Northern Circuit RouteKilimanjaro Climb
8 or 9 Days to the Roof of Africa
Explore Kilimanjaro’s western forests, cross the Shira Plateau and follow the quieter northern slopes toward Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres. Choose an eight-day or nine-day trek with our local mountain team.
YOUR ADVENTURE. YOUR SUMMIT. YOUR STORY.
Northern Circuit Route Overview
The Northern Circuit Route offers a long and varied journey across Mount Kilimanjaro, combining the western Lemosho approach with a traverse around Kibo’s northern slopes. It suits travellers who want to spend more time exploring the mountain, enjoy quieter trekking stages and experience landscapes beyond the busier southern trails.
Your climb begins in the rainforest on the western side of Kilimanjaro. As the trail gains height, the forest gives way to heather and open moorland before reaching the Shira Plateau. Here, the landscape opens into broad volcanic scenery, with views of Kibo when the weather is clear.
Beyond Shira, the route turns toward Moir Hut and continues through Buffalo Camp and Third Cave. These northern stages reveal a different perspective of the mountain, with exposed ridges, open alpine terrain and far-reaching views toward the plains of Kenya. The sense of space is a major part of the route’s appeal, although the trail becomes busier where it joins other summit approaches.
8 Days or 9 Days?
Our 8-day itinerary travels directly from Shira 1 to Moir Hut, creating a longer plateau-crossing day. The 9-day itinerary adds a separate overnight stop at Shira 2 before continuing via Lava Tower to Moir Hut. Both then follow the northern traverse toward Third Cave and Kibo Hut.
We generally recommend the 9-day option for travellers who can allow the extra day. It spreads the western approach over more stages, although both options require stamina and a willingness to walk for several hours each day.
Who Does This Route Suit?
The Northern Circuit is a good fit for walkers who enjoy extended journeys, varied scenery and camping. The itinerary does not normally require technical climbing equipment, but it remains a demanding high-altitude trek. Uneven trails, cold nights and a long summit day are part of the experience.
Previous multi-day hiking experience is helpful. The number of days alone does not guarantee a summit: your condition, response to altitude, weather and the guide’s assessment determine how the climb progresses.
From Third Cave to Uhuru Peak
Our programme continues from Third Cave to the Kibo Hut area rather than School Hut. The summit attempt begins at night and follows the ascent toward Gilman’s Point, then the crater rim via Stella Point toward Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres.
After the summit attempt, the route descends on the southern side toward Barafu and the Mweka trail. The planned overnight stop is Mweka Camp on the 8-day trek and Millennium Camp on the 9-day trek, subject to your guide’s assessment of the team and conditions.
A Fully Supported Camping Trek
Your mountain team includes guides, a cook and porters, with tents, mountain meals and treated drinking water arranged as listed in your package. You carry a daypack with the items you need while walking, while the crew transports the main camp equipment and your allocated luggage.
Despite the names Moir Hut and Kibo Hut, this is a camping itinerary; indoor hut accommodation is only included if confirmed in writing. Arrival and departure days are separate from the trekking duration, and your package includes two hotel nights in Moshi.
Choose it for the longer journey, the northern scenery and time spent on the mountain. Tell us about your walking experience, dates and group size, and we’ll help you choose between the two itineraries.
Choose Your Northern Circuit Experience
Both include a local mountain team, camping and the Kibo summit approach. Arrival and departure days are additional.
9-Day Climb
An extended western approach with a separate Shira 2 overnight stop before continuing via Lava Tower to Moir Hut.
- Nine trekking days
- Separate overnight stop at Shira 2
- Northern traverse via Buffalo and Third Cave
- Summit attempt from the Kibo Hut area
8-Day Climb
A compact northern traverse that combines the plateau crossing into a longer Shira 1 to Moir Hut stage.
