The Lemosho Route is often hailed as the most scenic and well-balanced path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the mountain’s western slopes, it offers a longer, more gradual ascent that allows ample time for acclimatization, greatly increasing the chances of a successful summit.
This 8-day itinerary is designed to maximize both comfort and success. The extended duration means trekkers can maintain a steady pace, adapt more effectively to the altitude, and fully enjoy the remarkable variety of landscapes ranging from lush rainforest and open heathlands to alpine desert and glacier-carved ridges.
Compared to shorter and more direct routes, Lemosho provides fewer crowds in the early stages, panoramic views throughout, and a dramatic final approach to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) via Stella Point.
For adventurers seeking both beauty and challenge, the Lemosho Route delivers an unforgettable journey combining diverse ecosystems, breathtaking vistas, and the thrill of standing on the Roof of Africa.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, the starting point for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a full briefing and equipment check. The rest of the day is free to relax, rehydrate, and prepare mentally for the climb.
Accommodation: Budget, Midrange, or Luxury in Moshi Town
Meal Plan: Dinner
Elevation: 2,100m → 2,650m
Distance: ~7 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
After breakfast in Moshi, you’ll drive to Lemosho Gate (2,100m), where registration and park formalities are completed. The trek begins with a gentle climb through the Montane Forest, a vibrant ecosystem alive with the sounds of tropical birds, playful blue monkeys, and black-and-white colobus swinging through the trees.
By late afternoon, you’ll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m), nestled among towering trees. Dinner is served under the forest canopy before settling in for your first night on Kilimanjaro.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude: 2,650m → 3,610m
Distance: ~8 km | Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Leaving the forest behind, the trail climbs steadily into the moorland zone, where the landscape opens up with wide horizons and fewer trees. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Shira Ridge and the valleys below.
The path weaves across rocky ridges and grassy terrain before arriving at Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m) a broad plateau ideal for acclimatization. This day marks your first real exposure to higher elevations, so it’s a good chance to pace yourself and begin adjusting.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude: 3,610m → 3,850m
Distance: ~7 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Today offers a more relaxed pace, giving your body time to adjust to the altitude. The trail crosses the expansive Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful high-altitude landscapes, with sweeping views of Kibo Peak in the distance.
Along the way, keep an eye out for unique alpine plants such as giant lobelias and groundsels, as well as occasional wildlife that roams the plateau. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option of a short acclimatization hike before returning to camp.
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m), where you’ll enjoy dinner and prepare for the next stage of the trek.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Elevation: 3,850m → 4,630m (Lava Tower) → 3,976m
Distance: ~10 km | Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
This is one of the most important acclimatization days on the trek. The trail gradually ascends through the alpine desert, leading to the striking Lava Tower (4,630 m)—a dramatic volcanic formation. Here you’ll stop for lunch and spend time at high altitude to help your body adapt.
Afterward, descend into the scenic Barranco Valley, where the towering Barranco Wall looms above the camp. This “climb high, sleep low” approach is key for improving acclimatization and increasing summit success.
Settle in for dinner and an overnight stay at Barranco Camp (3,976m), surrounded by some of Kilimanjaro’s most dramatic landscapes.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Elevation: 3,976m → 3,995m
Distance: ~5 km | Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
The day begins with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, often called the “Breakfast Wall.” Though it looks intimidating, the scramble is non-technical and incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views from the top.
From there, the trail undulates across rocky ridges and alpine valleys, gradually bringing you to Karanga Camp (3,995m). Though short in distance, this stage plays an important role in the acclimatization process, giving your body more time to adapt before the summit push.
Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp, with the majestic summit of Kibo looming overhead.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Elevation: 4,673m → 5,895m → 3,100m
Distance: ~17 km | Trekking Time: 12–14 hours
Your summit day begins just after midnight, with a slow, steady climb up steep switchbacks under the starlit sky. The air is thin and the ascent demanding, but perseverance brings you to Stella Point (5,756m) and, shortly after, the ultimate goal Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
Arrive at the summit around sunrise, when the glaciers glow gold and the views stretch endlessly. After celebrating and capturing photos, begin the long descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and brunch. From there, continue downward through shifting landscapes until you reach Mweka Camp (3,100m) for a well-deserved night of rest.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Elevation: 3,100m → 1,800m
Distance: ~10 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
After a final breakfast on the mountain, begin your descent through the lush rainforest, alive with birdsong and the chance to spot monkeys swinging in the canopy. The trail gradually winds down to Mweka Gate (1,800m), where you’ll sign out and receive your official summit certificate—a proud symbol of your Kilimanjaro achievement.
From the gate, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi, where a hot shower, a celebratory dinner, and a comfortable bed await.
Accommodation: Budget, Midrange, or Luxury in Moshi Town
Meals Included: Dinner
Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your journey home.
If you’re extending your adventure with a wildlife safari or a relaxing Zanzibar beach holiday, our team will ensure smooth travel arrangements and connections.
Your Kilimanjaro journey concludes with a profound sense of achievement, lifelong memories, and new friendships forged on the Roof of Africa.
Drinks at the hotel (soft drinks, alcohol, etc.)
Personal trekking gear and belongings
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Mirerani