The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro’s newest and longest route. It starts in the west like Lemosho, crosses the Shira Plateau and then, instead of heading south, circles the quiet northern slopes before climbing to the summit from the east. It covers about 90 km over nine days.
Northern Circuit at a glance
| Length | 9 days, about 90 km |
|---|---|
| Start | Londorossi Gate, then Lemosho trailhead |
| Descent | Mweka Route |
| Sleeping | Tents |
| Difficulty | Moderate, but long |
| Crowds | Very quiet on the north side |
The nine-day itinerary
| Day | Stage | Sleep at |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lemosho trailhead to Mti Mkubwa Camp | About 2,780 m |
| 2 | Shira 1 Camp | About 3,500 m |
| 3 | Shira 2 Camp | About 3,850 m |
| 4 | Lava Tower, down to Moir Hut | About 4,200 m |
| 5 | Around the north slopes to Buffalo Camp | About 4,020 m |
| 6 | Third Cave Camp | About 3,870 m |
| 7 | School Hut | About 4,750 m |
| 8 | Summit via Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), down to Mweka Camp | About 3,100 m |
| 9 | Down to Mweka Gate | Moshi |
Why choose the Northern Circuit
- The best acclimatisation on the mountain, with many days spent between 3,800 and 4,200 metres. It has the highest summit rates of any route.
- Solitude. You meet few other climbers between Moir Hut and School Hut.
- Views in every direction, including north over the plains into Kenya.
- Almost a full circle of Kibo, the mountain’s main cone.
Things to consider
Nine days means higher park fees and a longer time away. It suits climbers who want the best possible chance of the summit, or who have struggled with altitude before. Read how long it takes to climb Kilimanjaro and what a climb costs.
See our nine-day Northern Circuit, or compare all options in which Kilimanjaro route to choose.
Frequently asked questions
About 90 km over nine days, making it the longest route on Kilimanjaro.
Yes. Its length and gradual profile give the best acclimatisation of any route.
No. The north side of the mountain sees very few climbers.
