The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic and quieter paths on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a less crowded experience compared to other routes. This route is renowned for its beautiful views and diverse landscapes, which range from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. The Lemosho Route also provides excellent acclimatization opportunities, following the “climb high, sleep low” strategy, which increases the chances of summit success. Typically done over 7 or 8 days, the Lemosho Route is ideal for climbers who want to enjoy a more relaxed pace while still challenging themselves. The extra day on the 8-day itinerary allows for more acclimatization and a greater chance to summit Kilimanjaro.
While the 7-day itinerary offers a slightly quicker pace, the 8-day option is favored by many trekkers as it gives more time for rest and adjustment to the altitude, significantly improving the overall summit success rate. The route is not only a fantastic adventure, but it also offers a unique experience as it traverses several ecosystems, making it a memorable and rewarding journey to the roof of Africa.
Elevation: 1,400m (4,593ft)
Altitude Gained: None
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Arusha, a vibrant city and a hub for adventures in northern Tanzania. In the evening, you’ll meet your trekking team for a detailed briefing and an equipment check to ensure you’re prepared for the journey ahead. The rest of the day is spent relaxing and preparing for your climb.
Elevation: 1,400m to 2,650m (4,593ft to 8,700ft)
Altitude Gained: 1,250m (4,101ft)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Londorossi Gate, where the necessary park formalities will be completed. Once your paperwork is processed, the trek begins through the dense rainforests of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes. The trail offers an excellent opportunity to spot various wildlife species and lush vegetation. After 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll rest for the night in preparation for the days ahead.
Elevation: 2,650m to 3,850m (8,700ft to 12,630ft)
Altitude Gained: 1,200m (3,940ft)
Today’s trek takes you through the rainforest and into the moorland zone, where the vegetation starts to change dramatically. You’ll be walking along a scenic path with incredible views of the surrounding area. After about 5-6 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Shira Camp, located on the Shira Plateau. This is a great place to catch your first views of the summit, and the camp’s location offers magnificent panoramic vistas.
Elevation: 3,850m to 4,600m (12,630ft to 15,090ft) to 3,950m
Altitude Gained: 750m (2,460ft) to Lava Tower, then a descent of 650m
This is a key day for acclimatization. You’ll hike from Shira Camp to Lava Tower, where you’ll ascend to 4,600 meters, giving your body the chance to adjust to the altitude. After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp, which sits at 3,950 meters. This strategy helps your body adapt to higher altitudes by exposing it to a higher elevation before descending. After 6-7 hours of trekking, you’ll settle at Barranco Camp, where you’ll rest for the night.
Elevation: 3,950m to 4,035m (12,960ft to 13,270ft)
Altitude Gained: 85m (280ft)
After breakfast, you’ll tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a fun and challenging climb that will reward you with breathtaking views. Once at the top, the trail leads you across the Karanga Valley, a landscape of rocky terrain and alpine plants. The day’s hike is short, so you’ll arrive at Karanga Camp in the afternoon. This gives you plenty of time to rest and acclimatize before continuing the trek.
Optional Acclimatization Day: If you choose the 8-day itinerary, you’ll have an extra day to rest either at Barranco or Karanga Camp. A short acclimatization hike to a higher elevation will give your body extra time to adjust before the final push to the summit.
Elevation: 4,035m to 4,673m (13,270ft to 15,330ft)
Altitude Gained: 638m (2,093ft)
Today’s trek takes you out of the Karanga Valley and onto the steep, rocky terrain leading to Barafu Camp. This is the base camp for your final ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb is steady but challenging, and upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you’ll have time to rest and prepare for your summit attempt, which will begin later that night. Make sure to hydrate and rest well in preparation for the long night ahead.
Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (15,330ft to 19,341ft) and down to 3,100m (10,171ft)
Altitude Gained: 1,222m (4,043ft) to the summit, 2,795m (9,170ft) descended
Summit day begins around midnight with a steep ascent in the dark to Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim. Once you reach Stella Point, it’s a short, exhilarating walk to the summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment as the sun rises over the African savannah. After taking in the views, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m (10,171ft to 5,380ft)
Altitude Gained: None (Descent of 1,460m/4,790ft)
On the final day of your trek, you’ll descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. As you walk down, you’ll experience a range of vegetation and enjoy the cool mountain air. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and bid farewell to your crew. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha, where you can relax and celebrate your achievement.
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