Northern Circuit Route
Route Summary
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's newest and longest route — a 9-day grand traverse that circumnavigates the entire mountain. Starting from the Lemosho trailhead on the western side, you cross the vast Shira Plateau before diverging north onto the quiet, untouched northern slopes. For three days you'll have the mountain virtually to yourself, trekking through pristine alpine wilderness that no other route touches. The Northern Circuit offers the best acclimatization profile of any route, with summit success rates approaching 98%. This is the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience for those who want to see every side of the mountain.
Altitude Profile
Altitude by day (summit day in amber). Peak: 5,895 m.
- Day 12,750 m
Londorossi Gate (2,250m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m)
- Day 23,505 m
Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,505m)
- Day 33,850 m
Shira 1 Camp (3,505m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
- Day 44,200 m
Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) to Moir Hut (4,200m) via Lava Tower (4,630m)
- Day 54,020 m
Moir Hut (4,200m) to Buffalo Camp (4,020m)
- Day 63,870 m
Buffalo Camp (4,020m) to Third Cave Camp (3,870m)
- Day 74,750 m
Third Cave Camp (3,870m) to School Hut (4,750m)
- Day 8 · Summit5,895 m
School Hut (4,750m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m)
- Day 91,640 m
Millennium Camp (3,820m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Key Route Details
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Highest success rate (95-98%)
- Full circumnavigation of the mountain
- 3 days of total solitude on northern slopes
- Best acclimatization profile possible
Considerations
- Longest route (9 days)
- Most expensive option
- Requires more time commitment
Best For
Climbers who want the absolute highest summit success rate and don't mind spending 9 days on the mountain. Ideal for those seeking solitude, a complete Kilimanjaro experience, and the best possible acclimatization. No previous altitude experience required due to the gradual profile.
Preparation
Standard cardiovascular fitness training for 8-12 weeks. The longer duration means your body has more time to acclimatize, but you need to be comfortable with 9 consecutive days of trekking. Break in your boots thoroughly and practice multi-day hiking.
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