8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek
The Lemosho route has gained popularity in recent years, offering stunning views, optimal acclimatization, and high summit success rates. Starting on Kilimanjaro’s western slope, it has 6, 7, and 8-day itineraries. A highlight is Cathedral Peak, one of Shira Volcano’s highest points, providing a chance for an acclimatization hike and breathtaking views. Unique to Lemosho is the presence of Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, alien-like plants found exclusively on this mountain.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a representative will meet you for a transfer to the designated hotel. The hotel provides essential amenities, including comfortable rooms, hot water, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, a briefing with the tour managers will prepare you for the upcoming climb.
Itinerary
- Day 0: Arrival
- Day 1: Trekking From Londorossi Gate To Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Day 2: Trekking From Mti Mkubwa Camp To Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3: Trekking From Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp
- Day 4: Trekking From Shira 2 Camp To The Lava Tower And Descent To Barranco Camp
- Day 5: Trekking From Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp
- Day 6: Trekking From Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp
- Day 7: Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Millennium Camp
- Day 8: Descent From Millennium Camp To Mweka Gate
Day by Day
Day 1: Trekking From Londorossi Gate To Mti Mkubwa Camp
In the morning, your guide and mountain support crew will conduct a briefing at the hotel before a 3-4 hour vehicle journey to Kilimanjaro National Park’s Londorossi Gate (2,250 m /7,380 f). After obtaining climbing permits and registration, the trek begins toward the first camp, Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m /8,692 f). Raincoats are essential as you traverse the rainforest. Upon reaching camp, the dedicated mountain crew will have everything ready, including tents and lunch. An acclimatization hike towards Shira 1 Camp with a 300-meter (984-foot) gain follows lunch, and then you’ll descend to Mti Mkubwa Camp for a hot dinner.
Day 2: Trekking From Mti Mkubwa Camp To Shira 1 Camp
Wake up early, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and embark on a trek to reach an altitude of 3,500 m /11,483 f. Marvel at stunning views of the Shira Plateau and Kibo Volcano. The journey from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m / 11,841 f) takes about 5-6 hours, providing a gradual introduction to the acclimatization process. Upon reaching the camp, your specialist team will prepare lunch, offering you the opportunity to rest in your tent or explore the surrounding area.
Day 3: Trekking From Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp
On this day, trek from Shira 1 Camp (3,610m/11,843f) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m /12,628 f), enjoying spectacular views of the African savannah and Kilimanjaro’s unique flora. Weather permitting, Shira 2 Camp offers excellent views of Mount Meru. An optional ascent to Cathedral Peak (3,872 meters/12,703 feet) provides captivating vistas of the valley. This straightforward hike is a favorite among our guides. After lunch at the camp, take a two-hour rest before an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower Camp, with a 300 m /984 f gain in altitude.
Day 4: Trekking From Shira 2 Camp To The Lava Tower And Descent To Barranco Camp
After your morning meal, depart from Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m /12,628 f) towards the crucial point of the route: Lava Tower (4,600 m /15,088 f). This part of the trail involves various ascents and descents, concluding at a camp situated above 4,600 m /15,088 f. While certain segments of the trek may pose challenges and discomfort, spending at least 1–2 hours here is crucial for successful acclimatization. This is where you will have your lunch.
Following this, descend to Barranco Camp (3,900 m /12,795 f). Here, you’ll encounter the renowned Barranco Wall, notable for both its massive size and steepness. You’ll ascend it the next day, but rest assured, as it features a straightforward hiking trail that is far from intimidating.
Day 5: Trekking From Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp
Embark on an early start to the day with a substantial breakfast before tackling the ascent of Barranco Wall. To avoid crowds and ensure efficiency, it is recommended to leave the camp as early as possible. The climb up the gorge wall is relatively straightforward, taking around an hour. Following the climb, take a break to rest and capture photos against the backdrop of Kibo volcano.
Subsequently, embark on a more challenging trek to Karanga Camp, characterized by numerous ascents and descents. Rest assured, our experienced guides will set an optimal pace for the group. Upon reaching the camp, enjoy a warm lunch. After a brief interlude, undertake an acclimatization hike towards Barafu Camp with a 300 m /984 f gain in altitude, followed by a descent back to the camp.
Day 6: Trekking From Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp
Following a hearty breakfast in the morning, commence your trek to Barafu Summit Camp, the launching point for the ultimate night summit to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m /19,336 f). Our team will have the camp set up in advance, ensuring your tents and sleeping bags are ready upon your arrival. This allows you to unwind and recharge upon reaching Barafu Summit Camp. It is advisable to focus on rest and sleep for the remainder of the day before the night summit.
Day 7: Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Millennium Camp
Starting the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m /19,336 f) from Barafu Camp at night, the climb is technically straightforward, yet the challenge lies in the high altitude making routine physical activities demanding. With a personal guide for each pair, the ascent is closely monitored. After reaching Uhuru Peak, you can descend to the nearest glacier before a 2-hour rest at Barafu Camp, followed by the descent to Millennium Camp.
NOTE: 90% of accidents happen during the descent; toe damage risk is high, so pay attention to your feet.
Day 8: Descent From Millennium Camp To Mweka Gate
Situated in a tropical rainforest, Millennium Camp offers a refreshing start after conquering the summit. Following a warm breakfast, the journey continues to the park’s exit, Mweka Gate. At the gate, the group gathers for congratulations, an opportunity to share climb experiences in the guestbook, and finally, receiving commemorative certificates in our office before a transfer back to the hotel.
Tour Includes
- All Transfers
- Hotel Accommodation Before and After the Hike
- Camping Equipment
- Meals on the Hike
- Professional Guides and Porters
- Oxygen Tanks
- GPS Trackers
- Medical Check-ups, Fully-loaded Medical Kits, and In-company Doctor
- All Park Fees and Taxes
- Dedicated Support Team
- Innovative and User-friendly Travel Planning Portal
- Safe Room and Storage Room
- Leave No Trace Adventure
- Impactful Change for Local Communities
Tour Excludes
- International Flights
- Tips to the Climbing Crew
- Visa Fee
- Personal Gear Rentals
- Single Supplement (If applicable)
- Travel Insurance
- Portable Toilet
- Lunch and Dinner in the Hotel
