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Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Tours and Treks 2024/2025

Although the newest route, the Northern Circuit is quickly becoming one of the most popular trekking routes to Mount Kilimanjaro. This has largely to do with its secluded nature and its near to full 360° view of the surrounding. It is also the longest route to Kilimanjaro and affords ample time for acclimatization, making it ideal for first-time and amateur trekkers. The Northern Circuit has a climbing success rate of 98%, which is more than any other route. The trail starts from the western side of the mountain and traverses through diverse landscapes—lush rainforests, expansive moorlands, and surreal alpine deserts—before eventually approaching the summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), from the north. So if you are taking a Tanzania trip and wish to conquer the ‘Roof of Africa’, your best bet would be to take the Northern Circuit.

Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route - 4 Trips with 8 Reviews

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9 Day Kilimanjaro trekking through Northen circuit route

of 3 reviews
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Very enjoyable trip, well organised, friendly staff and beautiful place. Made it to the top of Kilim ...
  • Activities Trekking and Hiking & Climbing
  • Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Hut
  • Transport Private Vehicle
  • Age Range 5-79 yrs
  • Operated in English
days11 From US$ 2,200 US$ 2,090
SavingUS$ 110
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  • Mar 22
  • Mar 23
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Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking 9 Days Northern Circuit Route

of 5 reviews
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  • Free cancellation
  • Trip customizable
Our group of 5 went on the Northern Circuit Hike with this local tour operator over Christmas 2021, ...
  • Tour Type Private Tour
  • Activities Trekking and Hiking
  • Accommodation Tent, Camping, Hut & Hotel
  • Age Range 10-79 yrs
  • Operated in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish
days09 From US$ 3,200 US$ 3,040
SavingUS$ 160
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  • Mar 22
  • Mar 23
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Kilimanjaro Climbing tours via Northern Circuit - 10 Days

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10 day trekking and hiking trip through Moshi, Shira Camp One, Shira Camp Two and 8 other destinations in Tanzania. Read More
  • Tour Type Private Tour
  • Activities Trekking and Hiking
  • Accommodation Camping, Hotel, Hut, Tent & Sleeping Hut
  • Transport Private Vehicle
  • Age Range 12-70 yrs
  • Operated in English, French, German, Hindi
days10 From US$ 3,899 US$ 3,704
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  • Apr 04
  • Apr 05
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Ten-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: Northern Circuit

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  • Free cancellation
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10 day trekking and hiking tour through Mti Mkubwa, Shira Camp One, Shira Camp Two and 10 other destinations in Tanzania. Read More
  • Tour Type Private Tour
  • Activities Trekking and Hiking & Climbing
  • Accommodation Camping, Tent, Hotel & Hut
  • Age Range 7-79 yrs
  • Operated in English, French, German, Spanish
days10 From US$ 2,755 US$ 2,617
SavingUS$ 138
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  • Mar 26
  • Mar 27
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Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Reviews

5 - Excellent
Based on 8 customer reviews
Kili Northern Circuit
5 - Excellent
  • Anonymous
“Very enjoyable trip, well organised, friendly staff and beautiful place. Made it to the top of Kilimanjaro for sunrise thanks to help of excellent guides. Food on trip was plentiful and tasty, porters worked very hard and were fast too. Thanks to all.”
A Grand 9Days Kilimanjaro Adventure with Dahlia:
5 - Excellent
  • Salete Da Costa
“Our only ladies group from Germany trekking Kilimanjaro 9Days Northern route with the local tour company was the experience of a lifetime. As a beginner hiker but masters adventurers, I wanted to hike camp to camp very fast than anyone to celebrate a major birthday 45th with my two sisters. The company planned and prepared a fantastic experience for us. Before the trip, they explained the itinerary and sent detailed information about what to pack and what to expect in Tanzania and especially Kilimanjaro. Catherine, our tour advisor sent an email to each person welcoming us and sharing her personal thoughts and recommendations about the hike. The guide Samwell patiently took care of all of our needs and answered every question along the trail. I will, "trust my boots" more in the future because of Samwell he perfectly timed our treks so well, our porters and chef made delicious meals each day we even had pizza on the mountain! The gear that tours provides is in excellent condition and easy to use. The drive to and from the Climbing gate was a bonus as both drivers were well versed in particular Tanzania and were happy to share their experiences. I highly recommend this hike to fully experience the Mount Kilimanjaro.”
Once in a lifetime experience hiking through Kilimanjaro's Northern Circuit
5 - Excellent
  • Gerardo
“The tour company did an amazing job organizing a 9-day tour of Kilimanjaro and a 3-day safari tour. We definitely enjoyed ourselves. The guides, cooks, and porters for both the safari and the trek were knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. Noel, the coordinator, was very responsive and attentive to all our needs. Everyone in our 5 person group was able to summit Kilimanjaro without any problems, and none of us got altitude sickness. The accommodations at Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, our place of stay, were also excellent. I will definitely recommend this company to anyone who wants to ascend Kilimanjaro or have a fun time in Tanzania.”

Northern Circuit - Trail overview

The Northern Circuit starts at Londorossi Gate, located on the western side of Kilimanjaro. This starting point sets the Northern Circuit apart from the more common routes like Machame Route or Marangu Route, providing a different mountain perspective.

