9-Days Luxury Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro 2026-2027

9 Days Luxury Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Highlights:

• Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

• Day 4: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

• Day 5: Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Moir Hut

• Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

• Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

• Day 8: Third Cave to School Hut

• Day 9: Summit Uhuru Peak to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Overview 

The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic route, giving you plenty of time to adjust to the altitude and enjoy nearly every side of the mountain. Over nine unforgettable days, you will hike through lush rainforest, cross wide moorland filled with unique plants, and walk across the quiet northern slopes where very few climbers go. This route circles almost the entire mountain, offering breathtaking views of Kenya to the north and Kilimanjaro’s glaciers above. Because you spend more days at higher elevations, your body acclimatizes better, which gives you an excellent chance to reach the summit. Choosing a luxury climb means you’ll explore this remote trail with the comfort of roomy walk-in tents, real mattresses, private dining, and freshly prepared hot meals every day. Expert guides and a private chef will make sure you stay safe, comfortable, and well-fed. In the 2026–2027 season, this nine-day adventure is perfect if you want both a true wilderness experience and the best chance of standing on Africa’s highest point, Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Moshi

You will be welcomed at Kilimanjaro International Airport and driven to a comfortable luxury lodge in Moshi. Your guide will meet you for a climb briefing and gear check so you feel ready for the journey.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury lodge in Moshi

Day 2 – Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

You’ll drive to Lemosho Gate and start hiking through thick rainforest alive with birds and monkeys. The gentle trail leads to Mti Mkubwa Camp where your spacious luxury tent and hot dinner are waiting.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at Mti Mkubwa

Day 3 – Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Today you’ll climb out of the forest and onto the Shira Plateau, a broad moorland with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s peak. You’ll enjoy a relaxed evening with a warm meal and a sky full of stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at Shira 1 Camp

Day 4 – Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

You’ll continue across the Shira Plateau, taking your time to soak in the wide-open scenery and unusual plants. The gentle pace helps your body adjust to the higher altitude.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at Shira 2 Camp

Day 5 – Shira 2 to Lava Tower, then to Moir Hut

You’ll hike up to Lava Tower for a high-altitude lunch break, which helps with acclimatization, then descend slightly to the quiet Moir Hut area. This remote spot offers incredible evening views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at Moir Hut

Day 6 – Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

The trail curves around the northern slopes, far from the crowds. You’ll pass wild valleys and enjoy views stretching into Kenya. Your luxury tent will be ready with hot drinks and dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at Buffalo Camp

Day 7 – Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

You’ll trek across gentle ridges with constant mountain views, enjoying the quiet of this remote side of Kilimanjaro. Your guides will keep the pace slow so you acclimatize well.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at Third Cave Camp

Day 8 – Third Cave to School Hut

Today you’ll hike to School Hut, your final camp before the summit push. After an early gourmet dinner, you’ll rest and prepare for the night climb to Uhuru Peak.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury Mountain tent at School Hut

Day 9 – Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Mweka Gate, return to Moshi

Just after midnight, you’ll begin the steady climb to the summit. You’ll watch the sunrise from the roof of Africa at 5,895 meters. After celebrating, you’ll descend to Mweka Gate where a private vehicle will take you back to Moshi for a well-earned hot shower and a luxurious hotel stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Luxury lodge in Moshi

Includes

• Professional mountain guides, porters, and private chef
• Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping fees, and rescue service
• Upgraded luxury tents with real mattresses and private dining setup
• Three freshly prepared meals each day on the mountain
• Private transfers between Moshi and all trailheads
• Pre- and post-climb lodge accommodation

Excludes

• International or domestic flights
• Tanzania visa and travel insurance
• Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, sleeping bag liner)
• Tips for guides, cook, and porters
• Extra drinks or personal snacks