KILIMANJARO CLIMBING
LEMOSHO ROUTE
The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most beautiful and less crowded routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a remote and scenic experience. Known for its varied landscapes and excellent acclimatization profile, this route is ideal for trekkers who want a longer, more gradual ascent to Uhuru Peak. The Lemosho Route typically takes 7 to 8 days, allowing climbers to adjust to the altitude and improving the chances of reaching the summit.
Starting at Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro, the trek begins in the lush rainforests, where you can spot wildlife such as Colobus monkeys. As you ascend, you’ll pass through the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic crater, with expansive views of Mount Meru and the plains below. Highlights include crossing the Lava Tower, climbing the dramatic Barranco Wall, and traversing the alpine desert zone.
The final push to the summit begins at Barafu Camp, leading to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The Lemosho Route offers trekkers both scenic beauty and a higher chance of successful summiting due to its longer acclimatization period.
For adventurers seeking a less crowded, picturesque, and rewarding trek, the Lemosho Route is an excellent choice.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 1 - Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
We will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi and head to the Lemosho Park Gate, where necessary entry formalities will be completed. Subsequently, you'll proceed to the Lemosho trailhead, marking the beginning of your trek. You will traverse the enchanting rainforest on your way to the Mti Mkubwa Camp (9,300ft/2,835m), where you'll spend the night.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2 - Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Following breakfast, you will press onward with your trek, advancing towards the majestic Shira Plateau. You will traverse through the captivating heath and moorland zones, experiencing the changing landscape. Your journey culminates at the Shira 2 Camp (11,500ft/3,505m), where the night will be spent amidst the breathtaking surroundings of this elevated terrain.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3 - Shira 2 to Barranco Camp
You will embark on today's trek as you make your way toward the formidable Lava Tower, reaching an elevation of 15,190 ft/4,630 m. Following this challenging ascent, you will descend to the picturesque Barranco Camp (12,950ft/3,950m) for an overnight stay. This route not only provides a scenic journey but also presents captivating views of the Western Breach and Breach Wall, adding a sense of awe to your mountain adventure.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4 - Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp
Today, you will embark on the challenging climb of the Barranco Wall. After conquering the wall, you will continue your trek toward the Karanga Camp (13,100ft/3,995m).
You’ll spend the night at Karanga Camp, enjoying a relatively short day that provides an opportunity to rest and acclimatize before the summit push.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
You will embark on today's trek toward the Barafu Camp, situated at an elevation of 15,200 ft/4,630 m, serving as the crucial base camp for your impending summit attempt. You will delight in a comparatively shorter trek today, affording you valuable time for rest and meticulous preparation ahead of the imminent summit push. This strategic pause ensures you are well-rested and ready for the challenges that lie ahead as you approach the pinnacle of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6 - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Today is the summit day! You will begin your ascent to the summit around midnight. You will reach the Uhuru Peak (19,341ft/5,895m) at sunrise, take photos, and savor the breathtaking views.
Afterward, you'll descend back to the Barafu Camp for some rest and then continue your descent to the Mweka Camp (10,000ft/3,050m), where you’ll spend the night.
Accomodation
- Budget camping
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Today marks the final day of the trek.
After breakfast, you will begin your descent to the Mweka Gate (5,400ft/1,640m), where you’ll receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your trekking team. A vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
Accomodation
- End of Tour
Meal & Drinks
- All meals included
- Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
PHOTOS
Inclusions
Porterage
Rescue fee
Park fees
All activities
All accommodation
A professional driver / guide
All transportation
All Taxes / VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals
Drinking water
EXCLUSIONS
Climbing gear
International flights
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Personal items
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Highlights
Remote and Scenic Start
The Lemosho Route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro, offering a more remote and less crowded trail. The route passes through dense rainforests, with the possibility of encountering wildlife such as colobus monkeys and buffalo.
Shira Plateau
A vast, flat expanse of land offering panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak, the Shira Plateau is one of the most scenic sections of the climb, with breathtaking sunsets.
Mawenzi and Kibo Views
Trekking past Horombo Hut, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s twin peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo, with rugged and scenic landscapes stretching out before you.
Barranco Wall
A challenging yet exhilarating ascent, the Barranco Wall offers both excitement and spectacular views. Although steep, it is not technical, and the reward is the panoramic vistas at the top.
Lava Tower
This 4,600-meter-high volcanic rock formation offers trekkers a great acclimatization opportunity. Standing beneath the Lava Tower is a surreal experience amidst the alpine desert landscape.
Extended Acclimatization
The Lemosho Route is known for its longer itinerary (7-8 days), allowing trekkers to acclimatize better, which improves the chances of successfully reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak.
Summiting Uhuru Peak
The ultimate highlight is reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The final push begins before dawn, allowing climbers to witness the sunrise from the roof of Africa, creating an unforgettable moment.
