Climb Kilimanjaro

Hikers walking towards snowy mountain on sunny day, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Porters trekking towards snowy mountain peak of Kilimanjaro

Snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro at twilight

Lemosho Route Duration – 9 Days

Choosing Lemosho means embracing an incredible adventure.

The Lemosho route is one of the newer and most exciting paths to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s our top recommendation for climbers due to its perfect balance of low traffic, stunning scenery, and a high summit success rate. Our clients love it! The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, you’ll spend the first two days trekking through the lush rainforest to Shira Ridge.

What sets the Lemosho route apart from the popular Machame route is that it crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a pleasant and relatively flat hike. This path ensures you enjoy the tranquillity of low traffic until it merges with the Machame route. After joining, the journey continues through the breathtaking landscapes of Lava Tower, Barranco, and Barafu, known collectively as the Southern Circuit. The descent follows the beautiful Mweka route.

Choosing Lemosho means embracing an incredible adventure filled with diverse landscapes, from dense rainforests to expansive plains and dramatic volcanic formations. It’s an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines challenge and beauty, leading you to the summit of Africa’s highest peak.

Map of Kilimanjaro showing Uhuru Peak and various camps, the Lemosho route is highlighted

Trip Duration:

9 days

Route:

Lemosho Route

Feeling a little adventourous?

We can help plan your adventure of a lifetime!

Your Day to Day Itinerary

All our itineraries are suggestions; they can be adapted and customised to suit your needs and preferences or for any seasonal changes or migratory animal movements.

Day 1 – Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation:

650 meters (2,133 feet)
Climb Time:

4 to 5 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Rainforest

The Lemosho route is perfect for those seeking a more intimate hiking experience. While it eventually joins the popular Machame route on day four, the first three days are serene and relatively quiet, with few other trekking groups on the trail.

On your first day, you’ll arrive at Londorossi Gate around noon. After spending about an hour at the gate for registration and final preparations by the porters and guides, you’ll drive to the trailhead. Please note that the arrival time at the gate may vary depending on road conditions.

Once registered, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before starting your trek to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp. The hike takes you through the lush rainforests of Kilimanjaro, where you can admire the diverse trees and birdlife along the way. You’ll arrive at the campsite in the late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak in the natural beauty of your surroundings for the rest of the day.

Day 2 – Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation:

650 meters (2,133 feet)
Climb Time:

4 to 5 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Rainforest

Embark on an exhilarating trek from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes of Kilimanjaro.

The day begins with a hike through the lush rainforest, where towering trees and vibrant birdlife surround you. As you ascend towards Kilimanjaro’s moorland, marvel at the stunning variety of wildflowers carpeting the path. Catch your first glimpses of Kibo Peak as the trail gradually flattens out.

After a well-deserved lunch, continue your journey onto the expansive Shira Plateau, formed by ancient lava flows from Kibo. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp in the afternoon, where you can unwind and soak in the breathtaking surroundings. This day offers scenic beauty and prepares you for the higher altitudes ahead, making it an essential part of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Day 3 – Shira I to Shira II Camp

Elevation:

380 meters (1,180 feet)
Climb Time:

3 to 5 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Heath

Today is an acclimatization day, designed to help your body adjust to the altitude. The trek from Shira I to Shira II Camp is relatively short, allowing you plenty of time to explore the stunning Shira Plateau.

As you hike, take in the expansive views and unique high-altitude flora. In the evening, look westward at sunset for a chance to see the twin eruptions from the craters of Ol Donyio Lengai, also known as “The Mountain of God,” an active volcano located about 100 kilometers away. This day not only aids in acclimatization but also offers spectacular scenery and a truly memorable experience on Kilimanjaro.

Day 4 – Shira II Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation:

810 meters (2,660 feet)
Climb Time:

6 to 8 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Alpine Desert

Prepare for an enriching day of trekking from Shira II Camp to the iconic Barranco Camp, a pivotal journey on your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Shira II Camp, surrounded by the expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau. The trail leads eastward, traversing the plateau for approximately two hours before reaching the junction with the Machame Route. As you trek through this barren landscape, marvel at the stark beauty of the surroundings.

After a brief stop for lunch, continue your ascent towards the day’s highest point, reaching an elevation of 4,530 meters (14,862 feet). Here, you can opt for a detour to the impressive Lava Tower, a 300-foot lava formation that punctuates the mountainside.

Descending swiftly from this high point, you’ll wind through a picturesque valley adorned with unique flora, including the striking Senecio Kilimanjari. Barranco Camp awaits you in a stunning canyon, nestled amidst forests of these distinctive plants beneath the looming Heim Glacier. From the campsite, savour breathtaking vistas of Mount Meru, the Heim Glacier, and the dramatic Barranco Wall, providing an unforgettable conclusion to a day filled with both challenge and natural beauty.

Day 5 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley

Elevation:

250 meters (820 feet)
Climb Time:

3 to 5 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Arctic

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Barranco Camp, readying yourself for an exhilarating journey to Karanga Valley. The adventure begins with an hour-and-a-half scramble up the iconic Barranco Wall. This challenging section requires both determination and a bit of hand-over-hand climbing in some spots, making it the most difficult part of the day.

Upon reaching the top of the Barranco Wall, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. The trail then leads you through relatively flat terrain, allowing you to catch your breath and take in the high-altitude scenery.

