11 Days Trip:
9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
Hiking Tour Package

Price from $ 2,897 (£ 2,337)

Ahsante Tours is the #1 leading local tour operator for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, trusted by most agents. So why not book with us and experience the adventure of a lifetime?

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Northern Circuit Route Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is one of the premier paths to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique and less crowded experience compared to the more popular routes. Known for its low population traffic, the Northern Circuit provides a serene and immersive journey through diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
This route starts off from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the lush rainforest to Shira Plateau. After crossing the Shira Plateau, the path veers north near Lava Tower, following the longer Northern Circuit instead of the more popular Southern Circuit via Barranco Valley. The route circles around the quieter northern slopes to the east side of the mountain. The Londrossi– Northern Circuit joins the Rongai route at Third Cave Camp. Approach the summit via Gilman’s Point and then descend via the Mweka Route.

Ranked third in summit success rates with an impressive 85% success rate, the Northern Circuit is an excellent choice for reaching Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Its extended duration of 8–9 days allows ample time for acclimatization, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience. With shorter daily hikes, this route significantly increases the chances of a successful ascent. The Northern Circuit is particularly recommended for first-time climbers or those with lower fitness levels, offering a balanced and rewarding journey to Africa’s highest peak.

The Northern Circuit Route is designed for a gradual ascent, offering additional acclimatization days for a safer and more comfortable climb. Its extended duration ensures a smoother trekking experience, making it suitable for both experienced climbers and beginners. With the added advantage of a high success rate in reaching Uhuru Peak, the Northern Circuit promises a rewarding and memorable journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Free Kilimanjaro
Kit Checklist

Free Kilimanjaro Packing List with gear necessary for the hike and recommendations
from Ahsante Tours Team

Did You Know ?

The Northern Circuit is the longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering 360-degree views, incredible solitude, and the highest success rate due to its excellent acclimatization profile!

7 Days Kilimanjaro Machame Route

Price : $2,570 (£ 1,910)

8 Days Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

Price : $2,897 (£ 2,153)

6 Days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

Price : $2,300 (£ 1,710)

9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

Price : $3,250 (£ 2,415)

Still have questions?

“Should you have any questions about schedules, transfers, or any other details,
feel free to get in touch with our knowledgeable experts”

Day 1: Arrive in Moshi, at the base of Mt Kilimanjaro

Day 2: Lemosho Glades (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)

You will be picked up at your hotel at around 08:00am and transferred to the Lemosho gate to kick off Day 1 of your 9-day adventure on Kilimanjaro – approximately 2-hour drive through farmland and plantations At the Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro, you will register for your Kilimanjaro climb. Your guide will handle the formalities. A short 15km drive takes you to the drop off point and the trail head to start your Kilimanjaro Climb. Climb steadily through the rain forests of the Lemosho glades to reach Big Tree camp (2780m). The trail is short and moderately steep. Porters will assist throughout the trek carrying all of your luggage, except your day pack and the mountain crew, will have already set up your tents before you arrive. You can rest and enjoy the beautiful forest surroundings in which you will camp tonight.

Distance covered: 7km / 4.3mi

Approx. time taken: 4 hours

Altitude Gain: 395m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 3: Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3500m)

The destination today is the Shira 1 Camp from where there are often views of Kibo Peak floating on the clouds. Start the day on a trail out of the rainforest, soon entering moorland terrain where Lobelia plants and Erica trees punctuate the landscape. Trek across this plateau of grassy moorland and heather, before climbing the northern slopes of Shira Ridge to arrive at Shira 1 Camp. Relax, put your feet up, enjoy your meal and sleep well, after gaining a fair amount of altitude today.

Distance covered: 8.5km / 5.3mi

Approx. time taken: 6-7 hrs

Altitude Gain: 720m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)

Today you will get the chance to view the Northern Ice fields from the western side of the mountain with some unusual views of Kibo. Our steady climb across the moorland of the Shira Plateau will help with acclimatization and we enjoy great panoramic views. Our destination today is the Shira 2 Camp. In the afternoon you will take an acclimatization walk then head back to camp for dinner and overnight.

