Northern Circuit Route – 9 Days

Discover Kilimanjaro’s Most Remote and Scenic Route

The Northern Circuit Route is one of the newest and least crowded ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This 9-day trek takes you around the northern slopes of the mountain, offering some of the most breathtaking and unspoiled views while also providing excellent acclimatization opportunities. Known for its stunning scenery and high summit success rate, the Northern Circuit is ideal for those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful and extended experience on Africa’s highest peak.

Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?

• Unparalleled Scenery: The Northern Circuit offers some of the most beautiful, panoramic views of Kilimanjaro, including rare glimpses of the Kenyan side of the mountain.
• High Summit Success Rate: With a longer, more gradual ascent, this route gives climbers ample time to acclimatize, improving your chances of reaching the summit.
• Less Crowded: Unlike the busier Machame and Marangu routes, the Northern Circuit is much quieter, allowing for a more tranquil and personal experience.
• Wildlife and Unique Flora: Trek through rich biodiversity, from lush rainforests to moorlands, and across barren alpine deserts, with opportunities to spot rare plant species and wildlife.

At a Glance

• Duration: 9 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Best Time to Climb: January-March and June-October
• Success Rate: 95%+ (due to excellent acclimatization)

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi.
• Pre-climb briefing and equipment check with your guide.
• Overnight at your hotel in Moshi.

Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)

• Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and begin your trek through lush rainforest.
• Enjoy the first sightings of wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds.
• Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp after 4-5 hours of trekking.
• Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1 (3,610m)

• Ascend through the forest and into the heather and moorland zone, with incredible views of Mount Meru and the Shira Plateau.
• The trail becomes more open, offering sweeping views as you approach Shira Camp 1.
• Overnight at Shira Camp 1 after 6-7 hours of trekking.

Day 4: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2 (3,850m)

• Continue across the Shira Plateau, which offers stunning vistas of the western breach and Kibo Peak.
• Enjoy a relatively easy day of trekking, perfect for acclimatization.
• Overnight at Shira Camp 2 after 4-5 hours of trekking.

Day 5: Shira Camp 2 to Moir Hut (4,200m)

• A more gradual ascent through the heather zone, climbing towards Lava Tower at 4,640m.
• Descend slightly to reach Moir Hut, an excellent spot for acclimatization and exploration.
• Overnight at Moir Hut after 6-7 hours of trekking.

Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp (4,020m) via Lava Tower

• Begin a more remote section of the trek, heading north towards Buffalo Camp.
• Cross rugged landscapes with fewer trekkers in sight, and enjoy the feeling of solitude as you traverse Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.
• Overnight at Buffalo Camp after 5-7 hours of trekking.

Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)

• Continue along the northern circuit path, experiencing more of the untouched side of Kilimanjaro.
• Enjoy spectacular views across the plains of Kenya.
• Overnight at Third Cave Camp after 5-6 hours of trekking.

Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut (4,800m)

• A gradual ascent takes you towards the base of Kibo.
• Reach School Hut, where you’ll rest and prepare for your final summit push.
• Early dinner and sleep to prepare for summit night.
• Overnight at School Hut after 4-5 hours of trekking.

Day 9: Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Millennium Camp (3,950m)

• Begin your summit attempt around midnight, trekking in the dark to Uhuru Peak for sunrise.
• Experience the thrill of standing at the highest point in Africa.
• After celebrating your achievement, descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
• Overnight at Millennium Camp after a long day of trekking (12-15 hours).

Day 10: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)

• A final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
• Transfer back to Moshi for a celebration dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.
• Overnight at your hotel in Moshi or depart for your next adventure.

What to Expect on the Northern Circuit Route

1. Best Time to Climb The best months to trek the Northern Circuit Route are from January to March and June to October when the weather is more stable, and the skies are clear.
2. Physical Challenge While the Northern Circuit Route provides ample time for acclimatization, it is still a physically demanding trek due to the length and elevation gain. It’s recommended to prepare with a training regimen that includes cardio and strength exercises.
3. Wildlife and Flora During the lower part of the trek, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including colobus monkeys and unique bird species. The trek also takes you through Kilimanjaro’s famous zones of vegetation, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
4. Summit Night The summit push begins around midnight, giving you the opportunity to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. The trek to the summit is long and cold, but incredibly rewarding as you watch the sunrise from the top of Africa.
5. Experienced Guides and Support Our team of experienced guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring your safety and providing encouragement to help you reach the summit.

Inclusions

• All Kilimanjaro National Park fees and permits.
• Professional guides, porters, and cooks.
• Accommodation in mountain tents throughout the trek.
• Three meals per day on the mountain.
• Two nights’ accommodation in Moshi (before and after the trek).
• Roundtrip airport transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Exclusions

• International flights.
• Personal trekking gear (available for rent).
• Travel insurance (required).
• Tips for guides, porters, and cooks.
• Additional drinks and snacks.

Why Book the Northern Circuit Route with Kilimania?

At Kilimania, we specialize in creating unforgettable trekking experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro. Our Northern Circuit Route tours are led by highly experienced, certified guides who prioritize safety, comfort, and success. With our well-organized itineraries, high summit success rates, and dedication to customer care, you can be confident that your Kilimanjaro adventure will be one to remember.