Destination

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Duration
8 Days 7 Nights
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Tour Type
Adventure Tour
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Group Size
1- 10 People
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Tour Guide
2 People
Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro

Navigating the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro: A Guide to the Ultimate Trek

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The Northern Circuit Route is one of the newest and longest routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. It is known for its stunning scenery, quiet trails, and high success rates. The route takes around 8-9 days to complete, offering trekkers plenty of time to acclimatize to the altitude.

The Northern Circuit Route starts at the Londorossi Gate in the west and follows the same path as the Lemosho Route for the first two days. After crossing the Shira Plateau, the path veers north near Lava Tower, following the longer Northern Circuit instead of the more popular Southern Circuit. The Northern Circuit Route offers trekkers a unique and unforgettable experience, as it traverses around nearly the entire mountain, offering nearly 360-degree views of the stunning scenery.

Overview

The Northern Circuit Route is one of the newest and longest routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also one of the most scenic and least crowded routes, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes. This route is perfect for those who want to take their time and enjoy the journey, as it offers the most acclimatization time of any Kilimanjaro route.

The Northern Circuit Route starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate and follows the same path as the Lemosho Route for the first two days. However, it then veers off to the north and circles around the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and wildlife.

One of the main advantages of the Northern Circuit Route is its high success rate. At 98%, it has the highest success rate of any Kilimanjaro route, thanks to its longer duration, which allows for better acclimatization and a slower ascent. This makes it a great option for those who are concerned about altitude sickness or want to increase their chances of reaching the summit.

Overall, the Northern Circuit Route is a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of Kilimanjaro without the crowds, and who want to take their time and enjoy the journey. With its stunning views, high success rate, and ample acclimatization time, it is a route that should not be missed.

Itinerary

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and newest route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. It takes about 9 to 11 days to complete, depending on the itinerary chosen. The route offers a unique experience, with stunning panoramic views, diverse flora and fauna, and a high success rate of reaching the summit.

The itinerary for the Northern Circuit Route typically starts from Londorossi Gate and finishes at Mweka Gate. The route follows a clockwise direction around the mountain, starting from the west and traveling northwards. The following is an example of a 9-day itinerary for the Northern Circuit Route:

Day Camp Elevation Hiking Time Distance Habitat
1 Mti Mkubwa 9,498 ft 3-4 hours 4 miles Rain Forest
2 Shira 1 11,499 ft 5-6 hours 5 miles Moorland
3 Shira 2 12,500 ft 4-5 hours 5 miles Moorland
4 Moir Hut 13,800 ft 4-5 hours 5 miles Moorland
5 Buffalo Camp 13,000 ft 5-7 hours 7 miles Heath
6 Third Cave 12,700 ft 6-7 hours 5 miles Alpine Desert
7 School Hut 15,500 ft 4-5 hours 4 miles Alpine Desert
8 Summit 19,341 ft 10-16 hours 5 miles Glacial
9 Mweka Camp 10,000 ft 3-4 hours 10 miles Rain Forest

The itinerary includes acclimatization days at Shira 2 and Moir Hut, which help climbers adjust to the high altitude. The summit day is the longest and most challenging day of the climb, with a pre-dawn start and a steep ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Overall, the Northern Circuit Route offers a unique and rewarding experience for climbers who are looking for a longer and less crowded route to the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Difficulty

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging endeavor, and the Northern Circuit route is no exception. However, with proper preparation and training, most people can complete the climb successfully.

The Northern Circuit route is considered a medium-difficulty route, with a high success rate. The route covers a distance of 98 km (61 miles) and takes 9 days to complete. The gradual elevation gain and longer time spent on the mountain make it easier to acclimatize to the altitude.

The climb requires a good level of fitness and endurance, as well as mental toughness. Climbers will face a variety of challenges, including steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions.

It is recommended that climbers train for at least 6 months before attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This should include cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and hiking with a loaded backpack.

Altitude sickness is a common concern for climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Northern Circuit route is no exception. Climbers should take their time and allow their bodies to acclimatize properly. It is also important to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to maintain energy levels.

Overall, while the Northern Circuit route is challenging, it is a rewarding experience for those who are prepared and willing to put in the effort.