Distance covered: 8km / 5mi

Approx. time taken: 5 hours

Altitude Gain: 400m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Moir Camp (4175m)

Today we have the chance to view the Northern ice fields from the western side of the mountain with some unusual views of Kibo. The terrain during our steady climb will change from the moorland of the Shira Plateau to the broad upland desert beneath the Lent Hills with great panoramic views. Look out for the giant Senecio’s before the high alpine desert zone. Our camp is at Moir Hut (4175m). After a short rest you can go on a recommended afternoon acclimatization walk towards the top of the ridgeline. The ridgeline is in the lower part of the Lent Hills (4300m) – about 2 km away and 130 meters higher than the camp. Dinner will be served on your return to camp.

Distance covered: 10km / 6 mi

Approx. time taken: 5 – 7 hours

Altitude Gain: 275m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 6: Moir Camp (4175m) to Pofu Camp (4030m)

Today we trek North to Moir Valley – tackle the hardest part of the day at the beginning as you climb a bleak and imposing slope to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375m. Strike eastwards around the Northern Circuit Trail, continuing up and down the undulating valleys on the northern face of Kibo, before finishing your trek day at Pofu Camp. Afternoon Acclimatization Hike recommended.

Distance covered: 9.2km / 5.8 mi

Approx. time taken: 5-7 hrs.

Altitude Loss: 145m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 7: Pofu Camp (4030m) to Third Cave (3900m)

The day starts with a climb up heading east through the remote valleys and around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,800 meters. The trek is shorter than the day before and vegetation gets increasingly sparse, but by now you should be feeling well acclimatized to the altitude and enjoying the fact there are no steep passages to tackle today. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon.

Distance covered: 8km / 5mi

Approx. time taken: 5-7 hours

Altitude Loss: 130m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 8: Third Cave (3900m) to School Hut Camp (4750m)

We begin today with a steady incline up and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Although you should be acclimatizing by now, make sure to drink lots of water and stick to your guide’s slow pace. You could feel the weight of altitude today as you climb steadily higher up Kilimanjaro. Take a few breaks to rest when possible and enjoy stunning views across the saddle to Mawenzi. In preparation for you summit attempt, you will be served an early dinner after arriving at School Hut, before going to bed for an attempt at some shut-eye and rest. Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks and headlamp before going to bed, as you will be awoken before midnight to start your summit attempt.

Distance covered: 4.8 km / 3 mi

Approx. time taken: 4-5 hours

Altitude Gain: 850m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 9: School Hut (4750m)↑ to UHURU PEAK (5895m) ↓to Millennium Camp (3790m)

Today is “The Big Day” – the summit stage. Your guide will wake you around midnight for a hot beverage and snacks before you begin your final ascent which will be long, slow and strenuous ascent. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave at 5220m, the climb slowly but surely goes upwards. At sunrise, you should reach Gillman’s Point (5681m) – the crater rim of Kilimanjaro – where the sun will slowly start to warm up the land. You will have soon forgotten the cold of the night and after a further hike of 1 – 2 hours, you will pass Stella Point (5730m) to reach the highest summit on Kilimanjaro – Uhuru Peak at 5895m.

Witness the awe-inspiring views from the highest point on the African continent, take your pictures to document your achievements and revel in an unforgettable experience. Your descent to Barafu Camp, will be fast and dusty, but a warm meal and short rest awaits you, before proceeding downwards 3-4 hours to Millennium Camp.

Distance covered: 5.9km / 3.7mi ascent & 8.4km / 5.2-mile descent

Approx. time taken: 6-8 hours ascent and then 4–6-hour descent

Altitude Gain: Ascent 1,145m,

Altitude Loss: Descent 2,105m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 10: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)

After breakfast the final day of your adventure begins, with a gentle trek down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where we complete park formalities and receive certificates, which you can hang up with pride! Our vehicles and driver will meet us at the gate to take you to your accommodation in Moshi, where you can treat yourself to a welcome shower, a cold swim (and a cold beer or two!) before a big evening celebration. Overnight in Moshi

Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi

Approx. time taken: 4-5 hours

Altitude Loss: 2,160m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Accommodation: Weru Weru River Lodge HB

Day 11: Depart Kilimanjaro

Ready to climb? Secure your spot with a deposit of just €150 / USD 200 per person.
The balance is due before departure — no full payment needed to confirm your dates.

Climbing Cost Includes

Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
3 Season Mountain tents (double occupancy); except for Marangu route where we overnight in Huts
Sleeping Bag
3-inch-thick foam Sleeping Mat/Pad
Spacious mess tent with all tables and chairs for rest and dining.
Transportation to & from the mountain gate
Transportation to and from the airport (JRO Airport, additional charge of USD 50 for 1 way Arusha Airport tranfer)
Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
Three meals daily while on the mountain
Katadyn filtered water throughout the trek
Hotel lodging the night before and the night after the climb with breakfast and dinner included (double occupancy)
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Tree donation in support of our environmental conservation projects
Supplemental Oxygen tanks & Pulse Oximeter
1 portable flush toilet with a toilet tent for group sizes of 4 and above.
Free of charge use of a storage room and a safe room at the lodge
Celebration dinner at the hotel after the trek

Climbing Cost Excludes

International and Domestic Flights
Visa
Tips to mountain crew (A recommended amount is USD 250-350 per participant)
Single supplement – The tents are based in double occupancy; a single tent is arranged at an extra charge of USD 20 per day.
Rental Gears
Laundry Services
Travel Insurance (Recommended – Travel insurance with medical cover on trekking to altitudes of up to 6000 meters and a helicopter evacuation)
1 portable flush toilet with a toilet tent for group sizes less than 4 people.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 212 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Priya S 
 
 
 
 Verified A Memorable Safari - Thanks to the Wonderful Team at Ahsante Tours
We had a fantastic experience with Ahsante Tours on our Tanzania safari. Everything was well organized, and the trip went smoothly from beginning to end. Holyfield Edwin, our main contact, deserves special recognition. He was warm, professional, responsive, and incredibly helpful, patiently answering all our questions both before the trip and while we were on safari. When I accidentally left my Kindle at Rafiki Retreat in Arusha, he went out of his way to arrange for it to be retrieved and sent to Kigali, our final destination. That kind of personal attention really stood out. Our guide and driver for nine days, Aston, was equally outstanding. He worked incredibly hard every day, was always patient and professional, and made us feel safe on the road. His knowledge of wildlife and ability to spot animals were impressive—we saw the Big Five multiple times! Most of all, we loved his genuine enthusiasm. He seemed just as excited about each sighting as we were, which made the experience even more enjoyable. He was also considerate and unobtrusive, allowing us to take in each moment at our own pace. The accommodations were generally three-star, and we enjoyed most of the bush camps and hotels along the way. Ahsante also coordinated our Rwanda extension to see the gorillas through Mist Safari, which was another wonderful experience. Brian K., our contact in Rwanda, was super responsive and easy to communicate with. All in all, we were very happy with Ahsante Tours. The team was reliable, thoughtful, and professional, and the personal touches made a real difference. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone planning a Tanzania safari, especially if you value good communication, a knowledgeable guide, and a team that genuinely cares about your experience. Thank you, Ahsante Tours, for a trip filled with wonderful experiences and memories we will cherish for years to come!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sam S 
 
 
 
 Verified Trip of a lifetime!
I went with Ahsante Tours via Explore on a trip to climb Kilimanjaro (Lemosho route) followed by safaris in Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. All the guides were very friendly and nice to talk to - I got along with all of them very well. For the Kilimanjaro climb, I was consistently impressed by how above and beyond all the staff went to make sure we had everything and we were comfortable. The level of care, service and concern for our health and safety was unmatched. For the safaris, our guide was very knowledgeable with what everything was and was amazing at spotting even the smallest animals in secretive hiding spots. I think this was the best trip of my life and I will always remember it incredibly fondly!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sophie N 
 
 
 
