8 Days Lemosho Route Trek

Mount Kilimanjaro

Price

$2350

Min Age

12

Duration

Max People

47

Overview

The 8 Days Lemosho Route Trek is the ideal Kilimanjaro climb for those seeking scenic beauty, gradual acclimatization, and a high summit success rate. Starting on the western side of Kilimanjaro, the route passes through lush rainforest, the Shira Plateau, Barranco Valley, Karanga Valley, and finally the alpine desert before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m). The extra day allows trekkers to acclimatize at higher altitudes, giving them a better chance to summit successfully while enjoying some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the mountain. This trek is perfect for adventurers who want safety, comfort, and stunning vistas.

For more Kilimanjaro options, check our Kilimanjaro Trekking Packages.

Highlights / Features

  • Summit Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point
  • Start on Kilimanjaro’s remote western side
  • Trek across the Shira Plateau, Barranco Valley, and Karanga Valley
  • Extra days for acclimatization improve summit success
  • Climb the famous Barranco Wall
  • Experience diverse ecosystems: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert & glaciers
  • Professional guides, porters, and support team
  • Camping under the stars with full equipment support

Other Important Information

  • Difficulty Level: Challenging
  • Best Time to Trek: January – March & June – October
  • Group Size: 2–12 trekkers per guide
  • Accommodation: Camping in tents (dining and sleeping)
  • Fitness Requirement: Good physical fitness and prior hiking experience recommended

Route Map

Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Altitude: 900–1,000m
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Moshi/Arusha hotel. Meet your guide and support team for a full briefing, equipment check, and last-minute preparations. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m)

Distance: 6 km | Duration: 3–4 hours | Elevation Gain: +650m
Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. Begin trekking through lush rainforest filled with exotic birds and monkeys. The path is shaded and gradually uphill, providing a gentle introduction to high-altitude trekking. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5–6 hours | Elevation Gain: +750m
Leave the forest and enter the heath and moorland zone. Trek across rolling hills, cross streams, and enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for a restful overnight stay.

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

Distance: 7 km | Duration: 3–4 hours | Elevation Gain: +350m
A short but scenic hike across the Shira Plateau, observing giant lobelias and unique alpine flora. Take time to enjoy the views of Kibo and Mount Meru in the distance. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)

Distance: 10 km | Duration: 6–7 hours | Elevation Gain: +780m up, -670m down
This acclimatization day is crucial. Ascend gradually to the Lava Tower (4,630m), where you’ll have lunch and rest. Then descend into Barranco Valley, a beautiful and sheltered campsite. Overnight at Barranco Camp.

Day 6: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995m)

Distance: 5 km | Duration: 4–5 hours | Elevation Gain: +35m
Begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, a short but thrilling scramble with spectacular views. Trek across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, an essential step in the acclimatization process.

Day 7: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,680m)

Distance: 4 km | Duration: 4–5 hours | Elevation Gain: +685m
Trek through alpine desert with dramatic rock formations to Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit. Rest, eat, and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Day 8: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Distance: 17 km | Duration: 12–14 hours | Elevation Gain: +1,215m up, -2,795m down
Start around midnight for the summit push via Stella Point. Enjoy sunrise at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, then descend carefully to Mweka Camp. Celebrate the achievement with fellow trekkers.

Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Moshi Hotel

Distance: 10 km | Duration: 3–4 hours | Elevation Loss: -1,460m
Final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi hotel for rest, hot shower, and overnight stay or departure.

Included/Excluded

  • Park & camping fees
  • Licensed mountain guide, cook, and porters
  • Meals during the trek
  • Tents, dining tent, chairs, and other camping equipment
  • Airport transfers
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Sleeping bags & personal gear
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Extra hotel nights before/after trek

Tour Map

Frequency Asked Questions

How high is Mount Kilimanjaro?

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) above sea level at Uhuru Peak.

Do I need prior climbing experience to trek Kilimanjaro?

No technical climbing skills are required. However, good fitness, stamina, and some hiking experience will greatly improve your chances of reaching the summit.

What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best seasons are January to March and June to October, when the weather is dry and conditions are favorable.

Which route is the best for climbing Kilimanjaro?

Popular routes include the Machame Route (scenic), Marangu Route (hut accommodation), and Lemosho Route (gradual acclimatization). The best route depends on your fitness, time, and preferences.

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?

Depending on the route, treks range from 5 to 9 days. Longer routes provide better acclimatization and higher summit success rates.

Do I need a guide to climb Kilimanjaro?

Yes. It is a legal requirement to climb Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide, and most treks also include porters and cooks for support.

What is altitude sickness and how can I avoid it?

Altitude sickness is caused by reduced oxygen at higher elevations. Choosing longer routes, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually help reduce the risk.

What should I pack for a Kilimanjaro climb?

Essentials include layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, sleeping bag, headlamp, gloves, rain gear, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Your operator will provide a detailed packing list.

How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?

You should be in good physical condition, capable of walking long distances (5–7 hours per day) on varied terrain. Training with hikes and cardio exercises is highly recommended.

What happens after the climb?

Most trekkers return to Moshi or Arusha for rest. Many choose to combine the trek with a Tanzania wildlife safari or a Zanzibar beach holiday for recovery.

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