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Northern Circuit: Longest Kilimanjaro Route

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Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro: Longest Kilimanjaro Route

Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?

This route fully circles the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro — offering incredible 360° mountain views, low foot traffic, and the highest summit success rate of all routes: up to 98%. It’s ideal for those seeking solitude, safety, and unmatched scenery.Acclimatization is the key to avoiding altitude sickness — learn how to climb high, sleep low, and pace yourself the right way.”

Climbers at Barafu Camp (4,673m) on Mount Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit Route, preparing for the final summit push to Uhuru Peak | Kili Quests
Barafu Camp is the final overnight base camp before summit day on the Northern Circuit. From here, climbers tackle the ascent to Uhuru Peak via Stella Point.

Northern Circuit Route Overview

 Feature Details
Route Length            –    9 days
Distance                      –    ~98 km (61 miles)
Start Point                  –    Londorossi Gate (Western Kilimanjaro)
Highest Point           –    Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)
Difficulty                   –     Moderate to challenging
Success Rate            –     95–98%
Best For                      –    Acclimatization, scenery, quiet experience

Northern Circuit Days and Elevation Profile

Northern Circuit Route map on Mount Kilimanjaro showing full circuit trail, elevation profile, and key camps to Uhuru Peak
The longest Kilimanjaro route, offering excellent acclimatization and 360° views around the mountain.

9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
  • Altitude: 2,100 m → 2,650 m
  • Time: 3–4 hours
  • Hike through rich rainforest, likely monkey sightings
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
  • Altitude: 2,650 m → 3,610 m
  • Time: 5–6 hours
  • Transition from forest to moorland, expansive views begin
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
  • Altitude: 3,610 m → 3,850 m
  • Time: 4–5 hours
  • Gentle trek across the plateau with stunning open landscapes
Day 4: Shira 2 to Lava Tower, return to Moir Hut
  • Altitude: 3,850 m → 4,600 m (Lava Tower), sleep at 4,200 m
  • Time: 6–7 hours
  • “Climb high, sleep low” day to boost acclimatization
  • Amazing views from Lava Tower followed by a peaceful night at Moir Hut
Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
  • Altitude: 4,200 m → 4,020 m
  • Time: 5–6 hours
  • Cross into Kilimanjaro’s rarely visited northern side
  • Viewpoint offers panoramas into Kenya
Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp
  • Altitude: 4,020 m → 3,870 m
  • Time: 5 hours
  • Quietest part of the trek, remote alpine desert zone
Day 7: Third Cave to School Hut (Base Camp)
  • Altitude: 3,870 m → 4,750 m
  • Time: 4–5 hours
  • Short, steady climb to summit staging point
Day 8: Summit Day – School Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp
  • Altitude: 4,750 m → 5,895 m (Uhuru), then to 3,100 m
  • Time: 12–14 hours
  • Summit push begins at midnight, reach Uhuru at sunrise
  • Celebrate and descend to Mweka Camp
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
  • Altitude: 3,100 m → 1,640 m
  • Time: 3–4 hours
  • Final forest descent and certificate ceremony

Why the Northern Circuit Has the Highest Success Rate

With a 9-day itinerary, the Northern Circuit provides the slowest, most balanced ascent profile on Kilimanjaro. It includes critical acclimatization stops like Lava Tower and Moir Hut, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness.This makes it the best choice for trekkers serious about health, comfort, and reaching the summit successfully.If you’re new to high-altitude trekking, our Altitude Sickness Tips & Risks guide can help you stay safe

Best Time to Climb the Northern Circuit

This route is great year-round but performs best during:
  •  January to early March – Clear skies, fewer climbers
  • June to October – Dry weather, peak visibility
  • Avoid April–May and November due to heavy and short rains.
Not sure when to plan your climb? Discover the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro with insights on weather, crowds, and summit conditions month by month.
Trekker climbing and hugging a rock on Kilimanjaro’s Barranco Wall, a fun and scenic segment encountered on the Northern Circuit via Lemosho | Kili Quests
The Barranco Wall, known as the “Breakfast Wall,” is a fun and challenging highlight of the Northern Circuit after it merges with Lemosho.

What Makes the Northern Circuit Unique?

  • Encircles almost the entire mountain
  • Access to both remote and scenic zones
  • Offers views into Kenya and across Kilimanjaro’s northern glaciers
  • Very few crowds — even in peak season
  • Rich acclimatization profile for a safe and successful ascent
The Lemosho Route is also our most scenic trail and has a 98% success rate

Is the Northern Circuit Right for You?

 Choose the Northern Circuit if you:
  • Want the highest summit success rate
  • Prefer quiet, remote trails
  • Are committed to a longer but safer journey
  • Value incredible scenery and more time on the mountain
Three happy trekkers posing in front of the Barafu Camp sign on Kilimanjaro’s Northern Circuit Route, flexing muscles before summit day | Kili Quests
A light-hearted moment at Barafu Camp (4,673m) on the Northern Circuit Route — trekkers flex their energy and spirit before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit with Kili Quests

 At Kili Quests, we specialize in Northern Circuit climbs designed for maximum safety, comfort, and summit success. With 9 full days of expert-guided trekking, we help you pace yourself, enjoy the journey, and reach Uhuru Peak with confidence.
Looking for the best route to conquer Kilimanjaro?
 
