What is included in a Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro climbing package?

Most Kilimanjaro climbing packages include park fees, professional mountain guides, porters, camping equipment, meals during the trek, drinking water, safety equipment such as oxygen and first aid kits, and transfers to and from the mountain.

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route?

The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route usually ranges between 3200 and 4500 US dollars per person depending on the itinerary length, group size, and services provided.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Northern Circuit Route?

Altitude sickness can affect anyone climbing Kilimanjaro. However, the Northern Circuit Route allows better acclimatization due to its longer itinerary, which helps reduce the risk compared to shorter routes.

How should I prepare for climbing Kilimanjaro?

Preparation should include regular hiking, cardiovascular training, endurance exercises, and hiking with a backpack. Training several months before the climb helps improve stamina and increases the chances of reaching the summit.

NORTHERNCIRCUIT

Q: How many days does the Northern Circuit Route take?

The Northern Circuit Route typically takes between 8 and 10 days to complete. Many climbers choose the 9 or 10 day itinerary because the extra acclimatization days increase the chances of successfully reaching the summit.

Q: What is the success rate of the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit Route has one of the highest summit success rates on Mount Kilimanjaro, usually ranging between 90 and 95 percent for climbers following the longer itineraries.

Q: How long is the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit Route covers approximately 98 kilometers or 61 miles from Lemosho Gate to Mweka Gate.

Q: What is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit Route?

The best time to climb the Northern Circuit Route is during the dry seasons from January to March and from June to October when weather conditions are generally more stable and visibility is better.

Q: Do I need technical climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro?

No technical climbing experience is required to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a trekking expedition that requires good physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to hike for several days at high altitude.

Q: What is the highest point reached on the Northern Circuit Route?

The highest point reached during the climb is Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters or 19,341 feet above sea level, which is the highest point in Africa.

Q: Why is the Northern Circuit Route considered the best route?

The Northern Circuit Route is considered one of the best routes because it offers excellent acclimatization, fewer crowds, scenic diversity, and a very high summit success rate compared to other Kilimanjaro routes.

8-Day or 9-Day or 10-Day Trekking Kilimanjaro via Northern Circuit Route

Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro

Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is widely regarded as the best route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for trekkers seeking the highest summit success rate, spectacular scenery, and a quieter trekking experience.

Unlike most Kilimanjaro routes that ascend and descend along similar paths, the Northern Circuit follows a complete loop around the mountain’s northern slopes, offering climbers 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes of Tanzania and Kenya.

The trek begins at Lemosho Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro, gradually climbing through dense rainforest before crossing the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on earth. From there, the route circles around the remote northern side of the mountain, where climbers enjoy dramatic volcanic landscapes, alpine desert scenery, and fewer crowds compared to other routes.

Because the Northern Circuit takes 8 to 10 days, it provides excellent acclimatization time, significantly improving the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft) — the highest point in Africa.

For climbers who want the most scenic and least crowded Kilimanjaro route with the best chance of reaching the summit, the Northern Circuit is considered the ultimate Kilimanjaro trekking experience.

Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro mountain.HEIC

Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route

Highest Summit Success Rate

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Remote and Less Crowded

The northern slopes of Kilimanjaro receive far fewer climbers compared to routes like Machame or Marangu. This provides a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience.

Complete Kilimanjaro Circuit

This route circles almost the entire mountain, offering unmatched 360-degree views and diverse landscapes.

Excellent Acclimatization

The longer duration allows climbers to ascend slowly and adapt to altitude gradually, which greatly reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Incredible Scenic Diversity

Climbers pass through several ecological zones including:

Rainforest
Moorland
Alpine desert
Arctic summit zone

Northern Circuit Route Key Facts

Route Duration
8 Days, 9 Days, or 10 Days

Difficulty Level
Moderately difficult

Success Rate
Approximately 90–95%

Starting Point
Lemosho Gate

Ending Point
Mweka Gate

Highest Elevation
Uhuru Peak – 5,895 meters

Total Distance
Approximately 98 kilometers

Best Time to Climb
January to March
June to October

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northern Tanzania near the border with Kenya, stands as Africa's highest peak at 5,895 meters (19.341 feet). This dormant volcanic mountain features three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Renowned as the "Roof of Africa," there are five distinct ecological zones: cultivation, forest, heath, alpine desert, and arctic summit offering diverse landscapes and unique wildlife. Conservation efforts are managed by Kilimanjaro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987

