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Kilimanjaro Climb – Lemosho Route (6–8 Days)

A Scenic Journey to the Roof of Africa

Overview

The Lemosho Route is widely considered one of the most beautiful routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching from the west, it offers panoramic vistas, rich ecological zones, and a high success rate due to its gradual ascent profile. Trekkers pass through remote rainforests, dramatic ridges, and vast alpine deserts before summiting via Stella Point. The 8-day version is highly recommended for better acclimatization.

Why Choose This Route?

  • Stunning scenic diversity from rainforest to alpine desert
  • Excellent acclimatization profile with fewer altitude issues
  • Fewer crowds compared to Machame or Marangu
  • High summit success rate (especially on 8-day plan)
  • Opportunity to explore the Shira Plateau
  • See both sunrise and glaciers from the Roof of Africa
Stunning scenic diversity from rainforest to alpine desert

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

After registration at the gate, begin your trek through lush rainforest. Look out for monkeys and exotic birds.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 6 km
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp (Tents)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

Continue climbing through forest and into moorland. Break out onto the Shira Plateau with sweeping views.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

A gentle hike across the plateau to allow for acclimatization. Great views of Kibo Peak and surrounding glaciers.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 7 km
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp (3,976m) via Lava Tower (4,630m)

Climb to Lava Tower for altitude adaptation, then descend to the scenic Barranco Valley.
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Distance: 10 km
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 (for 8-day hike): Acclimatization at Karanga Camp (3,995m)
Trek from Barranco over the Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp. Short day to aid acclimatization.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 5 km
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 or 6: Barranco/Karanga to Barafu Camp (4,673m)

After breakfast, climb steadily to Barafu Hut – the base camp before your summit bid.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 4–6 km
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 or 7: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Start your summit attempt at midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise and descend through multiple zones to Mweka Camp.
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Distance: 17 km
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Final Day: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Moshi/Arusha

Final descent through the rainforest. Receive your summit certificate and transfer to your lodge.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided in high-quality mountain tents, with full-service camping, private mess tent, and sleeping gear. Clean water and nutritious meals are supplied daily.

Includes & Excludes

Note (COVID-19)

“Please note that all these are sample itineraries. We will tailor-make your safari according to your wish and due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel around the world, it is free to postpone your travel up to 1 year after the original travel date”

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Destinations: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater

Let us tailor-make a safari suited to you.

This is just one example of a trip we could design for you. We tailor-make safari holidays that take you to Tanzania – no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch today to start creating your bespoke itinerary