8 Days Lemosho Route
Tour Overview
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most scenic and best-acclimatized route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching the mountain from the remote western side, it offers quiet trails, rich wildlife encounters, and sweeping panoramic views before joining the Southern Circuit to the summit. With excellent altitude acclimatization and a high summit success rate, Lemosho is ideal for climbers seeking beauty, comfort, and a well-paced ascent.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
6 km | 3–4 hrs | Rainforest
Elevation: 2,100 m → 2,650 m
Altitude Gained: 550 m
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration, followed by a short transfer to the trailhead. The trek starts through dense rainforest, where towering trees, vines, and moss-covered ground create a peaceful atmosphere.
This remote section of the mountain is rich in birdlife and may offer sightings of monkeys. The trail is gentle, allowing for a relaxed introduction to the climb. You arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, surrounded by lush forest and cool mountain air.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp
8 km | 5–6 hrs | Moorland
Elevation: 2,650 m → 3,610 m
Altitude Gained: 960 m
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail climbs steadily into the heather and moorland zone. Vegetation becomes shorter, and the landscape opens, revealing distant views of the Shira Plateau.
The ascent is gradual but noticeable as altitude increases. By afternoon, you reach Shira 1 Camp, set on a broad volcanic plateau with expansive views and a true sense of being on the mountain.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp
7 km | 3–4 hrs | Moorland
Elevation: 3,610 m → 3,850 m
Altitude Gained: 240 m
Today is a shorter and gentler trek across the Shira Plateau, allowing valuable time for acclimatization. The terrain is relatively flat, passing ancient lava flows and unique high-altitude vegetation.
On clear days, Kibo Peak dominates the skyline. Shira 2 Camp is well-positioned for acclimatization and offers dramatic sunset views across the plateau.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
10 km | 5–6 hrs | Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3,850 m → 3,960 m
Altitude Gained: 110 m
This important acclimatization day involves climbing high and sleeping lower. The trail ascends toward Lava Tower (4,650 m), where lunch is taken at altitude in a stark alpine desert environment.
Afterward, the route descends into the scenic Barranco Valley, known for its towering cliffs and views of the southern glaciers. The descent greatly aids acclimatization. Barranco Camp is often considered one of the most beautiful camps on Kilimanjaro.
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
5 km | 3–4 hrs | Alpine Desert
Elevation: 3,960 m → 4,035 m
Altitude Gained: 75 m
The day begins with the climb up the famous Barranco Wall, an enjoyable scramble that rewards you with panoramic views. Though steep, it is non-technical and completed at a steady pace.
Beyond the wall, the trail traverses ridges and valleys toward Karanga Camp. The relatively short day allows time for rest and continued acclimatization in preparation for the summit push.
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
4 km | 3–4 hrs | Alpine Desert
Elevation: 4,035 m → 4,662 m
Altitude Gained: 627 m
The trail climbs steadily toward Barafu Camp, completing the Southern Circuit. The terrain is rocky and exposed, with dramatic views of the summit glaciers.
After arrival, you rest, enjoy an early dinner, and receive final summit briefings. The thin air and cold temperatures make rest essential before the night ascent.
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Summit Ascent: 5 km | 6–8 hrs
Descent: 11 km | 5–6 hrs
Elevation: 4,662 m → 5,895 m
Altitude Gained: 1,233 m
Descent To: 3,100 m
The summit attempt begins around midnight. Moving slowly and steadily, you ascend through scree and volcanic ash toward Stella Point, reaching the crater rim near sunrise.
From here, the final traverse leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos and quiet celebration, the descent begins back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp, where thicker air and warmer temperatures bring relief.
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
10 km | 3–4 hrs | Rainforest
Elevation: 3,100 m → 1,640 m
Altitude Lost: 1,460 m
The final descent passes through lush rainforest, often misty and alive with birdsong. At Mweka Gate, you receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your mountain crew. A transfer returns you to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxed meal, and reflection on an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.
Tour Includes
- Experienced English-speaking guides
- Full mountain crew support including cooks and porters.
- All park fees, permits, and VAT
- Meals and drinking water according to the itinerary
- Gate transfers and airport transfers.
- Emergency oxygen cylinder and portable toilet with porter
- High-quality trekking equipment provided
Tour Excludes
- Flights and visa fees
- Travel or medical insurance
- Tips for crew (recommended USD 450 per person)
- Personal gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.), souvenirs, or additional drinks