Kilimanjaro route
Northern Circuit Route
- Duration
- 8–9 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Success Rate
- Highest
Kilimanjaro Climbing, The Northern Circuit Route
If reaching the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is high on your list and you're serious about the summit, one route stands out. Meet the Northern Circuit Route: the longest and most scenic trail on Africa's highest mountain, and the one with the best acclimatization. Over 9 days, it goes around the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, with great views, a gradual climb and plenty of time for your body to adjust.
Unlike the busier, shorter trails, the Northern Circuit gives you space, quiet and one of the best chances of reaching the summit. In this guide, we go through the climb day by day, explain what makes this route special and share tips to help you reach Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa.
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's newest and longest trail. It starts in the west at Lemosho Gate, crosses the Shira Plateau, then goes around the rarely seen northern side of the mountain before joining the eastern summit path.
What makes this route different is its 9-day itinerary, which gives you lots of time to acclimatize, and that's a key part of summit success. The scenery is varied, from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and glaciers. Best of all, you avoid the crowds. Most climbers take the more direct southern routes, so you'll often have the trail to yourself.
Itineraries
Route Itineraries
What to Pack for the Northern Circuit
Packing for 9 days on Kilimanjaro takes a bit of planning. Here are the essentials:
Clothing:
- Waterproof, breathable jacket and pants
- Insulated down jacket
- Fleece and thermal layers
- 4–5 pairs of moisture-wicking base layers
- Warm hat, gloves and buff
- Good trekking boots (already broken in)
- Camp shoes (crocs or sandals for rest time)
Gear:
- 4-season sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp + extra batteries
- Water bottles + hydration bladder (3L minimum)
- Quick-dry towel and personal toiletries
- Energy snacks, protein bars and electrolyte mixes
Acclimatization Tips for Success
Even on a well-paced route like the Northern Circuit, altitude can still catch up with you. Here's how to give yourself the best chance at the summit:
- Drink plenty of water: aim for 3-4 liters a day
- Climb pole pole (Swahili for “slowly, slowly”) and never rush
- Eat even if you're not hungry: food is your fuel
- Take short acclimatization walks at camp when you can
- Use Diamox or other altitude medicine if your doctor recommends it
- Tell your guide early about any symptoms
The best thing you can do is listen to your body and take each step with care.
How Does the Northern Circuit Compare?
| Route | Days | Acclimatization | Crowds | Scenery | Summit success |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Circuit | 9 days | 5/5 | Very few | 5/5 | Highest (90%+) |
| Lemosho | 8 days | 4/5 | Some | 5/5 | High (85%) |
| Machame | 7 days | 3/5 | Busy | 4/5 | Moderate (75-80%) |
| Marangu | 5-6 days | 2/5 | Very busy | 3/5 | Lower (50-60%) |
If time and budget aren't a problem, the Northern Circuit is our top pick for safety, the overall experience and your chances of reaching the summit.