Packing List

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging adventure that requires proper preparation and planning. One of the essential aspects of preparation is packing. A well-packed bag will ensure that climbers have everything they need for a successful climb. Here’s what climbers should pack for the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro route:

Clothing

Climbers should bring comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing that can be layered. The Northern Circuit route covers a variety of terrains, including rainforest, alpine desert, and arctic zones, so climbers should be prepared for a range of temperatures. Here are some essential clothing items to pack:

  • Insulated trekking pants
  • Long sleeve hiking shirts
  • Hiking trousers
  • Insulated winter jacket
  • Polartec fleece jacket
  • Hardshell jacket
  • Warm hat
  • Sun hat with neck cover
  • Bandana or neck gaiter
  • Warm gloves
  • Hiking boots
  • Gaiters

Gear

In addition to clothing, climbers should bring essential gear to help them navigate the terrain and stay safe. Here are some essential gear items to pack:

  • Backpack (between 35 and 50 liters)
  • Duffel bag (between 65 and 100 liters)
  • Backpack rain cover
  • Dry bags
  • Hydration pack (water bladder)
  • Water bottle(s)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sleeping bag rated to at least -15°C
  • Sleeping pad
  • Personal first aid kit
  • High-altitude medication (if prescribed by a doctor)

Other Items

Climbers should also bring some other essential items to make their climb more comfortable. Here are some other items climbers should pack:

  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Insect repellent
  • Lip balm
  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, etc.)
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards

Overall, climbers should aim to pack as lightly as possible while still bringing everything they need for a successful climb. By packing the right clothing, gear, and other items, climbers can ensure that they are prepared for the challenges of the Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro route.

Cost

The Northern Circuit route is a relatively new and less crowded route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also one of the more expensive routes due to its length and the number of days required for acclimatization. The cost of the Northern Circuit route varies depending on the tour operator, the number of days, and the group size.

Typically, the cost of a nine-day Northern Circuit trek ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 per person. This cost includes park fees, camping fees, guide, and porter fees, food, and transportation to and from the mountain. However, it does not include the cost of flights, visas, travel insurance, or personal equipment such as clothing and sleeping bags.

It is important to note that the cost of the Northern Circuit route is higher than other routes due to its longer duration and the need for more supplies and support staff. However, the cost is worth it for those who want to experience the stunning scenery and unique wildlife of the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.

To reduce costs, some tour operators offer group discounts or provide shared equipment such as tents and cooking gear. It is also possible to book the trek during the low season, which is from March to May and November to mid-December when prices are generally lower.

Overall, the cost of the Northern Circuit route is higher than other routes, but it is worth it for those who want to experience the beauty and solitude of the less crowded northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.

Conclusion

The Northern Circuit Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular choice for climbers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery, varied terrain, and high summit success rate, it is easy to see why this route is gaining in popularity.

One of the major benefits of the Northern Circuit Route is its length. As the longest route on Kilimanjaro, it offers climbers ample time to acclimatize, which can greatly increase the chances of reaching the summit. Additionally, the route is less crowded than some of the other popular routes, which can make for a more peaceful and enjoyable climb.

Climbers on the Northern Circuit Route will be treated to a variety of landscapes, from lush rainforests to high-altitude deserts. Along the way, they will encounter a wide range of flora and fauna, including the elusive Kilimanjaro elephant and the endangered Kilimanjaro tree hyrax.

Overall, the Northern Circuit Route is a challenging but rewarding climb that offers climbers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery, varied terrain, and high summit success rate, it is easy to see why this route is quickly becoming one of the most popular on Kilimanjaro.

1 PAX 2 PAX 3 PAX  4 – PAX
$ 2,200 $ 2,010 $ 1,905 $ 1,893

 

Destination Mt Kilimanjaro
Arrival Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Departure Time Yes Require
Included
  • Specialized Tour Guide
  • Private Transport
  • Entrance Fees
  • Box Lunch, Water, Dinner, and Snacks
Excluded
  • Additional Services
  • Insurance
  • Drink
  • Tickets
Travel With Bus

Details

LONDO-ROSSI GATE(2,100 METERS) STARING POINT (2,389/7838FT ) MTI MKUBWA CAMP(2,785/9137FT) Altitude gained: 396m

The Northern Circuit Route begins at Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters) in the West, the same starting point as the Lemosho Route.
The drive to Londorossi Gate takes approximately two hours from Moshi and considerably longer from Arusha.
Registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities occurs at the gate and then you will be driven further up the mountain to the trailhead starting point.
Most tour operators serve lunch here before the short first-day trek to MtiMkubwa Camp (2,785 meters) begins.
You may get lucky and spot large wildlife like elephants and buffalo that sometimes emerge from the rainforest onto the path as you trek towards your first camp. Dinner will be served when you reach MtiMkubwa Camp. Distance: ~4.8km / 3 miles Trekking time: 3-4 hours Zone: Rainforest

MTI MKUBWA CAMP (2785M/ 9137FT )- SHIRA I CAMP (3504M/ 11496FT) Altitude gained: 719m

