9 Day Lemosho Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Itinerary | Premium Trek (From $2,800 pp)
Acclimatization focused Arusha start Tourist visa included Porters, guide, cook
Overview Pricing Day by day Kilimanjaro questions Add a safari Photos Inclusions Request a quote

Overview

9 day itinerary

This 9 day Lemosho Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro itinerary is built for travelers who want the best balance of scenery, space, and acclimatization. You start on the lush rainforest trails near Londorossi Gate, climb onto the Shira Plateau for big views, and continue on a quieter northern traverse before the final summit push to Uhuru Peak.

The Northern Circuit style flow is popular for guests searching for longer days on the mountain, more time to adapt to altitude, and a route that feels less crowded. If you are comparing routes and asking “how many days to climb Kilimanjaro” or “which route has the best success rate,” this type of 9 day plan is usually the answer for a calm, realistic pace.

Want a shorter option? You can also compare our 8 Day Lemosho Route itinerary and choose the plan that best matches your time and budget.

Pricing

Per person

Pricing depends mainly on group size. Below is a clear starting point for this 9 day Lemosho Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro climb.

2 people: $3,800 pp 4 people: $3,400 pp 6+ people: $2,800 pp

Final quote depends on your travel dates and any upgrades you choose. Request a quote below and we will reply with a clear breakdown.

Why this route works well

Longer acclimatization

If you are searching for the best Kilimanjaro route for acclimatization, the Lemosho start and northern traverse is a strong choice. It gives you more time on the mountain, a natural altitude build, and a smoother rhythm before summit night.

This itinerary is also ideal if you want a premium private climb with a steady pace, clear camp progression, and extra time for breaks, photos, and comfort.

Day by day itinerary

Showing 1 to 9 of 9 days
Arusha arrival and pre-trek briefing in Tanzania
Arrival Arusha Visa included Hotel

Day 1: Arrive in Arusha, airport meet and greet, overnight Ilboru Safari Lodge

★★★★★5/5(smooth arrival support)
Tourist visa fee included
Kilimanjaro AirportArusha transfer
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a Hazina Afrika visa specialist will greet you in the Arrivals area and assist you with obtaining your tourist visa (tourist visa fee is included), help collect your luggage and accompany you through customs. You will then be escorted to a Hazina transfer representative waiting outside the secured area to warmly welcome you to Tanzania. The road transfer to your hotel in Arusha is approximately one hour. Dinner and overnight at Ilboru Safari Lodge (www.ilborusafarilodge.com).
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Hiking through Kilimanjaro rainforest on the Lemosho Route
Lemosho start Rainforest Camping Porters team

Day 2: Ilboru to Londorossi Gate, trek to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)

★★★★★5/5(trek begins)
Start: Londorossi Gate | End: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Cloud forestFirst trek day
Pick up from Ilboru Safari Lodge at 8am and drive with your mountain crew to Londorossi Gate (about 2 hours through villages and coffee farms). While we register your climb, the porters and guides prepare supplies and equipment. Your first day ends at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp). The trail is a beautiful introduction to Kilimanjaro, winding through moss-covered trees in the rainforest.
Route overview Request a quote
Trekker climbing out of rainforest toward the Shira Plateau
Shira Plateau Moorland Views Acclimatization

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira Plateau, continue to Shira Camp

★★★★★5/5(big scenery day)
Start: Mti Mkubwa | End: Shira Camp
Altitude gainWide vistas
Today you hike from Mti Mkubwa Camp up to the Shira Plateau and onward to Shira Camp. The first leg is steeper as you climb out of the montane forest into moorland terrain with scrub and heather. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the trail, then continue across the plateau with endless views. As the sun drops, temperatures can fall quickly, so dress warmly in camp.
Kilimanjaro questions Request a quote
Hiking on Kilimanjaro near Shira Cathedral and Shira 2 Camp
Shira Cathedral Shira 2 Northern approach Camping

Day 4: Shira Plateau traverse, optional Shira Cathedral, overnight Shira 2 Camp

★★★★★5/5(views day)
Start: Shira Camp | End: Shira 2 Camp
Cathedral viewpointSteady pace
A long trek across the plateau to the foot of Shira Cathedral (3,862 m). If you feel strong, you can make the steep but short hike to the summit for breathtaking views on a clear day. From Shira Cathedral, continue northeast across the East Shira Hills. Once you reach the helipad and the emergency access track, it is about 45 minutes to Shira 2 Camp for the night.
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Camping on Kilimanjaro with high altitude landscape and tents
Climb high Sleep low Lava Tower Moir Hut

Day 5: Shira 2 to Moir Hut via Lava Tower (key acclimatization day)

★★★★★5/5(acclimatization focus)
Start: Shira 2 | High point: Lava Tower | End: Moir Hut
Alpine desertGiant Groundsel
This is a classic acclimatization day that follows the climber’s saying “climb high, sleep low.” You ascend into rocky alpine desert terrain and, if you are feeling strong, you can attempt hiking up to the striking Lava Tower. Lunch is on the trail. You may feel mild altitude symptoms near the high point (around 4,600 m), but this day helps your body adapt for the summit push. Continue down to Moir Hut Valley, where you may spot the unusual Giant Groundsel. Overnight at Moir Hut.
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Northern side views of Kilimanjaro and open plains toward the Kenya border
Northern Circuit Lent Hills Buffalo Camp Quiet trail

Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp via Lent Hills

★★★★★5/5(northern traverse begins)
Start: Moir Hut | End: Buffalo Camp
Open viewsLess crowded
Trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates as you approach Buffalo Camp. This section offers great views across the plains north of Kilimanjaro, stretching toward the Kenya and Tanzania border. Overnight at Buffalo Camp.
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Trek across the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi toward School Hut
Saddle School Hut Summit prep Early rest

Day 7: Buffalo Camp to School Hut (half day hike, summit briefing)

★★★★★5/5(rest and prepare)
Start: Buffalo Camp | End: School Hut
Kibo and MawenziEarly dinner
Today is a shorter hiking day as you ascend over the Saddle, which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. Arrive at School Hut, enjoy an early dinner, and rest. Your guide will go through a clear summit briefing so you know what to expect overnight. Stay overnight at School Hut.
Summit questions Request a quote
Climber ascending toward Uhuru Peak on summit night
Summit day Uhuru Peak Stella Point Millennium Camp

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Millennium Camp

★★★★★5/5(longest day)
High point: Uhuru Peak | End: Millennium Camp
Dawn summitLong descent
Most climbers depart School Hut just before midnight for the final summit bid. Dress warmly as cold and wind can drain energy. With patience and steady movement, you reach Stella Point by dawn, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. After the summit, you turn around for the long descent down to Millennium Camp for a well-earned rest.
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Kilimanjaro summit area and final descent day back to the gate
Mweka Gate Certificates Arusha Recovery

Day 9: Descend to Mweka Gate, transfer back to Arusha, overnight Ilboru Safari Lodge

★★★★★5/5(finish and celebrate)
Finish: Mweka Gate | Overnight: Ilboru Safari Lodge
Rainforest descentCrew farewell
After breakfast you descend down the remainder of the mountain, passing through rainforest. Around midday you arrive at Mweka Gate. After checking out, you present tips to your guide and crew and say farewell. You will be picked up for a transfer back to your Arusha hotel for a well-deserved shower and rest. Dinner and overnight at Ilboru Safari Lodge.
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Kilimanjaro questions

Helpful answers

These are some of the most common Kilimanjaro questions people search before booking a 9 day Lemosho Northern Circuit climb. If you want answers tailored to your dates, group size, and fitness level, send us an enquiry and we will guide you clearly.

Is the Northern Circuit on Kilimanjaro worth it?

Yes, if you want more time on the mountain and a calmer route flow. The northern traverse often feels quieter, with big views and extra acclimatization time before summit night.

How many days do I need to climb Kilimanjaro?

Most travelers choose 7 to 9 days on the mountain. A 9 day plan is popular for guests prioritizing acclimatization and a less rushed pace.

Is the Lemosho Route good for beginners?

It can be a strong option for first-time climbers because it starts gradually and builds altitude in a practical way. A longer itinerary also gives you more time to settle into the rhythm.

What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

Many guests prefer the drier months when trails are generally clearer and views can be excellent. Tell us your preferred month and we will recommend the best plan and preparation for that season.

Where do I start the climb, Moshi or Arusha?

Both are possible depending on logistics. This itinerary is designed with an Arusha start and a smooth transfer to Londorossi Gate.

Do I need a Tanzania visa for Kilimanjaro?

Most travelers need a tourist visa. In this itinerary, visa assistance is included on arrival, and the tourist visa fee is included as listed on Day 1.

What makes summit night feel easier?

A steady pace, good layering for cold, proper hydration and nutrition, and a calm guide who manages timing and breaks. The longer itinerary helps because your body has more time to adapt.

Can you customize this itinerary?

Yes. You can adjust arrival dates, hotel choice, private climb details, and add a safari or Zanzibar extension after the mountain.

If you want a shorter comparison, see our 8 Day Lemosho Route itinerary and let us know which pace feels right for you.

Add a Tanzania safari after your climb

Clickable safari ideas

Many guests love celebrating the summit with a safari. Below are strong, popular options, plus our main safari tours page where you can browse more ideas.

Explore all safari tours and itineraries (2 to 13 days)
View all Tanzania safari tours
Herd of African elephants walking towards the camera in Tarangire

Short safari idea: 2 Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro

Quick highlight

Perfect if you have limited time after the climb. Great for elephants in Tarangire and classic crater wildlife in Ngorongoro.

See itinerary Ask for this
A pride of lions resting in the Serengeti

Short safari idea: 3 Day Serengeti Fly-in

Big cats

Fly straight into the Serengeti for maximum game drive time. Ideal for lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wide-open plains.

See itinerary Ask for this
Tanzania wildlife scene for a classic safari extension

Classic safari: 5 Day Northern Circuit Highlights

Best balance

A well-paced mix of Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Great for first timers who want strong variety.

See itinerary Ask for this
Family enjoying a longer Tanzania safari extension

Longer safari: 8 Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro (More time in Serengeti)

Deeper time

Extra nights in the Serengeti to slow down and follow wildlife movements. Ideal for photography and big cat time.

See itinerary Ask for this
If you want to add Zanzibar after safari, or you want a specific number of safari days, tell us and we will tailor it around your flights.

What is included

Premium support

Inclusions are confirmed on your final quote, but a typical premium package includes professional mountain guides, porters and cook, all mountain meals, quality camping equipment, park fees and rescue fees, transfers to and from the mountain, pre and post trek hotel arrangements, and airport arrival support.

Day 1 includes airport arrival assistance and tourist visa support, with the tourist visa fee included as listed in the itinerary.

Request your Kilimanjaro quote

From $2,800 pp

Share your dates and group size below and we will reply with availability, a clear price breakdown, and the best recommended flow for your month.

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Hazina Afrika, Tanzania. Kilimanjaro climbs and private travel planning with clear, practical support.