The trail passes through lush rainforests of the lower slopes that will gradually give way to a surreal alpine desert. One of the notable landmarks along this path is the Lava Tower, where trekkers experience a drastic change in the landscape as the tree line ends and the terrain becomes rocky and barren. The route's more remote and less-trodden northern slopes offer trekkers a sense of solitude, away from the crowds typically found on the popular southern routes. On a clear day, the views from the Northern Circuit stretch over the Amboseli Plains of Kenya.

The Northern Circuit's extended duration not only allows for better acclimatization but also offers trekkers the opportunity to witness Kilimanjaro's magnificent Northern ice fields. These breathtaking glaciers, such as those on the Shira Ridge, make the trek even more rewarding. The route then joins with the Lemosho Route on the eastern side of Kilimanjaro, as trekkers begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Climbing facts for the Northern Circuit

Trek difficulty: Easy 
Trek duration: 8 to 9 days
Max altitude: 5,895 meters
Accommodation: Camping
Best season: June to September, December (also the peak seasons)
Success rate: 98% (nine-day); 90% (eight-day)

Nine-day sample itinerary for the Northern Circuit

The itinerary for the Northern Circuit to Mount Kilimanjaro typically spans eight to 10 days, allowing for a gradual ascent and additional acclimatization days, which greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful summit. While an eight-day itinerary is also viable for this route, the nine-day option stands out as the more favored and optimal choice, as it includes an extra day for acclimatization at Shira Camp 2.

  • Day 1: Trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (4 – 6 hours)

    The Northern Circuit starts off at the point used by those joining the Lemosho Route, on the far west of Kili. You drive about 12 kilometers from the Londorossi Gate to reach the trailhead before heading onto Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters).

    It is entirely possible to catch the odd buffalo or elephant along the way, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled.
  • Day 2: Trek to Shira Camp 1 (5 – 6 hours)

    While other trails take a couple of days to leave the rainforest behind, you enter the low alpine zone early on day two. The trail takes you to Shira Camp 1 (3,610 meters) and surrounds you with endless alpine meadows and moorlands.

  • Day 3: Trek to Shira Camp 2 (3 – 4 hours)

    The hike from Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2 (3,850 meters) is short and sweet. You are even rewarded amply for your efforts with your first views of Kibo Peak. Mount Meru can also be seen in the far east.

    Temperatures tend to drop drastically at this level, so it is best to be prepared.

  • Day 4: Trek to Moir Camp (5 – 7 hours)

    Climb all the way to Lava Tower to check out those spectacular lava formations and enjoy endless views before descending to Moir Camp (4,200 meters). This helps you acclimatize better and prepare you for your summit.

  • Day 5: Trek to Buffalo Camp (5 – 7 hours)

    You have reached high alpine landscapes by now, so expect steep climbs and mind-blowing views. It is a bit difficult to get to Buffalo Camp (4,020 meters), so make the most of your experience by taking a short detour to Little Lent Hill as well.

    Considered to be one of the remotest corners of Kilimanjaro, Little Lent Hill offers mesmerizing views.

  • Day 6: Trek to Rongai Third Cave (5 – 7 hours)

    You are spending the sixth day in the mountains, which can be tiring for some. Today’s itinerary is relatively light, and you spend much time acclimatizing. You sleep at an elevation of 3,800 meters, which further helps your cause.

  • Day 7: Trek to School Hut (4 – 5 hours)

    Day seven in the Northern Circuit marks the transformation from high alpine to glacial landscapes. You cross a saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks and head towards School Hut (4,800 meters). Go to bed early because we make the push for the summit at midnight.

  • Day 8: Trek to School Hut (11 – 14 hours)

    At the stroke of midnight, climb a steep slope to reach Hans Meyer Cave (5,150 meters). After a short break, proceed to Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters). Stop at Gilman’s Point for some snacks and make that final push for Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). Find that extra mental strength, and you will be rewarded with the best view that Africa has to offer.

    Spend some time on Uhuru Peak and head back to Stella Point, following the same route used by those climbing via the Machame Route. A long descent gets you to Millennium Camp (3,950 meters), where you spend the night.

  • Day 9: Trek to School Hut (3 – 4 hours)

    Head back to Mweka Gate following a dense rainforest, enjoying beautiful views along the way. At the gate, do not forget to take your certificates acknowledging your accomplishment.

Note:  The duration mentioned for each day is approximated and will vary according to your trekking pace, weather conditions, and group dynamics.

Facts on trekking the Northern Circuit

  • The Northern Circuit covers an 82-kilometer-long distance, making it the longest route to Kilimanjaro.
  • This is the newest route designed to improve acclimatization, so it has the highest success rate among any other route to the Uhuru Peak.
  • The Northern Circuit is an extension to the best trails of the Lemosho Route and takes you through some off-the-beaten paths with low tourist traffic.
  • You will need a licensed guide to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, so using a tour operator (like us) is recommended.

Planning a Northern Circuit trek? Go through the above-listed tours or complete the customized Tanzania trip form to tailor your trip from scratch.

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