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

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Lemosho Gate (2100m). Following park registration, you will begin your trek through the lush rainforest. The trail ascends gradually to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m). You will have a relaxing evening and overnight at the camp, enjoying your first night under the stars.

Day 2 – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m) to Shira I Camp (3500m)
Distance covered: 11 km
Approximate time taken: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest to Heath and Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

The trek today takes you out of the rainforest and into the heath and moorland zone. From Mti Mkubwa Camp, you’ll climb through dense vegetation and rocky paths to Shira I Camp (3500m), where you will have a spectacular view of Mount Kilimanjaro. After a long day of trekking, enjoy dinner and overnight at Shira I Camp.

Day 3 – Shira I Camp (3500m) to Shira II Camp (3900m)
Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you will continue your trek across the Shira Plateau towards Shira II Camp (3900m). The route gradually ascends through the moorland zone, where you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Shira II Camp offers an excellent opportunity for acclimatization and a comfortable night’s rest.

Day 4 – Shira II Camp (3900m) to Barranco Camp (3900m)
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

The day starts with a gentle ascent towards the Lava Tower (4600m). After a short rest, you will descend to Barranco Camp (3900m) for your overnight stay. This route allows for better acclimatization as you ascend to higher altitudes before descending again. The camp is set at the base of the Barranco Wall, providing a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

Day 5 – Barranco Camp (3900m) to Karanga Camp (4000m)
Distance covered: 6 km
Approximate time taken: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today you will tackle the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep climb. Once at the top, you will walk along the ridgeline with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The route continues through the alpine desert to Karanga Camp (4000m). This camp is an excellent stop for acclimatization.

Day 6 – Karanga Camp (4000m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
Distance covered: 4 km
Approximate time taken: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you will ascend through the alpine desert to Barafu Camp (4640m), the final base camp before your summit attempt. The climb is short but steep, and Barafu Camp is known for its cold temperatures and wind. Once you arrive at Barafu, rest and prepare for the night ascent to the summit.

Day 7 – Barafu Camp (4640m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) then down to Mweka Camp (3100m)
Distance covered: 20 km
Approximate time taken: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Glacier/Moorland/Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

You will wake up early in the morning (around midnight) and begin your ascent to the summit. The trek to Uhuru Peak (5895m) is a challenging climb through scree and ice. You will pass through Stella Point (5756m) at sunrise and then make the final push to Uhuru Peak. At the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views and take photos. After spending a brief time at the summit, you will descend to Barafu Camp for lunch and then continue your descent to Mweka Camp (3100m). This will be a long and tiring day, but you’ll be rewarded with a much-needed rest at Mweka Camp.

Day 8 – Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
Distance covered: 10 km
Approximate time taken: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, and lunch included

On the final day, you will descend through the montane rainforest to Mweka Gate (1630m). Upon arrival at the gate, you will complete the necessary park formalities and receive your summit certificates. Afterward, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi to relax and celebrate your 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 flight home. If you have time, we can also arrange an exciting safari to one of Tanzania’s renowned national parks, such as Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.

End of the Trip