- Eight trekking days
- Direct Shira 1 to Moir Hut stage
- Northern traverse via Buffalo and Third Cave
- Summit attempt from the Kibo Hut area
9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
Take the extended approach through Shira 2 and Lava Tower before the northern traverse. Open each day for photos and full details.
Arrival · Welcome to Tanzania
Meet our team at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your guide for a route briefing, equipment check and final preparations.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi.
Lemosho Trailhead to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Begin on the western slopes and follow the rainforest trail to your first mountain camp.
Read full day details
After breakfast in Moshi, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and continue to the Northern Circuit trailhead. Walk beneath the rainforest canopy at a steady pace before settling into your first camp at Mti Mkubwa.
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your waterproof layer and daypack rain cover within easy reach.
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Leave the rainforest and ascend toward the open landscapes of the Shira Plateau.
Read full day details
The trail climbs through heather as the forest gives way to open ground. Continue toward Shira 1 Camp, with views toward Kibo when the weather clears. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and time to rest after the day’s ascent.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Walk across open moorland with wide views of Kibo and the surrounding plateau.
Read full day details
Follow the gradual trail across open moorland toward Shira 2. This additional overnight stop spreads the western approach over more days. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the higher terrain ahead.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Climb toward Lava Tower before continuing to your overnight camp at Moir Hut.
Read full day details
Leave Shira 2 and cross alpine terrain toward Lava Tower. After the higher section, continue to Moir Hut for the night. Your guide assesses conditions and the group’s progress throughout this longer trekking day.
Overnight: Moir Hut.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Follow Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes across remote, open alpine terrain.
Read full day details
Climb out of the Moir Valley and follow the trail around the northern side of Kibo. The landscape opens toward the plains of Kenya in clear weather. Cross rolling terrain before reaching Buffalo Camp for your overnight stay.
Overnight: Buffalo Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Continue along the northern trail toward Third Cave Camp.
Read full day details
Follow the undulating northern trail, enjoying the open landscape and quieter campsites. The route continues toward Third Cave, where your crew prepares camp and dinner before the next day’s approach to Kibo.
Overnight: Third Cave Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Third Cave Camp to Kibo Hut
Ascend toward the Kibo Hut area and prepare for your summit attempt.
Read full day details
Cross increasingly sparse alpine terrain toward the Saddle and Kibo Hut area. Eat early and prepare your warm layers, headlamp and daypack. Rest before the night ascent. This is a camping expedition; the Kibo Hut location does not imply a reserved bed inside the hut.
Overnight: Kibo Hut.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
Climb toward the summit before descending to Millennium Camp.
Read full day details
Begin around midnight as directed by your guide. Ascend from Kibo toward Gilman’s Point, then follow the crater rim via Stella Point toward Uhuru Peak. After the summit attempt, descend toward Barafu for a rest before continuing to Millennium Camp. The guide may adjust the overnight descent camp to suit the team and conditions.
Overnight: Millennium Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate
Complete your descent through moorland and rainforest to Mweka Gate.
Read full day details
Enjoy breakfast before descending through the changing vegetation toward Mweka Gate. Complete park exit formalities and collect the appropriate certificate if eligible. Say farewell to your mountain crew and return to Moshi for a shower, a meal and a well-earned rest.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Departure · Until next time
After your post-climb hotel night, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport according to your confirmed flight schedule. Ask us about adding a safari or Zanzibar stay.
9-Day Northern Circuit Route Prices
Prices in USD per person. Choose your group size and request a confirmed quotation.
1 Person
$2,800USD per person · 9-day climb
Get a Quote →2–4 People
$2,400USD per person · 9-day climb
Get a Quote →5–7 People
$2,200USD per person · 9-day climb
Get a Quote →8+ People
$2,000USD per person · 9-day climb
Get a Quote →Prices are per person. Final availability and arrangements are confirmed in your written quotation.
Walking times, distances and elevations are approximate. Your guide may adjust stages and descent camps for conditions and group progress.
