Mountain: 8 Days Lemosho Route

8 Days Lemosho Route

Itinerary

Overview

The Lemosho Route is a standout path up Mount Kilimanjaro, dishing out stunning scenery and a quieter trail to the top. This 8-day trek winds you through dense, lush forests, across the jaw-dropping Shira Plateau, and along the mountain’s southern circuit, serving up killer views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the sprawling African plains below. With a smart pace for acclimatization, it boosts your odds of summiting, taking you through a wild mix of ecosystems—from steamy rainforests to stark alpine deserts. It’s tailor-made for adventurers craving a less-crowded, deeper dive into Kilimanjaro’s magic.

This 8-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek sets you up for summit success with its slow-and-steady acclimatization game plan. Packed with unmatched vistas and a rollercoaster of ecosystems, it’s a gritty challenge that pays off big for anyone dead-set on bagging Africa’s tallest peak. What’s firing you up more—the views or the victory?

Itinerary

Day by day

Day 0: Arrival in Arusha or Moshi

When you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our Ralph & Robert crew will be there to greet you and whisk you off to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Kick back, recharge, and gear up for what’s coming. That evening, your mountain guide will run through a briefing to get you dialed in for the trek.
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha to Londorossi Gate – Lemosho Glades – Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2,250m to 2,750m (7,380ft to 9,020ft)Hiking Distance: 18 km (11 miles)Hiking Time: 4-5 hoursHabitat: Montane Forest

Your journey kicks off with a drive to Londorossi Gate to check in, then a hop over to Lemosho Glades. From there, you’ll lace up and trek through thick rainforest, winding your way to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp—your first taste of the wild awaits!

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1

Elevation: 2,750m to 3,500m (9,020ft to 11,485ft)Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)Hiking Time: 5 hoursHabitat: Moorland

Post-breakfast, you’ll tackle a steady climb through towering heather moorland, cresting the Shira Ridge before dropping down to Shira Camp 1—ready to soak in the shifting scenery and settle in for the night.

Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2

Elevation: 3,500m to 3,840m (11,485ft to 12,600ft)Hiking Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)Hiking Time: 2-3 hoursHabitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek is a chill acclimatization stroll across the Shira Plateau—a shorter jaunt that gives you space to roam, take in the killer views of the far-off summit, and let your body adjust. It’s a key day to get dialed in for the climb ahead.

Day 4: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,840m to 4,630m (12,600ft to 15,190ft), descend to 3,950m (12,960ft)Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)Hiking Time: 7 hoursHabitat: Semi-Desert

The trail ramps up into the stark alpine desert, heading for the striking Lava Tower—prime territory for snapping some epic shots. After lunch, you’ll drop down to Barranco Camp, tucked beneath the towering Great Barranco Wall, where sunset views are set to steal the show.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,900m to 4,200m (12,800ft to 13,780ft)Hiking Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)Hiking Time: 4 hoursHabitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s big test is scaling the Barranco Wall—don’t sweat it, it’s simpler than it looks. The hike wraps up at Karanga Camp, keeping it short and sweet to give your body more time to acclimate like a pro.

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,200m to 4,550m (13,780ft to 14,930ft)Hiking Distance: 13 km (8 miles)Hiking Time: 8 hoursHabitat: Alpine Desert

Your trek rolls on across a chain of ridges, landing you at Barafu Camp—your launchpad for the final push to Uhuru Peak. Take it easy here to recharge, and scope out the sparse, wind-battered terrain before dark sets in; you’ll want to know your turf for the big climb ahead.

Day 7: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,550m to 5,895m (14,930ft to 19,340ft), descent to 3,100m (10,170ft)Hiking Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) ascent, 23 km (14.3 miles) descentHiking Time: 8 hours up, 7-8 hours downHabitat: Arctic/Forest

Kicking off at midnight, you’ll grind through the dark, hitting Stella Point as the sun peeks out, then push on to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s rooftop. After soaking in the triumph, you’ll head back down to Barafu Camp for a breather, then drop further to Mweka Camp to cap off the epic day.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha

Elevation: 3,100m to 1,980m (10,170ft to 6,500ft)Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)Hiking Time: 3 hoursHabitat: Forest

Post-breakfast, you’ll trek down through vibrant forest to Mweka Gate, where your summit certificate awaits—a sweet reward for the climb. A quick drive zips you back to Moshi or Arusha, setting you up for some much-needed R&R and a hot shower to wash off the trail dust.

What's Included?

  • Park Entrance & Conservation Fees
  • Guiding & Support Staff
  • Camping Equipment & Accommodation
  • Meals & Purified Water on the Mountain
  • Safety & Emergency Equipment
  • Transport to/from Mountain Gates

What's Excluded?

  • Travel & Health Insurance
  • Visa Fees
  • International Flights
  • Personal Climbing Gear
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Additional Hotel Nights
  • Town Food & Drinks
  • Optional Equipment Rentals

Insider Insight

We know because we've been there.

Browse our latest inspiration pages to start planning your next adventure. We arrange trips to more than 10 destinations throughout East Africa and across Tanzania.

Ralph & Robert

Africa Safari Specialist

Inspired by the allure of Mount Kilimanjaro?

Let’s make your dream climb a reality.

Contact us now, and a Kilimanjaro Expert will respond within 24 hours.

 

 

Send us a Message

Frequently Asked Questions

Our safari packages typically include accommodations, meals, park entry fees, guided game drives, and transportation within the safari parks. Some packages may also include airport transfers, domestic flights, and special activities like hot air balloon rides. Please check the specific package details for more information.

We recommend packing light, breathable clothing in neutral colors, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don’t forget your camera, binoculars, and any personal medications. A detailed packing list will be provided with your booking confirmation.

Yes, safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides are trained to handle various situations, and we follow strict safety protocols during all activities. We also recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

The best time to go on a safari depends on what you want to see. For example, the Great Migration in the Serengeti is typically best viewed between June and September. Generally, the dry season (June to October) is ideal for game viewing, while the wet season (November to May) is great for bird watching and lush landscapes.

Certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever, may be required depending on your travel itinerary. It is also recommended to have up-to-date vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. We advise consulting with your healthcare provider for the most current recommendations.

Absolutely! We offer customizable safari packages to meet your specific interests and needs. Whether you want a focus on wildlife photography, cultural experiences, or luxury accommodations, we can tailor the safari to your desires.

You can book directly through our website by selecting your preferred safari package and filling out the booking form. Alternatively, you can contact us via email or phone for personalized assistance with your booking.

We accept various payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, and online payment platforms. Payment details will be provided upon booking confirmation.

Yes, we can help you plan an extended itinerary that includes other popular destinations, such as Zanzibar, Victoria Falls, or Cape Town. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll create a seamless travel experience for you.

Yes, we offer family-friendly safari packages that include accommodations and activities suitable for all ages. Our guides are experienced in creating engaging and educational experiences for children