Contact us today to plan your Northern Circuit adventure with Kili Quests.

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Climb Kilimanjaro Safely: High Altitude Sickness Guide

Posted on by kili_2k5fyu

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Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro: What You Need to Know

Mount Kilimanjaro rises to 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) — a height where oxygen levels drop by nearly 50% compared to sea level. While the climb doesn’t require technical skills, the biggest challenge for most trekkers is altitude sickness.In this guide, we’ll explain what altitude sickness is, how it affects climbers on Kilimanjaro, and how to reduce your risk through smart choices and preparation.
 
At Kili Quests, we offer fully guided climbs designed for beginners — meet our team in Climb with Experts
Tourists trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro at high altitude with guides | Kili Quests
Step by step — staying hydrated, steady, and supported helps you adapt as altitude increases.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is the body’s response to reduced oxygen at high elevation. It can affect anyone — regardless of age, fitness, or past experience.
There are three common forms:
  • AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): Headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness
  • HAPE (High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema): Fluid in the lungs — life-threatening
  • HACE (High-Altitude Cerebral Edema): Fluid in the brain — life-threatening
Read our Health & Medication Tips to know what to carry for altitude, digestion, and pain management.

Why Does Altitude Sickness Happen on Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro’s ascent is fast — you go from under 2,000 m to nearly 6,000 m in just a few days. This doesn’t give your body much time to adjust to low oxygen levels.
Factors that increase risk include:
  • Rapid ascent
  • Not drinking enough water
  • Poor physical condition
  • Skipping rest days or acclimatization hikes

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Early symptoms of AMS include:
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Poor sleep
More serious signs (HAPE/HACE) may include:
  • Shortness of breath at rest
  • Tight chest or persistent cough
  • Difficulty walking straight ,associated with Ataxia
  • Confusion or slurred speech

If symptoms get worse, descent is the only safe treatment.

Who Gets Altitude Sickness?

Anyone can. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or fit — altitude affects people differently.However, you’re at higher risk if:

  • You’ve never been above 3,000 m
  • You rush your ascent
  • You don’t hydrate properly
  • You ignore early symptoms

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro

1. Choose the Right Route:
  • Longer routes like Lemosho, Northern Circuit, and Machame (7-day) allow better acclimatization.
2. Climb High, Sleep Low:
  • Routes with this natural altitude rhythm help the body adjust more easily.
3. Hike Slowly (Pole Pole):
  • Pace is everything. Going slow reduces strain on your heart and lungs.
4. Stay Hydrated:
  • Drink 3–4 liters of water per day to keep blood oxygen levels stable.
5. Eat Well:
  • Don’t skip meals. Calories = energy for your body to adapt to altitude.
6. Use Medication (Optional):
  • Talk to your doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide) — it can help prevent AMS by aiding breathing and acclimatization.

What to Do If You Feel Symptoms

If mild symptoms appear:
  • Tell your guide immediately
  • Rest and hydrate
  • Take Diamox (if recommended)
  • Skip or shorten the next day’s hike
If symptoms get worse:
  • You must descend to a lower altitude
  • Our guides are trained to monitor and support this process safely
Happy tourist walking along a high-altitude trail on Kilimanjaro with a smile and trekking gear | Kili Quests
High spirits at high altitude — staying positive, prepared, and well-guided makes all the difference.

Trained Guides and Safety on the Mountain

At Kili Quests, your safety is our top priority.Our mountain guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, meaning they are professionally trained in emergency care and high-altitude medical response.
Our team has extensive experience in identifying and managing altitude-related issues such as:
  • Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
  • High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
  • High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
Each day on the mountain, our guides conduct twice-daily health checks, monitoring your oxygen levels and overall well-being. They are trained to recognize early warning signs and take immediate action — whether that means adjusting your pace, descending, or administering first aid.
When you trek with Kili Quests, you can be confident you’re in the hands of a team that understands altitude sickness and knows how to respond quickly and effectively.Acclimatization is the key to avoiding altitude sickness — learn how to climb high, sleep low, and pace yourself the right way.

Best Kilimanjaro Routes for Acclimatization

If you’re concerned about altitude, choose one of these:
  • Lemosho Route (7 or 8 days) – Great balance of scenery and acclimatization
  • Northern Circuit Route (9 days) – Longest and best for altitude
  • Machame Route (7 days) – Popular, scenic, and effective for most first-time climbers
Avoid shorter routes like Marangu (5 days) unless you’re highly experienced.
Want the best acclimatization and fewer crowds? The Northern Circuit Route is Kilimanjaro’s longest trail — offering top success rates and stunning remote scenery.
Group of trekkers celebrating together at Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro
With the right pace and preparation, reaching the summit is not just possible — it’s unforgettable.

