African Majestic Adventures
9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – Northern Circuit Route
Kilimanjaro Climbs

9 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – Northern Circuit Route

9 days · Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania · Northern Circuit Route · Strenuous (excellent acclimatization schedule)

Tour Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is the most scenically diverse route on Kilimanjaro, offering 360-degree panoramas. With 9 days you have ample time for acclimatization, wildlife viewing in the lower forest zone, and exploring the alpine desert regions. This route significantly increases your chances of a successful summit climb.

Tour Highlights

What makes this trip special

Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa's highest point
KPAP-certified guides and fairly-paid, fairly-treated porters
The longest route around the mountain, built for the best acclimatization and summit success
9-day itinerary with a proper acclimatization schedule for a higher summit success rate

Elevation Profile

How the altitude climbs, day by day

Day-by-Day Elevation Profile Northern Circuit Route
5,895 m Peak Altitude
1,000 m 2,000 m 3,000 m 4,000 m 5,000 m 6,000 m Uhuru Peak 5,895 m 5,895 m Day 1 Day 3 Day 5 Day 7 Day 9 metres above sea level
Start: 1,800 m Summit: 5,895 m Finish: 1,650 m

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Your trip, day by day

D1

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi or Arusha

Hotel in Moshi/Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha, where your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the afternoon, join a trekking briefing covering the Northern Circuit route, and have your gear checked by your lead guide to make sure you're properly equipped for the climb ahead.

D2

Day 2: Londorossi Gate – Big Tree Camp (approx. 2,700m)

Big Tree Camp

In the morning the hike begins through lush rainforest. Along the way you may spot monkeys and bird species. After about 3–4 hours you reach Big Tree Camp for your first night.

D3

Day 3: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp (approx. 3,500m)

Shira 1 Camp

Hike through moorland and heath vegetation. Enjoy the wide Shira Plateau with spectacular views of Kilimanjaro. Shira 1 Camp is an ideal spot for acclimatization.

D4

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (approx. 3,850m)

Shira 2 Camp

The hike continues through alpine desert landscape and lava fields. Enjoy the dramatic scenery, photo stops and the tranquility of the Shira Plateau.

D5

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Moir Hut (approx. 4,200m)

Moir Hut

The climb to Moir Hut aids acclimatization. Along the way you experience impressive lava formations, alpine vegetation and great viewpoints.

D6

Day 6: Moir Hut – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp (approx. 3,960m)

Barranco Camp

Via the Lava Tower you descend gently to Barranco Camp, where you spend the night. The climb serves as important acclimatization for the coming days.

D7

Day 7: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (approx. 4,035m)

Karanga Camp

Today you climb the Barranco Wall, a moderate scramble with spectacular views. Afterwards, continue to Karanga Camp for the night.

D8

Day 8: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (approx. 4,640m)

Barafu Camp

The climb to Barafu Camp prepares you for summit day. In the afternoon, rest, dinner and final preparation for the night ascent.

D9

Day 9: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (approx. 3,100m) – Return to Moshi/Arusha

Moshi/Arusha

Early morning start for the summit (6–8 hours). From Uhuru Peak you enjoy breathtaking views over Africa. After plenty of photos, descend to Mweka Camp and on to Mweka Gate. After the certificate presentation, transfer back to your accommodation or the airport.

What's Included & Excluded

Know exactly what your package covers

Included

  • Kilimanjaro National Park entry & camping/hut fees
  • KPAP-certified mountain guides, cooks and porters
  • All meals on the mountain (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner, hot drinks)
  • Mountain camping equipment or hut accommodation (route-dependent)
  • Treated drinking water throughout the climb
  • Government rescue fees
  • Airport transfer on arrival/departure
  • Pre-climb briefing and equipment check

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Tanzania visa
  • Travel & medical evacuation insurance
  • Tips for guides, cooks and porters
  • Personal climbing gear (boots, jacket, sleeping bag)
  • Alcoholic drinks and snacks
  • Hotel accommodation before/after the climb (unless stated)

Best Time to Travel

The clearest, driest climbing conditions fall in two windows: late June through October, and January to mid-March. Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the short and long rains (November, and April-May) bring wetter trails and lower summit visibility.

Camping (mountain tents, full trekking crew)

Full board on the mountain, prepared by our mountain cooks

What to Pack

Suggested gear for this trip

Waterproof hiking boots (broken in before the trip)
Insulated waterproof jacket and trousers
Moisture-wicking base layers
Fleece or down mid-layer
Warm hat, gloves and neck gaiter
Headlamp with spare batteries
Trekking poles
4-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
Sunglasses (UV protection) and high-SPF sunscreen
First-aid kit and personal medication
Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
Daypack (25-35L) for daily essentials

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