9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

Overview

Kilimanjaro's newest and longest route around the quiet northern side — exceptional views, fewer crowds and excellent acclimatisation.

Highlights

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day 1Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

   Registration at the gate, followed by a trek through the rainforest to camp.

   2,200 m → 2,700 m~6 km3–4 hoursForestOvernight: Mti Mkubwa Camp

2. Day 2Mti Mkubwa Camp to Simba Camp

   Climb into the moorland with views over the Shira Plateau.

   2,700 m → 3,100 m~8 km5–6 hoursMoorlandOvernight: Simba Camp

3. Day 3Simba Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

   Trek across the plateau towards Mawenzi Peak.

   3,100 m → 4,350 m~8 km5–6 hoursAlpine desertOvernight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

4. Day 4Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kikelewa Camp

   A shorter hike that leaves time for rest and acclimatisation.

   4,350 m → 4,600 m~4 km3–4 hoursAlpine desertOvernight: Kikelewa Camp

5. Day 5Acclimatisation day at Kikelewa Camp

   An acclimatisation hike back towards Mawenzi Tarn and return to camp.

   4,600 m → 4,600 mVariable4–5 hoursAlpine desertOvernight: Kikelewa Camp

6. Day 6Kikelewa Camp to Kibo Hut

   Trek to the final camp before summit day.

   4,600 m → 4,700 m~8 km5–6 hoursAlpine desertOvernight: Kibo Hut

7. Day 7Summit day: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and back

   The summit attempt begins around midnight. Reach the top at sunrise, then descend to Kibo Hut to rest.

   4,700 m → 5,895 m → 4,700 m~14 km12–14 hoursArctic and alpine desertOvernight: Kibo Hut

8. Day 8Kibo Hut to Horombo Camp

   Descend on easier terrain to Horombo.

   4,700 m → 3,720 m~19 km6–8 hoursMoorland and heathOvernight: Horombo Camp

9. Day 9Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate

   The final descent to the gate, your certificate and the transfer to Moshi or Arusha.

   3,720 m → 1,860 m~20 km4–5 hoursForest and farmland

Elevation profile

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