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Northern Circuit Route Mount Kilimanjaro

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Northern Circuit

OVERVIEW

  • Duration 10 Day Tour, 9 nights, (8 Day Trek)
  • Can be Tailor-made Yes
Tour Itinerary

Below, you will find a comprehensive 7 night/8 days climb & 8 night/9 days climb up Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route.

ITINERARY (8 Days/ 7 nighs)

Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, you'll have a briefing session where your guide will go over the trek details, safety tips, and itinerary, ensuring you're fully prepared for the climb. Your gear will also be checked to confirm you have everything needed for the journey ahead. The rest of the day is yours to relax, hydrate, and adjust to the local environment. Enjoy a restful night at the hotel before beginning your trek on the Northern Circuit Route the next day.
From your lodge, we will make our way to the Londorosi gate on the Western side of Mt. Kilimanjaro (a few hours drive from Arusha). We will begin our hike at the Lemosho trail head. Please note that in rainy/muddy conditions,
After a picnic lunch, we will hike for about 4 hours to the forest camp. In the forest, exotic moss and flowers delight the eye while bird calls entertain the ear. You may see Black and White Colobus monkeys as well as signs of the elephants that travel in this area. We will overnight at Forest Camp.
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude ~9,498’
As we leave the Montane Forest and enter the Hagenia zone, our views open and we will catch our first views of the Kibo peak. This is a good acclimatization hike, as we go up and down several ridges along the way to our highest point of the day at 11,500’ before descending to camp. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Hiking: 6-9 hours
Overnight Altitude 11,500’
We will traverse the Heath zone of the Shira Plateau and begin climbing the western slope of the Kibo Massif. Along the way, we will enjoy a picnic lunch at Scott Fisher’ memorial camp (the well-known Mt. Everest guide). We will continue on to the upper heath zone and Moir camp. Depending on the weather, acclimatization hikes can be arranged in the late afternoon

Hiking: 5-6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,580′
Hike about 4-7 hours, depending on stops along the way. You have quite a ridge to climb up as you depart Moir camp, so it’s best to start out very slowly until you crest the ridge. This is a great acclimatization day.

Hiking: 5-7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,200′
Continue your traverse around the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro, with expansive views, as you find your way to Third Cave Camp.

Hiking: 5-7 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~12,700′
We get into our highest elevation camp today. Try to get to bed early for some rest before you start your night-time summit ascent (usually starting around midnight) to Gilman’s Point, through Stella Point, and for the final push up to the summit.
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~15,600’
Summit day. We will start our ascent to the summit (19,340ft – 5,896m) around 11:00 PM or midnight the night prior. The goal for you – and numerous other climbers – is to reach the peak right at sunrise. In reality, due to differences in hiking speed, energy, and altitude acclimatization, there is a several hour span where most climbers reach the summit. Using headlamps (bring extra lithium batteries, which last much better in cold dark conditions!) you will ascend 6-7 hours to Gilman’s point, traverse the Crater Rim to Stella Point and then up another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak, the summit.

