Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro
Map, Cost, Itineraries And Climbing Guide
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the most rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, offering exceptional scenery, outstanding acclimatization, and the highest summit success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes. Starting on the remote western side of the mountain at Londorossi Gate, the route circles the quiet northern slopes before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa.
One of the greatest advantages of the Northern Circuit Route is its extended itinerary, allowing climbers more time to acclimatize to the altitude and greatly increasing their chances of reaching the summit. Available as 9-day itineraries, it is an excellent choice for both first-time climbers and experienced trekkers looking for a safe and unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Renowned for its remote wilderness, diverse landscapes, quieter trails, and panoramic views, the Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro offers a unique journey through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the glacier-covered summit zone, making it one of the most scenic and successful routes on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Northern Circuit Route Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Route Length |
9 Days |
|
Difficulty |
Moderate to Challenging |
|
Summit Success Rate |
Very High (95–98% on 9-day itinerary) |
|
Starting Point |
Londorossi Gate (Western Kilimanjaro) |
|
Accommodation |
Camping |
|
Highest Point |
Uhuru Peak – 5,895 m (19,341 ft) |
|
Best For |
Climbers seeking the highest summit success rate, quieter trails, and excellent acclimatization |
|
Route Side |
Western Side of Mount Kilimanjaro |
|
Descent Route |
|
|
Scenery |
Rainforest, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Northern Slopes, Alpine Desert, Glaciers |
|
Crowds |
Very Low – One of the Quietest Routes |
|
Summit Night |
From School Hut to Uhuru Peak |
|
Recommended Itinerary |
9 Days for the best acclimatization and summit success |
Is the Northern Route the Best Route on Kilimanjaro?
The Northern Circuit Route is widely considered one of the best routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, especially for trekkers who prioritize a high summit success rate, excellent acclimatization, and a quieter trekking experience. As the longest route on the mountain, it allows more time for your body to adjust to the altitude, making it the route with the highest success rate on Kilimanjaro.
Unlike the busier southern routes, the Northern Circuit follows the remote northern slopes, where you’ll enjoy peaceful trails, breathtaking panoramic views, and a true wilderness experience. The route also passes through Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes, including rainforest, the Shira Plateau, alpine desert, and the glacier-covered summit zone.
While the 9-day Northern Circuit Route require more time than other routes, the extra days greatly improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) safely and comfortably. If you have enough time and want the best combination of scenery, acclimatization, and summit success, the Northern Circuit Route is one of the finest choices for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
How Much Does the Northern Route Cost?
The cost of climbing the Northern Circuit Route depends on the itinerary length, group size, and the services included in your package. Because it is the longest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, it is generally more expensive than shorter routes due to the additional park fees, camping fees, meals, and support crew required for the extra trekking days.
At Materuni Tours, we offer affordable 9-day Northern Circuit Route package that include professional mountain guides, experienced porters and cooks, Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping equipment, meals on the mountain, transfers, and safety equipment. Our experienced local team is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and successful climb to Uhuru Peak.
The 9-day Northern Circuit Route is our recommended option because it provides the best acclimatization and the highest summit success rate. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your group size and travel dates, and we’ll help you plan your Kilimanjaro adventure with transparent pricing and no hidden costs.
| Price for 9 Days |
|---|
|
1 Person: $2,750 |
|
2 people: $2,420 per person |
|
3 people: $2,300 per person |
|
4 people: $2,225 per person |
|
5 people: $2,100 per person |
|
6 people: $2,000 per person |
|
7+ people: $1,990 per person |
9 DAYS NORTHERN ROUTE
- West Kilimanjaro
The most recommended Northern Circuit itinerary, offering the highest summit success rate, excellent acclimatization, and breathtaking scenery on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Northern Route Map
Landscapes and Scenery on the Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route offers some of the most spectacular and diverse scenery on Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting at Londorossi Gate, the trail passes through lush rainforest filled with ancient trees, colorful birds, and wildlife such as black-and-white colobus monkeys before climbing onto the beautiful Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world.
As the journey continues, trekkers cross the dramatic alpine desert, passing landmarks such as Lava Tower, before circling Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes. This section is the quietest on the mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views across Kenya, the Amboseli plains, and the rugged northern wilderness with very few other climbers.
Near the summit, the landscape transforms into the Arctic zone, where glaciers, volcanic rock, and the iconic crater create an unforgettable setting before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). With its combination of rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, remote northern wilderness, and glacier-covered summit, the Northern Circuit Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and rewarding Kilimanjaro routes.
How Difficult Is the Northern Route?
