The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic and varied routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers trekkers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a higher success rate due to its longer acclimatization period. This 8-day itinerary allows for a more gradual ascent, increasing the likelihood of a successful and enjoyable summit experience.
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. After completing the formalities, a short drive takes you to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek begins through the lush rainforest, where you might spot some wildlife such as colobus monkeys. After 3-4 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, your first night on the mountain.
Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the heath and moorland zone. The trail gradually ascends, offering expansive views as you cross the Shira Plateau. After 5-6 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Shira 1 Camp, set on the western edge of the plateau. The camp provides stunning vistas of Kibo Peak in the distance.
The hike across the Shira Plateau continues today, with gentle ascents and descents. You’ll traverse through heather and moorland, enjoying panoramic views and unique flora. After 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Shira 2 Camp, situated near a stream on the plateau. This camp is ideal for further acclimatization.
This day involves significant altitude gain, making it a critical acclimatization day. The trek takes you towards the Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation at 4,630 meters. After a lunch break at Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, set in a valley below the Breach Wall. This hike, lasting 7-8 hours, helps your body adjust to the altitude while enjoying dramatic landscapes.
The day begins with a climb up the Barranco Wall, a challenging but non-technical ascent. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. The trail then undulates through alpine desert to Karanga Camp. This shorter day, about 4-5 hours of trekking, allows for acclimatization and rest before the higher altitudes ahead.
Today’s trek to Barafu Camp is a steady ascent through the alpine desert. The landscape becomes more barren and rocky as you climb higher. After 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. You’ll have an early dinner and go to bed early to rest before the midnight ascent to the summit.
The summit attempt begins around midnight. The trail is steep and rocky, requiring both physical and mental endurance. You’ll reach Stella Point on the crater rim around sunrise and then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, you’ll begin the descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Then, you’ll continue descending to Mweka Camp, where you’ll spend the night, exhausted but triumphant.
On the final day, you’ll descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. This is a long hike, but it’s mostly downhill and offers a chance to reflect on your incredible journey. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates. You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax and celebrate your achievement.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, or you may choose to continue your Tanzanian adventure with a safari or a beach holiday in Zanzibar. Reflecting on the incredible journey to the roof of Africa, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a great sense of accomplishment.
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