Northern Circuit Route
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Northern Circuit Route on Mount Kilimanjaro
The Most Popular Path to Kilimanjaro’s Summit
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering unparalleled views and the highest success rate of all routes. Circling nearly the entire mountain, it allows for excellent acclimatization, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a more gradual ascent with fewer crowds.
You’ll experience everything from lush rainforest and alpine moorland to rugged highlands and vast open skies on the northern slopes—an area few ever get to see. With its remote beauty and strategic pacing, the Northern Circuit offers a premium trekking experience for those with time and a sense of adventure.
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Northern Circuit Route Itinerary
9-Day
Arrival & Briefing
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation, where your guide will conduct a full briefing and equipment check to prepare you for the adventure ahead.
Overnight Stay:
🏨 Classic: Ameg Lodge | Premium: Kaliwa Lodge
🥾 Trek Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
📍 Londorossi Gate (2,100m/6,890ft) → Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m/8,692ft)
📈 Elevation Gain: 550m / 1,800ft
⏳ Duration: 3–4 hours
Your trek begins with a drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, followed by a gentle walk through lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and rich birdlife. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp for your first night under the stars.
🥾 Trek Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp
📍 Mti Mkubwa (2,650m) → Shira 1 Camp (3,610m/11,843ft)
📈 Elevation Gain: 960m / 3,151ft
⏳ Duration: 6–7 hours
Climb out of the forest into the heather and moorland zone, where the landscape opens up with views of Kibo Peak. Enjoy a peaceful hike across the Shira Plateau to reach your camp.
🥾 Trek Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp
📍 Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) → Shira 2 Camp (3,850m/12,631ft)
📈 Elevation Gain: 240m / 787ft
⏳ Duration: 3–4 hours
A short trek across the wide, open plateau of Shira Ridge gives you time to rest and acclimate. Weather permitting, you’ll have panoramic views of Kibo and Mount Meru in the distance.
🥾 Trek Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Moir Hut
📍 Shira 2 (3,850m) → Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190ft) → Moir Hut (4,200m/13,780ft)
📈 Elevation Gain: 780m / 2,559ft
📉 Elevation Loss: 430m / 1,410ft
⏳ Duration: 6–7 hours
Today includes a climb to Lava Tower—a key acclimatization point—before descending slightly to the remote and quiet Moir Hut, tucked away in a high-altitude valley.
🥾 Trek Day 5: Moir Hut – Buffalo Camp
📍 Moir Hut (4,200m) → Buffalo Camp (4,020m/13,189ft)
📉 Elevation Loss: 180m / 591ft
⏳ Duration: 5–7 hours
Hike along the rarely seen northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, with sweeping views toward the Kenyan plains. The path is wild and tranquil—this is where the Northern Circuit earns its reputation.
🥾 Trek Day 6: Buffalo Camp – Third Cave Camp
📍 Buffalo Camp (4,020m) → Third Cave (3,870m/12,697ft)
📉 Elevation Loss: 150m / 492ft
⏳ Duration: 5–6 hours
Another day of gentle trekking through alpine desert. As you continue eastward, the sense of remoteness is unmatched. Settle in at Third Cave Camp and prepare for the final push.
🥾 Trek Day 7: Third Cave Camp – School Hut
📍 Third Cave (3,870m) → School Hut (4,750m/15,584ft)
📈 Elevation Gain: 880m / 2,887ft
⏳ Duration: 4–5 hours
A shorter day with a steady climb toward School Hut, your final base before the summit attempt. Arrive early for dinner and rest ahead of your midnight ascent.
🥾 Trek Day 8: School Hut – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
📍 School Hut (4,750m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) → Mweka Camp (3,110m/10,204ft)
📈 Elevation Gain: 1,145m / 3,757ft
📉 Elevation Loss: 2,785m / 9,137ft
⏳ Duration: 12–15 hours
Summit day! Begin your climb around midnight, reaching Stella Point at sunrise, then push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
🥾 Trek Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
📍 Mweka Camp (3,110m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft)
📉 Elevation Loss: 1,470m / 4,823ft
⏳ Duration: 3–4 hours
A final hike through the rainforest leads you to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out, receive your summit certificate, and return to Moshi for celebration and rest.
