Northern Circuit · The Grand Traverse
The newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro — a full 360° traverse offering unmatched solitude and the best acclimatization of all.
- Duration
- 9–10 Days
- Distance
- 98 km / 61 mi
- Approach
- Full Traverse
- Difficulty
- Most Challenging
- From
- $3,200 pp
Route overview
The longest and newest route on the mountain, the Northern Circuit loops almost the entire way around Kilimanjaro, taking in the quiet, rarely-trodden northern slopes. With the most gradual ascent profile of any route, it delivers the highest acclimatization and summit-success rates — and days of genuine wilderness solitude. This is the connoisseur's Kilimanjaro.
- The highest success rate of any route
- A near-complete 360° circumnavigation
- The quiet northern slopes few ever see
- Unrushed, comfortable acclimatization
Pricing
From $3,200 per person. Group discounts apply — ask us for a tailored quote.
What's included
- All Kilimanjaro National Park entry, camping & rescue fees (KINAPA)
- Professional KINAPA-certified mountain guides
- Full support crew — cooks and porters
- All meals on the mountain, freshly prepared
- Quality four-season tents and sleeping mattresses
- Pulse-oximeter monitoring and emergency oxygen
- Airport transfers and trailhead transport
- International flights and Tanzania visa
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- Tips for guides, cooks and porters
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Drinks, snacks and personal items
Good to know
How fit do I need to be for the Northern Circuit?
You don't need to be an athlete, but Kilimanjaro is a serious high-altitude trek. A few months of regular cardio plus some long day-hikes with a pack will serve you well. On the mountain the golden rule is "pole pole" — slowly, slowly.
What about altitude and acclimatization?
We build in "climb high, sleep low" days, monitor oxygen saturation twice daily with pulse oximeters, and carry emergency oxygen. Longer itineraries dramatically improve how comfortably you summit.
When is the best time to climb?
The dry seasons — January to mid-March and June to October — offer the most reliable conditions. We run treks year-round and are happy to advise on the best window for your dates.