Overview
Why Choose the Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro?
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and unspoiled routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting on the west side of Kilimanjaro, this route offers breathtaking landscapes and less crowded trails. Originally introduced as an alternative to the Shira Route, the Lemosho Route starts at a lower altitude of 2100m, making it better suited for climbers new to high altitudes. Unlike Shira, which begins at 3600m, Lemosho’s lower starting point aids acclimatization, enhancing climbers’ success rates.
On Day 1, Lemosho takes you through the lush Kilimanjaro rainforest, with chances to spot wildlife like buffalo and elephants. A ranger accompanies you for safety during this portion. After four days, the Lemosho Route joins the popular Machame Route as it approaches the summit from the south. This route can be completed in 7 or 8 days, though the 8-day trek is ideal for better acclimatization and the best chance to reach Uhuru Peak.
- Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights Trekking
- Road
Medium
- Minimum Age
12 Years Old
Full itinerary
Day-by-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp)
Start your Kilimanjaro adventure with breakfast at the lodge, followed by a drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. From the starting point, hike through the beautiful Kilimanjaro rainforest to reach Mti Mkubwa Camp.
- Habitat: Rainforest
- Elevation: Start at 2100m, reach 2420m
- Hiking Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Tropical rainforest, sightings of buffalo and elephant
- Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp)
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira One Camp
Start the day with breakfast and continue your trek to Shira One Camp, passing through a variety of landscapes. Mild altitude symptoms are common, and Diamox may be used depending on your doctor’s advice.
- Habitat: Heath
- Elevation: 2420m to 3550m
- Hiking Distance: 7.7 km
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Low shrubs, heath
- Accommodation: Shira One Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira One Camp – Shira Two Camp
Today’s trek across the Shira Plateau provides stunning views of the Western Breach. As you reach Shira Two Camp, the scenery transitions into open moorland.
- Habitat: Moorland
- Elevation: 3550m to 3875m
- Hiking Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Heather, open moorland
- Accommodation: Shira Two Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Shira Two Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
Today’s route is a key acclimatization day, ascending to the Lava Tower at 4630m for lunch, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp. This descent back to a lower elevation helps your body adjust to the altitude.
- Habitat: Alpine desert
- Elevation: 3875m to 4630m, descent to 3950m
- Hiking Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Sparse vegetation, rocky landscape
- Accommodation: Barranco Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
After breakfast, a scramble up the Barranco Wall awaits, followed by a scenic trek through the Southern Circuit to reach Karanga Camp.
- Habitat: Alpine desert
- Elevation: 3950m to 3995m
- Hiking Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Rocky terrain
- Accommodation: Karanga Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
Today’s trek brings you to Barafu Camp, the final base before your summit push. Arrive early, repack essentials, and prepare for a midnight departure.
- Habitat: Alpine desert
- Elevation: 3995m to 4680m
- Hiking Distance: 4 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Barren rock, high-altitude desert
- Accommodation: Barafu Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Summit Attempt – Mweka Camp
Around midnight, begin the summit attempt to reach Uhuru Peak. After reaching Stella Point, a short final push brings you to the summit. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp for rest.
- Habitat: Arctic summit zone, then descending to forest
- Elevation: 4680m to Uhuru Peak (5895m), then down to 3100m
- Hiking Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent
- Hiking Time: 10-12 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Glaciered summit, alpine desert, forest below
- Accommodation: Mweka Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Return to Arusha
The final descent to Mweka Gate brings your trek to a close, where you receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate. Enjoy a hot lunch and celebration back in Arusha.
- Habitat: Rainforest
- Elevation: 3100m to 1640m
- Hiking Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Flora/Fauna: Rainforest
- Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Looking for expert help planning your African safari? Meet Mr. Jackson Kitesho, our experienced guide! He’s ready to assist you step by step. Reach out via WhatsApp (text or call) or email for personalized support!
Includes
- Airport transfers and two-night hotel stay in Moshi
- Mountain transfers and sleeping bag
- Professional Kilimanjaro guides, porters, and cooks (salaries and park fees covered)
- Four-season, waterproof tents (twin-sharing) with sleeping mattresses
- Emergency oxygen and nutritious meals on the mountain
- Purified drinking water and mess tents with tables and chairs
- Kilimanjaro park fees, including conservation, camping, rescue, and 18% VAT
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Excludes
- Tanzania Visa Requirements
- International and Domestic Flights
- Personal Trekking Gear (e.g., hiking boots, clothing, available for rent)
- Tips and Gratuities for Kilimanjaro Crew
- Travel Insurance for Kilimanjaro Trek
- Personal Expenses (laundry, phone calls, beverages, etc.)
- Meals Not Included in Itinerary
- Alcoholic Drinks, Beer, and Bottled Beverages