Northern Circuit Route
🏔️Conquer Kilimanjaro via the Scenic Northern Circuit Route
Trek the longest and most scenic path to the Roof of Africa — unmatched views, high success rate, and low crowds await!
🌟 About Northern Circuit
The Northern Circuit Route is the newest, longest, and most scenic trail to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. With a gentle approach and excellent acclimatization profile, this route offers a high summit success rate and avoids the crowded southern paths. At Excellent Safaris, we specialize in creating unforgettable trekking experiences, and the Northern Circuit is our top-recommended route for those seeking stunning landscapes, solitude, and success.
🌍 What Makes the Northern Circuit Route Special?
Bullet Points with Icons (Elementor List or Icon List)
✅ Unmatched Scenery: Panoramic views from the rarely-seen north side of Kilimanjaro
✅ Low Traffic: The quietest route, ideal for a peaceful wilderness experience
✅ Superior Acclimatization: Slow ascent profile increases summit chances
✅ Wildlife Sightings: Spot buffalo, colobus monkeys, and more in the early forest zone
✅ Highly Recommended for Photographers: The most photogenic Kilimanjaro route
🗓️ Best Time to Climb – Northern Circuit Route
| Month | Climbing Conditions |
|---|---|
| January | Dry, warm, clear views – great for photos |
| February | Ideal weather, fewer crowds than mid-year |
| March | Good early on, rains begin late in the month |
| April | Heavy rain – not recommended |
| May | Very wet and muddy – avoid climbing |
| June | Dry season starts, excellent visibility |
| July | Cool and clear, very stable conditions |
| August | Peak trekking season, perfect summit conditions |
| September | Warm days, clear skies – highly recommended |
| October | Still dry, fewer climbers, good visibility |
| November | Short rains – slippery trails, not ideal |
| December | Mixed conditions, improving toward year-end |
🧭 HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE NORTHERN CIRCUIT
🧗♂️ Train for Success on Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit
Start hiking 8–10 weeks before your trek, with long walks and elevation training
Add cardio workouts (running, swimming, cycling)
Practice with a loaded backpack
Prepare for varying climates (rainforest, alpine desert, summit snow)
Get travel insurance with high-altitude coverage
📌 Travel Info
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Moshi, Tanzania |
| Nearest Airport | Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) |
| Airport to Moshi | 45-minute drive (included in package) |
| Hotel Accommodation | 2 nights in Moshi (1 before, 1 after trek) |
| Climb Duration | 9 Days total (7 days on the mountain) |
| Recommended Gear | Hiking boots, sleeping bag, warm layers, headlamp, sunscreen |
| Gear Rental | Available in Moshi from Excellent Safaris |
| Visa Requirement | Tourist visa required (available online or on arrival) |
| Passport Validity | Must be valid for 6+ months with 1 blank page |
| Vaccinations | Yellow Fever (if from at-risk country), Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus |
| Altitude Precautions | Consider Diamox; travel insurance with high-altitude coverage |
| Currency | Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD accepted |
| Tipping Guide | Guide: $20/day, Porter: $10/day, Cook: $15/day |
| Electricity | 220V, UK-style plug (Type G) in Moshi hotels |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi in Moshi; no service on the mountain |
| Booking Advice | Book 2–3 months in advance for peak season climbs |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Northern Circuit Route better for beginners?
Yes! It offers the best acclimatization and higher success rates than other routes.
How many days is the Northern Circuit Route?
The full climb takes 9 days, including acclimatization and descent.
What’s the best time to hike the Northern Circuit?
January to early March and June to October are ideal for weather and views.
Can I rent gear with Excellent Safaris?
We provide a full gear list, and rental options are available in Moshi.
📸 Client Testimonials
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