8-Day Kilimanjaro — Lemosho Route
8 days
Overview
The Lemosho Route is typically completed in 8 days. This is a great option for a longer trek with excellent acclimatization. It connects with the Machame Route at Shira 2 Camp. The route begins on the remote western side of Kilimanjaro, traversing the breathtaking Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit trail at Barranco. Fewer crowds, pristine wilderness, and an outstanding acclimatization profile make Lemosho one of the best choices for summit success.
Highlights
Gallery
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast and briefing, drive to Londorossi Park Gate (2—3-hour drive). From here a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades. Walk along forest trails to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite. Settle into the pristine montane forest for the first night on the mountain.
Day 2 — Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
After breakfast, continue as the trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone. Cross several streams, then continue over the Shira Ridge and gently downwards to Shira 1 Camp located by a stream on the Shira Plateau. The views open dramatically as you exit the forest.
Day 3 — Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
After breakfast, a gentle hike across the plateau leads to Shira 2 Camp on moorland meadows by a stream. A variety of hikes are available on the Plateau, making this an excellent acclimatization day. Enjoy the vast, windswept expanse with Kibo's glaciated dome dominating the horizon.
Day 4 — Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
From the Shira Plateau, continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. Change direction to the South East towards Lava Tower, called the 'Shark's Tooth' (4,650 m / 15,250 ft). Shortly after the tower, pass the second junction to Arrow Glacier. Continue down to Barranco Camp. Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
Day 5 — Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. This section involves an exhilarating scramble up the volcanic rock face with rewarding views across the Southern Icefields. Arrive at Karanga Valley Camp (4,050 m).
Day 6 — Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Continue up to Barafu Camp (4,673 m). You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. At Barafu, make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The stark, wind-blasted ridge feels like the edge of the world.
Day 7 — Summit Night: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, down to Mweka Camp
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), continue towards the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point, stop for a short rest and be rewarded with a magnificent sunrise. From Stella Point, ascend for approximately 1 hour to the summit. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), you stand at the Roof of Africa. Descend straight down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Arrive at Mweka Camp and enjoy the last evening on the mountain.
Day 8 — Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, drive to Moshi
After breakfast, continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy — gaiters and trekking poles help. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka Village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi.
Included
- Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- Portable flush toilet with toilet tent
- Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- Supplemental oxygen & pulse oximeter
- Katadyn filtered water throughout the trek
- Post-trek accommodation on bed & breakfast basis
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by KINAPA and KIATO
Excluded
- Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips to mountain crew
- Personal gear rental
- Laundry services
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