8 Days / 7 Nights
Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route
TOUR DESTINATION
Londorossi Gate , Mti Mkubwa Camp, Shira 1 Camp, Shira 2 Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, Mweka Camp
Safari Overview
The 8-day Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and least congested routes to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit, with a steady rise and stunning views. This path approaches the peak from the west, travelling through lush rainforests, vast moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the frigid summit zone. With its longer duration and abundant acclimatisation possibilities, Lemosho has a better success rate for climbers attempting to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Trekkers will experience various species, steep cliffs, and panoramic vistas of the Shira Plateau, making this a memorable adventure.
This path is suitable for individuals looking for a hard but rewarding Kilimanjaro trip. It strikes the perfect balance between adventure and adaptation, resulting in a smoother ascent to the summit. Hikers pass through breathtaking monuments such as the Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and Karanga Valley, encountering both the raw beauty and challenging terrain of Africa’s highest peak. The Lemosho Route’s moderate ascent and extra day for acclimatisation boost the likelihood of summit success while also letting trekkers to fully appreciate the unique ecosystems and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first-time trekker, this expedition guarantees incredible accomplishments and unforgettable memories.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,820m
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
- Habitat: Rainforest
Your trek begins with a breathtaking drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate (2,100m), which is located on Mount Kilimanjaro’s western side. Following registration and briefing, you will travel by vehicle to the Lemosho Trailhead, where the trip officially begins. The first section of the trip takes you into the deep Montane Rainforest, which is home to unique fauna like Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and various bird species. The terrain is reasonably flat, allowing for a gradual warm-up before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp, 2,820m), where you will spend your first night in the mountains.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,820m to 3,505m
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Habitat: Moorland
The hike progressively ascends from the rainforest into the heath and moorland zone, where flora becomes sparse and the environment changes to open meadows. As you approach Shira Ridge, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Shira Plateau, an ancient lava flow that sculpted Kilimanjaro’s western flank. After a steady ascent, you will descend somewhat to Shira 1 Camp (3,505 meters), where you will spend the night. This is the first high-altitude campground, with stunning views of Kibo Peak, Kilimanjaro’s highest point.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,505m to 3,850m
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
- Habitat: Moorland
On this short but beautiful day, you are heading across the huge Shira Plateau, one of Africa’s highest plateaus. The walk is more leisurely, with time for acclimatisation and exploring the scenery. The trail gradually ascends through rocky terrain, enormous heather, and volcanic formations, offering breathtaking views of the mountain’s western face. By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m), which provides panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glacier-covered peak. This is an important acclimatisation day as you prepare for the increased altitude in the coming days.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
- Elevation: 3,850m to 4,600m (Lava Tower), then down to 3,976m
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Habitat: Alpine desert
This is a difficult yet necessary acclimatisation day. The hike leads to Lava Tower (4,600m), a spectacular volcanic creation where you will stop for lunch and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. The landscape becomes more rough, with fewer plants and a greater prevalence of rocks and volcanic rock. After reaching the summit at Lava Tower, you will descend into the Barranco Valley, a lush and scenic environment dotted with huge Senecio plants. You will spend the night at Barranco Camp (3,976 meters), which is located beneath the high Barranco Wall. The descent aids acclimatisation and prepares you for the following stage of the climb.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,976m to 3,995m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
- Habitat: Alpine desert
The day starts with a thrilling trek up the Barranco Wall, a high but non-technical stretch that involves some scrambling. As you rise, you will be rewarded with stunning vistas of Mount Meru and the Karanga Valley. Once at the peak, the trail gently drops into Karanga Valley, a vital water source for the camps ahead. After crossing the valley, a final short rise leads to Karanga Camp (3,995m). This is another critical acclimatisation break, letting your body to adjust to the altitude before the final push for the summit.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Today’s trek takes you to Barafu Camp (4,673m), the last halt before the summit attempt. The area is rough and arid, with loose volcanic scree and fierce winds. The name “Barafu” means “ice” in Swahili, reflecting the high-altitude camp’s frigid and severe surroundings. Upon arrival, you will enjoy an early meal and recover before the midnight summit push. At this height, the air is thin and the temperatures drop dramatically, so proper layering and hydration are necessary.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,068m
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent)
- Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
- Habitat: Arctic to rainforest
At midnight, you will begin the most difficult phase of the trek: the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. The trail ascends steep switchbacks, passing Stella Point (5,756m), where the first rays of sunlight illuminate the glaciers and volcanic craters below. From here, it’s another 45-minute trek to Africa’s highest point, Uhuru Peak (5,895m)! Celebrate your accomplishment with photos and take in the breathtaking sights before beginning the lengthy descent.
You will return to Barafu Camp for a little rest before heading down to Mweka Camp (3,068m). The descent is steep and can be difficult on the knees, but the lower altitude provides much-needed oxygen and comfort. You will spend one final night on the mountain before returning to civilisation.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,068m to 1,640m
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Habitat: Rainforest
The final stretch takes you through the lush rainforest, where you might see Colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and various vegetation. The path is well-kept, with a gentler descent than in prior days. When you reach Mweka Gate (1,640m), you will be given a summit certificate to commemorate your remarkable feat. You will then be transferred back to Moshi or Arusha, where you may enjoy a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and a well-deserved celebration.
This marks the end of an epic 7-day Kilimanjaro experience via the Lemosho Route!
BOOK THIS TOUR
Price quoted includes:
- All transport, 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Hotel and lodge accommodation
- Bottled drinking water & soft drinks
- Services of various local guides
- All National Park entrance and camp site fees
- All food – breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals
- Crater floor game drive
Prices quoted exclude:
- International flights
- Travel and personal accident insurance
- Visa, passport, vaccinations, medicines
- Tips
- Expenditure on personal bar bills (including all additional drinks), souvenirs, personal items
- Optional excursions/activities not detailed in itinerary
- Any additional services requested
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