8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb – Lemosho Route
Wishlist
View map
Price:
$2050.00
Duration
8 Days
People:
21
Tour Overview
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. This 8-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, gradual acclimatization, and breathtaking landscapes. Starting on the western slopes of Kilimanjaro at Lemosho Glades, trekkers pass through lush montane forests alive with birds and monkeys, before ascending into the dramatic Shira Plateau with its unique heath and moorland ecosystems.
As the journey continues, climbers traverse the volcanic terrain of Lava Camp, cross the stunning Barranco Valley, and ascend the iconic Great Barranco Wall. Each stage is carefully planned to allow the body to acclimatize, increasing the chances of a successful summit. The trek culminates in a midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft), where the sunrise over Africa’s highest mountain is an unforgettable reward.
Descending via the Mweka Route, trekkers return through rainforest to the trailhead, completing a journey that combines adventure, natural beauty, and the ultimate achievement of standing on the Roof of Africa. The Lemosho Route is ideal for those seeking a scenic, challenging, and well-supported Kilimanjaro experience.
What Included
All meals while on the Mountain
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
All transportation
Clean, purified drinking water
Not included
International flights
Travel insurance
Tanzania Visa
International and domestic flights
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Tour Plan
-
Day 1: Arrival at Lemosho Glades – Entering the Montane Forest
From your lodge, we drive to Londorosi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro (a few hours from Arusha) and begin our trek at the Lemosho Trailhead. Depending on road conditions, extra hiking may be required if vehicles cannot reach the true trailhead. After a picnic lunch, we hike 3–4 hours through lush montane forest, where moss-draped trees, vibrant flowers, and the calls of exotic birds create an enchanting atmosphere. Keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and signs of elephants roaming the area. We overnight at Forest Camp. -
Day 2: Shira Plateau – Expansive Views and Highland Terrain
As we leave the montane forest and enter the Hagenia zone, panoramic views open up, including your first glimpse of Kibo Peak. Today is a moderate acclimatization day, hiking up and down several ridges to reach the day’s highest point at 3,500m / 11,500ft before descending to Shira 1 Camp. The plateau’s wide-open landscapes and unique flora make this an inspiring introduction to Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude beauty. -
Day 3: Moir Camp – Traversing the Heath Zone
Today we cross the Shira Plateau’s heath zone and ascend the western slopes of the Kibo Massif. Lunch is enjoyed at Scott Fischer Memorial Camp, named after the renowned Mount Everest guide. Continuing through the upper heath zone, we reach Moir Camp (4,160m / 13,650ft). Depending on conditions, a short afternoon acclimatization hike may be arranged to help your body adjust to higher altitudes. -
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Entering the Alpine Zone
Leaving the heath zone behind, we enter the alpine zone. The trail passes Lava Camp (4,360m / 14,300ft), a volcanic landscape offering striking scenery, before descending slightly into the Barranco Valley. This area is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and giant groundsels, making it one of the most picturesque sections of Kilimanjaro. Overnight is spent at Barranco Camp (3,960m / 13,044ft). -
Day 5: Karanga Camp – Ascending the Great Barranco Wall
Today we tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields. The trail continues along small ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp (4,000m / 13,106ft). Afternoon allows for short acclimatization hikes if conditions permit, preparing the body for the final ascent. -
Day 6: Barafu Camp – Preparing for the Summit
A steady trek of 3–5 hours takes us to Barafu Camp (4,600m / 15,100ft), our final camp before the summit. Along the way, we navigate small valleys and ridges, enjoying expansive views. Upon arrival, your guides provide a safety demonstration on equipment such as the Gamow bag and supplemental oxygen. After an early dinner, climbers rest to prepare for the midnight summit push. -
Day 7: Summit Day – Stella Point to Uhuru Peak, Descent to Mweka Camp
Summit day begins around 11:00 PM or midnight. Using headlamps to guide the way, we ascend slowly through the night, reaching Stella Point (5,756m / 18,885ft) on the crater rim before the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft). After celebrating at the summit and taking photos, we descend to Barafu Camp for lunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,180m / 10,448ft) to rest. This is the longest and most challenging day of the trek. -
Day 8: Final Descent – Mweka Gate and Return to Lodge
Our final day is a gentle descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,525m / 5,000ft). Here we enjoy lunch, say farewell to our mountain crew, and drive back to your lodge, arriving in the late afternoon. The day allows time to reflect on your achievement and celebrate the successful completion of your climb.
