7 Days – Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Lemosho Route
Overview
The Lemosho Route is a premier choice for climbers seeking both acclimatization and scenic beauty on their ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. Spanning 7 days, this route offers a gradual and steady climb, making it one of the best for adjusting to the altitude. Beginning at the Lemosho Glades, the trek initially takes you through lush forests inhabited by wildlife such as buffalo and elephants, often necessitating an armed ranger escort for safety.
As the journey progresses, the trail leads to the breathtaking Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views and a sense of solitude, as this route is less frequented by other climbers. The additional day recommended for the Lemosho Route allows for better acclimatization, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing the chances of a successful summit.
Throughout the trek, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes, from verdant forests to arid deserts, ultimately culminating in the exhilarating summit attempt at Uhuru Peak. The Lemosho Route is an ideal choice for those who want to experience Kilimanjaro’s varied environments while ensuring their body adapts well to the altitude.
CLIMBING RATES
* Cost per person in USD
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi if you have opted for our airport transfer service. The day will be spent at your hotel for a pre-trek briefing, where your guide will provide an overview of the trek, review your gear, and assist with any last-minute equipment rentals. Arriving at least one day before the trek starts is essential to ensure you are well-prepared.
Your adventure begins after breakfast with a drive to the Lemosho Park Gate. From there, a 4WD vehicle will take you through forest tracks to the Lemosho Glades. You will embark on a hike through lush montane forest trails, leading to your first campsite at Mti Mkubwa, also known as Big Tree Camp.
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft
Distance: 6km/4mi
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, the trail gradually becomes steeper as you ascend into the giant heather moorland zone. The path crosses several streams and continues over the Shira Ridge, passing Shira 1 Camp before reaching Shira 2 Camp, which is set on moorland meadows by a stream.
Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 16km/10mi
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today's trek takes you from the Shira Plateau, heading east up a ridge and passing a junction towards Kibo Peak. The route then veers southeast toward the Lava Tower, known as "Shark's Tooth" (elevation 4650m/15,250ft). After a brief stop at the tower, you'll descend to Barranco Camp. Despite ending the day at nearly the same elevation as you began, this day's hike is crucial for acclimatization.
Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The morning starts with a challenging climb up the Barranco Wall. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley, leading to the Karanga Camp, where you will rest for the night. This day’s journey offers some of the most breathtaking views as you traverse the ridge.
Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today's trek continues upward to Barafu Camp, completing the Southern Circuit, which offers diverse and magnificent views of the summit from multiple angles. Upon arrival, you'll set up camp, rest, and prepare for the challenging summit night ahead.
Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 4km/2mi
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The summit attempt begins around midnight. You will ascend through scree fields towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section is the most demanding both mentally and physically. After a short rest at Stella Point, you will continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. After taking in the sunrise and celebrating your achievement, you will descend to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for a brief rest and lunch. The descent is steep, and trekking poles are recommended.
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft (Uhuru Peak) down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5km/3mi ascent, 13km/8mi descent
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up, 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After breakfast, you will continue your descent to the Mweka Park Gate, where you'll receive your well-earned summit certificates. The final stretch of the descent passes through the forest, where the trail can be wet and muddy. Your vehicle will be waiting at Mweka Gate to take you back to your hotel in Moshi for a much-needed rest and celebration.
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
Included/Exclude
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodations as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Tips for porters and mountain crew is recommended
- The government imposed an increase in taxes and park fees
- Alcohol drinks
