Northern Circuit route 

• 9-10 Days

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the least crowded routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique trekking experience that circles the mountain from the western side to the north. Known for its excellent acclimatization profile and diverse landscapes, the Northern Circuit provides a higher summit success rate compared to shorter routes. Here’s an overview:

Key Facts:

• Length: Approximately 98 km (61 miles)
• Duration: 9-10 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (due to the length and altitude)
• Summit Success Rate: High (due to the long acclimatization period)
• Accommodation: Camping only (no huts)
• Scenery: Very scenic, with views of all sides of the mountain and lower crowds

Route Overview

The Northern Circuit begins from the Lemosho Route on the western side of Kilimanjaro, but instead of following the southern trail after Shira Plateau (like the Machame or Lemosho routes), it veers to the north, offering a more remote and quieter experience. The route provides stunning 360-degree views as it loops around the mountain, culminating in the ascent to Uhuru Peak from Kibo Hut via the quieter Gilman’s Point.

Highlights of the Northern Circuit Route

1. Remote and Less Crowded
   • The Northern Circuit is known for its solitude, making it one of the least crowded routes on Kilimanjaro. Since it takes the northern approach, which is far from the busier southern paths, you’ll experience more tranquility.
2. Excellent Acclimatization
   • With 9-10 days to complete, the Northern Circuit allows for a slow and steady ascent, giving trekkers ample time to adjust to the altitude. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and increases the chances of reaching the summit successfully.
3. 360-Degree Views
   • The Northern Circuit offers a full circle of panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, with landscapes ranging from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and glaciers. Since you pass around the entire mountain, you get to see all of Kilimanjaro’s diverse faces, including views of the Kenyan plains to the north.
4. Wildlife and Diverse Ecosystems
   • In the lower rainforest section of the trek, you may spot wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and even small antelopes. The Northern Circuit also passes through moorlands, with unique plants like giant groundsels and Lobelia, and into the alpine desert and arctic zones near the summit.
5. Scenic and Less-Traveled Route
   • The route is more scenic and less crowded than many of the other Kilimanjaro routes, particularly after you pass the Shira Plateau. The Northern Circuit takes trekkers through some of the most untouched and beautiful areas of Kilimanjaro, including remote sections not seen on other routes.
6. Summit via Gilman’s Point
   • The summit attempt via Gilman’s Point (5,685 m / 18,651 ft) on the crater rim is less steep than approaching via the Barafu Camp route. After reaching Gilman’s Point, you follow the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft), the highest point in Africa.

Included and Excluded

Itinerary