8 Days – Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Lemosho Route
Overview
The 8-day Lemosho Route is one of the best options for acclimatization and is known for its scenic beauty as it ascends through diverse ecosystems. Starting from Lemosho Glades, this less-traveled route takes you through rich montane forests inhabited by buffalo, elephants, and other wildlife, often accompanied by an armed ranger for added safety. As you gradually ascend to the Shira Plateau, the route offers stunning views and a variety of landscapes, from heather-covered moorlands to alpine deserts.
The extended 8-day itinerary significantly increases your chances of reaching the summit by allowing extra time for your body to adjust to the altitude. This reduces the risk of altitude sickness and ensures that you’re well-rested and prepared for the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak. With its combination of breathtaking scenery, rich wildlife, and high success rates, the Lemosho Route is an excellent choice for those looking to conquer Africa’s highest peak.
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.
After breakfast and a final briefing, you’ll drive to the Lemosho Park Gate. A 4WD vehicle will take you through forest tracks to Lemosho Glades, where your trek begins. You’ll walk along scenic forest trails to reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite.
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2650m/8700ft
Distance: 6km/4mi
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Today’s hike takes you through the giant heather moorland zone, where the trail gradually steepens. You’ll cross several streams before reaching the Shira Ridge and descending slightly to Shira 1 Camp, located on the Shira Plateau.
Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3500m/11,500ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
A gentle hike across the Shira Plateau leads to Shira 2 Camp. This day is excellent for acclimatization, with opportunities for additional hikes on the plateau.
Elevation: 3500m/11,500ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After ascending the ridge from the Shira Plateau, you’ll head towards the Lava Tower, known as the "Shark’s Tooth," at 4650m/15,250ft. The trail then descends to Barranco Camp. This day is crucial for acclimatization, as you reach a high point before descending to sleep at a lower altitude.
Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today, you’ll tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep ridge leading to Karanga Valley. The trail then connects with the Mweka Trail at the Karanga Camp.
Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The trek continues up to Barafu Camp. You’ll have completed the Southern Circuit, offering various views of the summit from different angles. This is your base camp before the final ascent.
Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 4km/2mi
Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Your summit push begins early, around midnight, as you ascend through scree and glaciers toward Stella Point. After a short rest, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp, with a stop at Barafu for lunch.
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
On your final day, you’ll descend through the forest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. The trek concludes with a drive back to your hotel in Moshi.
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
This 8-day itinerary offers ample time for acclimatization, increasing your chances of a successful and enjoyable summit of Kilimanjaro.
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
- Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- The government imposed an increase in taxes and park fees
- Alcohol drinks
