Northern Circuit Route
Quick Overview
Duration
8 – 9 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Highlight
Stunning View
Success rate
90 – 95%
Trek Overview
Join us on the Northern Circuit, the most scenic and well-paced route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Also known as the Grand Traverse or 360 Route, this path offers breathtaking views from all sides of the mountain, covering lush forests, vast plains stretching to the Kenyan border, and rugged eastern slopes. The longer journey provides excellent acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness while ensuring a more comfortable climb. With fewer crowds and diverse landscapes, this is the perfect choice for those seeking a quieter, more immersive Kilimanjaro adventure.
Why Choose Northern route
- Unmatched Scenery: This is the longest route, circumnavigating the mountain and offering the most diverse and stunning panoramic views from all angles.
- Excellent Acclimatization: The extended duration allows for optimal acclimatization, maximizing your chances of reaching the summit comfortably.
- Remote Wilderness Experience: Escape the crowds and enjoy a truly immersive and pristine wilderness experience on the quieter northern slopes.
- High Summit Success Rate: The combination of excellent acclimatization and a gradual ascent profile leads to a high success rate.
- Unique Traverse: Explore the less-visited northern side of Kilimanjaro, with its unique flora, fauna, and geological features.
- Complete Kilimanjaro Experience: Truly experience the scale and grandeur of Kilimanjaro by encircling the entire mountain.
Northern Circuit Route Full Itineraries
8 Days Climb
Register at Londorossi Gate and enter the rainforest, a vibrant world of birds and monkeys. The shaded trail winds through lush greenery, creating a refreshing hike. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m) surrounded by towering trees. Enjoy dinner and rest under the stars
Leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone with its giant heathers. The landscape opens up with views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. Reach Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) after a steady climb. Relax and enjoy the views of the Shira Plateau.
Enjoy a gentle trek across the Shira Plateau with its unique plants. The slower pace helps with altitude acclimatization. See the towering Kibo Peak as you approach Shira 2 Camp (3,850m). Enjoy the sunset.
Continue through high-altitude desert landscapes towards Moir Hut (4,200m). The terrain is rugged, offering a peaceful and less crowded hike. Enjoy great viewpoints. Settle in and take an optional acclimatization hike to adjust to the altitude.
Climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, moving slowly in the thin air. Descend into the Barranco Valley, regaining energy at the lower altitude. Camp at Barranco Camp (3,950m) beneath the impressive Barranco Wall.
Tackle the Barranco Wall, an exciting scramble with panoramic views at the top. The trail rolls through rocky terrain with streams and ridges. Reach Karanga Camp (4,200m) for a hot meal and preparation for the final stretch.
Hike through a rocky, barren landscape to Barafu Camp (4,600m). Glaciers are visible, and the altitude makes each step challenging. Rest at Barafu Camp, situated on a narrow ridge, before the midnight summit attempt.
Begin the summit attempt in the early morning darkness. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) as the sun rises, a moment of great achievement. Descend past Barafu Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you receive your summit certificate and celebrate.
9 Days Climb
Begin your trek at Londorossi Gate (2,100m). Hike through the lush rainforest, spotting wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds. Set up camp for the night at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m).
Leave the rainforest behind as you ascend into the moorland zone. Trek through open terrain with expansive views of the Shira Plateau. Camp overnight at Shira 1 Camp (3,610m).
Enjoy a leisurely hike across the Shira Plateau, taking in its unique vegetation and stunning scenery. Spend the night at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m), acclimatizing further and enjoying the serene surroundings.
Trek to Moir Hut (4,200m), passing through rugged, rocky landscapes. This is a great spot for acclimatization, with optional side hikes offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), an iconic feature of Kilimanjaro, for further acclimatization. Afterward, descend into the scenic Barranco Valley. Spend the night at Barranco Camp (3,950m), with the Barranco Wall towering above you.
Climb the impressive Barranco Wall, a fun and rewarding scramble with incredible views. Traverse through alpine desert to Karanga Camp (4,200m), where you’ll rest and acclimatize.
Make your way to Barafu Camp (4,600m), the final base camp before the summit attempt. Prepare for the challenging climb ahead and get an early night’s rest.
Begin your summit push around midnight, climbing under a star-lit sky. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) by sunrise and celebrate your achievement at the top of Africa. Descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m) for a well-deserved rest.
Trek through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). Reflect on your incredible journey as you receive your summit certificate and bid farewell to the mountain.
Prices for Northern circuit route
| Number of People | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 Days Northern Circuit | $2478 | $2458 | $2438 | $2418 | $2398 | $2378 | $2358 | $2338 |
| 8 Days Northern Circuit | $2328 | $2308 | $2288 | $2268 | $2248 | $2228 | $2208 | $2188 |
- Kilimanjaro cost Includes
- Moshi/Arusha Stays: 2 comfy nights in a hotel before & after your climb.
- Transport Covered: Rides to & from the mountain starting point.
- Park Fees Included: Permits, camping/hut fees & park taxes included.
- Expert Team: Guides, assistants, cooks & porters for support.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available for safety (not for regular use).
- Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping pads, shared dining area with lights.
- Mountain Meals: Delicious & nutritious food to fuel your adventure.
- Kilimanjaro cost excludes
- Flights & Visas: These are separate, make a plan to arrange them yourself.
- Meals at Hotel: Accommodation is on B&B plan, lunch and dinner are on you.
- Personal Gear: Pack what you need for the climb. Contact us for a detailed packing list.
- Gratitude is Golden: Tips for the crew are welcome!