes, they left no stone unturned in ensuring our comfort and well-being. The campsite setups were well-organized, and the availability of essential amenities, such as clean water and sanitary facilities, added to the overall positive experience. "
The best trip ever with the best Kilimanjaro company
"This tour company and its staff was undoubtedly the backbone of our successful trek. The wealth of knowledge about the mountain, its flora and fauna, as well as their understanding of altitude sickness and safety precautions, was truly impressive. They made sure to adapt the pace of our trek to accommodate the needs of the group while maintaining a strong focus on safety and well-being. Their expertise and guidance were invaluable, and their constant encouragement and positive attitude played a significant role in keeping our spirits high during challenging moments." "
Incredible Kilimanjaro Trek experience with Dahlia Africa
"I recently had the opportunity to embark on a life-changing journey to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the Northern Route, and I cannot express enough gratitude to the exceptional team at this travel agency that organized my trek. From start to finish, their professionalism, expertise, and dedication ensured a seamless experience, making my Kilimanjaro trekking adventure one for the books. The agency's meticulous planning and well-thought-out itinerary for the Route 9-Day Trek were commendable. They provided clear and detailed information about the trek, including what to expect each day, the recommended gear, and proper acclimatization strategies. Their attention to detail instilled confidence in me and reassured that I was in capable hands. Thanks to our head guide FAZA and the team, we will always remember you, for making our lifelong thirst of conquering Kilimanjaro possible. "
Excellent Guiding Services from Dahlia Africa Tours
Our group of 5 went on the Northern Circuit Hike with this local tour operator over Christmas 2021, from 30th December to 7th January. By spending 9 days on the mountain, we had 7 full days hiking pole-pole, which means slowly and steady in Swahili, before we did the night hike all the way to the top. The longest you spend on the mountain, the highest chance of acclimatisation you have and less risk of having altitude sickness. The hike was great,. The summit of Kilimanjaro, from Gilman's Point to Stella Point to Uhuru Peak is absolutely incredible. I actually would recommend to get to Gilman's Point for sunrise so that you walk in the morning light from there to Uhuru Peak to really appreciate the incredibly magical snowy surroundings you can see at the top. Do not give up, stay pole pole, and keep walking, one step at a time. It is worth it. To train, there is no secret, the best training is hiking a lot, and also going up and down stairs, build your legs to become strong, go running to develop your cardio and do some swimming and cycling to develop all muscles. And you will be fine. And if you don't make it? Well, it doesn't matter. The journey is as important as the destination! Just going on that hike will have been worth it.
Dahlia Africa - Amazing!!!
The local tour operator suggested this route to us as it is 9 days which minimizes your risk of altitude sickness due to more acclimatization time. At many points we felt as though we were the only people on the mountain due to the route being a less commonly used one. The service was faultless from beginning to end, our guides Linus and Brian were extremely knowledgeable and motivational, keeping our spirits high at some of the trickier points of the track. The food cooked for us by Asha, the chef, was always delicious and she always ensured we were happy with what was on the menu so we were getting enough food to keep us going.
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