Itinerary
Overview
The Lemosho Route is a scenic and less crowded path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 7-day trek takes you through lush forests, across the breathtaking Shira Plateau, and around the mountain’s south circuit, offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the vast African plains below. With a moderate acclimatization schedule, this route provides a great balance between challenge and success rate for reaching the summit. The adventure includes a climb through varied ecosystems – ranging from rainforests to alpine deserts – and is perfect for those looking for a unique and immersive Kilimanjaro experience.
This 7-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek offers a great chance for successful summit ascents, thanks to its well-planned itinerary and experienced guides. With unparalleled views and varied ecosystems, this trek is both a challenge and a deeply rewarding experience for adventurers aiming to conquer Africa’s highest peak.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife and flora
- Rich cultural experiences and interaction with local guides and porters
- Challenging yet rewarding climb with a sense of accomplishment
- Stargazing and relaxation at camp
- Summit certificate upon reaching the summit
- Trekking and hiking through various climate zones, including rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert
- Acclimatization hikes and excursions to aid in altitude adjustment
- Visits to scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities
- Interaction with local guides and porters, and learning about the history and culture of the Chagga people
- Stargazing and relaxation at camp
- Summit attempt and descent
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi and Transfer to Lemosho Gate
Arrival in Moshi and transfer to Lemosho Gate marks the beginning of your Kilimanjaro adventure. After registering with the park authorities, you'll begin your journey through the lush rainforest, where you'll spot a variety of wildlife and flora.
Distance: 7km/4.3miTime: 3-4 hoursAltitude gain: 700m/2,300ftDay 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Today, you'll continue through the rainforest, with the sounds of birds and monkeys filling the air. As you ascend, the forest will start to thin out, and you'll catch your first glimpses of the mountain.
Distance: 12km/7.5miTime: 5-6 hoursAltitude gain: 1,000m/3,300ftDay 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
As you leave the rainforest behind, you'll enter the moorland zone, with its unique vegetation and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You'll also catch your first glimpse of the Kibo peak.
Distance: 10km/6.2miTime: 4-5 hoursAltitude gain: 800m/2,625ftDay 4: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Today, you'll explore the Shira Plateau, a vast expanse of grasslands and rock formations. You'll also visit the Shira Cathedral, a stunning rock formation with breathtaking views.
Distance: 14km/8.7miTime: 5-6 hoursAltitude gain: 400m/1,312ftDay 5: Moir Hut to Barranco Camp
As you ascend to the Barranco Camp, you'll pass through the alpine desert zone, with its unique flora and fauna. You'll also catch stunning views of the Kibo peak and the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 12km/7.5miTime: 5-6 hoursAltitude gain: 800m/2,625ftDay 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Today, you'll tackle the infamous Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that requires some scrambling. After reaching the top, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 7km/4.3miTime: 4-5 hoursAltitude gain: 300m/984ftDay 7: Summit Day!
Begin the final ascent to the summit (5,895m/19,341ft) at midnight, with the stars shining bright above. Watch the sunrise from the summit and take in the breathtaking views. After a brief celebration, you'll begin your descent to the Mweka Gate.
Distance: 20km/12.4miTime: 12-14 hoursAltitude gain: 1,000m/3,300ftDay 7: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Starting at midnight, you’ll trek through the night, reaching Stella Point by sunrise, and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Barafu and then to Mweka Camp.
What's Included?
- 7-day climb with experienced guides and porters
- Transportation from Moshi to Lemosho Gate and back
- Accommodation in Moshi and on the mountain (camping)
- Meals and snacks on the mountain
- Park fees and permits
- Climbing gear and equipment (tents, sleeping bags, etc.)
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Summit certificate upon reaching the summit
What's Excluded?
- Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear and equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Additional accommodations in Moshi before or after the climb
- Any additional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa fees (if required)
- Any additional costs associated with changes in the itinerary or unexpected events
Rates
Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently