Northern Circuit Route Overview
The Northern Circuit Route is one of the longer approaches to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It follows a broad route around the northern side of the mountain before joining the summit approach toward Uhuru Peak.
The route is particularly notable for its longer trekking schedule. Instead of moving directly toward the summit, the Northern Circuit spends more time progressing around Kilimanjaro before reaching the higher summit zones.
This extended approach provides a different experience from shorter Kilimanjaro routes and allows the climb to develop progressively through the mountain's different ecological and high altitude environments.
Northern Circuit Route at a Glance
What Makes the Northern Circuit Route Different?
The Northern Circuit differs from many of the shorter Kilimanjaro routes because it takes a wider path around the mountain. Rather than concentrating the ascent into a shorter number of trekking days, the route uses a longer approach before reaching the summit area.
The route also provides a chance to experience the quieter northern side of Kilimanjaro. Its extended nature makes it particularly relevant for trekkers who want a longer mountain journey rather than the shortest available route.
A Longer Approach to the Summit
The Northern Circuit gradually moves through different sections of the mountain before reaching the high-altitude summit zone. The additional trekking days make the journey itself an important part of the experience rather than treating the climb simply as a rapid ascent to the summit.
The Northern Side of Kilimanjaro
One of the defining characteristics of this route is its use of the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. This gives the trek a different geographical progression compared with routes that approach the mountain primarily from the south or southwest.
Northern Circuit Route Day-by-Day
The exact camp names, elevations and daily hiking distances can vary according to the operator's final itinerary. The following provides the general progression of a nine-day Northern Circuit climb.
Londorossi Gate to the Mountain Camp
Begin the Kilimanjaro trek after registration and transfer to the starting area. The route enters the mountain forest before continuing toward the first overnight camp.
Trek Through the Forest and Moorland
Continue higher through the changing vegetation zones as the landscape gradually opens from forest into the upper mountain environment.
Continue Toward the Northern Circuit
The climb progresses toward the northern side of Kilimanjaro as altitude increases and the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse.
Northern Circuit Trek
Continue around the northern slopes of the mountain, following the extended circuit toward the higher summit zones.
Continue Around the Northern Slopes
The route continues across the high mountain terrain while maintaining a gradual progression toward the southern summit approach.
Northern Circuit Toward the Summit Zone
Continue toward the higher sections of Kilimanjaro before eventually connecting with the southern side of the mountain.
High Camp and Summit Preparation
Reach the high mountain area and prepare for the summit attempt. Rest, hydration and careful pacing become increasingly important.
Summit Attempt to Uhuru Peak
Begin the summit ascent during the early hours, continuing toward Uhuru Peak before descending toward the lower mountain camp.
Descent to the Mountain Gate
Complete the descent through the lower mountain zones before leaving Kilimanjaro and returning to the gateway area.
Altitude and Acclimatization on the Northern Circuit
Altitude is one of the most important factors when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The summit, Uhuru Peak, is approximately 5,895 metres above sea level.
The Northern Circuit's longer schedule gives the trek more time to progress toward the summit. Nevertheless, spending more days on the mountain does not eliminate the effects of altitude.
Climbers should maintain a controlled pace, remain properly hydrated and communicate any symptoms to the mountain crew. The final decision to continue climbing should always take into account the climber's condition and the guidance of the professional mountain team.
Best Time to Climb the Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit can be climbed during different times of the year. The generally preferred periods are the drier seasons, particularly January to March and June to October.
Mountain weather remains variable even during the preferred climbing periods. Conditions can become colder and more challenging as the route reaches higher elevations, especially around the summit.
Getting to the Northern Circuit Route
International visitors normally arrive through Kilimanjaro International Airport before continuing to the mountain gateway area.
The Northern Circuit begins from the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro and subsequently develops toward the northern side of the mountain. The exact starting gate and transfer arrangements depend on the final itinerary.
If you are combining your Kilimanjaro climb with a Tanzania safari, the mountain can be included within a wider Northern Tanzania travel plan covering destinations such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire.
What to Expect on the Northern Circuit
- A longer approach around the mountain.
- Extended time at different elevations.
- Mountain camping throughout the trek.
- Changing ecological zones.
- Long trekking days at high altitude.
- A demanding summit attempt toward Uhuru Peak.
- Variable temperatures and mountain weather.
Northern Circuit Route Compared With Other Routes
| Route | Accommodation | Typical Length | Main Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Circuit | Camping | 9 days | Extended northern approach |
| Lemosho | Camping | 7–8 days | Long scenic western approach |
| Machame | Camping | 6–7 days | Scenic southern approach |
| Rongai | Camping | Around 7 days | Northern approach |
| Umbwe | Camping | Around 7 days | Direct and steep approach |
Northern Circuit Route Tours
Otto Safari Guide offers a focused Northern Circuit itinerary within its Kilimanjaro climbing collection. The route guide provides detailed background information, while the itinerary page contains the specific daily schedule, pricing, inclusions and booking information.
Ready to Explore the Northern Circuit?
Explore the Northern Circuit climbing itinerary or compare it with the other Kilimanjaro routes available through Otto Safari Guide.
View Kilimanjaro ToursNorthern Circuit Route Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit is commonly planned as a longer Kilimanjaro climb. Otto Safari Guide's focused itinerary is a 9-day climb, allowing the route to progress around the northern side of the mountain before the summit attempt.
What is the Northern Circuit known for?
The Northern Circuit is known for its extended route around the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. It provides a longer mountain experience compared with many of the shorter Kilimanjaro routes.
Where do climbers sleep on the Northern Circuit?
The Northern Circuit is a camping route. Climbers stay in mountain camps along the route before and after the summit attempt.
Is the Northern Circuit suitable for a first Kilimanjaro climb?
The route can be considered by first-time Kilimanjaro trekkers who are adequately prepared for a long, high-altitude mountain trek. Physical preparation, appropriate equipment and following the guidance of the mountain crew remain important.
What is the highest point of the Northern Circuit?
The summit objective is Uhuru Peak on Mount Kilimanjaro, approximately 5,895 metres above sea level.
Can I combine the Northern Circuit with a Tanzania safari?
Yes. A Northern Circuit climb can be combined with a Northern Tanzania safari visiting destinations such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire.