Lemosho Route – 8 Days / 7 Nights Kilimanjaro Trek
Overview
It is highly recommended for first-time climbers due to its excellent acclimatization profile, which results in some of the highest summit success rates on the mountain.
TOTAL PRICE FOR SOLO TRAVELLER $ 3714
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 2 PEOPLES $ 2653
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 3 PEOPLES $ 2455
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 4 PEOPLES $ 2430
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 6 PEOPLES $ 2290
Starts at:
$3,714.00 Per Person
Day 1: Arrival in Kilimanjaro / Transfer to Lemosho Gate
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly greeted by your experienced Tanzanian safari and Kilimanjaro guide. After completing paperwork and a brief orientation, enjoy a scenic drive through lush coffee plantations, farmland, and tropical forests toward the Lemosho area. You will have a pre-trek briefing on safety, equipment, and trekking expectations while taking in the stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes. Overnight accommodation will be at a comfortable lodge near Lemosho Gate, allowing you to rest and acclimatize for the adventure ahead. Dinner will be a hearty, nutritious meal designed to fuel your body for the climb. In the evening, enjoy a chance to stargaze and breathe the crisp mountain air, setting the tone for the journey to come.
Day 2: Lemosho Gate – Big Tree Camp (Approx. 4–5 hours, 2,100m → 2,750m)
After a wholesome breakfast, your trek officially begins at Lemosho Gate, where your porters and crew are ready to carry the camping equipment. The trail passes through dense rainforest, alive with exotic birds, monkeys, and lush vegetation, providing an immersive introduction to Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems. Short breaks are taken to admire views of the Shira Plateau rising in the distance, offering a dramatic backdrop for photographs. By midday, you will arrive at Big Tree Camp, nestled in a forest clearing, where tents are set up and lunch is served. Spend the afternoon exploring surrounding trails, taking photographs, and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Dinner is served early, accompanied by a briefing on tomorrow’s trek and tips for successful acclimatization.
Day 3: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp (Approx. 5–6 hours, 2,750m → 3,500m)
Today’s trek continues ascending through rainforest into moorland, marked by giant heathers, lobelias, and fascinating alpine plants. The trail gradually opens to reveal panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and distant glaciers, creating a sense of the mountain’s immense scale. Frequent stops allow for hydration, photography, and acclimatization, ensuring a comfortable pace for all climbers. By afternoon, you will reach Shira 1 Camp, where lunch is served and tents are pitched amid a serene highland environment. Your guide may lead a short acclimatization hike nearby, helping your body adjust to the increasing altitude. Dinner is served under clear skies, with a discussion about the exciting route ahead, ensuring every climber is prepared both mentally and physically.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (Approx. 4–5 hours, 3,500m → 3,840m)
The trek today continues across the high-altitude Shira Plateau, with spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s southern icefields and surrounding valleys. The terrain is a mix of volcanic rock and alpine vegetation, offering a completely different ecosystem from the rainforest below. Along the way, your guide points out rare flora and geological formations, giving insight into Kilimanjaro’s natural history. You will arrive at Shira 2 Camp, strategically located for acclimatization before the challenging Lava Tower ascent. Afternoon activities include short walks to nearby ridges for photography and light stretching to prepare for the next day. Dinner is served in camp, and your guide provides a detailed briefing for the ascent to Lava Tower and descent to Barranco Camp, emphasizing pace, hydration, and safety.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp (Approx. 7–8 hours, 3,840m → 4,630m → 3,950m)
Today combines altitude gain and acclimatization with dramatic mountain scenery. You trek toward the Lava Tower, a striking volcanic rock formation at 4,630m, where you will stop for photos and rest. After reaching Lava Tower, the trail descends to Barranco Camp, providing a valuable opportunity for your body to adjust to high altitude before the summit push. The descent allows you to marvel at glacial valleys, rocky ridges, and the Barranco Wall, one of Kilimanjaro’s most iconic features. Afternoon activities include a short hike around the base of the Barranco Wall, capturing breathtaking photographs and observing the changing alpine landscapes. Dinner is served early, with a briefing for tomorrow’s climb, helping you mentally and physically prepare for the challenge ahead.
Day 6: Barranco Camp – Karanga Valley Camp (Approx. 4–5 hours, 3,950m → 4,035m)
Begin the day with the famous climb up the Barranco Wall, offering steep, exhilarating views and unforgettable photo opportunities. After conquering the wall, the trail winds through alpine desert and rocky ridges, gradually leading to Karanga Valley Camp. The shorter trekking day allows for extra rest and acclimatization, essential before ascending to Barafu Camp. Enjoy the panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, valleys, and surrounding plains, providing a sense of accomplishment. Tea breaks and snacks are served en route, giving time to reflect on the mountain’s grandeur. Dinner is served at camp, followed by a briefing from your guide for tomorrow’s crucial summit approach.
Day 7: Karanga Valley Camp – Barafu Camp (Approx. 3–4 hours, 4,035m → 4,640m)
Today’s trek is a steady ascent to Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit. The terrain is predominantly rocky and barren alpine desert, with spectacular high-mountain vistas surrounding you. Once at Barafu Camp, take time to hydrate, rest, and prepare your gear for the midnight summit push. Dinner will be served early, emphasizing high-energy foods to sustain you during the long climb. Your guide provides a final briefing, including pacing strategies, clothing layers, and safety tips for the Uhuru Peak ascent. Sleep early to maximize rest before the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek.
Day 8: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp (Approx. 9–10 hours, 4,640m → 5,895m → 3,100m)
The summit day begins with a midnight departure, trekking by headlamp through the cold, quiet night toward Stella Point and ultimately Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Witness the sunrise over Africa’s vast plains, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. After reaching the summit, take time for photos, reflection, and celebration before descending carefully to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Continue the descent to Mweka Camp, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and alpine scenery. Dinner and overnight stay at Mweka Camp offer well-earned comfort and relaxation, allowing your body to recover from the intense climb. This descent also provides an opportunity to reflect on the incredible achievement and the beauty of Kilimanjaro.
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Departure
After breakfast, complete the final trek to Mweka Gate, where you will be presented with your Kilimanjaro summit certificate, marking your extraordinary achievement. You will then be transferred back to Arusha or Moshi, enjoying the lush forests, villages, and rivers along the way. Reflect on your adventure, the bonds formed with fellow climbers and guides, and the life-changing experience of conquering Africa’s highest peak. Upon arrival, relax at a lodge or hotel, with optional spa services or celebratory meals. This marks the conclusion of your Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro adventure, leaving you with unforgettable memories, photos, and stories to share for a lifetime.
