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Lemosho Route
8 Days Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route
- Wildlife safari
- 8 Days
- Trekking
From - $ 2,200
Overview
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and least crowded trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and high summit success rate, this route offers a longer acclimatization period, improving your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft). Starting on the western side of the mountain, the trail crosses the Shira Plateau, offering stunning views before merging with the Machame Route.
Route Specifications
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Distance: 70 km (43.5 miles)
- Elevation Gain:From 2,360m (7,742ft) at Lemosho Gate to 5,895m (19,341ft) at Uhuru Peak
- Difficulty Level:Moderate to challenging
- Accommodation: Camping
- Starting Point: Lemosho Gate (2,360m / 7,742ft)
- Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380ft)
Route Highlights
- Scenic Diversity – Hike through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the glacier-capped summit.
- Shira Plateau – Expansive landscapes with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.
- Barranco Wall – A thrilling but manageable climb, offering a sense of adventure.
- Karanga Valley – A scenic resting point before the summit push.
- Stunning Sunrises & Sunsets – Unforgettable views from Shira Plateau and Barranco Camp.
- Stella Point & Uhuru Peak – The final rewarding ascent to the highest point in Africa!
Acclimatization Strategy
Proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful summit. The Lemosho Route follows the “ climb high, sleep low ” principle, allowing gradual adaptation to altitude.
Key Acclimatization Points:
- Shira Plateau (3,505m / 11,500ft) – Early exposure to high altitude.
- Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190ft) – Acclimatization hike before descending to Barranco Camp (3,960m / 13,015ft).
- Gradual Ascent Profile – Increases success rates compared to shorter routes.
- Optional Extra Acclimatization Day – Available at Karanga Camp or Shira Camp upon request.
Destinations
8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary
01
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfer to a hotel in Moshi for dinner & overnight stay.
- Gear check & briefing by the mountain guide.
- Overnight in Moshi (915m / 3,000ft).
02
Day 2: Lemosho Gate (2,360m) – Big Tree Camp (2,895m)
- Elevation Gain: +535m
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Experience: Walk through dense forest with chances to spot wildlife.
03
Day 3: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,505m)
- Elevation Gain: +610m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Experience: Stunning views of Kibo Peak from Shira Plateau.
04
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
- Elevation Gain: +345m
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Experience: Gentle hike with panoramic views.
05
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
- Elevation Gain: +780m
- Descent: -670m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Experience:
- Acclimatization day :Acclimatization day; hike to Lava Tower before descending.
06
Day 6: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
- Elevation Gain: +75m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Experience: Climb the thrilling Barranco Wall!
07
Day 7: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
- Elevation Gain: +605m
- Distance: 4 km
- Hiking Time:3-4 hours
- Habitat: Arctic Zone
Experience: Rest before the midnight summit push.
08
Day 8: Summit Day! Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
- Elevation Gain: +1,255m
- Descent: -2,795m
- Distance: 17 km
- Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Experience: Midnight trek to Uhuru Peak, witness sunrise, then descend.
09
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate.
- Transfer to Moshi for hot lunch, shower, and certificate ceremony.
Destinations
Preparation & Logistics
Preparations & Logistics
- Cardio Training: Running, cycling, and swimming for endurance
- Strength Training: Squats, lunges, and step-ups to strengthen leg muscles.
- Hiking Practice: Train with a loaded backpack on varied terrains.
Essential Gear
- Clothing:
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms
- Insulation: Fleece or down jacket
- Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket & pants
- Footwear:Well-broken-in hiking boots with ankle support.
- Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, UV-protected sunglasses, and a headlamp.
- Equipment:
- Sleeping Bag:Rated for -10°C (14°F) or lower.
- Daypack: 25-35L daypack for essentials
- Trekking Poles: To reduce strain on knees.
- Hydration System: 3L+ water capacity (bottles or hydration bladder)
- Personal Items: Sunscreen, lip balm, personal medications, first aid kit
Permits & Fees
- Climbing Permits: Required and arranged by your tour operator (includes park fees, rescue fees, and camping fees).
Guides & Porters
- Guides: Certified and experienced, ensuring safety and navigation.
- Porters: Carry luggage, set up camp, and prepare meals. Fair wages & tipping recommended.
Destinations
Best Time to Climb
Dry Seasons (Best Time to Climb)
- January – Mid-March:Warm weather, clear skies.
- June – October:Cooler but stable conditions.
Rainy Seasons (Challenging Conditions)
- April – May:Heavy rains make trails muddy (not recommended).
- November:Less intense rain but still wet.
Includes/Excludes
What’s Included
- Private transport (airport/hotel to Kilimanjaro & back)
- Park fees & climbing permits
- Camping equipment (tent, mattress, sleeping bag)
- Professional guide & porters
- Meals & private cook (special diets available)
- Rescue fees
- Certificate of achievement
What’s Excluded
- International flights
- Additional accommodations before/after the climb
- Personal items (gear, snacks, etc.)
- Tips for guides & porters
- Travel insurance
Customization Options
- Private Climbs - Solo or private group treks.
- Photography Packages - Capture professional summit moments.
- Safari & Zanzibar Add-On - Extend your trip with a wildlife safari or beach relaxation.
- Helicopter Evacuation Option - Emergency air rescue service available.
- Extra Acclimatization Day - Add an extra rest day at Shira Camp or Karanga Camp.
Why Book With Us?
- Expert Local Guides – Certified & experienced team.
- High Summit Success Rate – 95%+ success rate.
- Safety First – Daily health checks & emergency plans.
- Responsible Tourism - Ethical porter treatment & eco-friendly policies.
Destinations
Destinations