After a summit celebration and photo, descend to Barafu camp for lunch and then to Mweka camp to sleep overnight. By advance request we can sleep at Millenium camp instead; this is at ~12,000’ so less descent today, but means more descent tomorrow.
Hiking: Very variable on both the up and the down; 13-17 hours typical
Summit 19,341’
Overnight Altitude:10,065’
We make the final descent to the trailhead today, about 3-5 hours hiking. Here we will have lunch and say goodbye to our mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro and heading back to town. Arrive at your lodge usually between 3-5 PM.
Hiking: 3-5 hours
Relax at the hotel and then transfer to the airport for departure.
Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. Late check-out options are available for an additional fee, if needed.
How difficult is the Northern Circuit Route?
The Northern Circuit has a lowest difficulty level on all the Kilimanjaro Routes. Although it is the longest route, the longer itinerary means that it has the best acclimatization profile which makes the trek less difficult. The physical trek over nine days is excellent for altitude acclimatization and generally easy under foot. Good level of fitness is highly recommended.
What is the distance of the Northern Circuit Route and how many days does it take?
The exact trekking distance for the Northern Circuit Route is 88km or 53 miles. The shortest number of days required for the Northern Circuit Route is 8 days, Shorter ascents are possible but mean some strenuous trekking days. By the time you have added on arrival and departure days it is 10 or 12. However, as it’s considered one of the longest routes on the mountain it is actually best done over 9 days of trekking to increase your chances of success.
What is the Northern Circuit Route Summit Success Rate?
The Northern Circuit is the longest route up Kilimanjaro which gives the best chance for acclimatization. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 90%. However, We have a summit success rate of over 98% for the Northern Circuit Route!
What is the Scenery like on the Northern Circuit Route?
The main approach will take you through the rich Lemosho forest and across the Shira Plateau. Then as the climber traverses around to the remote and rarely-visited north side of Kilimanjaro, the scenery becomes more arid and austere. It is so remote here that the shy eland are often seen as well as the occasional buffalo that come to lick minerals from the natural caves on the high slopes of Kilimanjaro.
When is the best time to Trek Northern Circuit Route?
July-September is the best time to trek the Northern Circuit Route, as the weather is most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. That said, since it is close to the equator it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year. April and May is the rainy season so this period is best avoided

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

The price includes:
  • All park fees (camping fees, concession fees, entrance fees, & rescue fee)
  • Accommodations 2 nights before and after the trek
  • All government Taxes
  • Trekking Crew (Porters, Cook and professional guide)
  • Camping equipment’s (Tents, Mattress, Chairs, & Tables)
  • Private Toilets
  • Meals & Drinking water
  • Tipping’s for the crew
  • Personal Items (Visa, Souvenirs, Passport etc.)
  • Flights
  • PRICES

    Price From: 2,830 per person
    from

    $2,830

    Kilimanjaro Frequently Asked Questions

    Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most iconic climbs in the world, drawing trekkers from all over the globe. However, preparing for this adventure involves many questions. We've compiled answers to the most common ones below. If you need more details, feel free to contact us for personalized assistance.

