Northern Circuit Route

Success rate · Scenic· Less crowded

For those seeking stunning views, fewer crowds, and the highest success rate, the Northern Circuit Route is the best way to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.

At Kilimanjaro Climbing Club, we recommend this 8 or 9-day trek for its unmatched acclimatization, breathtaking landscapes, and remote, less-traveled paths. The longest route on Kilimanjaro, it offers a 360-degree scenic journey, passing through rainforests, heathlands, alpine deserts, and arctic zones.

Please note that we offer 3 different variants of the Northern Circuit Route, also referred to as the Alternative Lemosho Route or the Grand Traverse.

Why Choose the Northern Circuit route?

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Rating Icon Highest Summit Success Rate

Gradual ascent ensures optimal acclimatization.

Mountain Icon Unrivaled Scenic Beauty

Enjoy panoramic views from Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.

Rating Icon Peaceful & Less Crowded

A remote trail with few trekkers for a truly immersive experience.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Club Northern Circuit Route

🏔 Day-by-Day Itinerary – Northern Circuit Route (9 Days on Mountain)

Day 1 – Arrival in Tanzania Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport, transfer to your hotel. Relax and meet your guide for a briefing and gear check.
Day 2 – To Forest Camp Drive to Londorossi Gate, then begin trekking at Lemosho Gate up through the rainforest to Mt. Mkubwa Camp.
Day 3 – Shira Plateau Hike out of the forest onto the Shira Plateau. Big views of Kibo. Camp at Shira 1.
Day 4 – Across Shira Continue across the wide Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp. Gentle acclimatization day.
Day 5 – To Lava Tower & Moir Hut Climb up towards Lava Tower (4,600m), then branch off to the quiet Moir Hut for overnight. Great spot for acclimatization.
Day 6 – Northern Circuit Trek the little-used northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Stunning remote views. Camp at Buffalo Camp.
Day 7 – Buffalo to Third Cave Continue eastward along the northern trail to Third Cave Camp.
Day 8 – To School Hut (Summit Base) Climb steadily to School Hut, your base for summit night. Early dinner and rest
Day 9 – Summit Day! Start at midnight, hike slowly to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa! Celebrate, then descend to Mweka Camp.
Day 10 – Back to Hotel Walk down to Mweka Gate. Transfer to your hotel, hot shower and well-earned rest.
Day 11 – Departure or Safari After breakfast, airport transfer or begin your safari.

Contact us for a more detailed itinerary.

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