The Northern Circuit Route is an excellent choice for those looking for a longer trek with varied scenery and high chances of reaching the summit. Its extended duration and gradual ascent profile aid in acclimatization, making it one of the most successful routes for summiting Kilimanjaro. The route offers solitude and unique 360° view, making it a favorite among trekkers seeking a comprehensive and less crowded Kilimanjaro experience.

Duration
- The trek lasts 8 days or 9 days or 10 days.

Difficulty
- Considered moderately difficult. The longer duration and gradual ascent help with acclimatization, making it one of the routes with the highest summit success rates.

Scenery and Experience
- The Northern Circuit Route is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
- It is the longest and newest route, offering trekkers a unique and less crowded experience.
- The route circumnavigates Kilimanjaro, providing 360-degree views and a chance to see various sides of the mountain.

Advantage
- High Success Rate: The extended duration and gradual ascent greatly improve acclimatization, resulting in one of the highest summit success rates.
- Scenic Beauty: The route offers a wide variety of landscapes and stunning views from different angles of the mountain.
- Solitude: It is less crowded than many other routes, providing a more peaceful trekking experience.

Weakness
- Duration: The longer trek requires more time and can be more expensive due to the extended duration.
- Physical Demands: Despite the good acclimatization, the longer duration and high altitude still require good physical conditioning.

Inclusions

Transfers from and back to your accommodation
Hotel (before and after the trek)
Professional and experienced mountain guides
Professional and experienced porters and cook
Waterproof and 4-seasons mountain sleeping tents
Mess tent with tables and chairs
Sleeping mattress
Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with large portions of fresh, healthy and nutritious food
Clean and purified drinking water
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Park fees (camping/hut fees, rescue fees, conservation fees)
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
First Aid Kit
Kilimanjaro summit certificate

Exclusions

Tanzania Visa
International and domestic flights
Personal trekking equipment such as hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, beverages, snack, etc)
Tips and Gratuities
Travel insurance

10-Day Northern Circuit Route Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania – Airport Pickup and Pre-Climb Briefing

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a representative from Kilisky Adventures will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

At the hotel, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing about the Northern Circuit climb, including safety procedures, equipment checks, and an overview of the trekking itinerary.

Your guide will inspect your climbing gear to ensure you have everything required for the expedition. Missing equipment can be rented locally if necessary.

The rest of the day is free to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Overnight: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)

Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation:
2,100 m / 6,890 ft → 2,650 m / 8,694 ft

Distance:
Approximately 6 km

Hiking Time:
3–4 hours

Your Kilimanjaro trek begins with a drive from your hotel to Lemosho Gate, located on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. After completing park registration and meeting the mountain crew, the hike begins through the lush montane rainforest.

This section of the trail is rich in biodiversity, and trekkers may spot colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species along the way. The path gently ascends through towering trees and dense vegetation before reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp.

This peaceful campsite is located within the forest and provides a great introduction to Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystem.

Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation:
2,650 m / 8,694 ft → 3,610 m / 11,843 ft

Distance:
Approximately 8 km

Hiking Time:
5–6 hours

After breakfast, the trek continues as the forest gradually thins and transitions into the heather and moorland zone. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend the slopes of the Shira Ridge.

Eventually, the route opens up onto the Shira Plateau, one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world and the result of ancient volcanic activity.

From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak, Kilimanjaro’s highest summit.

You will arrive at Shira 1 Camp, located on the western edge of the plateau.

Overnight: Shira 1 Camp

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation:
3,610 m / 11,843 ft → 3,850 m / 12,631 ft

Distance:
Approximately 7 km

Hiking Time:
3–4 hours

Today’s trek crosses the expansive Shira Plateau, offering spectacular views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscapes.

