The Lemosho Route is a scenic, less-frequented trail that offers climbers an exceptional and rewarding ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its stunning landscapes and excellent acclimatization profile, the Lemosho Route gives climbers the best chance of success and a unique Kilimanjaro experience. With its remote starting point and gradual altitude gain, this route combines low foot traffic with breathtaking views, making it a favorite for those seeking a peaceful yet adventurous climb.
Starting with a drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate, the route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west. The first two days lead you through lush rainforest toward Shira Ridge, offering opportunities to see diverse wildlife and rich flora. Unlike the popular Machame Route, which intersects the Shira Plateau, the Lemosho Route crosses the entire plateau from west to east, allowing for a relaxed and scenic hike across this stunning landscape.
As you progress, you’ll encounter fewer crowds until the trail merges with the Machame Route. From here, the journey continues along Kilimanjaro’s renowned southern circuit, passing through the dramatic Lava Tower and the iconic Barranco Wall. The ascent culminates at Barafu Camp before the final push to the summit, with a descent via the Mweka Route.
With its balance of incredible views, low traffic, and high summit success rates, the Lemosho Route is ideal for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. Join us for an unforgettable 8-day trek to the Roof of Africa and discover why the Lemosho Route remains one of the most beloved ways to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro.
ARRIVAL DAY: WELCOME TO TANZANIA
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You will meet your experienced mountain guide for a full briefing on your upcoming Kilimanjaro trek and an equipment check to ensure you’re well-prepared. Any missing gear can be rented on this day, so you’re all set for the adventure of a lifetime.
DAY 1: MOSHI – LEMOSHO GATE – MTI MKUBWA CAMP: 4.8KM /3MI | 3-4 HRS | RAINFOREST
Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft /Altitude gained: 396m
Departing from Moshi an hour drive will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here.
DAY 2: MTI MKUBWA CAMP – SHIRA I CAMP: 7.9KM/5MI | 4-6HRS | MOORLAND
Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3504m/11,496ft/Altitude gained: 719m
After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, we leave the forest behind now, the trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Temperatures begin to drop.
DAY 3: SHIRA I CAMP –SHIRA HUT: 6.9KM/4.3MI | 5-7HRS | MOORLAND
Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft/Altitude gained: 391m
We explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. Then we continue to Moir Hut, a little-used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
DAY 4: SHIRA HUT – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP: 10.1KM/6.3MI | 4-6HRS | SEMI DESERT
Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft/Altitude gained: 91m
Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the Kibo peak before we then continue, South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we come to a second junction, which leads to the Arrow Glacier. We then continue to descend to overnight at Barranco Camp.
DAY 5: BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP: 5.2KM/3MI | 4-5HRS | ALPINE DESERT
Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft/Altitude gained: 48m
After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up to the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction, which connects, with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease. Overnight at Karanga Camp.
DAY 6: HIKE KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 3.3KM /2 MI | 4-5HRS | ALPINE DESERT
Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft/Altitude gained: 628m
We continue up toward Barafu Camp, and once reached you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles. An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
DAY 7: BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT: 4.86KM /3MI UP | 5-7HRS | – MWEKA CAMP: 13KM /8MI DOWN | 5-6HRS | GLACIERS, SNOW CAPPED SUMMIT
Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft/Altitude gained: 1233m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft/Altitude lost: 2789m
Excitement builds as morning arrives with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m., setting the stage for the most mentally and physically challenging section of your Kilimanjaro trek.
The journey to the summit begins, navigating between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, with each step bringing you closer to an unforgettable sense of achievement. Trekking in a switchback pattern, we ascend the steep scree slopes towards Stella Point on the crater rim, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise as you pause for a short rest. Fast-paced hikers may even catch the sunrise from the summit itself! From here, the final one-hour push to Uhuru Peak often involves trekking through snow, heightening the sense of adventure.
Congratulations! Step by step, you have conquered Uhuru Peak—the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent!
After celebrating, capturing photos, and possibly shedding tears of joy, we begin our descent down to Mweka Camp. En route, we stop briefly at Barafu for lunch and a quick rest. Due to the loose gravel and volcanic ash on this terrain, we highly recommend using gaiters and trekking poles for added stability. A well-earned rest awaits you at Mweka Camp, where you’ll enjoy your final evening on the mountain.
DAY 8: MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI: 9.1KM/6MI |3-4HRS | RAINFOREST
Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft/Altitude lost: 1473m
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.
From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!
DEPARTURE DAY
Spend the day at leisure in Moshi, recovering from your trek. The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight back home. Depending on flight schedule, you may explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Wildlife Safari tour, Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi for a seamless start and finish.
Comfortable Accommodation: Two nights in Moshi—one night before your climb and one night after—designed for rest and relaxation.
Transportation: Reliable transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, ensuring timely access to the trail.
All Necessary Fees: Coverage of Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees for your peace of mind.
High-Quality Gear:
>Four-Season Mountain Tents: Durable and weatherproof tents to keep you safe and comfortable in all conditions.
>Double-Layered Sleeping Mats: Extra comfort and insulation for restful nights on the mountain.
Professional Support Team: Knowledgeable and experienced mountain guides, a skilled cook, and hardworking porters to support your journey.
Daily Hot Meals: Nutritious, freshly prepared hot meals served three times daily to keep you energized.(We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or requests.)
Clean Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of treated and filtered water to keep you hydrated throughout your climb.
Hot Water for Washing: Daily provision of hot water for washing, ensuring you stay refreshed during your adventure.
Ethical Treatment of Crew: We prioritize the fair treatment and proper payment of our guides, cooks, and porters, ensuring a motivated and supportive team.
Enhanced Safety Measures:
>Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter to monitor your health and oxygen levels during the climb.
>A fully equipped emergency first-aid kit for any unexpected situations.
Private Toilet Facilities: Enjoy a portable flush toilet with its own privacy tent for added convenience on the mountain.
Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the climb are not covered.
Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.
Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.
Drop us a line. Our Safari experts will answer all your questions in 24 hours