The Northern Circuit Route is considered moderately challenging, mainly because of the high altitude rather than the technical difficulty. The trails are well-established and do not require climbing experience or technical mountaineering skills. However, the trek covers a longer distance over 9 days, requiring good physical fitness and endurance.
One of the biggest advantages of the Northern Circuit Route is its gradual ascent, which gives climbers more time to acclimatize to the altitude. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and makes it the route with the highest summit success rate on Mount Kilimanjaro.
The most demanding part of the climb is summit night, when trekkers ascend from School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) in cold temperatures and at high altitude. With proper preparation, a steady pace, and the support of experienced guides, most climbers find the Northern Circuit Route to be one of the safest and most rewarding ways to reach the Roof of Africa.
Northern Route Summit Success Rate
The Northern Circuit Route has the highest summit success rate of all Mount Kilimanjaro routes, thanks to its extended itinerary and excellent acclimatization profile.
Success rates vary depending on the itinerary length:
9-day itinerary: approximately 95–98% summit success rate
The longer itineraries give climbers more time to adapt to the altitude while following a gradual ascent around Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and greatly improves the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
For this reason, many experienced guides recommend the 9-Day Northern Circuit Route as the best option for climbers seeking the highest summit success rate and the safest path to the Roof of Africa.
Pros and Cons of the Northern Route
Like every Kilimanjaro route, the Northern Circuit Route has its advantages and disadvantages. It is an excellent choice for climbers seeking the highest summit success rate, spectacular scenery, and a quieter trekking experience.
Pros
- Highest summit success rate due to excellent acclimatization.
- Remote and uncrowded trails, especially along the northern slopes.
- Outstanding scenery with views of the Shira Plateau, Kenya, glaciers, and diverse landscapes.
- Gradual ascent profile reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
- Suitable for first-time climbers with good fitness and enough time.
- Camping experience provides a true wilderness adventure.
- Covers almost the entire mountain, offering one of the most complete Kilimanjaro experiences.
Cons
- Longest route on Kilimanjaro, requiring 9 days.
- More expensive than shorter routes because of additional park fees and support crew costs.
- Requires more time away from work or other travel plans.
- Longer trekking days can be physically demanding despite the gradual ascent.
- Camping only there are no mountain huts on this route.
How to Prepare for the Northern Route
Preparing for the Northern Circuit Route is essential for a safe and successful climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Although the route has the highest summit success rate on Mount Kilimanjaro, it still requires good physical fitness, proper equipment, and careful planning.
Begin training at least 6–8 weeks before your trek by combining hiking, cardio exercises, and strength training to improve your endurance. If possible, practice hiking with a daypack on uneven terrain to prepare for long days on the mountain.
Packing the right gear is equally important. Bring layered clothing for changing temperatures, waterproof hiking boots, a warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, gloves, a hat, and a quality daypack. Temperatures can range from warm rainforest conditions to well below freezing on summit night.
Staying hydrated, eating well, and walking at a slow, steady pace are key to successful acclimatization. The 9-day Northern Circuit Route provide excellent opportunities to adjust to the altitude, but following your guide’s advice and listening to your body are essential for reaching the summit safely.
At Materuni Tours, we provide a detailed packing list, experienced mountain guides, quality camping equipment, and full support throughout your climb to help you enjoy a safe, comfortable, and successful Kilimanjaro adventure.
Starting Point and Route Experience
The Northern Circuit Route begins at Londorossi Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, the same starting point as the Lemosho Route. After completing the park registration, a short drive takes you to the trailhead, where your adventure begins through the lush rainforest. During the first few days, you’ll trek across the scenic Shira Plateau before reaching Lava Tower and continuing onto the remote northern slopes of the mountain.
Unlike other Kilimanjaro routes, the Northern Circuit Route circles around the quieter northern side of the mountain, offering spectacular panoramic views, fewer crowds, and a true wilderness experience. Along the way, you’ll pass through rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and the Arctic summit zone before making your summit attempt from School Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
After reaching the summit, the descent follows the Mweka Route, allowing you to experience even more of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. With its gradual ascent, peaceful trails, and ever-changing scenery, the Northern Circuit Route provides one of the most rewarding and complete trekking experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro
Northern Route vs Lemosho Route
The Northern Circuit Route and Lemosho Route are two of the best ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, as both begin at Londorossi Gate on the mountain’s western side and offer excellent scenery and acclimatization. The main difference is that the Northern Circuit continues around Kilimanjaro’s remote northern slopes, while the Lemosho Route joins the busier southern trails after Lava Tower.
The Lemosho Route is available as 6, 7, and 8-day itineraries and is popular for its beautiful landscapes and high summit success rate. It is a great choice for climbers looking for a shorter trek while still enjoying excellent acclimatization and diverse scenery.
