8 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE
The lemosho route to kilimanjaro is known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. over 6 days, trekkers typically experience lush rainforests, stunning views of the shira plateau, and challenging ascents. The route allows for better acclimatization due to its gradual altitude gain, increasing the chances of reaching the summit successfully. it’s a memorable journey filled with breathtaking sights and personal achievements.
Day by Day Route
DAY 1:
ARRIVAL AND TRANSFER TO MOSHI.
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). After completing Immigration formalities, collect your baggage and walk out to meet with your guide for greetings and transfer to the accommodation planned for the first night. Moshi is a town located near the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Serves as a popular starting point for climbing expeditions to the summit of Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Moshi is known for its pleasant climate, with cool temperatures due to its elevation. The town is surrounded by lush, green scenery, including coffee plantations and the picturesque landscapes of Kilimanjaro National Park.
Day 2:
TREKKING FROM LONDOROSSI GATE TO MTI MKUBWA CAMP
Your guide will arrive at the hotel on time for short briefing before you travel by vehicle to Kilimanjaro National Park’s western entrance, Londorossi Gate. After the quick formality of acquiring climbing permits, you will continue upwards towards drop-off point by off-road vehicles (reaching 3,610 m /11,841 f). The trail initially passes through lush rainforest, where you might spot various wildlife and birds. The trek can be slightly challenging but incredibly rewarding, with each step bringing you closer to the towering summit of Africa’s highest peak. By the time you reach the camp, your mountain crew will have already prepared everything necessary, put up the tents, and begun preparing dinner.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours Distance: 11 km
Day 3:
DAY 3: TREKKING FROM MTI MKUBWA CAMP TO SHIRA 1 CAMP.
On this day you will wake up early and enjoy a filling breakfast, before starting trekking. The trek from Mtu Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp is generally considered a moderate hike, with the distance being around 5 to 6 kilometers depending on the exact path taken allowing you to start the acclimatization process gradually, which is a mainstay of good trekking. The terrain is diverse, ranging from dense forest to more open moorland as you ascend. On your arrival to the camp set on an altitude of 3,500 m, you will enjoy your lunch and have some rest in your tent or walk around the nearby area.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 5 km
Day 4:
TREKKING FROM SHIRA 1 CAMP TO SHIRA 2 CAMP.
Today you will depart from Shira 1 Camp (3,610m/11843f) and trek to the second high altitude camp Shira 2 Camp at (3,850 m /12,628 f). This trek is moderate offering spectacular views of the African savannah, the mesmerizing flora of Kilimanjaro with its surrounding area. During the trek between camps, you may want to ascend the Cathedral Peak – 3872 meters (12,703 feet), one of the highest points of the extinct Shira volcano. This captivating hiking experience of the Cathedral Peak on a clear day offers breathtaking views down into the valley. The peak may be shrouded in clouds at times, but there’s Stella Point providing an opportunity for a memorable photograph. If you encounter unfavorable weather, heading directly to Shira 2 is an option. After lunch, and after a two-hour rest, we will go on an acclimatization hike to the Lava Tower Camp 300 m gain in altitude.
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 7 km
Day 5:
TREKKING FROM SHIRA 2 CAMP TO THE LAVA TOWER AND DESCENT TO BARRANCO CAMP.
After breakfast, you will leave your Camp and start your hike to the Lava Tower. The trail becomes steeper as you climb towards the Shira Plateau, as you hike across the Shira Plateau, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll then ascend to the Lava Tower, a rocky outcrop at 4,600 meters, before descending to Barranco Camp for the night. It is common to experience some discomfort, but for a successfully acclimate to the altitude you have to spend at least 1–2 hours here, so this is where you will enjoy your lunch as you acclimatize.
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 12 km
Day 6:
TREKKING FROM BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP.
This day you will wake up early and enjoy your breakfast before starting to tackle the Barranco Wall. To avoid crowds of the other groups, which can slow you down, leave the camp as early as possible. A steep climb that requires some scrambling is not difficult and only takes around an hour. Once you reach the top, you can have a rest and take photos in front of the Kibo volcano. The more difficult part is as you hike to the Karanga Camp, with numerous ascents and descents during the route. After reaching the camp you will be welcomed with freshly prepared lunchfollowed by a couple of hours of resting. You will then have to end your day with an acclimatization hike in the direction of Barafu Camp with a 300 m gain and then descend back down to the camp.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Day 7:
TREKKING FROM KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP.
In the morning, after breakfast, you will begin your hike to Barafu Summit Camp. It’s a test of endurance and determination as you gain altitude and prepare for the final push to Uhuru Peak. Along the way, you’ll feel the anticipation building as you approach Barafu Camp, the last stop before the summit attempt. It’s a memorable leg of the trek, filled with both physical and mental challenges, but ultimately rewarding as you inch closer to reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The camp will be set up ahead of time, so by the time you arrive your tents and sleeping bags will be already prepared. It is better to spend the remaining of the day resting and sleeping before the summit.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 6 km
Day 8:
ASCENT TO UHURU PEAK AND DESCENT TO MILLENNIUM CAMP.
The summit day begins around midnight, as you make your way up to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro (5,895 m /19,336 f). At this high altitude, you may feel strenuous, therefore, every two climbers will be paired with a personal guide for the entire ascent to monitor their physical and wellbeing more closely. You may descend to the nearest glacier, after your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak. The sunrise views from the summit are breathtaking. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp and then continue down to Millennium Camp for the night.
The descent to Millennium Camp is a gradual journey back down through various ecological zones. You’ll pass through the alpine desert and moorland, then into the lush rainforest, where you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna. The descent can be challenging on the knees, so trekking poles are recommended.
Trekking time: 8-12 hours
Distance: 15 km
Day 9:
DESCENT FROM MILLENNIUM CAMP TO MWEKA GATE.
The final day of the trek involves a descent through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 12 km
Day 10:
DEPARTURE.
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your international flight back home departing at the stipulated time according to the return flight.
CLIMBING COST INCLUDES
CLIMBING COST EXCLUDES
ADVISE FROM OUR EXPERTS.
Acclimatization
The Lemosho Route offers good acclimatization due to its longer duration and gradual ascent. However, it’s still important to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and consider using altitude sickness medication if recommended by your doctor. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness.
Fitness
While the Lemosho Route is considered one of the more scenic and less challenging routes, it’s still a strenuous climb. Regular cardio and strength training can help prepare you for the trek.
Pack Light
Porters will carry most of your gear, but it’s still important to pack light and only bring the essentials. This will make the trek more enjoyable and reduce strain on the porters.
Clothing
Layers are key for the varying temperatures you’ll encounter on the trek. Make sure to have a good quality, warm sleeping bag and a waterproof jacket.
Footwear
Comfortable, well-fitting hiking boots are essential. Make sure to break them in before the trek to avoid blisters.
Water and Hydration
Stay hydrated throughout the trek. Consider bringing a hydration bladder or water bottles with a good capacity.
Guides and Porters
The Lemosho Route, like all routes on Kilimanjaro, requires you to have a guide. Porters will also accompany you to carry gear. Treat them with respect and ensure they have proper gear and clothing.
Respect the Environment
Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles, respecting the environment and local customs.
Travel Insurance
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation.
Enjoy the Journey
The Lemosho Route offers stunning views and a unique experience. Take the time to enjoy the journey and the beauty of Kilimanjaro. Remember, it’s not just about reaching the summit, but also about enjoying the entire experience.