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Londorossi Gate - Lemosho - Northern Circuit - Uhuru Peak
10-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: Northern Circuit Route
Introduction
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's longest, newest, and most complete route. It approaches from the west on the Lemosho trail, then continues around the entire northern side of Kibo—the only route that circumnavigates the mountain. This extraordinary journey offers remote wilderness, breathtaking northern glaciers, and the best acclimatization profile of any route, resulting in the highest summit success rate (over 95%). For those seeking the ultimate Kilimanjaro expedition with unmatched scenery and maximum summit chances, the Northern Circuit is the definitive choice.
Why This Route?
Longest Route — Best Acclimatization
At 10 days, the Northern Circuit offers the gradualest ascent profile of any route. This extended duration allows your body maximum time to adapt to altitude.
Circle the Entire Mountain
The only route that fully circumnavigates Kibo, taking you around the remote northern side that fewer than 5% of climbers ever see.
Remote Northern Wilderness
Experience true solitude on the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, far from the crowds of the southern routes. The sense of wilderness is unmatched.
Highest Summit Success Rate (95%+)
The superior acclimatization profile of the Northern Circuit gives climbers the best statistical chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
Fewer Climbers — More Peace
The Northern Circuit sees far fewer trekkers than the Machame or Marangu routes, offering a more peaceful and intimate wilderness experience.
Unforgettable 360° Views
From the northern glaciers to the sunrises over the African plains, the panoramic views on this route are simply extraordinary.
Tour Highlights
- Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — Roof of Africa
- Circumnavigate the entire Kibo massif
- Remote northern glaciers close up
- Moir Camp on the northern slope
- Olmoti Cave — ancient Maasai shelter
- Cross the Saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi
- Remote solitude away from crowds
- Unmatched acclimatization for summit success
Detailed Itinerary
Each day is carefully designed to maximize acclimatization while showcasing the incredible diversity of Kilimanjaro's landscapes—from lush rainforest to arctic summit.
Arrive Moshi & Briefing
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your driver-guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, a vibrant town at the foot of Kilimanjaro. In the evening, enjoy a comprehensive briefing from your lead guide, who will check your gear, discuss the route, and answer any questions about the days ahead.
Londorossi Gate to Lemosho Forest Camp (2,100m)
After breakfast, drive from Moshi to the Londorossi Park Gate (about 3 hours) for park registration. From here, you'll begin your trek through the lush, misty rainforest on a winding trail to Lemosho Forest Camp (2,100m). The forest is alive with bird calls, colobus monkeys, and the occasional elephant track.
Forest Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
Today you leave the forest behind and ascend through montane forest and heathland onto the Shira Plateau. The vegetation changes dramatically as you climb higher—from dense rainforest to open grasslands dotted with giant heather and lobelia. The views of Kibo's western slopes begin to open up, offering the first real sense of the scale of the mountain.
Shira 1 Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
A classic acclimatization day following the 'climb high, sleep low' principle. You ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m)—a striking volcanic rock formation—for lunch and spectacular views, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m) for the night. This profile is key to your body's adaptation to altitude and dramatically increases your summit success chances.
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Today starts with the famous Great Barranco Wall—a steep but non-technical scramble up the towering cliff face behind camp. After conquering the wall, you traverse through the Karanga Valley with its dramatic topography, crossing several ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga Camp (4,035m). This is a shorter day designed for continued acclimatization.
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m) — High Camp
Today you ascend from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp—the high camp for the summit attempt. The trail is a steady climb across alpine desert terrain. Barafu Camp sits on a rocky ridge at 4,673m, offering panoramic views of the summit cone and the Mawenzi peaks. After lunch, rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
SUMMIT DAY: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp
The day you've been training for. Starting at midnight, you make the arduous ascent under the stars to Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim, then continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you descend back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha
A final morning trek through the lush rainforest back to Mweka Gate, where you sign out of Kilimanjaro National Park and receive your summit certificates. After a celebration with your crew, drive to Arusha for a hot shower, a soft bed, and a well-earned celebration dinner.
Buffer Day in Arusha
A well-deserved rest day in Arusha. Sleep in, enjoy the pool, explore the local markets, or take an optional excursion to the nearby Arusha National Park or the Tanzanite Experience museum. This buffer day ensures you are fully recovered before your departure.
Departure
After breakfast, transfer from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight. The drive takes approximately one hour. As you leave, take one last look at Kilimanjaro in the rearview mirror—a mountain you have now conquered. End of tour.
