Lemosho Route
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Destination to Visit
Londorossi Gate, Mti Mkubwa Camp, Shira 1 Camp, Shira 2 Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak, Mweka Camp and Mweka Gate
Start / Finish in
Start in Moshi & End in Moshi
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Overview
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and successful ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the western side of the mountain, the route gradually ascends through remote rainforest, heather moorlands, and high alpine desert before reaching the summit. Because of its longer itinerary and gentle altitude gain, the Lemosho Route offers excellent acclimatization and one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro.
Another unique aspect of the route is its quiet beginning through the forested wilderness around the Lemosho Glades, an area occasionally visited by wildlife such as buffalo and elephants. For safety, climbers are often accompanied by an armed ranger on the first day.
Over eight days, trekkers experience a wide variety of landscapes while circling around the southern slopes of the mountain. The route eventually joins the southern circuit of Kilimanjaro and approaches the summit before descending through the Mweka trail. The extra time spent on the mountain allows for better altitude adjustment, improved comfort, and a greater chance of reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Day By Day
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Your journey begins with a morning briefing at your hotel before driving to the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park at Londorossi Gate. After registration procedures, a short drive along a forest track leads to the Lemosho trailhead.
The hike begins in the lush rainforest where towering trees, thick vegetation, and the sounds of birds create an immersive wilderness experience. This area is home to various wildlife, including monkeys and forest antelope, and an armed ranger may accompany the group for safety.
The trek gradually climbs through the forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp, meaning “Big Tree Camp,” where you will spend your first night on the mountain.
- Elevation: 1830m / 6000ft to 2650m / 8700ft
- Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
- Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
After breakfast, the trail continues upward as the forest slowly opens into the heather and moorland zone. The climb becomes steeper while offering occasional views of the valleys below.
You will cross small streams and pass through landscapes filled with giant heather and volcanic rock formations. Eventually, the trail reaches the impressive Shira Plateau, one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world.
The day ends at Shira 1 Camp, situated on the western edge of the plateau with expansive views of the surrounding terrain.
- Elevation: 2650m / 8700ft to 3500m / 11,500ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Today’s walk is relatively gentle and focuses on acclimatization. The trail crosses the wide Shira Plateau with impressive views of Kibo Peak rising in the distance.
The terrain is dominated by open moorland, volcanic rock, and hardy alpine plants. Because the day’s distance is moderate, you will have time to explore the plateau and take optional short acclimatization hikes.
You will arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon, where you can relax and prepare for higher elevations ahead.
- Elevation: 3500m / 11,500ft to 3850m / 12,600ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
This is an important acclimatization day as you hike to a higher altitude before descending to sleep. The trail climbs eastward toward Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic rock formation rising from the alpine landscape.
After a break near the tower, the route descends through the scenic Barranco Valley, known for its giant senecio plants and striking rock formations. The descent helps the body adjust to altitude and improves your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
You will spend the night at Barranco Camp, surrounded by towering cliffs and spectacular views of the mountain.
- Elevation: 3850m / 12,600ft to 4000m / 13,000ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Semi-desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, the trek begins with the exciting climb up the famous Barranco Wall. Although steep in places, the climb is manageable and offers fantastic views over the Barranco Valley.
Once at the top, the trail continues across ridges and valleys toward the Karanga Valley. This section provides beautiful scenery and a gradual ascent toward your next camp.
You will arrive at Karanga Camp in the afternoon, where you can rest and prepare for the final stages of the climb.
- Elevation: 4000m / 13,000ft to 4050m / 13,250ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Today is a shorter trekking day that leads to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The route gradually climbs through rocky alpine desert terrain with increasingly dramatic views of the summit.
Upon arrival at camp, the team will prepare an early dinner and brief you on the upcoming summit push. After resting for a few hours, you will prepare your equipment and warm clothing for the overnight ascent.
- Elevation: 4050m / 13,250ft to 4700m / 15,350ft
- Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Around midnight, you begin the summit climb under the stars. The route ascends steeply through loose volcanic scree toward Stella Point, located on the crater rim.
This section is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding. From Stella Point, the final stretch to Uhuru Peak follows the crater rim, where glaciers and snowfields surround the summit.
Standing on the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is a remarkable achievement and offers breathtaking views across the African plains.
After celebrating at the summit, you descend back to Barafu Camp for lunch before continuing down to Mweka Camp, where you will spend your final night on the mountain.
- Elevation: 4700m / 15,350ft to 5895m / 19,340ft
Descent to 3090m / 10,150ft - Distance: 5 km up / 13 km down
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours up / 5–6 hours down
- Habitat: Arctic Summit Zone / Forest Edge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, the final descent continues through the dense rainforest toward Mweka Gate. The trail becomes greener as you lose altitude and re-enter the lush forest environment.
Upon arrival at the gate, climbers receive their official Kilimanjaro summit certificates before meeting the transfer vehicle that will take you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha to celebrate your successful climb.
- Elevation: 3090m / 10,150ft to 1680m / 5500ft
- Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals: Breakfast
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RECOMMENDED FOR
Adventure seekers who dream of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.
Nature lovers who want to experience diverse landscapes, from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and glaciers.
Travelers seeking a personal challenge and a rewarding sense of achievement at the summit.
PRICE INCLUSION
- All Game Drives;
- Accommodation At Lodges/Tented Camps
- English Speaking Driver/Guide;
- All Food; Drinking Water;
- 18% VAT Tax;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- Accommodation In Moshi/Arusha;
- Airport Transfers;
PRICE EXCLUSIONS
- International flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities (guide, driver, lodge staff)
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks (unless stated)
- Optional activities