Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Itinerary: Day-by-Day Guide to the Longest and Most Scenic Climb
As a local in Arusha, you’re perfectly positioned to tackle the Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route—the ultimate path to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft). This remote, 360° circling trek offers unmatched acclimatization and views, making it ideal for adventurers seeking high success rates (90-95%) with fewer crowds. If you’re searching for a Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro plan, Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route details, or a Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route map, this guide covers it all, including a detailed itinerary starting from Arusha.
The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route spans ~90-98km (56-61 miles), traversing rainforest to arctic zones over 8-9 days. For expert local teams in Arusha, check Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro?
The best Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro excels for:
- Top Acclimatization: Longest route with multiple “climb high, sleep low” days, minimizing altitude sickness.
- Panoramic Views: Full northern traverse with Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, and Mawenzi vistas—rare on shorter routes.
- Low Crowds: Less trafficked than Machame, with wildlife like colobus monkeys in remote sections.
- High Success: 90-95% summit rate, perfect for Arusha-based climbers.
- Scenic Variety: Starts like Lemosho, circles north, descends south via Mweka.
Detailed Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Itinerary: 9 Days (Recommended)
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro (8 days trekking) maximizes acclimatization. Start from Arusha with a 2-3 hour drive to Londorossi Gate. Here’s a standard day-by-day:
| Day | Stage | Elevation Start/End | Distance | Time | Highlights |
|---|
| 1 | Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp | 2,360m (7,742ft) to 2,895m (9,498ft) | 6km (4mi) | 3-4 hrs | Rainforest trek; monkeys and birds; camp in woods. |
| 2 | Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp | 2,895m (9,498ft) to 3,505m (11,500ft) | 8km (5mi) | 5-6 hrs | Moorland emergence; Kibo views. |
| 3 | Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp | 3,505m (11,500ft) to 3,810m (12,500ft) | 7km (4mi) | 3-4 hrs | Plateau crossing; acclimatization hikes. |
| 4 | Shira 2 to Moir Hut | 3,810m (12,500ft) to 4,160m (13,650ft) | 7km (4mi) | 5-7 hrs | Northern flank; Lava Tower optional. |
| 5 | Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp | 4,160m (13,650ft) to 3,995m (13,107ft) | 10km (6mi) | 5-7 hrs | Remote northern traverse; wildlife. |
| 6 | Buffalo to Third Cave Camp | 3,995m (13,107ft) to 3,870m (12,700ft) | 8km (5mi) | 5-7 hrs | Rolling terrain; Mawenzi views. |
| 7 | Third Cave to School Hut | 3,870m (12,700ft) to 4,800m (15,748ft) | 5km (3mi) | 4-5 hrs | Alpine desert; summit prep. |
| 8 | School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp | 4,800m (15,748ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,100m (10,171ft) | 15km (9mi) | 10-15 hrs | Summit push; celebrate; descend. |
| 9 | Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate | 3,100m (10,171ft) to 1,640m (5,381ft) | 10km (6mi) | 3-4 hrs | Forest exit; certificates; back to Arusha. |
Pace “pole pole” for success. For an 8-day version, combine Days 3-4. Download a Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route map via Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
Preparation Tips for Your Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Climb
- Fitness: Train 4-6 months with Arusha hikes; build endurance for 4-8 hour days.
- Gear: Layers, -15°C sleeping bag, poles; rent in Arusha.
- Health: Diamox; hydrate 4-5L/day; Arusha medical check.
- Best Time: January-March or June-October from Arusha.
- Costs: $2,500-$5,000 from Arusha, including fees, crew.
Key Facts: Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro
- Distance: 90-98km total.
- Success Rate: 90-95%.
- Difficulty: Moderate-high; best for acclimatization.
- Unique: Longest, most scenic with northern solitude.
FAQs: Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route
What’s the best Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro? The 9-day for max acclimatization from Arusha.
Where can I find a Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route map? At Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
How long is the Mt Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route? 90-98km, 8-9 days trekking.
Is Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro suitable from Arusha? Yes—easy access, high success.
Plan your Arusha-based Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide and conquer Mount Kilimanjaro!
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