8-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
Cross Shira directly to Moir Hut, then continue around the northern slopes. Open each day for photos and full details.
Arrival · Welcome to Tanzania
Meet our team at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your guide for a route briefing, equipment check and final preparations.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi.
Lemosho Trailhead to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Begin on the western slopes and follow the rainforest trail to your first mountain camp.
Read full day details
After breakfast in Moshi, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and continue to the Northern Circuit trailhead. Walk beneath the rainforest canopy at a steady pace before settling into your first camp at Mti Mkubwa.
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your waterproof layer and daypack rain cover within easy reach.
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Leave the rainforest and ascend toward the open landscapes of the Shira Plateau.
Read full day details
The trail climbs through heather as the forest gives way to open ground. Continue toward Shira 1 Camp, with views toward Kibo when the weather clears. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and time to rest after the day’s ascent.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Cross the Shira Plateau and continue toward the quieter Moir Hut camping area.
Read full day details
The eight-day option combines the plateau crossing into a longer day. Continue beyond the Shira area toward Moir Hut, beneath the Lent Hills. Your guide sets the pace as you gain altitude and move into more exposed mountain terrain.
Overnight: Moir Hut.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Follow Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes across remote, open alpine terrain.
Read full day details
Climb out of the Moir Valley and follow the trail around the northern side of Kibo. The landscape opens toward the plains of Kenya in clear weather. Cross rolling terrain before reaching Buffalo Camp for your overnight stay.
Overnight: Buffalo Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Continue along the northern trail toward Third Cave Camp.
Read full day details
Follow the undulating northern trail, enjoying the open landscape and quieter campsites. The route continues toward Third Cave, where your crew prepares camp and dinner before the next day’s approach to Kibo.
Overnight: Third Cave Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Third Cave Camp to Kibo Hut
Ascend toward the Kibo Hut area and prepare for your summit attempt.
Read full day details
Cross increasingly sparse alpine terrain toward the Saddle and Kibo Hut area. Eat early and prepare your warm layers, headlamp and daypack. Rest before the night ascent. This is a camping expedition; the Kibo Hut location does not imply a reserved bed inside the hut.
Overnight: Kibo Hut.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Attempt Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point, then descend on the southern trail.
Read full day details
Begin around midnight as directed by your guide. Ascend from Kibo toward Gilman’s Point, then follow the crater rim via Stella Point toward Uhuru Peak. After the summit attempt, descend toward Barafu for a rest before continuing to Mweka Camp. The guide may adjust the overnight descent camp to suit the team and conditions.
Overnight: Mweka Camp.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Descend through the rainforest and return to your hotel in Moshi.
Read full day details
Enjoy breakfast before descending through the changing vegetation toward Mweka Gate. Complete park exit formalities and collect the appropriate certificate if eligible. Say farewell to your mountain crew and return to Moshi for a shower, a meal and a well-earned rest.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi.
Guide’s advice: Keep your pace steady and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the stage.
Departure · Until next time
After your post-climb hotel night, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport according to your confirmed flight schedule. Ask us about adding a safari or Zanzibar stay.
8-Day Northern Circuit Route Prices
Prices in USD per person. Choose your group size and request a confirmed quotation.
1 Person
$2,370USD per person · 8-day climb
Get a Quote →2–4 People
$2,020USD per person · 8-day climb
Get a Quote →5–7 People
$1,945USD per person · 8-day climb
Get a Quote →8+ People
$1,840USD per person · 8-day climb
Get a Quote →Prices are per person. Final availability and arrangements are confirmed in your written quotation.
Walking times, distances and elevations are approximate. Your guide may adjust stages and descent camps for conditions and group progress.
Around the mountain.
Then to the summit.
Follow the western start through Shira, then the northern traverse through Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp and Third Cave.
Our itinerary uses Kibo Hut for the summit approach and Mweka for the descent. The day-by-day programme takes precedence where the map shows alternative camps.
Your expedition, supported.
