Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro: The Ultimate Guide
Embarking on the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro promises an unparalleled adventure to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s tallest summit at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). As the longest and most scenic path, the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route encircles the mountain nearly 360 degrees, offering remote trails, diverse landscapes from rainforests to arctic zones, and superior acclimatization for top success rates. This guide details the Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route, including itineraries, difficulty, costs, and tips for your Northern Circuit Route climbing Kilimanjaro. Ideal for those prioritizing views and summit odds over speed, this route blends elements of Lemosho and Rongai for an epic trek.
What is the Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro?
The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro starts from the west at Londorossi Gate, follows the Lemosho path to Shira Plateau, then veers north for a clockwise loop around Kibo before summiting from the east and descending via Mweka Gate. Spanning 88-90 km (53-56 miles) with 16,000-17,000 feet of elevation gain, it’s Kilimanjaro’s newest and longest route, typically 8-10 days. This camping trek traverses rainforests, heathlands, alpine deserts, and arctic summits, providing solitude on rarely visited northern slopes with wildlife sightings like buffalo and eland. It’s praised for its “climb high, sleep low” profile, making it the route with the best acclimatization.
Northern Circuit Route Itinerary: 9-Day Breakdown
The standard Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route takes 9 days for optimal acclimatization, though 8-day and 10-day variants exist. Here’s a detailed 9-day itinerary based on common operator plans (add pre- and post-climb hotel stays):
| Day | Stage | Distance | Elevation Gain/Loss | Hiking Time | Habitat |
|---|
| 1 | Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp | 6 km (4 mi) | +756 ft (7,742 ft to 9,498 ft) | 3-4 hours | Rainforest |
| 2 | Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp | 8 km (5 mi) | +2,002 ft (9,498 ft to 11,500 ft) | 5-6 hours | Heath |
| 3 | Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp | 7 km (4 mi) | +1,000 ft (11,500 ft to 12,500 ft) | 3-4 hours | Heath |
| 4 | Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Moir Hut | 14 km (8 mi) | +2,690 ft up, -1,390 ft down (12,500 ft to 15,190 ft to 13,800 ft) | 5-7 hours | Alpine Desert |
| 5 | Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp | 12 km (7 mi) | -600 ft (13,800 ft to 13,200 ft) | 5-7 hours | Alpine Desert |
| 6 | Buffalo Camp to Third Cave | 8 km (5 mi) | -500 ft (13,200 ft to 12,700 ft) | 5-7 hours | Heath |
| 7 | Third Cave to School Hut | 5 km (3 mi) | +2,900 ft (12,700 ft to 15,600 ft) | 4-5 hours | Alpine Desert |
| 8 | School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp | 18 km (11 mi) | +3,741 ft up, -9,276 ft down (15,600 ft to 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft) | 11-15 hours | Arctic/Rainforest |
| 9 | Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate | 10 km (6 mi) | -4,685 ft (10,065 ft to 5,380 ft) | 3-4 hours | Rainforest |
Summit day starts at midnight for sunrise views, with descent often wet and muddy. For 8 days, combine Days 3-4, skipping Lava Tower.
Difficulty and Mount Kilimanjaro Success Rate on Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route climbing Kilimanjaro is moderately difficult (3/5 rating), with challenges from length, up-and-down terrain, and altitude, but it’s the easiest overall due to gradual ascents and ample acclimatization. No technical skills required, but fitness is essential for long days and summit fatigue.
Success rates shine: 95-98% for 9-10 days, 90-95% for 8 days—the highest on Kilimanjaro, thanks to extended time at altitude.
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
The best time for Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is during dry seasons: late June to October (stable weather, peak crowds in July-September) or December to mid-March (warmer, fewer people). Avoid April-May rains; the route’s northern exposure handles shoulder months well, but July-September offers clearest views.
Costs of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
Expect $3,000-$4,000 per person for a 9-day group climb, including park fees ($800+), camping, meals, porters, and transfers. Premium options reach $5,000+. Add $200-500 for gear, $100-200 insurance, $50-100 visas, $200-300 tips, and $650-1,500 flights to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO). Costs vary by operator; longer duration increases price over shorter routes.
Preparation Tips for Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro
- Training: 4-6 months of cardio, hiking, and strength; simulate altitude with stairs or weighted packs.
- Gear: -15°C sleeping bag, layers, rain gear, poles, headlamp, extra batteries for cold; operators provide tents.
- Health: Vaccines, Diamox for altitude, hydrate, monitor AMS; fitness recommended.
- Booking: Ethical operators with fair porter pay; book early for dry seasons.
- Sustainability: Leave no trace, support locals.
Pros and Cons of the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
Pros:
- Highest success rate with best acclimatization.
- Stunning 360-degree scenery and remote solitude.
- Wildlife and diverse habitats.
- Combines best of other routes.
Cons:
- Longest duration (8-10 days), requiring more time off.
- Higher cost and potential fatigue.
- Colder northern exposure.
- Busier descent on Mweka.
FAQs About Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro
How Long is the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro?
88-90 km (53-56 miles) total, typically 8-10 days.
What is the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Map Like?
It starts west, loops north around Kibo, summits east, descends south—see maps for camps like Moir Hut and Third Cave.
What is the Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Success Rate?
95-98% for 9+ days, due to excellent acclimatization.
Is the Northern Circuit Route Difficult?
Moderate; longest but easiest for altitude adjustment.
Ready for your Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro trek? Explore more at the Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
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