Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek

The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most beautiful and scenic path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a high success rate due to its gradual acclimatization profile. Starting from the western side of the mountain, this trek passes through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and the barren lunar landscape before reaching Uhuru Peak. This route is ideal for those looking for a challenging yet rewarding adventure with breathtaking scenery.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel in Moshi.,

• Meet your guide for a briefing, equipment check, and safety preparations.

• Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

• Drive to Lemosho Gate for registration and permits.

• Start the trek through dense rainforest with chances to spot Colobus monkeys.

• Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours

Elevation Gain: 720m

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa (2,820m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

• Hike through a gradually changing landscape from rainforest to moorland.

• Cross the Shira Ridge with stunning views of the Shira Plateau.

• Overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp.

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Elevation Gain: 680m

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m)

• A relatively short trek across the plateau with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.

• Opportunity for an acclimatization hike in the afternoon.

• Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours

Elevation Gain: 400m

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp (3,900m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,630m)

• Ascend to the Lava Tower, an important acclimatization point.

• Descend into the Barranco Valley with impressive views of the Great Barranco Wall.

• Overnight at Barranco Camp.

Trek Duration: 7–8 hours

Elevation Gain: 730m (Lava Tower), then descend 670m

Day 6: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

• Climb the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable rock scramble.

• Trek through the alpine desert zone to Karanga Camp.

• Afternoon rest or optional acclimatization hike.

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours

Elevation Gain: 75m

Day 7: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m)

• A steady ascent to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt.,

• Early dinner and rest before midnight summit push.

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours

Elevation Gain: 638m

Day 8: Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

• Start the summit push at midnight, reaching Stella Point (5,739m) by sunrise.

• Final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa!

• Descend back to Barafu for breakfast and rest, then continue to Mweka Camp.

Summit Duration: 7–8 hours

Descent to Mweka: 4–6 hours

Day 9: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) & Departure

• Final descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate.

• Receive your summit certificates and transfer back to Moshi for celebration.

• Transfer to the airport or continue with a safari or Zanzibar extension.

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours

"The Lemosho Route is the perfect choice for trekkers who want a scenic and gradual climb with a high summit success rate. With proper acclimatization and breathtaking landscapes, this trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of conquering Africa’s highest peak. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time climber, the Lemosho Route provides an unforgettable adventure to the Roof of Africa!"