Best 9 days Northern circuit route climb: Overview

The Best 9 Days Northern Circuit route climb is the Kilimanjaro hiking that maximize both enjoyment and success on Africa's tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. 9 days Northern circuit route climb offers the perfect balance of duration, acclimatization, and scenic diversity, ensuring climbers have the best possible chance of reaching the summit. With the extended itinerary of 9 days, climbers have ample time to acclimatize to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude-related illnesses and increasing the likelihood of summit success. The Northern Circuit route which is renowned for its lower foot traffic and stunning vistas, provides a captivating backdrop for this 9 days Kilimanjaro climb. From traversing lush rainforests to ascending barren alpine deserts adorned with glaciers, each day presents new challenges and rewards. With a high success rate and unparalleled beauty, the Best 9 Days Northern Circuit route climb promises an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience for adventurers of all levels.

Best time for 9 days Northern Circuit route climb

The best time for the 9 days Northern Circuit route climb is during the dry seasons, which occur from late June to October and from December to February. During these months, the weather on Mount Kilimanjaro is relatively stable, with clear skies and minimal precipitation, providing optimal conditions for trekking. The dry seasons coincide with the peak climbing seasons, ensuring that essential facilities such as campsites and trails are well-maintained and accessible. Climbers can expect mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights, making for comfortable trekking conditions. The dry seasons offer breathtaking visibility, allowing climbers to fully appreciate the stunning vistas and diverse landscapes along the Northern Circuit route. Scheduling the climb during the dry seasons maximizes the chances of a successful and enjoyable expedition on Africa's highest peak. Kindly Book with us for the best 9 days Northern circuit route climb through our email : redetours2005@gmail.com Or enquire us now .

9 days Northern circuit route climb : Itinerary

Day 1 : Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa

Elevation: 2,100 m to 2,750 m
Distance Covered: 7 Km
Time Taken: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Campsite

Upon arriving at Londorossi Gate, climbers begin their ascent through lush rainforest terrain, gradually gaining elevation. The trek to Mti Mkubwa Campsite offers a gentle introduction to the Northern Circuit route, with opportunities to spot wildlife amidst the verdant surroundings. Climbers settle in at Mti Mkubwa Campsite for their first night on the mountain, nestled amidst the towering trees of Kilimanjaro's lower slopes.

Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,750 m to 3,505 m
Distance Covered: 8 Km
Time Taken: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite

Leaving Mti Mkubwa behind, climbers continue their journey towards Shira 1 Camp, traversing through heath and moorland landscapes. As the terrain becomes more open, breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro's western slopes unfold. Arriving at Shira 1 Campsite, climbers settle in for the night, surrounded by the vastness of the Shira Plateau and its unique flora.

Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,505 m to 3,840 m
Distance Covered: 5 Km
Time Taken: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite

Continuing their ascent, climbers trek from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp, ascending steadily through alpine desert terrain. The landscape transforms as climbers gain altitude, with sparse vegetation and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's glaciers. Shira 2 Campsite offers a remote and serene setting for overnight accommodation, with the vast expanse of the plateau

stretching out below.

Day 4 : Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut

Elevation: 3,840 m to 4,640 m (Lava Tower) to 4,200 m (Moir Hut)
Distance Covered: 14 Km
Time Taken: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite

Today's trek takes climbers to higher altitudes as they ascend towards Lava Tower, an iconic rock formation on Kilimanjaro's southern circuit. After a rest break at Lava Tower to aid acclimatization, climbers continue to Moir Hut Campsite, nestled in the shadow of the towering cliffs. The rugged beauty of the alpine desert landscape surrounds climbers as they settle in for the night at Moir Hut.

Day 5 : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Elevation: 4,200 m to 4,020 m
Distance Covered: 12 Km
Time Taken: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite

Leaving Moir Hut behind, climbers descend through rolling hills and valleys towards Buffalo Camp, located on the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with glimpses of Mount Meru in the distance on clear days. Buffalo Campsite provides a peaceful and secluded setting for overnight accommodation, surrounded by the beauty of Kilimanjaro's northern wilderness.

Day 6 : Buffalo Camp to Third Cave

Elevation: 4,020 m to 3,870 m
Distance Covered: 8 Km
Time Taken: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite

Continuing their descent, climbers trek through alpine desert terrain towards Third Cave Campsite. The trail winds its way through rocky terrain, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's northern slopes and the surrounding landscape. Third Cave Campsite provides a comfortable and scenic setting for overnight accommodation, nestled amidst the rocky outcrops of Kilimanjaro's high altitude landscape.

Day 7 : Third Cave to School Hut

Elevation: 3,870 m to 4,715 m
Distance Covered: 5 Km
Time Taken: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite

As climbers approach the final push towards the summit, they ascend to School Hut Campsite, situated at the base of Kilimanjaro's southern circuit. The trail climbs steadily through alpine desert terrain, with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. School Hut Campsite serves as a staging point for the summit attempt, providing climbers with a comfortable base camp before the final ascent.

Day 8 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,715 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) to 3,100 m (Mweka Camp)
Distance Covered: 21 Km
Time Taken: 12-14 hours (summit day)
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite

Today marks the culmination of the journey as climbers start the final push towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent. Setting out in the early hours of the morning, climbers ascend steeply through rocky terrain towards Stella Point before making the final push to Uhuru Peak. Upon reaching the summit, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of achievement. After descending from the summit, climbers continue to Mweka Campsite for a well-deserved rest and overnight accommodation.

Day 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,100 m to 1,640 m
Distance Covered: 10 Km
Time Taken: 3-4 hours

The final day of the trek sees climbers descend through lush rainforest terrain towards Mweka Gate, where the journey began. Descending through the dense vegetation, climbers reflect on their achievements and experiences during the past nine days on Kilimanjaro. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, climbers receive their summit certificates before bidding farewell to the mountain and transferring back to their accommodation for a well-deserved rest.