Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro — Lemosho Route
8 Days Lemosho Route Trek
overview
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking landscapes and excellent acclimatization. The trail crosses the beautiful Shira Plateau from west to east, with lower traffic during the first days, before joining the Machame Route near Lava Tower and continuing towards the summit.
Highlights
- One of Kilimanjaro's most scenic routes
- Excellent acclimatization profile
- Stunning views across the Shira Plateau
- Lower crowds during the early stages of the trek
- High summit success rate (over 95% on our 8-day trek)
- Diverse ecological zones
- Reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa
Day-by-day
Day 1
Londorosi Gate to Forest Camp
After breakfast, transfer from your lodge to Londorosi Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Following registration, continue to the Lemosho trailhead and begin your trek through the beautiful rainforest, filled with unique plants, colorful flowers, and abundant birdlife. You may also spot black-and-white colobus monkeys. Hiking time: 3–4 hours. Overnight: Forest Camp, 2,895 m (9,498 ft).
Day 2
Forest Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Leave the rainforest behind and enter the heath and moorland zone. As the vegetation changes, enjoy your first spectacular views of Kibo Peak. Today's trek provides excellent acclimatization as the trail ascends and descends across several ridges. Hiking time: 6–9 hours. Overnight: Shira 1 Camp, 3,505 m (11,500 ft).
Day 3
Shira 1 Camp to Moir Camp
Cross the scenic Shira Plateau while enjoying panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Continue gradually towards the western slopes of Kibo before arriving at Moir Camp. Optional acclimatization walks may be arranged in the afternoon. Hiking time: 5–6 hours. Overnight: Moir Camp, 4,160 m (13,650 ft).
Day 4
Moir Camp to Barranco Camp
Today's trek takes you through the alpine desert zone, passing impressive volcanic landscapes near Lava Tower before descending into the beautiful Barranco Valley. Barranco Camp offers breathtaking views of the mountain. Hiking time: 4–6 hours. Overnight: Barranco Camp, 3,976 m (13,044 ft).
Day 5
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, one of the most exciting sections of the trek. Continue across valleys and ridges before reaching Karanga Camp. Hiking time: 3–5 hours. Overnight: Karanga Camp, 3,995 m (13,106 ft).
Day 6
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Trek towards Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Upon arrival, your guides will provide a briefing and final preparations for summit night. After an early dinner, rest before beginning your ascent later in the evening. Hiking time: 3–5 hours. Overnight: Barafu Camp, 4,600 m (15,100 ft).
Day 7
Summit Day & Mweka Camp
Around midnight, begin your climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 m (19,341 ft). Reach the summit around sunrise and enjoy incredible views from the Roof of Africa before descending to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch. Continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain. Hiking time: 12–17 hours. Overnight: Mweka Camp, 3,185 m (10,448 ft).
Day 8
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, complete your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here you will receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your mountain crew before returning to your hotel. Hiking time: 3–5 hours.
Glimpses
What's included
- All transfers
- Accommodation before and after the climb
- All trekking and park fees
- All meals while on the mountain (3 meals a day)
- Guides, porters and cook salaries
- Quality mess tents with table and chairs
- English-speaking mountain guide
- Sleeping bags
- Mineral drinking water
Not included
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Medical insurance cover
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcohol
- Items of a personal nature