8 Days Lemosho Route
Journey Overview
Widely regarded as one of the finest routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route combines breathtaking scenery with one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain. Beginning on Kilimanjaro’s remote western slopes, the trail crosses lush rainforest, the expansive Shira Plateau, dramatic alpine deserts, and glacier-carved landscapes before reaching Uhuru Peak.
Its eight-day itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization, giving climbers ample time to adjust to the altitude while enjoying a quieter and more scenic ascent. Perfect for first-time trekkers and experienced hikers alike, the Lemosho Route offers an unforgettable journey to Africa’s highest summit.
Your Journey
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing by vehicle to the trailhead. The trek starts through the lush montane rainforest where towering trees, colorful birds, and playful colobus monkeys create a magical introduction to Kilimanjaro.
Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp) in the afternoon where your mountain crew prepares dinner and your first night beneath Africa’s highest mountain.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Leaving the rainforest behind, climb into the heath and moorland zone where giant heathers and volcanic rock formations dominate the landscape. As the vegetation opens, breathtaking views of Kibo Peak begin to emerge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Today’s shorter trek crosses the magnificent Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. The gentle pace provides valuable acclimatization while offering spectacular panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro’s towering summit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Ascend gradually toward Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 meters before descending to Barranco Camp. This important “climb high, sleep low” strategy greatly improves acclimatization and increases your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Start the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, one of Kilimanjaro’s most exciting sections. Continue across ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga Camp where you’ll enjoy a relaxing afternoon and prepare for higher elevations.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Trek across the alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for the challenging midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Shortly after midnight, begin your ascent under a sky filled with stars. Reach Stella Point before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement before descending via Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate where you’ll receive your summit certificate before returning to Arusha to celebrate your incredible accomplishment.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Inclusives
INCLUDES
- Airport transfers
- Professional mountain guides
- Dedicated mountain cook
- Porters
- All Park fees
- Rescue fees
- freshly prepared meals daily
- Drinking water
- Emergency oxygen
- Pulse oximeter health checks
- Portable toilet (Private climbs)
- Summit certificate
EXCLUDES
- International flights
- Visa
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Sleeping bag rental
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for mountain crew
- Personal expenses
- Hotel before/after climb unless included