The same core services apply to both itineraries. Final arrangements are listed in your booking confirmation.
Package Inclusions
- Experienced mountain guides, cook and porters
- Park entry, camping, conservation and rescue fees
- 18% VAT on tour services
- Mountain sleeping tents and sleeping mats
- Dining arrangements and freshly prepared mountain meals
- Treated drinking water throughout the trek
- Pulse oximeter, first aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Guide briefing and equipment check before the climb
- Transport to the trailhead and from Mweka Gate
- Airport transfers between JRO and Moshi
- Two hotel nights in Moshi with bed and breakfast
- Crew accommodation, park entry and fair wages
Package Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, cook and porters
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Sleeping bag rental
- Private portable toilet: USD 120 per group
- Extra hotel nights, laundry, drinks and personal expenses
Prepare for the climb.
Good preparation makes your days on the mountain more comfortable.
01 · Pack for changing weather
Bring layered clothing, waterproofs, broken-in hiking boots, warm gloves, a headlamp and a suitable sleeping bag. Keep your daypack light and your essentials accessible.
Request the packing list →02 · Build your walking fitness
Prepare with regular walking, hills and progressively longer hikes. Practise with the boots and daypack you will use on the trek.
Discuss your preparation →03 · Plan your mountain support
Talk to your guide about your experience and personal needs before arrival. Confirm trekking insurance, equipment and your travel arrangements before the climb.
Speak with our team →Plan with a local mountain team.
Abdi Expeditions is based in Moshi, at the foot of Kilimanjaro. Speak directly with our team about your route and travel arrangements.
Local route knowledge
Discuss the stages, camp arrangements and pace of your climb with guides familiar with Kilimanjaro’s trails.
Personal planning
Choose your dates and group size, review your equipment and receive a written proposal before confirming your expedition.
Support on the mountain
Your guides, cook and porters organise the camp and trekking arrangements included in your package throughout the journey.
A few things
worth knowing.
What is the difference between the 8-day and 9-day trek?
The 8-day itinerary goes from Shira 1 directly to Moir Hut. The 9-day option adds a Shira 2 overnight stop and continues via Lava Tower to Moir Hut, spreading the western approach over more days.
Does this itinerary use School Hut or Kibo Hut?
Both of our itineraries continue from Third Cave to the Kibo Hut area. The summit attempt approaches Gilman’s Point before following the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak.
Is accommodation in huts or tents?
This is a camping expedition. Even though the itinerary names Moir Hut and Kibo Hut, sleeping arrangements are in mountain tents unless your written booking confirms otherwise.
How many days should I allow in Tanzania?
Allow the trekking duration plus an arrival day before the climb and a departure day after it. That usually means 10 calendar days for the 8-day trek or 11 calendar days for the 9-day trek.
Does the Northern Circuit guarantee a summit?
No. Reaching Uhuru Peak depends on weather, altitude response, health and the guide’s assessment. A longer schedule gives more time on the mountain but cannot guarantee a summit.
Can I book a private climb?
Yes. Send Abdi Expeditions your preferred dates, group size and itinerary choice for a personalised quote.
Explore Other Kilimanjaro Routes
Different trails, different perspectives. Compare the options with our local team.
Lemosho Route
A scenic route across Shira, continuing via Barranco and Barafu.
Explore Lemosho →Machame Route
A varied southern trail with the Barranco Wall and a Barafu summit approach.
Explore Machame →Marangu Route
Choose mountain huts and a summit approach from Kibo via Gilman’s Point.
Explore Marangu →Rongai Route
Approach from Kilimanjaro’s northern side before joining the eastern summit trail.
Explore Rongai →Umbwe Route
A demanding, direct ascent for experienced trekkers seeking a challenging trail.
Explore Umbwe →Ready to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Plan your eight-day or nine-day Northern Circuit climb with Abdi Expeditions. Share your dates and group size for a personalised quotation.