The terrain is relatively gentle, allowing your body to continue acclimatizing gradually to the increasing altitude.

You will arrive at Shira 2 Camp, located at the base of the southern slopes of Kibo. This campsite provides incredible views of the summit and the glaciers near the crater rim.

In the afternoon, climbers often take a short acclimatization hike before returning to camp for dinner.

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower – Acclimatization Day

Elevation:
3,850 m / 12,631 ft → 4,600 m / 15,092 ft → 3,850 m / 12,631 ft

Distance:
Approximately 10 km

Hiking Time:
5–6 hours

This is an important acclimatization day following the principle of “climb high, sleep low.”

You will hike toward the famous Lava Tower, a 90-meter volcanic rock formation that stands dramatically in the alpine desert.

The climb to Lava Tower helps your body adjust to higher altitude. After spending some time there and enjoying lunch, you will descend back to Shira 2 Camp for the night.

This acclimatization strategy significantly improves the chances of a successful summit attempt.

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

Elevation:
3,850 m / 12,631 ft → 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

Distance:
Approximately 9 km

Hiking Time:
5–7 hours

Today’s route leaves the main trail used by climbers on the Machame Route and enters the quieter paths of the Northern Circuit.

The trail ascends gradually across alpine desert terrain toward Moir Hut, located beneath the dramatic cliffs of the Lent Hills.

These rocky formations provide excellent opportunities for optional acclimatization hikes in the afternoon.

Overnight: Moir Hut

Day 6: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

Elevation:
4,200 m / 13,780 ft → 4,020 m / 13,188 ft

Distance:
Approximately 12 km

Hiking Time:
5–7 hours

Today marks the beginning of the true Northern Circuit, as the trail curves around the remote northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The terrain features open alpine desert with panoramic views of the Kenyan plains to the north.

After several hours of trekking, you will reach Buffalo Camp, a scenic campsite located on the northern side of the mountain.

Overnight: Buffalo Camp

Day 7: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Elevation:
4,020 m / 13,188 ft → 3,870 m / 12,697 ft

Distance:
Approximately 8 km

Hiking Time:
5–6 hours

The trail continues along the northern slopes with gentle ups and downs across volcanic terrain.

Because this area receives far fewer trekkers, climbers enjoy a quiet and remote atmosphere with incredible views of the surrounding plains.

You will arrive at Third Cave Camp, located near the Rongai Route.

Overnight: Third Cave Camp

Day 8: Third Cave Camp to School Hut

Elevation:
3,870 m / 12,697 ft → 4,800 m / 15,748 ft

Distance:
Approximately 5 km

Hiking Time:
4–5 hours

Today’s trek leads toward School Hut, the final base camp before the summit attempt.

The trail ascends steadily across the alpine desert as you approach the base of Kibo Peak.

After arriving at camp, you will have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit attempt.

Overnight: School Hut

Day 9: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp

Elevation:
4,800 m / 15,748 ft → 5,895 m / 19,341 ft → 3,820 m / 12,533 ft

Distance:
Approximately 15 km

Hiking Time:
10–14 hours

Around midnight, you begin the summit push under the stars.

The climb is steep and challenging as you ascend toward Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) on the crater rim.

From there, you continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating your achievement and taking photos, you descend back to School Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp.

Overnight: Millennium Camp

Day 10: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation:
3,820 m / 12,533 ft → 1,640 m / 5,380 ft

Distance:
Approximately 12 km

Hiking Time:
4–6 hours

Your final descent takes you through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will sign out of Kilimanjaro National Park and receive your official summit certificate.

Afterward, your driver will transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for a well-deserved hot shower and celebration.

Cost of the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro Climb

The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit depends on the itinerary length, group size, and level of service provided.

Prices typically start from:

From $3,190 per person

Most packages include:

Kilimanjaro National Park fees
Professional mountain guides and porters
Camping equipment and tents
Three meals per day on the mountain
Drinking water during the trek
Safety equipment including oxygen and first aid kit
Transfers to and from the mountain

Additional costs may include:

International flights
Tanzania visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal trekking equipment
Tips for guides and porters

Get a quote

Northern Circuit Route Map

Best Time to Climb the Northern Circuit Route

Mount Kilimanjaro can technically be climbed throughout the year, but the best weather conditions occur during the dry seasons.

