9 days mount kilimanjaro climbing northern circuit route

Aardvark Expeditions presents: Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek – 9 Days

Start an unforgettable adventure with our 9-day Northern Circuit trek, one of Kilimanjaro’s most rewarding and newly established routes. Renowned for its length and exceptional summit success rate, the Northern Circuit takes you on an immersive journey—from the familiar Lemosho path to the quieter, less-traveled northern slopes of Africa’s highest peak. Experience the thrill of climbing via Gilman’s Point and the comfort of descending along established trails that merge with the Machame and Lemosho routes. Discover the magic of Kilimanjaro with Aardvark Expeditions!.

Overview

Route Highlights:

• Begins on the same path as the Lemosho Route for the first two days
• Circles the tranquil northern slopes on the east side
• Approaches the summit via Gilman’s Point
• Concludes with a descent mirroring the Machame and Lemosho routes

Itinerary

Day 0: Pre-Trek Briefing & Arrival

Upon arrival in Arusha, enjoy our optional airport transfers from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport. Settle into your hotel in Arusha, where we conduct an informative pre-trek briefing. This session includes a review of your gear, and equipment fittings, and an opportunity to rent any additional items required for your expedition. Please plan to arrive at least one day before the trek’s commencement.

Day 1: From Hotel to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Your adventure begins with a hearty breakfast and a briefing before setting off on a 3-hour drive to the Londorossi Park Gate. A rugged 4WD track leads you to the lush Lemosho Glades. Enjoy a scenic walk along forest trails as you make your way to the Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite.

• Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft
• Distance: 6km/4mi
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

After breakfast, the trail gradually steepens, taking you into the expansive giant heather moorland. Cross several refreshing streams before ascending the Shira Ridge. The descent leads to Shira 1 Camp, nestled by a sparkling stream on the Shira Plateau.

• Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3500m/11,500ft
• Distance: 8km/5mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Following breakfast, enjoy a gentle hike across the plateau to reach Shira 2 Camp, set amidst serene moorland meadows and beside a tranquil stream. This day offers several shorter hikes on the plateau, providing excellent opportunities for acclimatization.

• Elevation: 3500m/11,500ft to 3850m/12,600ft
• Distance: 8km/5mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp

Prepare for a longer day as you trek eastward through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ into the high alpine desert zone. The morning ascent takes you to Lava Tower and the striking Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4600m, where lunch is served. In the afternoon, join the Northern Circuit as you descend to Moir Camp at 4200m. This “high and low” day is key to proper acclimatization.

• Elevation: 3850m/11,500ft to 4200m/13,780ft
• Distance: 14km/8mi
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Moir Camp to Buffalo Camp

Today’s journey involves a moderately steep climb from Moir Valley. Optionally, you may take a detour to the summit of Little Lent Hill (4375m) before rejoining the Northern Circuit. The path then follows varied inclines and declines as it skirts along the northern slopes of Kibo, leading to Buffalo Camp.

• Elevation: 4200m/13,780ft to 4020m/13,188ft
• Distance: 12km/7mi
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: High Alpine
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Rongai Third Cave

After a breakfast at camp, ascend the Buffalo ridge and then descend into Porfu Camp, where lunch is typically served. The trail then winds east along the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave, where you’ll arrive by mid-afternoon, benefiting from improved acclimatization.

• Elevation: 4020m/13,188ft to 3800m/12,467ft
• Distance: 8km/5mi
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: High Alpine
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut

Start your day with a steady climb over the Saddle that separates the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The ascent continues in a southwesterly direction to School Hut. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy an early dinner before an early wake-up call—prepare your gear, including warm layers, insulated water bottles, snacks, and a headlamp, as you gear up for the summit attempt that begins before midnight.

• Elevation: 3800m/12,467ft to 4800m/15,748ft
• Distance: 15km/8mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Awakened at around 11:30 PM with hot tea and biscuits, you’ll begin a challenging ascent up Kibo’s slopes under a starry sky. The first checkpoint, Hans Meyer Cave, provides a brief respite before you continue towards Gilman’s Point (5681m). As dawn approaches, soak in the panoramic view of Mawenzi Peak, but remember—your summit push continues for another 2 hours to reach the iconic Uhuru Peak. After a brief summit celebration and photo session, descend via Stella Point and the scree slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp. A short break here precedes the final descent to Millennium Camp, where you’ll spend your last night on the mountain.

Day 9: Millennium Camp to Hotel via Mweka Gate

After breakfast, the final descent takes you from Millennium Camp to the Mweka Park Gate. Here, you’ll receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate before boarding the vehicle that will transport you back to your Arusha hotel—a journey of about 60 minutes. Expect variable conditions at lower elevations, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

• Elevation: 3950m/12,959ft to 1680m/5500ft
• Distance: 10km/6mi
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

• High-Quality, Waterproof, Four-Season Mountain Tents (twin sharing)
• Government VAT (18%)
• Rescue and Conservation Fees (part of park fees)
• All On-Mountain Meals – Fresh, nutritious, and ample portions
• Transfers between the mountain and your Arusha hotel
• Experienced Mountain Guides and Support Staff (guides, porters, cooks)
• Clean, Purified Drinking Water and Sleeping Mattresses
• Camping/Hut Fees and Quality Mess Tents (with tables and chairs)
• Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
• Emergency Oxygen Cylinder

Exclusions

• Alcoholic Beverages and Bottled Drinks
• Online Payment Surcharges (5% on each payment)
• Tanzania Visa and Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses (laundry, telephone, additional beverages, etc.)
• International and Domestic Flights
• Tips and Gratuities
• Optional Hotel Stays (available as add-ons)
• Personal Trekking Gear (sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothing, etc. available for rent)
• Meals Not Specified in the Itinerary
• Additional Transfers (available as add-ons)

Why Choose Aardvark Expeditions?

At Aardvark Expeditions, we pride ourselves on offering meticulously planned adventures that combine safety, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. Our Northern Circuit trek on Kilimanjaro is designed with your success in mind—providing expert guidance, state-of-the-art equipment, and personalized service every step of the way. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or embarking on your first high-altitude adventure, our comprehensive support ensures you’re fully prepared to reach new heights.

Embrace the journey of a lifetime with Aardvark Expeditions and let our Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Trek be your gateway to conquering Africa’s highest peak in a stress-free, memorable way.

Ready to embark on your adventure? Contact Aardvark Expeditions today and start planning your 9-day Northern Circuit trek – where every step is an achievement and every moment, is a memory to treasure.