Departure or Onward Travel
🚗 Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home, or continue your Tanzanian adventure!
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What Are the Benefits of Choosing the Northern Circuit Route?
Highest success rate due to its extended acclimatization period.
Longest route on Kilimanjaro (9 days), offering more time to adapt and enjoy.
Spectacular scenery from all angles—lush rainforest, Shira Plateau, and northern wilderness.
Very low traffic—you’ll rarely see other groups until summit night.
Ideal for experienced trekkers or those who want a more relaxed pace.
Great chance to see wildlife, including eland and buffalo, on the lower slopes.
How Long Will It Take to Complete the Northern Circuit Route?
Total days on the mountain: 9
Ascent days: 8 (with gradual elevation gain)
Descent day: 1
This extra time significantly improves summit success while allowing your body to adapt naturally to the altitude.
What Is the Cost Associated with The Northern Circuit Route?
Prices for the 9-day Northern Circuit typically include:
All park fees, permits, and taxes
Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks
Full board on the mountain (meals, purified water, snacks)
Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, mess tent, etc.)
Airport transfers and hotel stays before/after the climb
💵 Estimated range: $2,500 – $3,700 per person, depending on group size and operator quality.
What Are the Campsites Along the Northern Circuit Route?
Camping all the way – There are no huts on this route.
Comfortable 3-season mountain tents with foam sleeping mats.
Private toilet tents and dining tents for higher-end operators.
Campsites are quiet, scenic, and less crowded than other routes.
How Crowded Is the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit is the least crowded route on Kilimanjaro.
Perfect for trekkers who prefer a more remote and peaceful trail.
You’ll see fewer groups until you merge with the Marangu/Machame paths near the summit.
What Are Our Impressions of The Northern Circuit Route?
Recommended for photographers and nature lovers who want to see all sides of Kilimanjaro.
With its 9-day length, it’s ideal for trekkers concerned about altitude sickness.
While not technically difficult, you’ll need good endurance for the long days.
Offers a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experience far from the main tourist paths.
Northern Circuit Route
The Scenic Way to the Top – Go Far to Go Higher.
📖 Check Our Kilimanjaro Guide
Get all the must-know information to prepare for your climb. Our guide covers everything from routes to safety tips, ensuring a smooth and successful ascent.
🎯 Expert Advice for Your Climb
While Kilimanjaro welcomes climbers of all levels, it’s essential to trek with caution. Our experienced guides monitor your health and provide full support for a safe and enjoyable journey.
🎒 Your Kilimanjaro Packing List
Be fully prepared with our comprehensive packing list, detailing all the essential gear and equipment you’ll need for a comfortable and successful climb.
Related Mount Kilimanjaro Climb Guide
Your complete guide to conquering Kilimanjaro with confidence
10 Questions About Northern Circuit Route
1. How long does the Northern Circuit Route take?
The Northern Circuit Route typically takes 9 to 10 days to complete. This duration allows for proper acclimatization, significantly increasing the chances of a successful Kilimanjaro summit.
3. What is the summit success rate on this route?
Around 90–95%, the highest of all routes thanks to gradual altitude gain.
5. Is the Northern Circuit more expensive than other routes?
Yes, because it’s longer and more remote—but the experience is unmatched.
7. What wildlife might I see?
Blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, buffalo, and sometimes elephants on lower slopes.
9. Is it a camping route?
Yes, all nights are spent in tents. No huts are available.
2. Is it hard to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit?
It’s a long trek, but the gentle acclimatization makes it manageable for fit beginners.
4.When is the best time to climb via Northern Circuit?
January–March and June–October offer the best weather and trail conditions.
6. Do I need prior trekking experience?
No, but a good fitness level and preparation are key.
8.
No. It’s the quietest route with very low foot traffic.
10. Can I rent gear locally?
Yes, most reputable operators offer high-quality rental gear in Moshi or Arusha.
Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages
Choose from our carefully designed Kilimanjaro climbing packages, each tailored to provide the best experience based on your preferences, fitness level, and desired route. Whether you’re seeking a fast-paced ascent or a scenic, extended trek, we have the perfect itinerary for you.
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