The Northern Circuit Route is completed in 9 days and offers the highest summit success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes. The extra days provide more time to acclimatize, while the remote northern section offers quieter trails, fewer crowds, and spectacular panoramic views of Kenya and the northern wilderness.
If you have limited time, the Lemosho Route is an excellent option with outstanding scenery and a high chance of reaching the summit. However, if you have enough time and want the best combination of acclimatization, peaceful trails, and the highest chance of standing on Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the Northern Circuit Route is the better choice.
Northern vs Lemosho Route Comparison
| Feature | Northen Route | Lemosho Route |
|---|---|---|
|
Starting Point |
Londorossi Gate (Western side) |
Lemosho Gate (Western side) |
|
Recommended Duration
|
9-days
|
7 or 8 days |
|
Difficulty
|
Moderate to Challenging
|
Moderate
|
|
Acclimatization
|
Excellent
|
Excellent |
|
Scenery
|
Outstanding – Rainforest, Shira Plateau, Northern Slopes, Alpine Desert, Glaciers
|
Outstanding – Rainforest, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, Glaciers
|
|
Trail Traffic
|
Very Low
|
Low to Moderate |
|
Accommodation
|
Camping
|
Camping |
|
Best For
|
Climbers seeking the highest summit success rate, remote trails, and maximum acclimatization
|
Climbers looking for excellent scenery, good acclimatization, and a shorter itinerary |
|
Summit Success
|
Very High (90–98%)
|
High (60–90%, depending on itinerary) |
Northern Route vs Machame Route
The Northern Circuit Route and the Machame Route are two of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, both offering spectacular scenery and excellent summit opportunities.
However, there is one major difference between the two routes.
The Machame Route follows Kilimanjaro’s southern circuit after crossing the Shira Plateau. It is completed in 6 or 7 days and is one of the busiest routes on the mountain. While it offers excellent acclimatization, the shorter itinerary provides less time to adjust to the altitude than the Northern Circuit.
In contrast, the Northern Circuit Route starts at Londorossi Gate and, after crossing the Shira Plateau, leaves the southern trail to circle the mountain’s remote northern slopes. This longer journey provides additional acclimatization days, quieter trails, and breathtaking views of the northern wilderness before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
The Machame Route is an excellent choice for climbers looking for a shorter adventure with dramatic scenery, including the famous Barranco Wall. However, the Northern Circuit Route offers the highest summit success rate on Mount Kilimanjaro thanks to its gradual ascent and extended 8-day or 9-day itinerary.
The 9-Day Northern Circuit Route is highly recommended because the extra day allows for better acclimatization and further increases the chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak. It is the ideal choice for climbers who want the safest, quietest, and most rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.
Professional Guides on the Northern Route
At Materuni Tours, we combine professional mountain guiding with warm Tanzanian hospitality to provide a safe and unforgettable Northern Circuit Route experience.
Our experienced team has successfully guided many climbers to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route. Every trek is led by certified, English-speaking mountain guides who have extensive knowledge of the route, mountain weather, altitude management, and safe acclimatization practices.
Safety, comfort, and personalized service are at the heart of every climb we organize.
- What you can expect on every
- Northern Circuit Route trek:
- Certified local guides with extensive experience on
- Mount Kilimanjaro
Daily health checks to monitor acclimatization and altitude sickness - High-quality camping equipment and freshly prepared mountain meals
- Ethical treatment of porters and mountain crew following responsible trekking practices
- Friendly support before and after your climb at our base in Moshi
- Local expertise and a genuine connection to the Materuni community
With Materuni Tours, you’ll climb with a trusted local team dedicated to helping you reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) safely while creating an unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Climb the Northern Route with a Local Kilimanjaro Team in Moshi
All Northern Circuit Route climbs with Materuni Tours begin in Moshi, the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro and the starting point for unforgettable trekking adventures.
Being based in Moshi gives us a unique advantage. Our local team has direct access to Kilimanjaro National Park, extensive knowledge of the Northern Circuit Route, and years of experience helping climbers reach Uhuru Peak safely and successfully.
From your arrival to your summit and return, we take care of every detail, including airport transfers, comfortable accommodation, quality camping equipment, nutritious meals, and professional mountain guides. Our experienced porters and cooks work together to ensure your trek is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
By choosing Materuni Tours, you’re supporting a locally owned Tanzanian company committed to responsible tourism and the well-being of the communities around Mount Kilimanjaro. Climb with a trusted local team and experience the highest summit success rate on Kilimanjaro with personalized service every step of the way.
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