This 8-day Lemosho Route trek offers an incredible adventure for climbers aiming to summit Mount Kilimanjaro
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The Lemosho Route: The Lemosho route is often regarded as one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. With breathtaking vistas, rich wildlife, and an exceptional acclimatization schedule, this route remains a favorite for those looking for a unique and quieter approach to the summit. The path takes climbers through varied ecological zones, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and finally, to the icy summit of Africa’s highest peak, Uhuru Peak.
The journey begins with a four-hour drive from Moshi to the Londorossi Gate, marking the start of your adventure. This is where your trek will lead you through the beautiful Shira Plateau and provide a smooth, gradual ascent that maximizes acclimatization and enhances your chances of reaching the summit.
The Lemosho route offers flexibility, with 6, 7, and 8-day programs. However, it is highly recommended to opt for the longer 8-day trek to allow your body to adapt to the increasing altitude. The higher your starting point, the easier the adjustment will be.
Included/Exclude
- Transfers: Round-trip transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to accommodation in Arusha, and from your accommodation to Kilimanjaro National Park entrance.
- Entry Fees: All park fees (conservation, camping, rescue, crew, and vehicle fees).
- Accommodation: One night at a 3* hotel in Arusha (Aishi Machame Hotel) before and after the trek. Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (comfortable 4-season tents).
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel and all meals on the mountain. Special dietary options available at no extra cost.
- Hiking & Safety Equipment: Comfortable sleeping mats, group equipment (dining tent, crockery, cutlery), oxygen cylinders, GPS tracking, Diamox, and complete medical kits.
- Climbing Crew: Professional, certified guides with Wilderness First Responder certification. Dedicated porters, assistant guides, cooks, and camp staff.
- Taxes: 18% VAT, 1% TDL, and 0.3% service levy.
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Personal gear rentals
- Meals before and after the trek (at the hotel)
- Portable toilets (if required)
- Mountaineering insurance (required for the climb)
Tour Plan
The day begins with your guide and support crew meeting you at your hotel for a briefing. Afterward, you’ll embark on a 3-4 hour drive to Londorossi Gate (2,200m), where you’ll complete formalities such as obtaining your climbing permits. From here, the trek begins toward Mti Mkubwa Camp. During the first section of the climb, you’ll enter the rainforest, so it’s essential to bring rain gear. Upon arrival at the camp, the team will have everything set up for you, including tents and a hot lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy an acclimatization hike towards Shira 1 Camp, gaining 300 meters in elevation before returning to Mti Mkubwa Camp for a hearty dinner.
Acclimatization hike:
- Elevation gain: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780m) → Shira 1 Camp (3,095m)
- Hiking distance: 2 km
- Hiking time: 1 hour
Start the day with an early breakfast and continue your gradual ascent to Shira 1 Camp. This 5-6 hour trek will introduce you to the stunning landscapes of the Shira Plateau and provide your first views of Kibo Volcano. The steady climb gives you ample time to adjust to the altitude and begin the acclimatization process.
Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, you’ll have time to rest, explore the surroundings, and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your crew.
After a restful night, depart for Shira 2 Camp, which lies at 3,900 meters. This portion of the trek offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic Mount Meru, weather permitting. The hike takes around 5-6 hours, and upon arrival at Shira 2 Camp, you’ll have lunch and a chance to rest. Later, you’ll set out on an acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower, gaining another 300 meters in elevation before returning to Shira 2 Camp.
- Acclimatization hike:
- Elevation gain: Shira 2 Camp (3,900m) → Lava Tower (4,270m)
- Hiking distance: 2 km
- Hiking time: 1-2 hours
After breakfast, continue your journey to the Lava Tower (4,630m), a key landmark on the route. The trail involves some ascents and descents but is essential for further acclimatization. At Lava Tower, you'll take a break and enjoy lunch before descending to Barranco Camp, which sits at 3,960 meters. The famous Barranco Wall, an imposing rock formation, will be in view as you rest in camp. The next day, you'll tackle this wall during your trek.
- Acclimatization time at Lava Tower: 1-2 hours.
After breakfast, tackle the Barranco Wall, a relatively easy climb that only takes about an hour. Once at the top, the trail becomes more challenging as you head to Karanga Camp, located at 4,035 meters. The hike to Karanga Camp involves numerous ascents and descents, but your experienced guides will ensure the pace is optimal. Upon reaching Karanga Camp, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch and some rest. Afterward, complete an acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp (4,270m), gaining 200 meters in altitude before descending back to Karanga Camp.
- Acclimatization hike:
- Elevation gain: Karanga Camp (4,035m) → Barafu Camp (4,270m)
- Hiking distance: 2.5 km
- Hiking time: 1-2 hours
The morning begins with a hike to Barafu Camp (4,640m), the final camp before your summit attempt. This section of the trek is steady but challenging as you approach the final altitude for your ascent. Once at Barafu Camp, your crew will prepare for the night summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m). You will then complete an acclimatization hike toward Kosovo Summit Camp (4,800m) before returning to Barafu Camp to rest for your evening climb.
- Acclimatization hike:
- Elevation gain: Barafu Camp (4,640m) → Kosovo Camp (4,800m)
- Hiking distance: 2 km
- Hiking time: 1-2 hours
At around midnight, you’ll depart Barafu Camp to begin your final push to Uhuru Peak. This is the most challenging part of the journey, with steep sections and high altitudes. You’ll be accompanied by personal guides who will monitor your physical and mental condition throughout the ascent. After reaching Uhuru Peak, take a moment to celebrate your achievement, and if you wish, descend to the nearby glaciers.
The descent to Barafu Camp is quick, but remember that most accidents occur during the descent, so stay vigilant. After a brief rest, continue your descent to Millennium Camp (3,820m), where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved meal and rest.
The final day involves descending through lush tropical rainforest to Mweka Gate, the exit point of the Kilimanjaro National Park. The descent is easier compared to the climb, but still requires focus and attention. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be congratulated by your team, receive your summit certificates, and enjoy a transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.
Relax at your hotel, where you can reflect on your incredible journey, before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight. If you need a late check-out for an evening flight, an extension of your hotel stay is available for an additional fee.