Destinations You'll Explore
Kilimanjaro National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site covering the entire Kilimanjaro massif. From lush montane rainforest to alpine desert and arctic summit, the park protects extraordinary biodiversity and the highest peak in Africa.
Northern Circuit Route
The longest and newest route on Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit is the only path that fully circumnavigates the Kibo massif. It offers remote wilderness, northern glaciers, and the best acclimatization profile on the mountain.
Lemosho Approach
The Lemosho approach from the west is considered the most scenic route on Kilimanjaro. It traverses the Shira Plateau with spectacular views of the mountain before joining the Northern Circuit for the circumnavigation of Kibo.
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Photo Gallery
Northern Circuit Trail
Summit Views
Northern GlaciersRoute Panorama
Kilimanjaro Landscape
Kilimanjaro Mountain
Location
What Our Climbers Say
Join thousands of satisfied climbers who have reached Uhuru Peak with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Northern Circuit route unique?
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's longest and newest route. It circles around the northern side of Kibo, offering remote wilderness, stunning northern glaciers views, and the best acclimatization profile of any route, resulting in the highest summit success rate (over 95%).
How difficult is the Northern Circuit compared to other routes?
The Northern Circuit is considered demanding due to its length and the high altitude, but its gradual ascent profile makes it physically easier than shorter routes like Machame or Marangu. The extra days allow for better acclimatization, making the summit night more achievable.
What is the best time to climb the Northern Circuit?
The best times are the dry seasons: January-March and June-October. These months offer the most stable weather conditions, clearer skies, and higher summit success rates. The Northern Circuit can be climbed year-round, but wet seasons bring more rain and snow.
Why is the 10-day Northern Circuit the best option?
10 days allows for optimal acclimatization with a 'climb high, sleep low' strategy. The extended duration gives your body more time to adjust to altitude, includes a full circumnavigation of Kibo, and provides the highest summit success rate of any Kilimanjaro route.
What are the Northern Glaciers like?
The Northern Circuit offers spectacular views of Kibo's northern glaciers including the Northern Icefield, Credner Glacier, and the Drygalski Glacier. These ancient ice formations are seen up close along the remote northern side of the mountain—an area few climbers ever visit.
How does the acclimatization advantage work on this route?
The Northern Circuit follows the 'climb high, sleep low' principle perfectly. You ascend to higher altitudes during the day and descend to sleep at lower camps, stimulating your body to produce more red blood cells for better oxygen utilization.
What is the summit success rate for the Northern Circuit?
The Northern Circuit boasts the highest summit success rate of any Kilimanjaro route, typically above 95%. The 10-day duration and gradual altitude gain give climbers the best possible chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
How fit do I need to be for the Northern Circuit?
While the Northern Circuit is less steep than some shorter routes, you still need good cardiovascular fitness. Regular aerobic exercise (hiking, running, cycling) for 3-4 months before your climb is recommended.
What should I pack for the Northern Circuit climb?
Essential items include: layers (base, mid, and outer shell), a down jacket, waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, trekking poles, a 0°C/-20°C sleeping bag, headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottles/bladder, hydration salts, snacks, and a first-aid kit with altitude sickness medication.
What is the maximum group size?
Our groups range from 2 to 12 climbers. Smaller groups offer a more personalized experience with better attention from guides. Private climbs are also available.
How does tipping work for the crew?
Tipping is customary and shared among the crew (guides, cooks, porters). Recommended amounts are approximately $250-$350 per climber for the full crew, distributed at the end of the trek.
What park fees are included?
All Kilimanjaro National Park fees are included: park entry fees, camping fees, rescue fees, and crew fees. These are mandatory fees set by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) and KINAPA.
What camping equipment is provided?
We provide high-quality 4-season mountain tents, sleeping mattresses, dining tents, camp tables and chairs, and a portable toilet. Your sleeping bag and trekking poles are your own responsibility, though rental options are available.
What weather conditions should I expect?
Weather varies dramatically by altitude. At the start (2,100m) it is warm and humid. At high camp (4,673m) temperatures drop to -5°C to -10°C at night. On summit night, temperatures can plummet to -15°C to -25°C with strong winds.
Do I receive a summit certificate?
Yes, all climbers who reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) receive a gold certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park. Those who reach Stella Point (5,756m) receive a green certificate.
Ready to Conquer Kilimanjaro?
Book the ultimate 10-day Northern Circuit expedition and summit the Roof of Africa with the highest success rate route.