    The optimal periods to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are from late December to early March and from mid-June to late October, when the weather is generally favorable. Although rain may occur during other months, it usually falls in the latter part of the day, leaving trekkers with plenty of clear weather for most of their hike. Some rainy days are entirely dry. Tanzania Inside and Safari offers discounted climbs during the rainy season, making it a feasible option despite occasional showers. For more information, you can check out our guide on Kilimanjaro's climbing seasons.
    As of 2024, a typical 7-day group climb costs between $2,100 and $2,340. Shorter treks of 5-6 days or discounted trips during the rainy season can range from $1,750 to $1,980. These prices include park fees, which account for about 40% of the total cost. Be cautious of companies offering significantly lower prices, as they may skimp on guide quality and equipment, which could compromise safety. Additionally, such budget operators may mistreat porters, which poses risks to both porters and climbers. For a detailed cost breakdown, check out our blog on Kilimanjaro climbing expenses.
    Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is in northern Tanzania, East Africa, just three degrees south of the equator. While many of the iconic photos of Kilimanjaro are taken from Kenya, all trails begin in Tanzania, making it the only country where tourists can hike the mountain. The closest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, and most expeditions start from Moshi, the capital of the Kilimanjaro region.
    The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, reaches 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). However, hikers don't start at sea level. Most hotels near Kilimanjaro are located at altitudes between 700 and 1,000 meters, with trailheads typically beginning at elevations of around 1,600 meters and higher. Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak makes it one of the few places in East Africa where snow is visible.
    Climbing Kilimanjaro is only permitted with a licensed local guide, as per the regulations of Kilimanjaro National Park. Solo hikes are not allowed, and attempting to climb alone can be extremely risky. Guides are essential for managing emergencies and altitude sickness, and they also enrich the experience by providing insights into the mountain's ecosystem, history, and the surrounding communities.
    Climbing Kilimanjaro requires paying various park fees, which amount to $157 per day per hiker. These fees cover conservation efforts, camping (or hut fees for the Marangu route), crew member access, and a mandatory rescue service fee. Operators generally include these fees in the overall price of the tour. With Tanzania Inside and Safari, all park-related expenses are managed, ensuring a smooth experience.
    While you don't need to be an elite athlete to summit Kilimanjaro, maintaining a good fitness level is key. Being able to comfortably hike 8-10 km (5-6.2 miles) will prepare you for the trek. Running and swimming are excellent exercises to improve cardiovascular endurance. For optimal preparation, train on rugged trails, preferably 10-15 km (6-10 miles) in length, to get used to the uphill terrain of Kilimanjaro.
    Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The short rainy season runs from early November to late December, followed by a dry season until mid-March. The long rainy season starts in March and lasts until mid-June. If you're climbing during the rainy season, consider routes like Rongai, Northern Circuit, or Marangu, which receive less rainfall on the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Be prepared for chilly nights, especially at higher altitudes, from June to October.
    Athletes sometimes make the mistake of hiking too quickly without allowing enough time for acclimatization. This can increase the risk of altitude sickness. It's important to pace yourself and stick to the acclimatization schedule, as reaching the summit safely involves more than physical fitness; it requires careful attention to altitude-related adjustments.
    On a Tanzania Inside and Safari trek, climbers are provided with hearty, calorie-dense meals designed for energy on the mountain. A typical breakfast includes porridge, eggs, fruit, sausages, and toast. Lunch and dinner consist of soups, stews, chicken, pasta, and fresh salads. Desserts feature tropical fruits like mangoes, bananas, and pineapples. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, and regular tea and biscuit stops are offered. For extra energy, consider bringing snacks like energy bars or dried fruit.
    Based on an analysis by Tanzania Inside and Safari from January 1 to September 30, 2023, starting your trek on a Wednesday or Thursday can reduce the number of fellow climbers by half. These days see far fewer climbers than the weekend, and opting for the Rongai route can reduce encounters with other hikers by as much as 16 times compared to the popular Machame route.
    Tanzania Inside and Safari recommends Global Rescue for reliable travel insurance. Your policy should cover high-altitude hiking up to 6,000 meters, including medical services and helicopter evacuation if necessary.
    To acclimatize properly and increase your chances of reaching the summit, follow these tips:
    • Hike slowly to allow your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels.
    • Drink 3-4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated.
    • Participate in short acclimatization hikes to higher elevations during the climb.
    • Consider climbing Mount Meru or other lower-altitude peaks as training.
    • Opt for routes that last at least seven days to give your body more time to adjust.
    Routes like Lemosho, Machame, and Rongai are ideal for acclimatization. Longer itineraries of seven days or more are recommended for the best acclimatization results.
    On the seven-day Machame route, extra acclimatization days aren't usually necessary. However, adding one or two extra rest days could be beneficial, especially if you’re not in peak physical condition.
    Most climbers do not require supplemental oxygen, as the summit's oxygen level is about half of what it is at sea level. However, Tanzania Inside and Safari provides oxygen tanks for safety, included in the tour price.
    Tanzania Inside and Safari provides comprehensive medical kits on all climbs, which include treatments for common ailments like nausea, headaches, and altitude sickness, as well as oxygen. If you have any specific prescriptions, be sure to bring them with you.
    Kilimanjaro has a low death rate, with 3-5 fatalities per year out of around 50,000 climbers. Most deaths are related to altitude sickness, which is often a result of failing to acclimatize properly. Tragically, porters have a higher mortality rate, often due to inadequate equipment and shelter, particularly with low-cost tour operators.
    Uhuru Peak was named to honor Tanzania's independence from Britain in 1961. "Uhuru" means "freedom" in Swahili.
    Yes! Tanzania is home to some of the world's most famous safari destinations, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. You can easily combine a Kilimanjaro climb with a safari adventure. Tanzania Inside and Safari also offers a fleet of vehicles and expert guides to make your safari experience exceptional.
    Tanzania Inside and Safari is a Tanzanian-owned, registered tour operator. We are dedicated to responsible tourism and actively engage in environmental conservation and social responsibility efforts, such as planting trees and combating bushfires on Kilimanjaro. For personalized advice on your Kilimanjaro adventure, feel free to reach out to our team!


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