Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit: 9-Day Trek from Londorossi to Uhuru Peak
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
9 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness with prior multi-day hiking experience; ability to hike 5–8 hours on consecutive days and manage steep, high-altitude terrain.
Overview
This 9-day Northern Circuit on Mount Kilimanjaro takes the long, scenic route around Kibo—maximizing acclimatization and summit success. Expect rainforest approaches, exposed plateaus, Lava Tower, and a summit dawn at Uhuru Peak.
Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit: 9-Day Trek from Londorossi to Uhuru Peak
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You step out of the van at Londorossi Gate and the mountain takes the lead. Rainforest closes behind you like a green door; ahead the trail climbs steadily, first under dripping moss and then onto the broad Shira Plateau where the air thins and the sky stretches wide. Over nine days the Northern Circuit arcs a near-360° path around Kibo’s slopes—longer, quieter and kinder to acclimatization than most routes—so the summit attempt at 5,895 m feels less like a sprint and more like a long conversation with altitude.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pace for altitude
Walk at a steady, conversational pace—slow steps reduce fatigue and improve acclimatization on long days.
Insulate bottles
Use insulated water bottles or sleeves to keep fluids from freezing overnight during the summit push.
Protect knees downhill
Bring adjustable trekking poles to reduce impact on long scree descents to Millennium Camp and Mweka.
Tip local crew
Budget for crew tips—guides and porters depend on them and they support ethical mountain livelihoods.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elephant (occasionally seen on lower rainforest approaches)
- Blue monkeys and diverse birdlife in the montane forest
History
Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cone formed over hundreds of thousands of years; its glaciers are remnants of the last ice age and a longstanding landmark for local Chagga communities.
Conservation
Kilimanjaro National Park manages routes and camps to limit erosion and litter; choosing accredited operators supports local conservation and responsible porter practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Moshi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof mountaineering boots
Stiff, supportive boots handle scree and wet forest trails while protecting ankles on long descents.
Insulated down jacket (800-fill or equivalent)
Summit night temperatures fall well below freezing—an insulated jacket is critical for rest breaks and summit exposure.
Headlamp with extra batteries
Summit climbs start before midnight; reliable lighting is essential for route safety and navigation.
Trekking poles
Poles reduce knee strain on steep descents and help maintain balance on loose scree.