The 8-day Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding trekking routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its pristine wilderness, this route offers a gradual ascent through varied ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. Starting from the western side of the mountain, climbers are treated to the beauty of the Shira Plateau and the impressive Lava Tower. This extended 8-day itinerary allows for more acclimatization, giving trekkers the best chance to adjust to the high altitudes and minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. The steady pace and diverse landscapes make the Lemosho Route a perfect choice for those looking for a challenging yet breathtaking adventure on Africa’s tallest peak.
The 8-day trek is not only about reaching the summit but also about immersing yourself in the diverse environments and stunning vistas that Kilimanjaro has to offer. This longer itinerary provides ample time to explore the mountain’s ecosystems, spot wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. With fewer crowds compared to the more popular routes like Marangu or Machame, Lemosho offers a peaceful, secluded experience on the mountain. Whether you are looking to test your physical limits or enjoy an extended journey through one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, the 8-day Lemosho Route offers the ideal balance of challenge and natural beauty.
Any group size
Private group tour
VAN
Arusha
Arusha
15
The 7-day Lemosho Route offers an unparalleled variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the iconic Shira Plateau, providing climbers with constantly changing, breathtaking views throughout the journey. This route showcases the full spectrum of Mount Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems.
The Lemosho Route is less crowded compared to other popular routes like the Marangu or Machame, allowing for a more peaceful and personal trekking experience. With fewer hikers, you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the mountain in relative solitude.
The extended 7-day itinerary provides more opportunities for acclimatization, significantly increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. The gradual ascent allows your body to adjust to the higher altitudes, minimizing the risks of altitude sickness and improving your overall summit success rate.
The Lemosho Route takes you through some of the best wildlife habitats on Kilimanjaro, including rainforests and moorlands where you might spot rare species of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife. It’s a nature lover’s paradise alongside your climb.
The Lemosho Route is perfect for trekkers seeking a challenge without the extreme difficulty of other routes. The combination of gradual ascent, stunning scenery, and strategic acclimatization makes this route a rewarding adventure for those looking to experience the best of Mount Kilimanjaro.
As you ascend the western slopes, you’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular panoramic views on the mountain, especially of the famous Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and the Shira Plateau. The route offers multiple vantage points for unforgettable photos and scenic vistas.
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Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate (2,100m), located on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. After registration and briefing, you will continue by vehicle to the Lemosho Trailhead, where the trek officially starts. The first stretch of the hike takes you through the dense Montane Rainforest, home to exotic wildlife, including Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and various bird species. The trail is relatively gentle, allowing for a gradual warm-up before reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp, 2,820m), where you will settle in for your first night on the mountain.
Leaving behind the rainforest, the trail gradually ascends into the heath and moorland zone, where vegetation becomes sparse, and the terrain transforms into open grasslands. As you make your way toward Shira Ridge, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Shira Plateau, an ancient lava flow that has shaped the western slope of Kilimanjaro. After a steady climb, you will descend slightly to reach Shira 1 Camp (3,505m), where you will rest for the night. This is the first high-altitude campsite, offering breathtaking views of Kibo Peak, the highest point of Kilimanjaro.
On this short but scenic day, you will cross the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in Africa. The hike is more leisurely, allowing time for acclimatization and exploring the surroundings. The trail gently ascends through rocky landscapes, giant heather, and volcanic formations, providing mesmerizing views of the mountain’s western face. By mid-afternoon, you will arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m), which offers panoramic vistas of Kilimanjaro’s glacier-covered peak. This is a crucial acclimatization day as you prepare for the increasing altitude in the coming days.
On day 4, you’ll be taking an important acclimatization hike to Lava Tower, one of Kilimanjaro’s most famous landmarks. At 4,630m, Lava Tower offers a remarkable vantage point of the mountain and surrounding terrain. After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, which sits at 3,950m, helping you acclimatize while providing a chance to experience a variety of altitudes within the day. The descent to Barranco is relatively gentle and provides views of the Barranco Wall, a dramatic vertical cliff. Upon arrival, you’ll camp in a beautiful valley surrounded by peaks and cliffs, with incredible views of the mountain’s southern face.
The day begins with an exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical section that requires some scrambling. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Meru and the Karanga Valley. Once at the top, the trail descends slightly into Karanga Valley, a crucial water source for the camps ahead. After crossing the valley, a final short ascent brings you to Karanga Camp (3,995m). This is another important acclimatization stop, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude before the final push toward the summit.
Today’s trek leads you to Barafu Camp (4,673m), the final stop before the summit attempt. The terrain is rugged and barren, characterized by loose volcanic scree and strong winds. The name “Barafu” means “ice” in Swahili, reflecting the cold, harsh conditions of this high-altitude camp. Upon arrival, you will have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit push. At this altitude, the air is thin, and temperatures drop significantly, so proper layering and hydration are essential.
At midnight, you will begin the most challenging part of the trek—the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. The trail zigzags up steep switchbacks, passing Stella Point (5,756m), where the first rays of sunrise will illuminate the glaciers and volcanic craters below. From here, it’s another 45-minute trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa! Celebrate your achievement with photos and enjoy the incredible views before beginning the long descent.
You will descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,068m). The descent is steep and can be tough on the knees, but the drop in altitude provides much-needed oxygen and relief. You’ll enjoy a final night on the mountain before your journey back to civilization.
The final stretch takes you through the lush rainforest, where you may spot Colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and diverse flora. The path is well-maintained, offering a gentle descent compared to previous days. Upon reaching Mweka Gate (1,640m), you will receive a summit certificate as a token of your incredible achievement. From here, you will be transferred back to Moshi or Arusha, where a hot shower, a warm bed, and a well-deserved celebration await.
This marks the end of an unforgettable 7-day Kilimanjaro adventure via the Lemosho Route!
1 Person
2 people
3 people
4 people
5 people
6 people
7 people
$2,290
$1,930
$1,850
$1,839
$1,828
$1,817
$1,810
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Park fees and Rescue fees
Meals while on the Mountain
Fees for Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park
All Camping Equipments
Clean, purified drinking water
Crisis management and safety procedures
Airport transfers and Accommodation in Arusha
Visas and Flight, Travel Insurance
Personal trekking gears
Support team Tipping
Personal Nature Items
International flights: Check baggage allowance with your airline.
Domestic flights: Usually allow 15kg (33 lbs) of luggage, including carry-on.
Trekking gear:Porters will carry a duffel bag (max 15kg/33 lbs).
You can store extra luggage at your hotel in Moshi/Arusha.
A daypack (5–7kg/11–15 lbs) is recommended for essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.
Physical Preparation: The Machame Route is a strenuous trek, and we recommend training 2–3 months in advance with:Cardio workouts (running, cycling, swimming)
Strength training (leg and core exercises)
Hiking practice (with a weighted backpack)
Altitude Sickness: The route offers good acclimatization, but symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness can still occur.Prevention: Drink plenty of water, ascend slowly, and consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) with a doctor’s approval.
Tanzania’s weather varies based on the season and altitude.
Expect warm temperatures at lower altitudes and freezing conditions at the summit.
For a detailed packing list, we will provide a comprehensive checklist upon booking.
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