The 9-day Kilimanjaro Climb Northern Circuit Route combination is by a wide margin the least-used route, getting you far away from other hikers. This trailhead is at a high elevation, and thus we start slow and easy on this route. Kilimanjaro Climb Northern Circuit Route begins on the Shira Plateau, and the hike across the plateau is said to be one of the most stunningly beautiful hikes in Africa.
Moshi Town (Google Map)
Early In The Morning
Camping/ huts
We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at the trailhead, we begin hiking through an undisturbed forest that winds to the first campsite.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: RainForest
Elevation: 7,742 ft. to 9,498 ft.
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.
Hiking Time 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
Elevation: 9,498 ft. to 11,500 ft.
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
We explore the Shira Plateau. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The heath zone displays abundant wildflowers and unique Senecio trees.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath
Elevation: 11,500 ft. to 12,500 ft.
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft. tall volcanic rock formation. Then we divert from the main trail to Moir Hut, a little-used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
We trek out of Moir Valley with a moderately steep climb, then hike to the summit of Lent Hills before returning to the main trail. The path crosses a rock field and gently undulates before reaching Buffalo Camp. This section of the trail offers great views across the plains that lie north of Kilimanjaro and stretch out to the Kenyan/Tanzanian border.
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 13,580 ft. to 13,200 ft.
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
As we head up Buffalo Ridge, the terrain becomes increasingly sparse. This route is rarely traveled and we will enjoy its mountain wilderness feel. We trek through remote valleys onto the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro until we arrive at Third Cave.
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
Elevation: 13,200 ft. to 12,700 ft.
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
We climb steadily up and over the “Saddle,” which sits between Kibo and Mawenzi. Continue on to our camp, School Hut. Once here we rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 12,700 ft. to 15,600 ft.
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft.), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: RainForest
Elevation: 10,065 ft. to 5,380 ft.
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
What should I pack for my Kilimanjaro adventure?
Inside Your daypack on Kilimanjaro, you will have waterproof gear, a sun hut, extra warm clothing, water, snacks, Packed lunch, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a camera. When you’re on the mountain, most of your gear will be packed in your large duffel bag, which our porters will carry. For more information on what to park from Kilimanjaro hiking kindly check our Kilimanjaro guide
Is it safe to climb mount Kilimanjaro?
Yes, technically speaking, Mount Kilimanjaro is also relatively safe compared to other mountains of similar altitude and the risks are low compared to other mountains. However, this is not to say that it is easy to reach the summit or that there are no risks involved.
How fit would I have to be to climb mount Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro doesn’t need an athlete or someone who is so much into exercise. Only a few training sessions prepare your lungs for low oxygen levels. To better equip our climbers, at Northern lagoon Travel, we always do offer a fitness assessment check.
Are the guides trained in first aid and altitude sickness?
Kilimanjaro guides are trained in acute mountain sickness (AMS) and basic mountain first aid. However, they are not doctors or paramedics, climbers are however responsible for bringing their own first aid kits and medical supplies.
Is my health monitored throughout the treks?
We carry full medical supplies that could possibly be required from, oxygen tanks to resuscitation equipment. Everyone is assessed daily, both morning and evening for; respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and O2 saturation levels. We also provide full medical support with qualified doctors if needed at additional costs per group.
Should I do a scheduled group trek or a private trek?
A Kilimanjaro open group tour is one in which anyone can join the climb, however, tend to be cheaper compared to private tours and they have a set schedule.
We run our own scheduled group trek departure dates throughout ‘all’ seasons, and also “tailor-made” private treks where you can choose your specific dates.
Which Kilimanjaro route is the best?
The best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Machame route and Lemosho route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners a long way. The Lemosho route, summit success rate? Due to its longer length profile, summit success rates on the Lemosho route are one of the highest on the mountain. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 90% for the 8-day trek and an 85% success rate for the 7-day trek. Check out our blog post on the Kilimanjaro hiking routes
