Is the Northern Circuit crowded?

The northern camps are among the quietest on the mountain. You will share the trail with far fewer groups than on Machame or Marangu.

Northern Circuit Route — Kilimanjaro Routes

Duration

9 days

Difficulty

Moderate

Distance

≈ 88 km

Accommodation

Camping (tents)

Route Overview

The Northern Circuit is the longest and newest route on Kilimanjaro. Starting like Lemosho in the west, it branches north at Lava Tower and circles the entire northern flank of the mountain through some of the most remote country in the national park.

Nine days on the mountain means unrivalled acclimatization — this route posts the highest summit success rate of any Kilimanjaro itinerary. If you have the time and want the complete Kilimanjaro experience, this is the definitive climb.

Scenery: Shira Plateau, Moir Valley, remote northern slopes, Third Cave, summit via School Hut

Why Choose It

The highest summit success rate on Kilimanjaro (95%+)
Circles the whole mountain — unmatched scenery and solitude
Superb acclimatization from the long, gradual profile
Remote northern camps that few climbers ever see

Good to Know

The longest route — nine days requires more time and budget
More expensive than shorter itineraries
Still camping-based; no hut option

Guided Treks

Northern Circuit Route Packages

Fully supported climbs on this route — certified guides, full logistics and park fees included.

9 days

9 Days Northern Circuit

The ultimate Kilimanjaro expedition — nine days circling the entire mountain with a 95%+ summit success rate.

9 days / 8 nights$3,490

Questions

Northern Circuit Route FAQs

Nine days of gradual ascent gives your body exceptional time to acclimatize — altitude sickness, the main reason climbers turn back, is far less common.