 Verified Incredible
An incredible experience with the best team of guides and porters we could have asked for. They made it fun, interesting and ensured we were safe and happy at all times. I cannot thank Mussa, Joshua , Michael , Juma , Uhuru and the rest of the team enough for the trip of a lifetime. Thank you 🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Blair T 
 
 
 
 Verified 10/10 review for a great company
Uk - Scotland based review. This is my second time using Ahsante tours and they can’t be faulted. I booked Kilimanjaro in 2025 with them and they were brilliant from the first initial contact. They planned out the trip according to my dates etc and were in communication throughout until I arrived. I used them again this year to book a safari trip for my partners birthday. Again, from initial contact their communication was excellent. I provided them with how I’d like my trip to look and executed it to perfection. We stayed with a Masai tribe before starting safari trip and this was a 10/10 experience. Would recommend. We thereafter visited Tarangire, Lake Manyara and then Serengeti for safari game drives. An experience that will last a life time that was made possible by using Ashante Tours. All accommodation we stayed in was clean, staff all friendly, food was good, all packed lunches provided for game drives and they were good as well. We had a safari guide Godwin, who was with us for 6 days. He was so friendly, so knowledgeable and just an overall really nice guy. Couldn’t have picked a better guide myself. The Weru Weru lodges, where you stay when booking with Ahsante is clean, good food and staff very friendly (both times). Would recommend anyone looking to book a trip to climb Kilimanjaro or safaris to book through Ahsante tours. Both times zero complaints. If I was to return to Tanzania I will use again. Ahsante to all - Ahsante Tour staff 👏🏻
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ukiyo 
 
 
 
 Verified Perfect!
Professional, flexible, and friendly team. We spent 17 days with this company. From Kili to Safaris, everything was organized and managed to a perfection. Big thanks to Daniel, Benson and Derick.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Shabana S 
 
 
 
 Verified They didn’t just get us to the summit — they got us through Kilimanjaro
I don’t think you fully understand the importance of choosing the right Kilimanjaro team until you are actually on that mountain. We climbed with Ahsante Tours in September 2026, and there are moments from those days that I will genuinely never forget. Kilimanjaro tests you in ways that go far beyond physical fitness. There are long days, altitude, exhaustion, freezing temperatures, moments of complete awe and moments when your mind and body simply do not want to cooperate anymore. And during those moments, the people around you become incredibly important. Our Ahsante team were exceptional. The guides knew when to push us, when to slow us down, when we needed encouragement and when we simply needed someone beside us. The porters were absolute heroes. Watching how hard this team works while still greeting us with warmth, humour and encouragement every day gave me an entirely new level of respect for what goes into getting someone up Kilimanjaro. Summit night is where I understood it most. By that point, this wasn’t a holiday or even just a trek anymore. It was mental, physical and emotional. There were moments when reaching Uhuru Peak felt impossibly far away, but our team never stopped believing that we could get there. And we did. I stood at Uhuru Peak knowing that although my legs had carried me there, I absolutely had not got there alone. The organisation, food, camps and logistics were all handled extremely well, but what separates a good Kilimanjaro company from an unforgettable one is the people. These are the people who see you exhausted, cold, emotional and completely stripped of your usual comforts — and somehow keep you moving forward. To everyone at Ahsante who carried, cooked, guided, encouraged, laughed with us and quite literally walked this journey with us: asante sana. Kilimanjaro gave me one of the hardest and most extraordinary experiences of my life, and I will always be grateful that Ahsante Tours was part of it. Five stars, without hesitation. ❤️
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Heena K 
 
 
 