January – March

Cooler temperatures with fewer climbers on the mountain.

June – October

The most popular climbing season with stable weather and clear summit views.

Although the rainy seasons occur in April–May and November, the Northern Circuit can still be climbed during these months with proper preparation.

Northern Circuit Route Difficulty

The Northern Circuit Route is considered moderately challenging. Like all Kilimanjaro climbs, reaching the summit requires physical endurance and determination rather than technical climbing skills.

The longer duration of the Northern Circuit route makes it easier to acclimatize to the altitude, which significantly increases summit success rates.

Climbers should prepare with regular hiking, cardiovascular exercise, and endurance training before attempting the climb.

Northern Circuit Route Success Rate

One of the main reasons climbers choose the Northern Circuit is its exceptionally high summit success rate.

Because the route allows additional days for acclimatization, climbers have more time to adapt to the altitude. This reduces the likelihood of altitude sickness and improves overall performance during the summit push.

Guided expeditions following the 9 or 10-day itinerary often report success rates between 90% and 95%.

Packing List for the Northern Circuit Route

Proper equipment is essential for a successful Kilimanjaro climb. Climbers should bring appropriate clothing for both warm and extremely cold conditions.

Essential gear includes:

Waterproof hiking boots
Thermal base layers
Insulated down jacket
Warm gloves and hat
Sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures
Headlamp with spare batteries
Trekking poles
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Hydration system or water bottles

A detailed packing list will be provided before your expedition.

FAQ On Northern Circuit Route

What is the Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro?

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the most scenic routes used to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It approaches the mountain from the western side at Lemosho Gate and circles around the remote northern slopes before reaching the summit via Uhuru Peak. Because it takes longer than other routes, it allows excellent acclimatization and offers some of the highest summit success rates.

How many days does the Northern Circuit Route take?

The Northern Circuit Route typically takes 8, 9, or 10 days to complete. Most climbers choose the 9-day or 10-day itinerary because the additional acclimatization days significantly increase the chances of successfully reaching the summit.

What is the success rate of the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes, often reaching 90% to 95% for climbers who complete the 9 or 10-day itinerary. The longer duration allows climbers to acclimatize gradually to the altitude.

How difficult is the Northern Circuit Route?

The Northern Circuit Route is considered moderately difficult. While it requires good physical fitness and endurance, it does not involve technical climbing skills. The longer itinerary and gradual ascent make it easier for climbers to adapt to the altitude compared to shorter routes

Where does the Northern Circuit Route start and end?

The Northern Circuit Route begins at Lemosho Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro and ends at Mweka Gate, which is used for the descent after reaching the summit.

How long is the Northern Circuit Route?

The total trekking distance of the Northern Circuit Route is approximately 98 kilometers (61 miles) from the starting point at Lemosho Gate to the exit at Mweka Gate.

What is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit Route?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route is during the dry seasons: January to March – cooler temperatures with fewer climbers June to October – the most popular climbing season with stable weather Although it is possible to climb during the rainy seasons (April–May and November), the trails can be wetter and visibility may be reduced.

Do I need technical climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro?

No technical climbing experience is required. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a high-altitude trek, not a technical mountaineering climb. However, good physical fitness and proper preparation are important for reaching the summit successfully.

What is the highest point reached on the Northern Circuit Route?

The highest point reached during the climb is Uhuru Peak, which stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level and is the highest point in Africa.

Why is the Northern Circuit Route considered the best route?

Many guides and experienced climbers consider the Northern Circuit the best route because it offers: • the highest summit success rate • excellent acclimatization profile • fewer crowds on the trail • diverse landscapes and ecosystems • panoramic 360-degree views around the mountain

What type of accommodation is used on the Northern Circuit Route?

Climbers sleep in mountain tents at designated campsites along the route. Professional tour operators provide high-quality tents, sleeping mattresses, and a full mountain support crew including guides, porters, and cooks.