Northern Circuit Route: The Longest & Best Acclimatization
Northern Circuit Route
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, has several routes leading to the summit, but none compare to the Northern Circuit Route. It is the longest, most scenic, and best acclimatized route, offering an unforgettable trekking experience with minimal crowds and high success rates.
If you’re considering Kilimanjaro, this guide will cover:
- Why the Northern Circuit Route is the best option
- A detailed day-by-day itinerary
- The difficulty level and best time to trek
- Essential tips for a successful summit
Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest trail to Uhuru Peak, offering trekkers an immersive and less crowded experience.
✅ Best Acclimatization – The longer trek allows your body to adjust to altitude more gradually.
✅ Highest Success Rate – Over 95% of climbers reach the summit due to optimal acclimatization.
✅ Least Crowded Route – Unlike Machame or Marangu, this trail is remote and peaceful.
✅ Most Scenic Path – Enjoy views of the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, the Northern Ice Fields, and more.
On the downside:
❌ Longer Duration – A minimum of 9-10 days is required, making it more expensive.
❌ Physically Demanding – The longer trek requires good endurance and mental strength.
Northern Circuit Route Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown
The Northern Circuit Route typically takes 9 days, though some variations complete it in 8 or 10 days.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,785m (6,890ft to 9,121ft)
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
Your adventure begins at Londorossi Gate, where you’ll register before driving to the trailhead. The trek starts in a dense rainforest, home to monkeys, antelopes, and exotic birds. You’ll camp at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp) for the night.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,785m to 3,505m (9,121ft to 11,499ft)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Time: 5-6 hours
You’ll leave the rainforest behind, entering the heath and moorland zone. The trail leads to Shira Plateau, one of the most scenic parts of Kilimanjaro, with stunning views of Kibo Peak. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,505m to 3,850m (11,499ft to 12,631ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
This is a relatively short trek, allowing you to adjust to the altitude. You’ll hike across the plateau, passing lava formations and gaining breathtaking 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. Shira 2 Camp is your next overnight stop.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (Acclimatization) to Moir Hut
- Elevation: 3,850m to 4,630m to 4,206m (12,631ft to 15,190ft to 13,800ft)
- Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
- Time: 6-8 hours
Today is crucial for acclimatization. You’ll hike to Lava Tower (4,630m) before descending slightly to Moir Hut. This strategy—climbing high, sleeping low—helps your body adapt to the altitude.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Elevation: 4,206m to 4,020m (13,800ft to 13,190ft)
- Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
- Time: 5-7 hours
You’ll now enter the Northern Circuit, a remote and untouched section of Kilimanjaro. The path offers stunning panoramic views and fewer trekkers, making it an ideal day to enjoy the beauty of the mountain. Buffalo Camp is your overnight stop.
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
- Elevation: 4,020m to 3,870m (13,190ft to 12,700ft)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Time: 5-6 hours
This day includes gentle climbs and sweeping views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. You’ll camp at Third Cave Camp, a quiet and peaceful area for resting before the final push toward the summit.
Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut (Base Camp)
- Elevation: 3,870m to 4,800m (12,700ft to 15,750ft)
- Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
This is your last stop before summit night! You’ll climb to School Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, you’ll sleep early, as your final ascent begins at midnight.
Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak (Summit) to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,800m to 5,895m to 3,100m (15,750ft to 19,341ft to 10,170ft)
- Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles)
- Time: 12-16 hours
This is summit day! You’ll start trekking at midnight, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,685m) by sunrise. A final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa!
After taking in the incredible views, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m (10,170ft to 5,380ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
The final descent takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before heading back to Moshi.
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How Difficult is the Northern Circuit Route?
✅ Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging, but long duration helps with acclimatization.
✅ Best For: Trekkers seeking high success rates, fewer crowds, and stunning views.
✅ Success Rate: 95%+ (highest among all Kilimanjaro routes).
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via Northern Circuit
☀️ Best Seasons:
- January to March – Fewer crowds, but colder nights.
- June to October – Best weather with clearer skies.
🌧️ Avoid:
- April, May, and November (rainy season).
Essential Tips for a Successful Climb
✔️ Train for endurance – The trek is long; cardio and strength training are key.
✔️ Stay hydrated – 3-4 liters of water daily is essential for altitude adaptation.
✔️ Pack wisely – Cold-weather gear, hiking boots, and headlamps are a must.
✔️ Go slow (“Pole Pole”) – A slow pace helps prevent altitude sickness.