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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:
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.
Your trek begins at the Londorossi Gate on the western side of the mountain. After registration, a short drive takes you to the trailhead, where you hike through a lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
You continue through the last section of rainforest before entering the moorland zone. This is where you start seeing the volcanic terrain of Kilimanjaro, and you arrive at Shira 1 Camp on the western edge of the Shira Plateau. Starting Elevation: 2,820 m (9,250 ft) Ending Elevation: 3,610 m (11,860 ft) Distance: 8 km (5 miles) Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Moorland
Today is an easier hike across the Shira Plateau, a high-altitude desert with wide, open views. You arrive at Shira 2 Camp with views of Kibo Peak ahead. Starting Elevation: 3,610 m (11,860 ft) Ending Elevation: 3,850 m (12,600 ft) Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Moorland
The trail takes you into the alpine desert, and this is a critical acclimatization day. You’ll stay at the remote Moir Hut, with optional hikes to Lava Tower or Lent Group for better acclimatization. Starting Elevation: 3,850 m (12,600 ft) Ending Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Alpine desert
Begin the Northern Circuit portion, traversing the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The route provides expansive views of Kenya’s plains and the savannah. Camp at the more remote Buffalo Camp. Starting Altitude: 4,200m/13,780ft Ending Altitude: 4,020m/13,189ft Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Continue trekking around the northern side of the mountain, where the environment is quieter and more isolated. Arrive at Third Cave Camp for the night. Starting Altitude: 4,020m/13,189ft Ending Altitude: 3,800m/12,467ft Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Ascend steadily toward School Hut, your base camp for the final summit push. Rest early, as you’ll be making your attempt at the summit during the night.
Summit Day: Wake up around midnight for the final ascent. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,651ft) before continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest. Summit Altitude: 5,895m/19,341ft Ending Altitude: 3,950m/12,959ft (Millennium Camp) Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
A final descent through the rainforest leads to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your certificates for successfully reaching the summit. Transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory evening. Starting Altitude: 3,950m/12,959ft Ending Altitude: 1,640m/5,380ft Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
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