Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro – The Highest Success Rate Route to the Summit

The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is the longest and most successful route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 8–9 day trek circles the mountain from the west to the north, offering 360° panoramic views, excellent acclimatization, and the highest summit success rate (up to 98%).

Climb with confidence through Mount Kilimanjaro Guide and a professional kilimanjaro local guide for the safest and most successful Kilimanjaro experience.

What is the Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro?

The Northern Circuit Route is a 9-day trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro, covering approximately 88 km (53 miles). It is the longest route, offering the best acclimatization and highest success rate (90–98%), making it ideal for climbers aiming to reach Uhuru Peak.

Key Facts About Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro

• Duration: 8–9 Days (recommended 9 days)
• Distance: ~88 km (53 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Success Rate: 90–98%
• Accommodation: Camping
• Start Point: Londorossi Gate
• End Point: Mweka Gate

Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?

Top Advantages

• Highest success rate on Kilimanjaro
• Full 360° circuit around the mountain
• Most diverse scenery
• Least crowded route
• Best acclimatization profile

With Mount Kilimanjaro Guide and an expert kilimanjaro local guide, you significantly increase your chances of reaching the summit safely.

What Makes the Northern Circuit Unique?

The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro combines the best features of all routes:

• Starts like the Lemosho Route (scenic western approach)
• Circles the remote northern slopes
• Joins summit via eastern side
• Descends via southern route

This creates a complete Kilimanjaro experience with unmatched variety and solitude.

9-Day Northern Circuit Route Itinerary — Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s longest (9-day) and newest route, offering a 360-degree experience with the highest success rates (over 90-95%) due to superior acclimatization. Starting on the west (Lemosho route), it traverses the northern slopes, providing solitude, scenic beauty, and a summit approach from the east.

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and most scenic route on Kilimanjaro. It circles the mountain from the western side and offers excellent acclimatization, low traffic, and the highest summit success rate. This is the premium Kilimanjaro experience. This 11-day Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary is the longest and most successful climb on Mount Kilimanjaro (approx. 98% success rate), providing superior acclimatization by circling the quiet, scenic northern slopes. Starting from Londorossi Gate, the itinerary includes extensive hiking through alpine deserts, a Summit attempt via Gilman’s Point, and a descent via Mweka Route, perfect for scenic, steady treks.

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

• Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport
• Meet and greet by our professional team
• Transfer to hotel in Moshi
• Pre-climb briefing and equipment check
• Overnight in Moshi

Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration
• Trek through dense rainforest
• Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp
• Elevation: ~2,100 m to 2,780 m
• Hiking time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest 

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

• Leave rainforest and enter moorland zone
• Walk across Shira Plateau
• Overnight at Shira 1 Camp
• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

• Gentle acclimatization hike across Shira Plateau
• Wide open views of Kilimanjaro peaks
• Overnight at Shira 2 Camp
• Hiking time: 3–5 hours

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut

• Hike to Lava Tower for acclimatization
• Continue to Moir Hut in remote valley
• Less crowded wilderness experience
• Elevation: ~3,850 m to 4,200 m
• Hiking time: 6–7 hours

Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

• Trek through Northern Circuit route
• Panoramic views of northern plains
• Arrive at Buffalo Camp
• Hiking time: 5–7 hours

Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

• Gradual ascent with excellent acclimatization
• Peaceful, remote trail
• Overnight at Third Cave Camp
• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut (Kibo Base Camp)

• Trek across alpine desert zone
• Arrive at School Hut, base for summit attempt
• Early rest before summit night
• Elevation: ~3,870 m to 4,750 m
• Hiking time: 4–6 hours

Day 9: Summit Day — School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Midnight summit attempt via Gilman’s Point
• Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
• Descend to Mweka Camp
• Hiking time: 12–16 hours
• Most challenging and rewarding day 

Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate — Transfer to Arusha

• Final descent through rainforest
• Receive summit certificate
• Transfer to Arusha
• Overnight rest in hotel
• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

Day 11: Departure Day

• Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport
• End of Kilimanjaro adventure

Optional Extensions

After your climb, you can extend your trip with:

• Safari in Ngorongoro Crater 
• Wildlife adventure in Serengeti National Park
• Beach holiday in Zanzibar 

How Hard is the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit Route is considered moderate difficulty, despite its length:

• Longer duration = better acclimatization
• Gradual ascent reduces strain
• No technical climbing required

Ideal for beginners with good fitness and guidance from a kilimanjaro local guide.

Northern Circuit Distance & Duration

• Distance: ~88 km (53 miles)
• Best Duration: 9 days
• Shorter options: Possible but not recommended

Northern Circuit Success Rate

• 9-day route: 95–98% success
• 8-day route: ~90% success

Why so high?

• Excellent acclimatization
• Gradual altitude gain
• Longer trekking duration

Book with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide and an experienced kilimanjaro local guide for maximum success.

Scenery on the Northern Circuit Route

This route offers the most diverse landscapes on Kilimanjaro:

1. Rainforest
2. Moorland
3. Alpine desert
4. Northern wilderness
5. Arctic summit

Highlights:

• Shira Plateau
• Northern slopes (rarely visited)
• Views of Kenya plains
• Lava formations and glaciers

Best Time to Climb Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro

Best Months:

• January – March
• June – October

Avoid:

• April & May (heavy rains)

Northern Circuit vs Other Kilimanjaro Routes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Northern Circuit the best route on Kilimanjaro?

Yes, it offers the highest success rate and most complete experience.

How long is the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro?

Approximately 88 km (53 miles).

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes, due to gradual acclimatization and longer duration.

Why is it less crowded?

Because it requires more time than other routes.

Cost of Climbing Northern Circuit Route

Typical cost:

• $3,000 – $5,500 per person

Includes:

• Park fees
• Guides & porters
• Meals and camping gear

Choose Mount Kilimanjaro Guide and a trusted kilimanjaro local guide for the best value and safety.

Expert Tips for Summit Success

• Choose 9 days for best acclimatization
• Train physically before your climb
• Stay hydrated
• Walk slowly (“Pole Pole”)
• Follow your guide’s advice

Why Choose a Kilimanjaro Local Guide?

A professional kilimanjaro local guide ensures:

• Altitude safety monitoring
• Local expertise
• Higher summit success
• Ethical tourism

Climb with confidence through Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.

Is the Northern Circuit Route Right for You?

The Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro is perfect if you:

• Want the highest chance of reaching the summit
• Prefer quiet, remote trails
• Have time for a longer trek

With expert support from Mount Kilimanjaro Guide and a skilled kilimanjaro local guide, reaching Uhuru Peak becomes highly achievable.