 Verified Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro
My Kilimanjaro Experience with Ahsante Tours 🏔️ Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro was something I wanted to do for the adventure, but the experience turned out to mean so much more than I expected. From the beginning, Ahsante Tours made the process smooth and well organised. The communication before the climb, the arrangements, and the preparation all gave me confidence going into the journey. The climb itself was challenging—physically. But having a supportive and experienced team around me made a huge difference. The guides were encouraging throughout the entire climb, constantly checking on us, reminding us to take it *pole pole*, and making sure we were comfortable and safe. The porters were equally incredible. Seeing how much they carried and how hard they worked every day gave me an entirely different appreciation for the people behind the climb. Summit night was by far the toughest part. It was cold, dark, exhausting and mentally challenging, but every step brought me closer to the goal. Finally reaching Uhuru Peak at **5,895 metres** was a feeling I honestly cannot put into words. After all the preparation, tiredness, doubts and long days, standing at the summit and knowing **I DID IT** was unforgettable. But what I loved most about this experience is that Kilimanjaro taught me things beyond climbing a mountain. It taught me to appreciate my comfort at home, to trust my body, to keep moving at my own pace, and to understand that sometimes you are capable of much more than you think. I am genuinely grateful to the entire Ahsante Tours team for being part of such an important experience for me. From the first step to the final descent, their support contributed greatly to making this journey memorable. Thank you, Ahsante Tours, for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Duncan 
 
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable trip (in a good way)
I joined an Ahsante group climbing the Kilimanjaro Machame route. Ascending isn’t easy, but the Ahsante team worked hard to maximise the chances of a successful ascent. Out of our group, nearly all managed to get to the top (something that isn’t usual). The guides were superb - supportive, very experienced and very friendly. Our team contained a medical doctor who was very reassuring and who was conducting research on the effects of altitude on the body. The Ahsante team are very welcoming, experienced and knowledgeable. The friendliness of the group, the stunning scenery and the Ahsante team made this an unforgettable trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   seangamage 
 
 
 
 Verified Life long memories.
Our experience was split into two parts. Firstly, the Ahsante team got me and my friend to Uhuru Peak. Nine days, Northern Circuit - absolutely amazing. Professional, supportive and fun; we could not have asked for more. After the climb, Ahsante got four of us from Weru Weru River Lodge to Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Central/Northern Serengeti. Knowledgeable guides, great camps - saw the Great Migration over the Mara River, lions, rhino, cheetah, elephant, zebra, crocodile, hippo, giraffe. Life long memories.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   mark s 
 
 
 
 Verified Safari-tastic!
Our 5 day Safari was amazing (if a little too long!) We saw such a great variety of animal life , and our drivers/ guides Godwin and Derek were very knowledgeable and could answer pretty much every question we asked, adding more information where they could. Godwin is a very skilled driver ( Derek is still training so not allowed to drive with customers) and handled those bumpy roads well. It was also great that he had car mechanic knowledge to sort out a few problems with our jeep along the way. They are both very professional but also friendly and we really enjoyed our time with them!

Why choose Ahsante Tours

Award-winning

We’re award-winning Kilimanjaro tour operators.

Luxury

Luxury camping, food, tent, toilets and more

Successful summits

Over 20K successful summits in over 20 years

Get help

Get help choosing the best route for your team

How long is the Northern Circuit Route, and how many days does it take to complete?

The Northern Circuit Route typically takes 8–9 days to complete, depending on the itinerary. This longer duration allows for better acclimatization, improving the chances of successfully reaching the summit.

What makes the Northern Circuit Route different from other Kilimanjaro routes?

The Northern Circuit Route is unique because it is less crowded, providing a quieter and more serene trekking experience. It also offers stunning views as it circles around the northern slopes of the mountain, unlike the more popular Southern Circuit routes.

What is the success rate of the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit Route boasts one of the highest success rates for reaching Kilimanjaro's summit, with around 85% due to the extended acclimatization period provided by the 8–9-day trek.

Is the Northern Circuit Route suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Northern Circuit Route is a great option for first-time climbers or those with moderate fitness levels. The gradual ascent and additional acclimatization days make the climb safer and more manageable.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit Route takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and scenic northern slopes, providing a comprehensive experience of Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.

6 Days Marangu Route

Starting Price from $ 2,300 (£ 1,847)

7 Days Lemosho Route

Starting Price from $ 2,549 ( £ 2,049)

7 Days Machame Route

Starting Price from $ 2,570 ( £ 2,064)

8 Days Lemosho Route

Starting from $ 2,897 (£ 2,337)

11 Days Trip:
9 Days Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
Hiking Tour Package

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