9-Day Northern Circuit Route

Kilimanjaro's Most Exclusive Journey

Experience Kilimanjaro’s ultimate adventure on the Northern Circuit, our premier 9-day expedition that offers the mountain’s highest success rate. This exclusive route takes you on a breathtaking journey around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, combining the stunning Lemosho start with extended acclimatization and unparalleled solitude. With more time to adapt to altitude and fewer trekkers, you’ll experience the mountain’s wildest landscapes while maximizing your chance of standing triumphantly on the Roof of Africa.

Price From $3560pp

Your Day-by-Day Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Karibu!

Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) where you’re greeted with a warm “Karibu!” Transfer to your Moshi hotel, meet your head guide for a comprehensive gear check and briefing, and relax as you anticipate the adventure ahead

After a scenic drive to Londorossi Gate, your footsteps officially begin on the Lemosho trail. Immerse yourself in the lush, mist-shrouded montane rainforest. Listen to the chatter of colobus monkeys and the symphony of birdlife as you trek to your first camp, feeling the excitement build with every step.

  • Trekking: 3-4 hours | Distance: 6 km | Altitude: 2,895m / 9,498ft

Ascend out of the rainforest and into the magical heather zone. The landscape opens dramatically, rewarding you with your first breathtaking views of Kibo Peak. Today’s journey across rolling ridges is a natural acclimatization, preparing your body for the higher altitudes to come.

  • Trekking: 5-6 hours | Distance: 8 km | Altitude: 3,505m / 11,500ft

Traverse the vast Shira Plateau, a high-altitude desert with lunar-like beauty. We’ll pay respects at the memorial of Scott Fischer before ascending to the remote Moir Camp, a hidden gem in the upper heath zone. An optional afternoon acclimatization walk here is highly recommended.

  • Trekking: 5-7 hours | Distance: 11 km | Altitude: 4,140m / 13,580ft

This is where your adventure becomes exclusive. Leave the main trails behind and begin the epic circuit around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. Climb a steep ridge to be rewarded with panoramic views of Kenya’s plains below. The sense of solitude and wilderness is profound.

  • Trekking: 5-7 hours | Distance: 9 km | Altitude: 4,025m / 13,200ft

This is where your adventure becomes exclusive. Leave the main trails behind and begin the epic circuit around Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. Climb a steep ridge to be rewarded with panoramic views of Kenya’s plains below. The sense of solitude and wilderness is profound.

  • Trekking: 5-7 hours | Distance: 9 km | Altitude: 4,025m / 13,200ft

A shorter trek brings you to School Huts, your basecamp for the summit assault. The air is thin, and the excitement is palpable. The afternoon is for rest, hydration, and a final briefing. Have an early dinner and try to sleep, knowing the biggest challenge of your trek begins at midnight.

  • Trekking: 4-5 hours | Distance: 5 km | Altitude: 4,755m / 15,600ft

This is it. Awaken at midnight. Under a blanket of brilliant stars, you begin the final ascent. With headlamps piercing the darkness, you’ll climb pole-pole (slowly slowly) up the steep scree slopes. Reach Gilman’s Point as the sun begins to paint the horizon, then make the unforgettable trek along the crater rim to UHURU PEAK (5,895m)—the Roof of Africa! Soak in this life-changing achievement before the long, rewarding descent to Mweka Camp.

  • Summit Push: 7-8 hours | Descent: 4-6 hours | Distance: 19 km | Altitude: 5,895m / 19,341ft

Enjoy a final mountain breakfast before descending through the vibrant rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your official certificate, share emotional farewells with your incredible crew, and transfer back to your hotel for a well-deserved hot shower and celebration!

  • Trekking: 4-5 hours | Distance: 10 km | Altitude: 1,640m / 5,380ft

What's Included

What's Included

Other Trekking Routes