The Lemosho route offers some of the most stunning scenery on Kilimanjaro, featuring breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife, exceptional acclimatization opportunities, and minimal foot traffic making it one of the best choices for summiting Africa’s highest peak. In fact, it’s our personal favorite for reaching the roof of Africa.

Your journey begins with a scenic 3 hours drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate, located on the western slope of Mount Kilimanjaro. From there, you’ll make your way to the famous Shira Plateau, the starting point of your adventure through diverse climate zones ranging from lush alpine meadows to the frozen, high-altitude landscapes. The route is smooth, gradual, and ideal for acclimatization. In fact, Lemosho boasts the highest success rate among all Kilimanjaro routes.

Whether you have six, seven, or eight days to spare, there’s a program that fits your schedule. Longer treks are recommended for better acclimatization, ensuring a safer and more comfortable ascent.

Arrival in Tanzania Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Once there, our expert guide will meet you to brief you on the trek ahead, followed by an equipment check to ensure you’re fully prepared with the right gear for the mountain. Afterward, you’ll rest for the night at your hotel before the adventure begins.

Day 1 – Lemosho Gate (2100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m)
Distance covered: 7 km
Approximate time taken: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Your adventure begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a 2-hour drive from the hotel (910m) to Lemosho Gate (2100m). After registering at the park gate, the guides and porters will organize the equipment and supplies. From there, you’ll start your trek through the lush rainforest, gradually ascending to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m). Upon arrival, your tent will be set up with your personal belongings inside. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2 – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m) to Shira II Camp (3900m)
Distance covered: 17 km
Approximate time taken: 8-10 hours
Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today is a long trek as we skip Shira I Camp and head directly to Shira II Camp. After breakfast, you’ll start your hike from Mti Mkubwa to Shira II through heath and moorland. Along the way, you’ll climb the Shira Ridge and enter the high-altitude desert plateau, where you’ll get the first clear view of Mount Kilimanjaro. Overnight at Shira II Camp (3900m).

Day 3 – Shira II Camp (3900m) to Barranco Camp (3900m)
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today, the moorlands give way to the alpine desert. The trek takes you up to Lava Tower (4600m) before descending to Barranco Camp (3900m). This descent offers stunning views of the Western Breach and Barranco Wall, perfect for photos. The campsite is nestled in a valley below the Barranco Wall, offering a breathtaking sunset. Overnight at Barranco Camp (3900m).

Day 4 – Barranco Camp (3900m) to Karanga Camp (4000m)
Distance covered: 6 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you’ll tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb. From the top, the path leads across the alpine desert to Karanga Camp (4000m), where you’ll have lunch and rest. This short but challenging hike is perfect for acclimatization. Overnight at Karanga Camp (4000m).

Day 5 – Karanga Camp (4000m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
Distance covered: 4 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you’ll begin your trek towards Barafu Camp (4640m), with great views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you’ll have lunch and then rest to prepare for the final ascent later that night. Dinner will be served early, and after some rest, you’ll head to bed to prepare for the summit. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Day 6 – Barafu Camp (4640m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) then down to Mweka Camp (3100m)
Distance covered: 20 km
Approximate time taken: 14 hours
Habitat: Glacier/Moorland/Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

At around midnight, you’ll wake up to some light tea and cookies before beginning your climb. The route involves a steep ascent through scree for about 4-5 hours, gaining significant elevation. The views are spectacular, and you’ll reach the crater rim at Stella Point (5756m) as the first rays of the sun shine over the landscape. From Stella Point, it’s a short, final push to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. After a brief celebration and photos, you’ll begin your descent back to Barafu Camp for lunch and rest. Then, continue your descent to Mweka Camp (3100m) for dinner and overnight.

Day 7 – Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

On the final day, you’ll trek through the montane forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll complete the park formalities and receive your summit certificates. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved warm shower. It’s time to celebrate your incredible achievement!

Then – Depart Tanzania / Other destination in Tanzania

In the evening or the next day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your home-bound flight. Alternatively, if you have time, we can arrange an affordable safari trip to one of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife parks, such as Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.

End of Trip