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Northern Circuit: Longest Kilimanjaro Route

Posted on by kili_2k5fyu

Table of Contents

  1. Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?
  2. Northern Circuit Route Overview
  3. Northern Circuit Days and Elevation Profile
  4. 9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
  5. Why the Northern Circuit Has the Highest Success Rate
    1. Best Time to Climb the Northern Circuit
  6. What Makes the Northern Circuit Unique?
  7. Is the Northern Circuit Right for You?
  8. Climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit with Kili Quests
    1. Related Articles
    2. Top Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes Guide
    3. Umbwe Route: Kilimanjaro’s Steep Challenge
    4. Northern Circuit: Longest Kilimanjaro Route
  9. What Is Altitude Sickness?
  10. Why Does Altitude Sickness Happen on Kilimanjaro?
  11. Common Symptoms to Watch For
  12. Who Gets Altitude Sickness?
  13. How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro
  14. What to Do If You Feel Symptoms
  15. Trained Guides and Safety on the Mountain
  16. Best Kilimanjaro Routes for Acclimatization
  17. Other Acclimatization Tips Before Your Climb
    1. Stay Safe, Summit Smart
    2. Related Articles
    3. Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide
    4. Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Tips Guide
    5. Climb Kilimanjaro with Experts
  18. Essential Medication to Bring for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  19. General Health Tips for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  20. Health Tips During Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  21. When to Seek Medical Attention
    1. Stay Healthy and Safe on Your Kilimanjaro Trek
    2. Related Articles
    3. Kilimanjaro Trek Health & Medication Tips
    4. Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Tips Guide
    5. Best Medical Insurance for Treks

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 showing a 9-day clockwise trek around Mount Kilimanjaro with scenic and remote campsites.
Northern Circuit Route – Kilimanjaro’s longest and most scenic trail, ideal for acclimatization and remote trekking.

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.

Related Articles

Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro: Tips & Risks

Posted on by kili_2k5fyu

Table of Contents

  1. Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?
  2. Northern Circuit Route Overview
  3. Northern Circuit Days and Elevation Profile
  4. 9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
  5. Why the Northern Circuit Has the Highest Success Rate
    1. Best Time to Climb the Northern Circuit
  6. What Makes the Northern Circuit Unique?
  7. Is the Northern Circuit Right for You?
  8. Climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit with Kili Quests
    1. Related Articles
    2. Top Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes Guide
    3. Umbwe Route: Kilimanjaro’s Steep Challenge
    4. Northern Circuit: Longest Kilimanjaro Route
  9. What Is Altitude Sickness?
  10. Why Does Altitude Sickness Happen on Kilimanjaro?
  11. Common Symptoms to Watch For
  12. Who Gets Altitude Sickness?
  13. How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro
  14. What to Do If You Feel Symptoms
  15. Trained Guides and Safety on the Mountain
  16. Best Kilimanjaro Routes for Acclimatization
  17. Other Acclimatization Tips Before Your Climb
    1. Stay Safe, Summit Smart
    2. Related Articles
    3. Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide
    4. Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Tips Guide
    5. Climb Kilimanjaro with Experts
  18. Essential Medication to Bring for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  19. General Health Tips for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  20. Health Tips During Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  21. When to Seek Medical Attention
    1. Stay Healthy and Safe on Your Kilimanjaro Trek
    2. Related Articles
    3. Kilimanjaro Trek Health & Medication Tips
    4. Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Tips Guide
    5. Best Medical Insurance for Treks

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.

Related Articles

Kilimanjaro Trek Health & Medication Tips

Posted on by kili_2k5fyu

Table of Contents

  1. Why Choose the Northern Circuit Route?
  2. Northern Circuit Route Overview
  3. Northern Circuit Days and Elevation Profile
  4. 9-Day Northern Circuit Itinerary
  5. Why the Northern Circuit Has the Highest Success Rate
    1. Best Time to Climb the Northern Circuit
  6. What Makes the Northern Circuit Unique?
  7. Is the Northern Circuit Right for You?
  8. Climb Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit with Kili Quests
    1. Related Articles
    2. Top Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes Guide
    3. Umbwe Route: Kilimanjaro’s Steep Challenge
    4. Northern Circuit: Longest Kilimanjaro Route
  9. What Is Altitude Sickness?
  10. Why Does Altitude Sickness Happen on Kilimanjaro?
  11. Common Symptoms to Watch For
  12. Who Gets Altitude Sickness?
  13. How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro
  14. What to Do If You Feel Symptoms
  15. Trained Guides and Safety on the Mountain
  16. Best Kilimanjaro Routes for Acclimatization
  17. Other Acclimatization Tips Before Your Climb
    1. Stay Safe, Summit Smart
    2. Related Articles
    3. Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide
    4. Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Tips Guide
    5. Climb Kilimanjaro with Experts
  18. Essential Medication to Bring for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  19. General Health Tips for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  20. Health Tips During Your Kilimanjaro Trek
  21. When to Seek Medical Attention
    1. Stay Healthy and Safe on Your Kilimanjaro Trek
    2. Related Articles
    3. Kilimanjaro Trek Health & Medication Tips
    4. Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Tips Guide
    5. Best Medical Insurance for Treks

