Northern Circuit Route

Begin the longest and most successful Kilimanjaro route at Londorossi Gate (2,250m). Drive to the trailhead and start through pristine montane rainforest. This remote western approach means fewer climbers and excellent wildlife viewing. The gentle first day (3-4 hours) helps you adjust to trekking. Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m) sits in a beautiful forest clearing. The Northern Circuit's extended duration provides the best acclimatization, resulting in the highest success rates on the mountain.

Continue through the rainforest, gradually ascending as vegetation changes. Emerge into the heather zone with giant groundsels and lobelias. The trail offers increasingly spectacular views of the Shira Plateau. Shira 1 Camp (3,505m) provides excellent views of the mountain's western slopes. The Northern Circuit's gradual ascent pattern continues, allowing your body maximum time to adapt. This strategic pacing is why this route boasts a 95% success rate.

A unique day on the Northern Circuit as you head to Moir Hut (4,200m), a less-visited camp on the mountain's northern slopes. The route crosses the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones. The high-altitude desert environment is stark but beautiful. Moir Hut offers excellent acclimatization at this altitude. The extended time at higher elevations is key to the route's success. Rest well and continue hydrating - your body is adapting beautifully.

Continue around the mountain's northern circuit to Pofu Camp (4,035m). This "climb high, sleep low" day is excellent for acclimatization. The northern slopes offer unique perspectives of the mountain and surrounding landscape. The gradual circuit around the mountain provides consistent altitude exposure without dramatic gains. Pofu Camp sits in a beautiful location with views of the Kenyan plains. The extended itinerary means you're never rushed.

Continue the circuit to Third Cave (3,870m), another strategic "sleep low" camp. The Northern Circuit's pattern of altitude variation is scientifically designed for optimal acclimatization. The terrain remains alpine desert with unique high-altitude vegetation. Third Cave provides another opportunity for your body to adapt before the final push. The extended duration means you're well-rested and properly acclimatized. This is why climbers on this route have such high success rates.

Ascend to School Hut (4,750m), your base for the summit attempt. The climb brings you to the mountain's northern side near Kibo. School Hut is higher than most summit camps, but your excellent acclimatization makes this manageable. Arrive early afternoon to maximize rest. Your guides will provide comprehensive summit briefing. The Northern Circuit's extended preparation means you're physically and mentally ready. Early dinner and rest - summit night begins around midnight.

Summit night! Begin around midnight with headlamps lighting your way. Your excellent acclimatization makes the ascent more manageable than on shorter routes. The slow, steady climb follows the "pole pole" philosophy. Reach Gilman's Point (5,681m) at the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - Africa's highest point! Your extended preparation pays off. Celebrate your achievement, then descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for the night. The Northern Circuit's success rate speaks for itself.

Your final descent through the rainforest feels triumphant. The thick, oxygen-rich air is a welcome relief. Enjoy the lush vegetation and reflect on your incredible 9-day journey. The Northern Circuit's extended duration provided the perfect acclimatization, maximizing your summit success chances. Reach Mweka Gate (1,640m) where you'll receive your official summit certificate. Celebrate with your team - you chose the route with the highest success rate and it delivered!