The Northern Circuit path is one of the greatest on Kilimanjaro, with nearly 360 degrees of breathtaking scenery, including the calm, seldom frequented northern slopes.
As the longest Kilimanjaro route, the Northern Circuit requires the greatest acclimatization time and has the highest summit success rate. Thus, the Northern Circuit route comes highly recommended.
The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, starting with a lengthy journey from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. The first two days are spent hiking through the jungle to Shira Ridge, followed by a traverse of the Shira Plateau. The path then proceeds north, clockwise around Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, and School Hut before summiting from the east. The descent is performed by the Mweka path.
Note: that summit day on this way is more difficult than on other routes because of the longer distance.
How Long is the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit course is around 88 kilometres, or 53 miles, long.
How Many Days Does the Northern Circuit Route Climbing Kilimanjaro Take?
Though there is a shorter 8-day version, the Northern Circuit route is normally completed in 9 days.
How Hard is it to Climb Kilimanjaro on the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit route is deemed challenging owing to its up-and-down character. Climbers have a good chance of acclimatising to the altitude due to the length of time they spend on the mountain. However, there are also disadvantages to spending so much time on the hill. It can lead to overall weariness, sleep deprivation, digestive disorders, respiratory troubles, and other ailments. Furthermore, summit day is especially difficult since climbers must cover more distances than other routes.
What is the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro along the Northern Circuit Route?
Our success percentage for the 9-day Northern Circuit route is about 95-98%.
How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro using the Northern Circuit Route?
The cost of the Northern Circuit route varies according to the tour service. Our current price for a group climb on the 9-day Northern Circuit route is $3,599 per person. View all of our pricing here.
Tour Highlights:
- Departure and Return Place: Moshi Town to Lemosho Gate and then back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map)
- Departure Time: Please be ready by 8:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
- Return Time: Approximately 10:30 AM on the last day.
- Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hats, cold-weather jackets, gloves, pants, and spare clothing.
- Accommodation: Two nights of accommodations based on bed and breakfast at a 3-star hotel (upgrades on request).
- Customizations: Can be customized upon request to meet travelers’s needs
- Extensions: Trip Extensions are available on request.
- Trip Availability: All year round.
