9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Your Northern Circuit journey begins at Londorossi Gate (2,100m). After registration, drive to the trailhead and begin trekking through pristine montane forest. The trail is peaceful and remote, winding through ancient trees and dense vegetation. Look for wildlife including monkeys, forest birds, and signs of larger mammals. The atmosphere is magical with filtered sunlight through the canopy. Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m) sits in a forest clearing surrounded by towering camphor trees, offering a serene first night on Kilimanjaro.

Climb steadily as the forest transitions to moorland. Giant heather and volcanic rock become prominent as the canopy opens. Cross the Shira Ridge and emerge onto the expansive Shira Plateau with dramatic views opening in all directions. The walk becomes more exposed but the scenery is spectacular. Shira Camp 1 (3,500m) sits on the edge of the plateau with views toward Kibo Peak and back across the approach route. The sunset here paints the mountain in golden hues.

Trek northward across the Shira Plateau, diverging from other routes to follow the Northern Circuit path. The trail gradually ascends toward Kilimanjaro's remote northern slopes. Pass interesting volcanic formations and ancient lava flows. The landscape feels wild and untouched. Moir Hut (4,200m) sits dramatically beneath rocky cliffs in a scenic valley. The remoteness and beauty of this camp are exceptional. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing with optional short hikes to nearby viewpoints.

A crucial acclimatization day that significantly improves summit success. Take an acclimatization hike to higher elevation (4,500-4,600m) before returning to camp. The hike might include Lent Hills or other nearby peaks offering spectacular 360-degree views. See Kilimanjaro from different angles and enjoy the remote wilderness. The extra day allows your body to produce more red blood cells and adjust to altitude. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the days ahead. This extra acclimatization is a key reason for the Northern Circuit's 97% success rate.

Continue the northern traverse, trekking through remote alpine desert rarely seen by climbers. The trail passes through stark, beautiful landscape with views north to Kenya. Cross several ridges and valleys as you work eastward around the mountain. The solitude and wilderness feel are unmatched on Kilimanjaro. Pofu Camp (4,020m) sits in a sheltered valley providing good protection from wind. The camp is basic but the location is spectacular and remote. Your body continues excellent acclimatization through gradual altitude exposure.

Continue around Kilimanjaro's northern slopes through beautiful alpine desert. The landscape is austere yet captivating with unique volcanic formations. The remote trail offers a true wilderness experience far from busier routes. Begin approaching the junction with the Rongai Route. Third Cave Camp (3,936m) offers relatively good shelter in a protected location. The slightly lower elevation before the final push to School Hut provides excellent acclimatization preparation. This well-paced ascent profile is optimal for summit success.

Trek across the famous "Saddle," the high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The lunar-like landscape is covered in volcanic scree with no vegetation. Views are spectacular with both peaks visible. The altitude is very noticeable - walk slowly and breathe deeply. School Hut (4,750m), also called Kibo Hut, sits at the base of Kibo's summit cone. This is your final camp before the summit attempt. After arrival, rest, hydrate thoroughly, check all equipment, eat dinner early, and sleep before the midnight summit push. The eight days of careful acclimatization have prepared you well.

Begin the summit push around midnight. Despite the challenge ahead, you're well-acclimatized after eight days on the mountain. Climb slowly and steadily through darkness toward Gilman's Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. The scree is steep but your preparation pays off. Reaching Gilman's Point at sunrise reveals spectacular views of glaciers and the crater bathed in golden light. The final push along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is challenging but achievable. Standing on Africa's highest point after the longest route is incredibly rewarding! Descend past School Hut to Barafu Camp briefly, then continue to Mweka Camp (3,100m). The long day requires stamina but feels triumphant.

The final descent takes you through lush montane rainforest to Mweka Gate. The forest is alive with birds and monkeys - a beautiful contrast to the summit's barren landscape. The trail can be muddy but is manageable. As you descend, breathing becomes easier and the air warmer. Reflect on your incredible journey - the longest route with the highest success rate. At Mweka Gate (1,640m), sign out and receive your gold summit certificate. Your transport returns you to your hotel for a well-deserved celebration. You've conquered Kilimanjaro via the ultimate route!