You’ll encounter a short but steep descent as you approach the green Karanga River Valley. Your destination for the night, Karanga Camp, is situated on a ridge above the valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Relax and soak in the beauty of the Karanga Valley, reflecting on the day’s achievements and preparing for the next leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Day 6 – Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp

Elevation:

400 meters (1,320 feet)
Climb Time:

3 to 5 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Alpine Desert

Rise and shine with a hearty breakfast at Karanga Valley Camp before embarking on the trek to Barafu Camp. This leg of the journey offers awe-inspiring views of Kibo’s glaciers, including the prominent Heim, Kersten, and Decken glaciers. As you ascend, you’ll witness the rugged beauty of the alpine desert, where sparse vegetation gives way to expansive panoramas of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

The trail winds steadily upwards, presenting both a physical challenge and an opportunity to soak in the majestic surroundings. Take your time to acclimatize and enjoy the unique landscapes that Kilimanjaro offers.

Barafu Camp awaits at 4,600 meters (15,100 feet), serving as the launching point for your final ascent to Uhuru Peak. After dinner, rest as you prepare for the exhilarating midnight start to your summit attempt. The journey to Barafu Camp blends rugged terrain with unparalleled views, setting the stage for the ultimate Kilimanjaro adventure.

Day 7 – Barafu Camp to Crater Camp

Elevation:

1,115 meters (3,650 feet)
Climb Time:

6 to 8 hours
Distance:
Habitat:

Alpine Desert

Today marks the pinnacle of your Kilimanjaro adventure. You leave Barafu Camp early in the morning to conquer the challenging ascent to Crater Camp. This journey segment is renowned for its steep gradients and high altitude, making it the most demanding day of your climb.

As you ascend Kibo’s formidable wall, it’s crucial to maintain your energy levels with regular snacks despite the diminished appetite often associated with altitude. The effects of altitude may become more pronounced, underscoring the importance of pacing and hydration.

Crater Camp, nestled within Kilimanjaro’s Kibo crater, awaits at an impressive 5,715 meters (18,750 feet). This is the highest camp on Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking views of the glaciers that encircle the summit. Some climbers opt to make their summit push in the afternoon, foregoing the traditional early morning ascent to Uhuru Peak.

This leg of the journey epitomizes the challenge and thrill of high-altitude mountaineering, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience atop Africa’s highest peak.

Day 8 – Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation:

Assend 180 meters (590 feet) - Descend 2,795 meters (9,170 feet
Climb Time:

1 hour to the summit, 3 to 4 hours to Barafu, 4 hours to Mweka
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Arctic

As the dawn breaks over Kilimanjaro, embark on the ultimate ascent towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. This final push to the summit begins from Crater Camp, standing at an impressive 5,715 meters (18,750 feet). The trek to Uhuru Peak is deliberate and steady, navigating the challenging terrain to gain 180 meters (590 feet) in elevation. The journey typically takes about two hours, culminating in an awe-inspiring moment at the roof of Africa around 8 am. Capture unforgettable photos to commemorate your achievement.

After soaking in the breathtaking views from Uhuru Peak, descend back to Barafu Camp. Here, you’ll refuel with a hearty brunch before continuing your descent. The trail leads you steadily down through the rugged landscape, starkly contrasting the barren alpine desert you traversed on your ascent.

The final leg of your descent takes you to Mweka Camp, nestled at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). This marks your last camp on Kilimanjaro, where you’ll relish in the triumph of your summit and the memories of your journey. The descent to Mweka Camp typically takes around four hours, offering time to reflect on the challenges conquered and the beauty witnessed along the way.

This day encapsulates the culmination of perseverance, determination, and the unforgettable experience of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 9 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation:

Descend 1,600 meters (5,250 feet)
Climb Time:

4 hours
Distance:

-
Habitat:

Rainforest

After a well-deserved breakfast at Mweka Camp, it’s time to begin your descent towards Mweka Gate, marking the final leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure. The trail winds through Kilimanjaro’s lush cloud forest, offering a serene and picturesque backdrop for your last hike on the mountain. As you descend, take care on the sometimes slippery path, ensuring each step is secure as you navigate the dense vegetation and occasional roots.

Upon reaching Mweka Gate, located at 1,500 meters (4,920 feet), you’ll find our waiting vehicles ready to whisk you back to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you can look forward to a hot shower and comfortable accommodations and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.

This descent marks the end of your physical challenge and allows you to savour the natural beauty and tranquillity of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes. As you bid farewell to the mountain, carry with you the memories of summiting Africa’s highest peak and the camaraderie forged along the way.

Climb Kilimanjaro

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Climb Kilimanjaro

Wildlife Safaris

Beach Adventures

Climb Kilimanjaro

Wildlife Safaris

Beach Adventures

Climb Kilimanjaro

Wildlife Safaris

Beach Adventures

Climb Kilimanjaro

Lemosho Route Duration – 9 Days

Choosing Lemosho means embracing an incredible adventure.

Trip Duration:

Route:

Just complete the form & hit the green button!

Feeling a little adventourous?

We can help plan your adventure of a lifetime!

Your Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation:

Climb Time:

Distance:

Habitat:

Day 2 – Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

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Climb Time:

Distance:

Habitat:

Day 3 – Shira I to Shira II Camp

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Distance:

Habitat:

Day 4 – Shira II Camp to Barranco Camp

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Habitat:

Day 5 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley

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Distance:

Habitat:

Day 6 – Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp

Elevation:

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Distance:

Habitat:

Day 7 – Barafu Camp to Crater Camp

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Climb Time:

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Day 8 – Crater Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation:

Climb Time:

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Habitat:

Day 9 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

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