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

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a life-changing adventure, but to ensure you have the best experience possible, taking care of your health is crucial. While the trek may seem like a physical challenge, staying healthy and prepared with the right medications and health precautions can make all the difference in your ability to reach the summit safely.
In this article, we’ll share essential medication and health tips for your Kilimanjaro trek, so you can focus on the journey ahead while being prepared for any potential challenges. Whether you’re a first-time climber or an experienced adventurer, these tips will help you stay safe, healthy, and confident on the mountain.Learn how to recognize and treat symptoms early
Painkiller carried for use during the climb

Essential Medication to Bring for Your Kilimanjaro Trek

Altitude Sickness Medications
Altitude sickness is one of the most common challenges faced by trekkers on Kilimanjaro, and while the best way to prevent it is through proper acclimatization, having the right medication on hand can help you manage symptoms. Common medications include:
  • Diamox (Acetazolamide): This is a prescription medication commonly used to prevent and treat altitude sickness. It works by helping your body acclimate to higher altitudes more easily. Start taking it a day before you begin your trek and continue for the duration of your climb. Always consult your doctor before using Diamox.
  • Ibuprofen or Paracetamol: These over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate headaches, which are a common symptom of altitude sickness.
Anti-Nausea Medication
Nausea can sometimes occur during your Kilimanjaro trek, particularly in the higher altitudes. Carry anti-nausea medications such as:
  • Gravol or Dramamine: These over-the-counter medications can help reduce nausea and dizziness, which may arise due to altitude or other factors such as dehydration.

Personal Medications

If you take any regular medications, be sure to bring enough for the entire trek. These might include:
  • Asthma inhalers (if applicable)
  • Allergy medications (if you have allergies)
  • Diabetes medication (if you are diabetic)
  • Any other prescription medications that you take regularly
It’s a good idea to carry a written note from your doctor explaining your medical condition and the medications you take, in case of an emergency.

General Health Tips for Your Kilimanjaro Trek

Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is one of the most important health tips for your trek. The higher you go, the drier the air becomes, and you can easily become dehydrated without realizing it. To stay hydrated:
  • Drink at least 3-4 liters of water a day.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle and take regular sips throughout the day.
  • Bring water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure the water is safe to drink.

Dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness, so make hydration a priority throughout your trek.

Protect Your Skin
Kilimanjaro’s high altitudes and intense sun exposure can be harsh on your skin. Protect yourself by:
  • Wear sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30-50), and apply it regularly, especially on your face, ears, and neck.
  • Wearing a hat to shield your face and neck from the sun.
  • Using lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from drying out.
  • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
 Pack a First Aid Kit
While your guides and porters are trained in basic first aid, it’s always a good idea to have a personal first aid kit. Essentials to include in your kit are:
  • Bandages and gauze
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Blister pads (Kilimanjaro trekkers often get blisters from long days of walking)
  • Tweezers (for splinters or thorns)
  • Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)
  • Anti-diarrheal medications

Having these items on hand ensures that you’re prepared for minor injuries or discomforts on the trek.Use these strategies to reduce sickness and stay strong throughout your trek.

Essential first aid supplies for mountain safety.

Health Tips During Your Kilimanjaro Trek

 Know the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a serious concern on Kilimanjaro, especially as you gain elevation. Be aware of the symptoms and take action immediately if you experience any of them. Symptoms include:
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shortness of breath
If you experience mild symptoms, inform your guide immediately. If symptoms worsen, your guide may recommend descending to a lower altitude to prevent further complications.
 
Rest and Take It Easy

Your body needs time to adjust to the high altitude. It’s essential to pace yourself and listen to your body throughout the trek. Avoid pushing yourself too hard, especially during the first few days.

  • Take breaks when needed.
  • Eat small meals regularly to keep your energy up.
  • Allow time for acclimatization, and remember that the climb is not a race.
Sleep Well
Getting enough sleep each night is important for your recovery and your body’s acclimatization process. While it can be hard to sleep at higher altitudes, make sure to prioritize rest. Follow these tips to improve your sleep quality:
  • Use earplugs if noise is a problem at the camps.
  • Bring a sleep mask to block out light.
  • Avoid alcohol, as it can interfere with your body’s ability to acclimatize

When to Seek Medical Attention

While Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, it’s still important to be aware of when to seek medical attention. If you experience severe altitude sickness, such as extreme confusion, inability to walk, or unconsciousness, immediate medical attention is required.
Your guides are trained to spot the signs of altitude sickness and other medical conditions, but it’s crucial that you also communicate any health issues you experience.Don’t risk your health — find coverage that protects you at high altitude.

Stay Healthy and Safe on Your Kilimanjaro Trek

By following these health and medication tips, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro’s challenges safely and successfully. At Kili Quests, we prioritize your health and well-being, ensuring that you have expert support and guidance throughout your journey.
Remember to bring essential medications,and having emergence medical insurance , stay hydrated, protect your skin, and pace yourself during the trek. With the right preparation, you can focus on reaching the summit and enjoying this incredible adventure.
Ready to embark on your Kilimanjaro trek? Contact Kili Quests today to start planning your adventure and receive expert advice on staying healthy and safe throughout your climb. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

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