8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climbing

Overview

Embark on the 8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb, one of the most scenic, peaceful, and rewarding ways to reach Africa’s highest summit. This extended trek is designed to maximize acclimatization, safety, and summit success, allowing you to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes of Kilimanjaro. From lush rainforests and rolling moorlands to stark alpine deserts and glacier-capped peaks, every step offers awe-inspiring views and unforgettable experiences.

The Lemosho Route is renowned for its low traffic, breathtaking scenery, and excellent acclimatization profile, making it perfect for first-time climbers as well as seasoned adventurers. Reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement, offering panoramic views that stretch across Tanzania and beyond. This journey is not only a physical challenge but also an emotional and transformative adventure.

8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi/Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Meet your guides and receive a full pre-climb briefing, including equipment checks, safety instructions, and route overview. Overnight in a comfortable hotel, preparing for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, transfer 1.5 hours to Lemosho Gate (2,100 m). Complete registration before beginning your trek along the lush rainforest trails, alive with tropical birds and playful monkeys. Ascend gradually to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780 m). Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our chef, and take time to relax while absorbing the serene forest surroundings. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing about the next day’s route.

Altitude: 2,200 m – 2,780 m
Hiking distance: 7 km
Hiking time: 5 hours time 

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

After an energizing breakfast, continue your trek from Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500 m). Pass through lower moorlands, dotted with giant lobelias, shrubs, and vibrant wildflowers. Be mesmerized by the first grand views of Kibo Peak, standing majestically ahead. Upon arrival, relax, enjoy lunch, and prepare for the journey ahead.

Altitude: 2,780 m – 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours

Day 4: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

Wake up to a stunning morning and trek across the open Shira Plateau, a serene alpine desert landscape with unique flora. This shorter day allows acclimatization while you enjoy breathtaking views and photograph the dramatic plateau scenery. Shira 2 Camp (3,840 m) awaits for a restful evening and dinner.

Altitude: 3,500m – 3,840 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 3-4 hours

Day 5: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp

Trek through semi-desert terrain towards Lava Tower (4,630 m), an iconic acclimatization point. After lunch at the tower, descend 680 meters to Barranco Camp (3,960 m) via the dramatic Western Breach, capturing breathtaking photo opportunities. The descent eases altitude stress and sets the stage for tomorrow’s challenging route.

Altitude: 3,840 m – 3,960 m
Hiking distance: 11 km
Hiking time: 7-8 hours

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley 

Rise early to the gentle glow of dawn and enjoy a hearty breakfast to energize for today’s adventure. Your trek begins with the thrilling ascent of the renowned Barranco Wall, a challenging but exhilarating climb offering spectacular views of the surrounding highlands. After the summit of the wall, descend into the lush Karanga Valley, a serene haven of verdant vegetation and striking landscapes. At Karanga Campsite, your dedicated porters will have your tents ready, and a delicious meal prepared by the chef awaits you. Following lunch, embark on a short acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp, gaining 200 meters in elevation to prepare your body for the summit attempt. Return to camp to relax and savor a warm, comforting dinner as your expert guide provides insights and guidance for the next day’s climb, ensuring you feel confident and ready for the ultimate adventure.

Altitude: 3,960 m – 4,035 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 5 hours

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Wake up early to the crisp mountain air and enjoy a nourishing breakfast, fueling your body for the trek toward Barafu Camp. The trail ahead offers a captivating mix of rocky terrain and gentle slopes, with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude landscapes that will leave you in awe. Focus on steady pacing and acclimatization as you ascend, preparing your body for the demanding summit attempt. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, your tents will be expertly arranged by our porters, and a warm, hearty lunch will be ready for you. Take time to rest and recharge before dinner, and in the evening, your experienced guide will walk you through the final summit plan, including the route, challenges, safety tips, and essential preparations. Rest well, for your unforgettable ascent to the roof of Africa begins late tonight, promising a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Altitude: 4,035 m – 4,640 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 5 hours

Day 8: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp

Around 11:30 PM, you’ll awaken for a light snack of tea and biscuits before beginning the final ascent. Guided by headlamps, you’ll trek northwest across loose scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This 6-hour climb to 5,685 meters is both physically demanding and mentally rewarding, offering a true test of endurance. At Stella Point, pause to witness a breathtaking sunrise illuminating the vast African plains, weather permitting. From here, continue the 2-hour trek over snow-dusted terrain to reach the iconic Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where the sense of accomplishment and sweeping panoramic views will leave you speechless. After capturing unforgettable memories, begin the descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest, before continuing to Mweka Camp to enjoy a well-earned dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Altitude: 4,640 m – 5, 895 m – 3,090 m
Hiking distance: 17 km
Hiking time: 15+ hours

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Complete the final descent through lush rainforest, arriving at Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer to Springlands Hotel for a hot lunch and refreshing shower. Optionally, meet the safari coordinator to plan a Tanzania wildlife safari, making this trip a complete adventure of mountains and wildlife.

Altitude: 3,090 m – 1,650 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours

Inclusions and Exclusion

Included

• Experienced and certified Kilimanjaro guides

• Professional porters to carry camping equipment and supplies

• Cook and kitchen staff to prepare freshly cooked meals during the trek

• Park fees, rescue fees, and camping fees

• Accommodation:

  • Springlands Hotel or similar before and after the trek

  • Camping along the Lemosho Route

• All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Tea, coffee, and snacks during the trek

• Sleeping tents and dining tents

• Walking poles (if requested)

• First aid kit and oxygen cylinder for emergencies

• Detailed pre-trek briefing and itinerary guidance

• Certificates of achievement after successful summit

Excluded

• International and domestic flights to/from Kilimanjaro

• Airport departure taxes

• Personal hiking gear and clothing (trekking boots, jackets, gloves, etc.)

• Travel and medical insurance (strongly recommended)

• Tips for guides, porters, and kitchen staff

• Beverages other than provided tea and coffee

• Optional excursions before or after the climb

• Personal items, souvenirs, and snacks beyond what is provided