You will spend the first hour trekking through the last section of the rainforest path before entering the low alpine moorland zone which follows up onto the Shira Plateau. The trek is relatively short and gradual, ending at Shira Camp 1 (3,504 meters). Distance: ~7.9km / 5 miles Trekking time: 5-6 hours Zone: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone

SHIRA 1 (3504M/11496FT) TO MOIR HUT (4161M/13651FT) Altitude gained: 657m

A long trek heading east passes through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’ and then enters the high alpine desert zone.
The morning is spent trekking up to Lava Tower and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation at 4,600 meters, where you will have lunch.
After lunch, you will join the northern circuit heading down to Moir Camp at 4,161 meters (see map above).
This is an important day in your trek as you will get to experience high altitude and then sleep low, which is good for the acclimatization process. Distance: ~ 9.8km / 6.1 miles Trekking time: 5-7 hours Zone: Low alpine zone / High alpine zone

MOIR CAMP (4,155M/13,632FT) TO BUFFALO CAMP (4,033M/13,232FT) Altitude loss: 122m

Today it involves a moderately steep climb out of Moir Valley.
Trekkers can take a small detour here to climb the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 meters before returning to the Northern Circuit trail.
From here the route follows a series of inclines and declines, skirting around the northern slopes of Kibo to Buffalo Camp (4,033 meters).
The trek gives great vistas out across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan / Tanzanian border.
You will arrive at Buffalo Camp just after midday, where you will have lunch and have time to rest after a long day of hiking. Distance: ~9.2km / 5.8miles Trekking time: 5-7 hours Zone: High alpine zone

BUFFALO CAMP (4033M/13,232FT) – RONGAI 3RD CAVE (3,936M/12,193FT) Altitude lost: 97m

Starts with a climb up the Buffalo Ridge and down into Pofu Camp where lunch is usually served.
The route then continues east around the northern slopes to the Rongai Third Cave at 3,936 meters.
The trek is shorter than the day before and by now you should be feeling well acclimatized to the altitude. You will arrive at the Third Cave just around mid-afternoon. Distance: ~6.8km / 4.3miles Trekking time: 5-7 hours Zone: High alpine zone and low alpine zone

RONGAI 3RD CAVE (3936M/12913FT) – SCHOOL HUT (4717M/15,476FT) Altitude gained: 781m

Today it involves a steady incline up and over the Saddle which sits between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Trekkers then continue walking southwest up to School Hut (4,800 meters).
After arriving at School Hut you will be served an early dinner and then you should get some shut-eye as you will be awoken before midnight to start your summit attempt.
Remember to prepare all your gear, including warm clothes, insulated water bottles, snacks, headlamps, and cameras before going to bed. Distance: ~4.8km / 3miles Trekking time: 4-5 hours Zone: High alpine zone and glacial zone

SCHOOL HUT ( 4717M/15476FT) – SUMMIT ( 5,895 M/19341FT) – MILLENIUM CAMP (3,827 M/12556FT) Altitude gained: 1178m Altitude lost: 2068m (descent)

You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up to the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness.
Your first checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break.
The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters), which will be around 5-6 hours after departing School Hut.
Take a moment to enjoy the approaching dawn and incredible view out and across to Mawenzi Peak, but remember you still have 2 hours of trekking to reach Uhuru Peak so dig deep for the energy.
The slope flattens as you head west around the crater rim and you should arrive at the summit at or just after sunrise.
Your stay here will be brief so get as many pictures as you can of the incredible views and surrounding glaciers.
You will then retrace your steps back around the crater rim to Stella Point (5,739 meters) where you will turn south and head down the heavily screed slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 meters).
Most trekkers take a short break here before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters) for their final night on the mountain.
In total, you will be trekking for 14-16 hours on day eight so it is important to pace yourself, remain hydrated and keep your blood sugar levels up. Note: some tour operators return via Gilman’s Point to Horombo Hut using the Marangu Route. You will be awoken around 11:30 with hot tea and biscuits and will then begin the steep incline up to the slopes of Kibo under the cover of darkness.
Your first checkpoint is Hans Meyer Cave where you will take a short break. The climb steepens as you approach Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters) Distance: ~5.9km / 3.7 miles ascent and 8.4km / 5.2-mile descent Trekking time: 6-8 hours ascent and then 4-6 hours descent Zone: Glacial zone and all preceding zones

MILLENIUM CAMP 3827M/12,556FT – MWEKA GATE 1633M/5358FT – MOSHI 970M Altitude lost: 2194m

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates.
As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!! Distance: ~12.2km / 7.6 miles Trekking time: 3-4 hours Zone: Rainforest zone Overnight Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel 4 stars B&B. before being transferred to your journey home, safari or a relaxing trip to Zanzibar.

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