Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro

Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and arguably the best route on Mount Kilimanjaro, providing a unique and rewarding climbing experience. This 9-day journey initially follows the Lemosho Route on the western side of Kilimanjaro, ascends to the Shira Plateau, then heads north to circle the main summit in a clockwise direction. It ultimately joins the Rongai Route to climb the summit from the eastern side and descends via the southern Mweka Route.

Northern Circuit Route Map

Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro

Unique Features

  • Scenic Beauty: Offers some of the most breathtaking views, including 360-degree scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • High Success Rate: Due to its extended duration and excellent acclimatization profile, it boasts the highest summit success rate of any Kilimanjaro route, averaging between 95% to 98%.
  • Solitude: Less crowded compared to other routes, providing peaceful and quiet campsites.
  • Wildlife: Potential to spot wildlife such as eland and buffalo, particularly in the remote northern slopes.

Route Description

The trek begins at Londorossi Gate, traversing through the rainforest to the Shira Ridge, then across the Shira Plateau. The path then diverges north at Moir Hut, passing Buffalo Camp and School Hut before summiting from the east.

 DareTravel Tours offers 9-day itinerary for the Northern Circuit Route.

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1: Lemosho Glades
    • Hiking: 4-5 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~9,498 ft
    • Habitat: Rainforest

From your lodge, drive to Londorossi Gate and begin the hike at Lemosho trailhead. Hike through the rainforest to Forest Camp, where you may see exotic moss, flowers, and Colobus monkeys.

  • Day 2: Shira Plateau
    • Hiking: 6-9 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~11,500 ft
    • Habitat: Heath/Moorland

Hike through the Hagenia zone, with the first views of Kibo peak. Ascend and descend several ridges before reaching Shira 1 Camp.

  • Day 3: Moir Camp
    • Hiking: 5-6 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~13,580 ft
    • Habitat: Heath/Moorland

Traverse the Shira Plateau and climb the western slope of the Kibo Massif, stopping at Scott Fisher’s memorial camp for lunch.

  • Day 4: Pofu/Buffalo Camp
    • Hiking: 5-7 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~13,200 ft
    • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Depart Moir Camp and climb a ridge, continuing the traverse around the northern side of Kilimanjaro.

  • Day 5: Third Cave Camp
    • Hiking: 5-7 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~12,700 ft
    • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Continue the northern traverse with expansive views, reaching Third Cave Camp.

  • Day 6: School Huts Camp
    • Hiking: 4-5 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~15,600 ft
    • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Reach the highest elevation camp, preparing for the summit ascent the following night.

  • Day 7: Summit and Mweka Camp
    • Hiking: 13-17 hours (variable)
    • Summit Altitude: ~19,341 ft
    • Overnight Altitude: ~10,065 ft
    • Habitat: Arctic/Alpine Desert

Begin the summit ascent around midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Descend to Barafu Camp for lunch, then to Mweka Camp.

  • Day 8: Mweka Park Gate
    • Hiking: 3-5 hours
    • Overnight Altitude: ~1,843 ft
    • Habitat: Rainforest

Make the final descent to Mweka Gate, say goodbye to the mountain crew, and return to the lodge.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How Difficult is the Northern Circuit Route?: The Northern Circuit Route is considered the least difficult due to its excellent acclimatization profile. The longer itinerary helps reduce the overall difficulty, but a good level of fitness is still recommended.

  • Distance and Duration: The Northern Circuit Route covers 88 km (53 miles). It typically takes 9 days of trekking, but shorter ascents are possible with more strenuous trekking days. Including arrival and departure days, it usually takes 10 to 12 days.

  • Summit Success Rate: The Northern Circuit Route has an average summit success rate of 90%, but DareTravel Tours boasts a success rate of over 98%.

  • Scenery: The route offers diverse scenery, from the rich Lemosho forest and Shira Plateau to the remote northern slopes, which are more arid and austere. Wildlife sightings, including eland and buffalo, are possible.

  • Best Time to Trek: The best time to trek the Northern Circuit Route is from July to September when the weather is most stable. Climbing is possible year-round, but April and May are best avoided due to the rainy season.