Mount Kilimanjaro Northern circuit route
Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro: The Longest & Highest Success Route
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is the longest and most scenic trail to summit Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m/19,341ft). With Mount Kilimanjaro Guide, this 9-day trek offers a 99% success rate, 360° views, and optimal acclimatization. Ideal for climbers seeking solitude and stunning landscapes, the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route map reveals its remote beauty. Book your adventure on the Kilimanjaro Northern Route today!
Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro?
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro stands out for its length and success rate. Here’s why it’s a top choice with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide on Mount Kilimanjaro:
- Highest Success Rate: 99% due to 9 days of gradual acclimatization.
- Remote & Scenic: Less crowded, with 360° views of Kilimanjaro and savannas.
- Optimal Acclimatization: “Climb high, sleep low” profile minimizes AMS risks.
- Diverse Landscapes: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit.
- Certificates: Gold at Uhuru Peak, green at Gilman’s Point.
Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Key Facts
Our guide to Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide provides essential details for Mount Kilimanjaro:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 days |
| Total Distance | 89 km (55 miles) roundtrip |
| Success Rate | 99% |
| Accommodation | Camping in tents |
| Best For | Solitude, acclimatization |
Group Size: Minimum 2 passengers; private departures available.
Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Map
The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route map shows its remote path circling the mountain’s northern side, avoiding crowds on other routes. Key waypoints: Londorossi Gate (2,100m), Shira Plateau (3,840m), Kibo Camps, and Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Mount Kilimanjaro Guide provides detailed maps and GPX files upon booking.
9-Day Northern Circuit Route Itinerary
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide maximizes success. Here’s the 11-day trip (including travel):
| Day | Route | Elevation | Distance | Hiking Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival at JRO | 1,400m | — | — | Hotel transfer, briefing |
| 2 | Londorossi Gate to Lemosho Forest | 2,100m to 2,650m | 6 km | 3–4 hours | Rainforest trek |
| 3 | Lemosho Forest to Shira 1 | 2,650m to 3,500m | 8 km | 5–6 hours | Moorland views |
| 4 | Shira 1 to Shira 2 | 3,500m to 3,840m | 7 km | 3–4 hours | Shira Plateau |
| 5 | Shira 2 to Moir Hut | 3,840m to 4,200m | 12 km | 5–7 hours | Northern moorland |
| 6 | Moir Hut to Pofu Camp | 4,200m to 4,025m | 11 km | 5–7 hours | Northern circuit views |
| 7 | Pofu Camp to Third Cave | 4,025m to 3,870m | 10 km | 4–6 hours | Alpine desert |
| 8 | Third Cave to Kibo Hut | 3,870m to 4,695m | 9 km | 6–8 hours | Summit prep |
| 9 | Kibo Hut to Uhuru to Horombo | 4,695m to 5,895m to 3,720m | 22 km | 12–16 hours | Summit Uhuru Peak |
| 10 | Horombo to Marangu Gate | 3,720m to 1,860m | 20 km | 5–7 hours | Descent, certificate |
| 11 | Departure | — | — | — | Airport transfer |
Tip: The Moir Hut and Pofu Camp on Days 5–6 provide remote, uncrowded acclimatization.
Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Cost
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide starts at $3,900 for groups:
| Group Size | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $4,550 |
| 2-4 people | $4,208 |
| 5-9 people | $4,003 |
| 10+ people | $3,900 |
Included: Park fees ($1,182), camping, meals, KINAPA-licensed guides, porters, hotel stays, transfers, emergency oxygen.
Not Included: Flights ($800–$2,000), visas ($50–$100), insurance ($100–$300), tips ($200–$300), gear rentals ($200–$500).
How Hard is the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is moderately difficult due to its length and elevation gain. With Mount Kilimanjaro Guide on Mount Kilimanjaro, follow this 12-week training plan:
- Weeks 1-4: Build to 8 km daily walks.
- Weeks 5-8: Add 500m+ elevation gain hikes.
- Weeks 9-12: Back-to-back 10 km hikes with a 10 kg pack.
Critical Workouts: Stair climbing, downhill hiking, 6+ hour endurance sessions.
Packing List for the Northern Circuit Route
Mount Kilimanjaro Guide provides a tailored packing list for the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro:
- Camping Essentials: 4-season sleeping bag (-10°C), sleeping pad, tent (provided).
- Clothing: Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, thermal summit layers.
- Accessories: Trekking poles, headlamp, high-capacity power bank, water bottles (3L).
Northern Circuit Route vs. Lemosho Route
Compare the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro and Lemosho Route with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide for Mount Kilimanjaro:
| Factor | Northern Circuit | Lemosho |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 9 days | 8 days |
| Success Rate | 99% | 98% |
| Scenery | 360° views, remote | Scenic plateau |
| Cost | $3,900–$4,550 | $3,380–$4,030 |
| Best For | Solitude, acclimatization | Scenery, value |
Choose Northern Circuit if: You prioritize max acclimatization and remoteness.
Choose Lemosho if: You want similar success with slightly lower cost.
Is the Northern Circuit Route Safe?
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide is safe (mortality rate ~0.0136%):
- Guides: KINAPA-licensed with WFR training.
- Safety Gear: Oxygen cylinders, hyperbaric chambers, satellite phones.
- Monitoring: Twice-daily vitals checks for AMS.
- Evacuations: Coordinated with KINAPA ($20 rescue fee).
FAQs About the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro
What is the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro?
The longest route (9 days) circling Mount Kilimanjaro for 99% success.
How long is the Northern Circuit Route?
89 km (55 miles) roundtrip.
What’s the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route map?
Starts at Londorossi Gate, circles north via Shira and Pofu Camps, summits from Kibo Hut.
How hard is the Northern Circuit Route?
Moderately difficult due to length, but gradual for acclimatization.
What’s the Northern Route Kilimanjaro success rate?
99% with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
How much does the Northern Circuit Route cost?
$3,900–$4,550 for groups of 10+.
Book Your Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Today
Ready for the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro? Mount Kilimanjaro Guide offers KINAPA-approved guides, ethical practices, and tailored itineraries for a safe climb to Uhuru Peak. Book early!
