Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route (8 days)

Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route (8 days)

8 Days

Accomodation

Camping (Tents)
Best Season

June to October, January to March
Guide

Guides
Maximum Altitude

5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
Meals

Breakfast , Lunch & Dinner
Minimum Age

10

Trip Overview

The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and offers one of the most comprehensive trekking experiences on the mountain. Starting from the western side, the route winds through lush rainforests, stunning moorlands, and alpine deserts before culminating in the dramatic glacial landscapes near the summit. This route is less crowded, providing a serene and immersive experience in nature.

A major highlight of the Lemosho Route is its excellent opportunities for acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful summit. The gradual ascent and longer trekking days allow trekkers to adapt better to the high altitude, making it a preferred choice for climbers seeking a safer and more enjoyable adventure to the roof of Africa. This route blends natural beauty, adventure, and a well-planned trek for an unforgettable journey.

Trip Highlights

Scenic Diversity Trek through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the arctic summit zone, experiencing Kilimanjaro’s stunning landscapes.
High Success Rate The 8-day itinerary allows for excellent acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching the summit (Uhuru Peak at 19,341 ft / 5,895m).
Less Crowded Trail The Lemosho Route is one of the least crowded paths, offering a more peaceful and immersive experience.
Wildlife Encounters Spot colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and exotic birds in the rainforest zone
Shira Plateau Hike across the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth, with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.
Lava Tower Acclimatization Pass the iconic Lava Tower (15,190 ft / 4,630m) for acclimatization, a key step in preparing for the summit.
Barranco Wall Tackle the Barranco Wall, a thrilling but manageable climb with stunning views.
Summit Night Experience the unforgettable midnight ascent under the stars, reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise for panoramic views of Africa.
Comfortable Camping Stay in well-equipped mountain camps with meals prepared by your support team.

Trip Itinerarie

Day 1 :

Arrival in Moshi

Activities:
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfer to your hotel in Moshi.
- Briefing with your guide and gear check.
- Relax and prepare for the climb.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 :

Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 1,860m (6,102 ft) to 2,650m (8,694 ft)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 6km (3.7 miles)
Activities:
- Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration.
- Continue to the Lemosho trailhead.
- Begin the hike through lush rainforest.
- Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp) for overnight stay.
Flora and Fauna: The rainforest is home to colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 :

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,650m (8,694 ft) to 3,610m (11,844 ft)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 8km (5 miles)
Activities:
- Continue the ascent through the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zones.
- Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for overnight stay.
Flora and Fauna: The moorland zone features giant lobelias, groundsels, and heathers.
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,610m (11,844 ft) to 3,850m (12,631 ft)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 7km (4.3 miles)
Activities:
- Trek across the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth.
- Arrive at Shira 2 Camp for overnight stay.
Flora and Fauna: The plateau offers stunning views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscape.
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,850m (12,631 ft) to 3,960m (12,992 ft)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
Activities:
- Continue the ascent through the alpine desert zone.
- Pass the Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190 ft) for acclimatization.
- Descend to Barranco Camp for overnight stay.
Flora and Fauna: The alpine desert is characterized by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,960m (12,992 ft) to 4,035m (13,238 ft)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
Activities:
- Tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb.
- Continue through the alpine desert to Karanga Camp.
- Arrive at Karanga Camp for overnight stay.
Flora and Fauna: The landscape is barren, with stunning views of the southern glaciers.
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 :

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,035m (13,238 ft) to 4,640m (15,223 ft)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 6km (3.7 miles)
Activities:
- Continue the ascent through the alpine desert.
- Arrive at Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt.
- Rest and prepare for the midnight ascent.
Flora and Fauna: The alpine desert is barren, with no vegetation or wildlife.
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 :

Summit Day (Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp)

Elevation: 4,640m (15,223 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) then descend to 3,100m (10,171 ft)
Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
Distance: 17km (10.6 miles)
Activities:
- Begin the summit attempt around midnight.
- Reach Stella Point (5,756m / 18,885 ft) at sunrise.
- Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
- Descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest.
- Continue descending to Mweka Camp for overnight stay.
Flora and Fauna: The summit zone is a frozen, lifeless landscape with no flora or fauna.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 :

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Elevation: 3,100m (10,171 ft) to 1,860m (6,102 ft)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
Activities:
- Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate.
- Receive your summit certificates.
- Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.
- Celebrate your achievement!
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 :

Departure

Activities:
- Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast

Trip Includes

Park Fees:
Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees.
Camping or hut fees (depending on the route).
Rescue fees (mandatory for all climbers).
Accommodation:
Tents for camping (if applicable).
Sleeping mats.
Meals:
Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Hot drinks (tea, coffee, etc.).
Snacks during the trek.
Guides and Porters:
Professional, certified mountain guides.
Porters to carry equipment and supplies.
Salaries for the crew (guides, porters, and cooks).
Transportation:
Transfers to and from the trailhead (usually from Moshi or Arusha).
Equipment:
Group equipment (e.g., dining tent, cooking equipment, etc.).
Safety:
Oxygen cylinders for emergency use.
First aid kits and basic medical supplies.
Pre-Trek Briefing:
A detailed briefing before the climb to discuss the itinerary, safety, and equipment.

Trip excludes

International Flights:
Airfare to and from Tanzania.
Visa Fees:
Tanzanian tourist visa (if required).
Personal Gear:
Clothing, hiking boots, sleeping bags, and personal items.
Tips for Guides and Porters:
Tipping is customary and expected but not included in the package.
Travel Insurance:
Medical and evacuation insurance (mandatory for most operators).
Additional Meals and Drinks:
Meals not included in the itinerary (e.g., in towns before or after the climb).
Alcoholic beverages or specialty drinks.
Optional Extras:
Additional nights of accommodation before or after the climb.
Optional activities (e.g., safari tours, cultural visits).
Personal Expenses:
Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.
Emergency Evacuation:
Costs for emergency evacuation or medical treatment beyond basic first aid.

Official Trek Map

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Expand All

What is the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for its diverse landscapes, high success rates, and excellent acclimatization opportunities

How long is the Lemosho Route 8-day trek?

The trek covers approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) round trip, with 6 days of ascent and 2 days of descent.

Why choose the Lemosho Route?

Scenic Beauty: Offers diverse landscapes, from rainforests to alpine deserts.
High Success Rate: The 8-day itinerary allows for better acclimatization.
Less Crowded: Provides a more peaceful and immersive experience compared to other routes

What is the difficulty level of the Lemosho Route?

The route is rated moderate to challenging due to its length and altitude. Proper physical fitness and mental preparation are essential.

What is the success rate for the 8-day Lemosho Route?

The success rate is around 90%, thanks to the extended itinerary and proper acclimatization.

What is the accommodation like on the Lemosho Route?

Accommodation is in mountain tents at designated campsites. The camps are equipped with basic amenities, and meals are prepared by the support team.

Are there toilets on the Lemosho Route?

Yes, we provide portable toilets at the campsites.

Can I charge my devices on the trek?

There is no electricity on the mountain. Bring portable chargers or solar-powered devices.