Other Acclimatization Tips Before Your Climb

  •  Sleep at altitude a few days before your trek (e.g., Arusha or highland hikes)
  • Do day hikes above 2,500 m in your home country if possible
  • Train with cardio and backpack hikes to prepare your lungs and legs

Stay Safe, Summit Smart

 Altitude sickness is serious — but it’s not unbeatable. With the right route, smart pacing, good hydration, and an experienced guiding team, you can reduce the risk and improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak safely.
Need help choosing the best route for altitude acclimatization? Contact Kili Quests — we’re here to help you summit safely and successfully.
 
Contact us today to plan your Kilimanjaro  adventure with Kili Quests.

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Mount Kilimanjaro Overview: Location, Height & Trek Info

December 13, 2024 No Comments

Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, stands tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Located in northern Tanzania, this iconic free-standing volcano draws thousands of trekkers each year. Whether you’re planning your first summit or comparing routes, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the best route to preparing for altitude and understanding what to expect on the mountain.

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Kilimanjaro Trek Health Checklist & Altitude Sickness Tips

Posted on by kili_2k5fyu

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Essential Medication and Health Tips for Your Kilimanjaro Trek | Kili Quests

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible adventure — but staying healthy on the mountain is just as important as reaching the summit.

At Kili Quests, we believe that proper health preparation and essential medication can make the difference between success and an early descent. In this guide, we’ll help you pack smart, stay strong, and respond to altitude-related issues confidently.

Painkiller carried for use during the climb

Essential Medication to Bring for Kilimanjaro

1. Altitude Sickness Medications

Altitude sickness affects many trekkers. While acclimatization is your first defense, medication can help manage symptoms.

  • Diamox (Acetazolamide) – Prescription only. Take 1 day before the climb and throughout your trek. Helps speed up acclimatization.
  • Ibuprofen or Paracetamol – Relieves altitude headaches and mild discomfort.
Consult your doctor before using Diamox or any prescription medication.
2. Anti-Nausea Medication
Higher altitudes can cause nausea, especially if dehydrated or fatigued.
  • Gravol / Dramamine – Helps control nausea, motion sickness, and dizziness.
3. Personal Medications
If you’re on regular medication, carry enough for your entire trip. Examples include:
  • Inhalers (e.g. asthma)
  • Allergy medications
  • Diabetes treatments
  • Any long-term prescription drugs

 Tip: Carry a note from your doctor outlining your condition and meds in case of emergencies.

General Health Tips for Your Trek

Stay Hydrated
Dehydration worsens altitude sickness. Make water a priority.
  • Drink 3–4 liters daily
  • Use a refillable bottle + water bladder
  • Bring purification tablets or filters to treat mountain water
Protect Your Skin and Eyes
Sun intensity increases with altitude.
  • SPF 30–50+ sunscreen (reapply often)
  • SPF lip balm
  • Sunglasses with full UV protection
  • Hat for face and neck shade
Pack a Personal First Aid Kit
Your guides carry medical supplies, but a personal kit adds peace of mind.

 

Include:
  • Bandages and blister pads
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Tweezers and scissors
  • Antihistamines
  • Anti-diarrheal meds (e.g. Imodium)

Altitude Sickness: Know the Symptoms

Even mild symptoms need attention. Tell your guide immediately if you notice:
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty breathing
Severe symptoms (like confusion or inability to walk) may require descent or evacuation. Our team is trained to spot and respond to these quickly.
Essential first aid supplies for mountain safety.

Sleep, Rest & Recovery

High altitude can affect sleep quality. These tips help you rest well:
  • Use earplugs and a sleep mask in noisy or bright camps
  • Avoid alcohol – it hinders acclimatization
  • Take breaks during the day and pace yourself during hikes
  • Eat small meals regularly for sustained energy
Your body recovers and adjusts while you sleep — so don’t skip rest.

When to Seek Medical Help

Always communicate with your guide. Seek help if you experience:
  • Confusion or slurred speech
  • Trouble walking
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Chest pain or extreme breathlessness
“Don’t risk your summit for silence.” Our guides are trained and equipped to act fast.

 Bonus Tips from Kili Quests

  • Have emergency medical insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation
  • Eat balanced meals rich in carbs and protein
  • Stay warm and dry — wet clothes can lead to illness
  • Pack wisely to avoid carrying excess weight
See what we serve on the mountain – Balanced meals help with energy and recovery.

 Stay Healthy and Summit with Confidence

 Your health is your summit strategy. With proper medication, hydration, protection, and awareness, you’ll give yourself the best shot at reaching Uhuru Peak.At Kili Quests, we take your health seriously — our guides are trained, our itineraries are smart, and our support is 24/7.
 
 Ready to climb with safety and strength?
Contact Kili Quests today to start planning your adventure with full health guidance and support at every step.

Related Articles

Mount Kilimanjaro Overview: Location, Height & Trek Info

December 13, 2024 No Comments

Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, stands tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Located in northern Tanzania, this iconic free-standing volcano draws thousands of trekkers each year. Whether you’re planning your first summit or comparing routes, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the best route to preparing for altitude and understanding what to expect on the mountain.

Read More »
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