Northern Circuit Route – Kilimanjaro’s Longest, Quietest, and Best-Acclimatized Trail
The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s newest and longest route, offering a full 360° trek around the mountain. It combines the beautiful, quiet western approach (similar to Lemosho) with a remote traverse along the north side of the mountain, away from the crowds. With a gradual ascent profile and ample acclimatization time, it has the highest summit success rate of any route.
This route is ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, spectacular views, and the best possible odds of reaching Uhuru Peak.
Key Facts About the Northern Circuit Route
- Route Name: Northern Circuit Route
- Duration: 8, 9, or 10 days (9 days highly recommended)
- Distance: ~98 km (61 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate (due to altitude and duration)
- Success Rate: Very High – up to 95% with 9-day itinerary
- Accommodation: Camping only
- Scenery: Exceptional – traverses rainforest, Shira Plateau, alpine desert, northern slopes, and glaciers
- Crowds: Very Low – least trafficked route on Kilimanjaro
Why Choose the Northern Circuit?
- Best Acclimatization: Long duration allows the body to adapt gradually to high altitude.
- Lowest Crowds: Trek in solitude along the remote northern flanks of Kilimanjaro.
- Unmatched Views: Panoramic vistas of Kenya and the rarely seen northern slopes.
- High Success Rate: Most successful route due to optimal ascent profile.
Perfect for: Those who want the best chance at the summit, value quiet trails, and are physically prepared for a longer trek.
Detailed 9-Day Northern Circuit Route Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa (2,820m)
- Distance: 6 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Start your journey through lush forest after registering at Londorossi. Look out for blue monkeys and colobus monkeys.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
- Distance: 8 km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
The trail climbs out of the forest onto the scenic Shira Plateau with sweeping views of the Shira Ridge.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
- Distance: 7 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Cross the plateau and explore features like the Shira Cathedral. Slow ascent aids acclimatization.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Lava Tower (4,630m), then down to Moir Hut (4,200m)
- Distance: 10 km
- Time: 6–7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to the secluded Moir Hut in a quiet valley.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
- Distance: 12 km
- Time: 5–7 hours
- A gentle climb out of the valley leads to the northern side of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy views over the Kenyan plains.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
- Distance: 8 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Continue along the remote northern circuit trail, maintaining altitude and enjoying peaceful scenery.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut (4,750m)
- Distance: 5 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Ascend slowly to the base camp near Kibo Crater. Rest early in preparation for the summit push.
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Mweka Camp (3,110m)
- Distance: 6 km up, 15 km down
- Time: 6–8 hours up, 6–7 hours down
Begin summit attempt at midnight via Gilman’s Point, then trek along the rim to Uhuru Peak. Descend via the Mweka Route.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
- Distance: 10 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
Walk through the forested lower slopes back to the gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
Tips for Trekking the Northern Circuit
- Go for 9 Days: The extra time dramatically improves acclimatization and enjoyment.
- Be Prepared for Cold Nights: Higher camps are exposed and windy.
- Bring a Camera: Rare views of Kilimanjaro and Kenya’s vast wilderness are unforgettable.
- Train for Endurance: The trek is long; physical readiness is key.
