The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's longest established trekking route, designed for travellers who prefer a slower approach and more time at altitude. Beginning on the western side of the mountain, the route crosses the Shira Plateau before travelling around the quieter northern slopes and eventually joining the eastern side for the summit approach.
Nine days give the mountain space to unfold — from rainforest and high plateau to the remote northern slopes and the summit.
A long, gradual circuit around Kilimanjaro, giving you more time to acclimatise and experience the mountain away from the most travelled sections.
After registration at Londorossi Gate, begin the ascent through the rainforest. The trail is peaceful and richly vegetated as you make your way towards Mti Mkubwa Camp, settling into the rhythm of the mountain.
Leave the forest behind and climb into the heather and moorland zone. The landscape opens dramatically as you reach the Shira Plateau and continue towards Shira 1 Camp.
Walk across the broad Shira Plateau at a measured pace. This relatively gentle day provides valuable time for acclimatisation while giving you expansive views across the western mountain landscape.
The route leaves the main western approach and begins travelling towards the quieter northern side of the mountain. The terrain becomes increasingly alpine as you approach Moir Camp.
Continue through the high northern landscape, crossing undulating terrain with views towards the summit massif. The quieter character of the Northern Circuit becomes especially noticeable here.
Continue eastwards beneath the northern slopes. The mountain landscape remains broad and open as the route gradually brings you closer to the eastern side of Kilimanjaro.
The route climbs steadily towards the high eastern slopes. School Hut becomes the final overnight camp before the summit attempt, so the remainder of the day is dedicated to rest, hydration and preparation.
The summit attempt begins during the night. Ascend through the darkness towards Gilman's Point and continue around the crater rim towards Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit, begin the long descent towards Mweka Camp.
Your final morning follows the trail through the rainforest towards Mweka Gate. After completing the descent and signing out of the park, meet your vehicle and continue to your next destination.
The Northern Circuit takes a longer, quieter path around the northern slopes before approaching Uhuru Peak from the east.
The Northern Circuit is less about reaching the top quickly and more about giving yourself time to experience Kilimanjaro. Its longer route creates a different rhythm: more days on the mountain, more varied landscapes and a gradual approach to the summit.
Nine days allow the journey to unfold at a slower and more considered pace.
The longer itinerary gives you additional time to adjust to increasing altitude before the summit.
Experience a less conventional side of Kilimanjaro while travelling around the northern face.
From rainforest and Shira to alpine desert and Uhuru Peak, the route connects many faces of Kilimanjaro.
Tell Mau Africa Safaris when you would like to climb and what kind of experience you want from Kilimanjaro. With more time on the mountain, the Northern Circuit gives your journey room to breathe.
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