The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route, Success Rates, Map
The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route, Success Rates, Map.
One of the most extensive Kilimanjaro routes is the Northern Circuit Route. This 9-day trek begins on Kilimanjaro’s western flank, following the Lemosho route to the Shira Plateau. From there, it travels north, clockwise around the main summit.
After that, it continues on the southern Mweka route before merging with the Rongai route to reach the peak from the east.
The most recent and, perhaps, the finest ascent of Kilimanjaro is via the Northern Circuit. Why? Because it’s like a terrific trek that incorporates the finest parts of all the other routes. If you’re seeking stunning landscapes, plenty of quiet, a good workout, and the possibility of seeing animals, this is the path for you.
Initially, the Northern Circuit path is identical to the Lemosho route; but, after a few days, it diverts from the south side of Kibo and takes the less-traveled northern routes. You won’t see many other hikers along this route, so you can expect pleasant, undisturbed camping.
Due to its length, the Northern Circuit route allows hikers to see more of the mountain than the shorter paths. As they make their way across the breathtaking Shira Plateau, they will be able to take in views of Kibo Peak and Uhuru Summit.
And while only a small fraction of Kilimanjaro climbers get to visit the vast plains to the north of the summit, it offers breathtaking vistas of the plains below.
Which Kilimanjaro route has the highest success rate
When climbing Kilimanjaro, the southern approach known as the Northern Circuit Route yields the best results (98% success rate). It is the newest and longest Kilimanjaro route, and as we said before, it provides the best perspective of the mountain’s 360-degree panorama. Following this path to the peak of Kilimanjaro takes eight to nine days.
Out of all the routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit has the best success rate of 95% to 98% because of its long length, much of which stays at a constant altitude for better acclimatization.
Starting from the Londorossi Gate, the trail ascends the mountain’s western flanks, weaving through the tropical vegetation till it reaches the Shira Ridge.
It then continues north, around a clockwise loop that begins at the Moir Hut and ends at School Hut, before climbing up to the Shira Plateau. Before reaching the peak from the east, hikers nearly complete a full circuit of Kilimanjaro.
Northern Circuit Route Map
Given all the benefits of the Northern Circuit route, what might possibly be the drawbacks? The one and only drawback of this trekking path is the additional time it demands, which is not something that many tourists have. It usually takes nine days or more to complete the Northern Circuit route, compared to as little as six or seven days for the other routes. That makes it difficult for many people to fit this trail into their schedules, but the few who do will be pleasantly surprised by how worthwhile it is.
Kilimanjaro Trekking Services provides a 9-day journey known as the Northern Circuit.
The Northern Circuit Route Frequently Asked Questions
The following are inquiries and responses that pertain exclusively to the Northern Circuit Route.
How difficult is the Northern Circuit Route
Out of all the Kilimanjaro Routes, the Northern Circuit is the easiest. Despite being the longest route, the journey is actually made easier by the lengthier schedule, which provides the optimum acclimatization profile.
In general, the nine-day hike is easy on the feet and great for acclimation to altitude. I strongly advise that you maintain a good level of fitness.
What is the distance of the Northern Circuit Route and how many days does it take
The Northern Circuit Route is 53 miles (88 kilometers) long. The Northern Circuit Route can be completed in as little as 8 days, with shorter ascents being feasible but requiring more challenging hiking on some days.
Ten or twelve days have passed once you factor in the arrival and departure dates. But, to improve your chances of success, it is actually recommended to trek this route over the course of nine days, as it is one of the longest on the mountain.
What is the Northern Circuit Route Summit Success Rate
For the greatest acclimatization opportunity, climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit, the mountain’s longest path. Although no official data is available, the average success percentage for summits across all operators is 90%.
But on the Northern Circuit Route, we’ve achieved a summit success rate of more than 98%!
What is the Scenery like on the Northern Circuit Route
Crossing the Shira Plateau, the primary route will lead you through the verdant Lemosho forest. Climbers will encounter increasingly desolate landscapes as they make their way to the north face of Kilimanjaro, which is secluded and little frequented. Due to the area’s relative isolation, wildlife such as timid eland and the rare buffalo that visit the natural caverns on Kilimanjaro’s steep slopes to lick minerals are common sights.
When is the best time to Trek Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route is most pleasant to hike in from July to September due to the relatively constant weather and low probability of rain during this season. However, you may climb the peak year-round due to its proximity to the equator. Stay away from the rain in April and May if you can help it.