Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro: The Ultimate Trekking Experience
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is widely regarded as one of the best and most scenic ways to reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak. Offering nearly 360 degrees of panoramic views, this route covers the quiet and rarely visited northern slopes, providing trekkers with a unique wilderness experience away from the crowds.
Route Overview
Starting from the western side of Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. The first two days involve trekking through dense rainforest up to the Shira Ridge and then crossing the expansive Shira Plateau. After this, the trail heads north, making a clockwise circuit via Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, and School Hut, before ascending to the summit from the east side. The descent is completed via the popular Mweka Route.
Because it is the longest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit provides the most time for acclimatization, which greatly increases your chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak. However, summit day on this route is notably more challenging due to its extended distance.
Difficulty and Success Rates
The Northern Circuit is considered moderately difficult to challenging because of its varied terrain and the up-and-down nature of the trail. The longer time on the mountain allows for excellent acclimatization, minimizing altitude sickness for most climbers.
That said, the duration can lead to general fatigue, sleep deprivation, and occasional digestive or respiratory issues. The summit day is especially demanding, as climbers cover a longer distance compared to other routes.
Success Rates:
- 8-day Northern Circuit: 90-95% success
- 9-day and 10-day Northern Circuit: 95-98% success
Longer itineraries tend to have higher success rates due to better acclimatization and rest opportunities.
How Long is the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit route stretches approximately 88 kilometers (53 miles), making it the longest trekking path on Mount Kilimanjaro.
How Many Days Does it Take to Climb?
The route has several itinerary variations:
- 8-day Northern Circuit: A shortened itinerary that combines certain trekking days, bypassing the Lava Tower acclimatization hike.
- 9-day Northern Circuit: The standard and most popular itinerary, providing ideal acclimatization and rest.
- 10-day Northern Circuit “Daytime Summit”: Starts the summit attempt during the day instead of the traditional midnight climb, descending to Barafu Camp instead of Mweka, which reduces exposure to cold summit night temperatures.
There’s also a special 10-day Lemosho Crater variation, which includes an overnight at Crater Camp, located just below the summit. This option is available upon special request.
Detailed 9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate → Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp
- Elevation: 2,500m → 2,750m
- Hike Time: 3-4 hours
- Terrain: Rainforest, home to colobus monkeys
- Highlights: Begins on the remote western side of Kilimanjaro
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa → Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,750m → 3,500m
- Hike Time: 5-6 hours
- Terrain: Moorland with giant lobelias
- Transition: Exiting forest, entering the Shira Plateau
Day 3: Shira 1 → Shira 2 → Moir Hut
- Elevation: 3,500m → 4,200m
- Hike Time: 6-7 hours
- Terrain: Volcanic plateau with lava formations
- Acclimatization: High-altitude overnight
Day 4: Moir Hut → Buffalo Ridge → Pofu Camp
- Elevation: 4,200m → 4,050m
- Hike Time: 5-6 hours
- Terrain: Alpine desert with sweeping views of northern slopes
- Exclusive: Only trekkers on the Northern Circuit visit this area
Day 5: Pofu Camp → Rongai Third Cave
- Elevation: 4,050m → 3,800m
- Hike Time: 5-6 hours
- Terrain: Descending into a remote valley
- Strategy: “Climb high, sleep low” for optimal acclimatization
Day 6: Rongai Third Cave → School Hut
- Elevation: 3,800m → 4,800m
- Hike Time: 4-5 hours
- Terrain: Rocky ascent toward Kibo peak
- Prep: Rest early to prepare for the summit push
Day 7: Summit Day — School Hut → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
- Summit climb: 4,800m → 5,895m (6-8 hours)
- Descent: 5,895m → 3,100m (4-6 hours)
- Highlights: Pass by the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers for breathtaking views
Day 8: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate
- Hike Time: 3-4 hours
- Terrain: Rainforest descent
- Celebration: Certificate presentation at the park gate
Who Should Hike the Northern Circuit?
- Photographers: For unbeatable vistas of glaciers, valleys, and untouched wilderness
- Altitude-sensitive climbers: The gradual ascent reduces altitude sickness risk
- Wilderness lovers: Experience Kilimanjaro’s pristine northern slopes rarely seen by others
- Those with extra time: Ideal for hikers who can dedicate 9-10 days for a premium, less crowded trekking experience
Northern Circuit Route FAQ
What is the Northern Circuit route Kilimanjaro?
It’s the longest trekking route on Kilimanjaro, starting on the west side, traversing the northern slopes, summiting from the east, and descending via the southern Mweka route.
How long is the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit route?
Approximately 88 kilometers (53 miles).
How many days does it take to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit?
It can take 8 to 10 days, depending on the itinerary chosen. The standard is 9 days.
What is the success rate of the Northern Circuit?
Ranges between 80-90%, increasing with longer itineraries due to better acclimatization.
How much does it cost to climb the Northern Circuit?
Prices generally start around $2,700 per person, varying with season, itinerary length, group size, and premium services.
If you’re looking for the longest, most scenic, and least crowded route on Kilimanjaro with the best acclimatization chances, the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is an excellent choice.
