Overview
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's newest and longest route — a 9-day grand traverse that circumnavigates the entire mountain. Starting from the Lemosho trailhead, you cross the Shira Plateau then diverge north onto the quiet, untouched northern slopes. You'll have the mountain virtually to yourself for three days before rejoining the standard routes for the summit push. With the best acclimatization profile possible, success rates approach 98%. This is the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience.
Full circumnavigation of Kilimanjaro
Highest success rate (98%) — best acclimatization
3 days on the untouched northern slopes
Virtual solitude — fewest climbers of any route
360-degree views of the mountain
9 days of pristine wilderness
Day by Day
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Drive to Londorossi Gate, then trek through pristine western rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Ascend through heather zone onto the Shira Plateau with panoramic views.
Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Cross the Shira Plateau. Optional hike to Shira Cathedral for acclimatization.
Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, then descend to Moir Hut. This is where you diverge from all other routes onto the remote northern slopes.
Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Trek across the quiet northern slopes with views of Kenya and the northern ice fields. You'll have the mountain virtually to yourself. Sparse, lunar landscape.
Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
Continue the northern traverse with 360-degree mountain views. The terrain is alpine desert — stark and beautiful. Excellent acclimatization day.
Third Cave to School Hut
Cross the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, then ascend to School Hut — your summit base camp with views of the northern glaciers.
Summit Night — Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
Midnight push to the summit via Gilman's Point and Stella Point. Reach Uhuru Peak at dawn. Descend to Millennium Camp via the Mweka route.
Descent to Mweka Gate
Final descent through rainforest. Certificate, celebration, transfer to Moshi.
Included
- Park fees & rescue fees
- Professional KINAPA-licensed mountain guide
- Assistant guides (1:2 ratio)
- Porters and cook
- All meals on the mountain
- Camping equipment (4-season tents, sleeping mats)
- Portable toilet
- Pulse oximeter & first aid kit
- Airport transfers
- 2 nights hotel in Moshi (pre & post climb)
- Drinking water & snacks
Not Included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear & clothing
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Tips for guides & porters
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
Pricing
$3,100
1–2 climbers
$2,790
3–5 climbers
$2,542
6+ climbers
Authentic Kilimanjaro
Verified OperatorMoshi, Tanzania
Kilimanjaro summit specialists — expert local guides, proven routes, and 95%+ success rates on Africa's highest peak.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?
You don't need to be an elite athlete, but a good level of general fitness is essential. We recommend starting a training programme at least 8-12 weeks before your climb, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and hiking with a loaded backpack.
What is the success rate for reaching the summit?
The overall success rate across all routes is around 65%. However, longer routes like Lemosho and Northern Circuit have success rates of 85-95% due to better acclimatisation profiles. Choosing the right route significantly impacts your chances.
Do I need supplemental oxygen?
No. Kilimanjaro is climbed without supplemental oxygen. Your body acclimatises naturally as you ascend. Our guides carry emergency oxygen for medical situations, but it is not used as a climbing aid.
What are the sleeping arrangements on the mountain?
On camping routes (Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Umbwe, Northern Circuit), you sleep in tents at designated campsites. The Marangu route is the only route with dormitory-style hut accommodation.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The two main climbing seasons are January-March and June-October. June-October is the most popular with clear skies and dry conditions. January-March is also excellent with fewer crowds and occasional snow at higher altitudes.
Is altitude sickness dangerous?
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common and usually mild — headaches, nausea, fatigue. Our guides monitor every climber using pulse oximeters and are trained to recognise serious symptoms. The key prevention strategies are slow ascent, proper hydration, and choosing a route with good acclimatisation.
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